WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Eagley [A] 3:00pm Saturday - Match Postponed
WLRD1 v BAC/Springfields [H] 3:00pm Saturday - Match Postponed
LEP Reds v Euxton Villa [H] 11:00am Sunday - Match Postponed
3rd February 10:00
*WEATHER WATCH: the WLP game at Eagley is postponed, but there will be a noon inspection at The Riverside.....inspection failed!
There will be a 9:00am inspection on Sunday morning for the Youth game...game off.
An interesting weekend in prospect, with both the weather and football forcasts offering entertaining possibilities: let's hope that the latter can avoid the former!
There isn't really much new to add about the Garstang FC first team following last Saturday's day off. Manager Stringfellow has his squad, the team spirit is clearly good and that first win of the season really does look imminent - so why not get it at high flying Eagley?
Second in the table, Eagley are having a fine season. They are on a good run, remaining unbeaten since October 8th, but Poulton did get a point there last time out. We can do this one! You'll find the game at Dunscar Bridge, BL7 9PQ.
The Garstang Reserves Manager, Bails, having earned the bragging rights over Charnock Richard Reserves, was disappointed not to get the second bite last weekend in the Houston Cup. So, it's back to league action on Saturday with the visit of BAC/Springfields Reserves to The Riverside for the 3:00pm kick off.
Springfields are a bit of an unknown quantity! Thirteenth in the league should suggest that Garstang will get something from this game, but the visitor's league position has to be a bit false as they have picked up four of their five victories on the road. Interesting. At three o'clock.
Garstang Youth Team make yet another attempt to test themselve against Euxton Villa at The Riverside on Sunday, kick off 11:00am, following the two postponements.
You should all know the plot by now: both teams with 100% records, etc..
Sort it!
THE LANCASHIRE EVENING POST SUNDAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE:
NAME CHANGE FOR 2012/13!!
1st February 09:30
A STATUS UPDATE:
Les Taylor
31st January 08:30
Despite our precarious position in the West Lancs Premier League, Garstang Football Club remains totally focused on the development of the Club.
Although, earlier in the season, we were hit with an ultimatum to upgrade the dressing rooms before the commencement of season 2012/13, we know what we have to do, the plans have been drawn up and we are on course to meet the criteria that have been set down. Unfortunately, in this case, we are playing catch up as well as planning for the future but,, if things go according to plan, we will be in a position to start work on the ground by the end of the season.
On the minus side, it is with great regret that we have to announce that Ian Blezard is to step down as Website Manager at the end of this season. Ian has done a fantastic job setting up and maintaining the Website to the highest of standards. Our Website has lifted the profile of the Club immeasurably and is highly regarded outside the Club. Ian, who lives in Fleetwood feels that the time is right for someone who lives in Garstang to take over the day to day running of the Website. Although he will be a hard act to follow, it is a great opportunity for someone to become involved at an important time in the Club’s history. I would be delighted to hear from anyone who would be interested in taking up this offer.
The growth, expectations and ambitions of the Club have created new problems and the bar has been set a lot higher. So, not only is a new Webmaster required but a Photographer to support the items that go on the Website. We also need more Match Day Support, perhaps even a 'Match Day Committee' to help to prepare the ground at all home games. There is a famous cliché that says, 'You only get out of it what you put in'. Well I can vouch for that so, if you would really like to become involved, please ring me, Les Taylor, on 07967 337416.
Finally, Garstang Football Club would like to thank all of you who have continued to support the “Score” Lottery and, as you can see by the list of winners that appear on our Website and in the Garstang Courier every month, our Lottery is for Local People and helps to provide funds for a Local Club which in turn is improving facilities for the Young Players of the future. Les Taylor
Here is a final comment from Ian:-
'Back in the early summer of 2008, when I was invited by Adrian Wilding and Les Taylor 'for a chat' about setting up a website for Garstang FC, I never envisaged that I would still be heading up the Wyre from Fleetwood every Saturday morning four years later. Neither could I have envisaged what we, Garstang Football Club, would achieve in raising the profile of the Club to the extent that we now rival or exceed that of many clubs in the leagues above us.
We measure the success of garstangfc.com by the number of different individuals who visit the website; and there were 10,233 of you last year. Let's hope that you don't all come to the same game!
So, in terms of building the website, I consider it 'job done'! However, I still see areas where the site can be developed. In particular it can grow its community role in support of the club's declared ambitions. I am convinced that that needs a webmaster who is a member of the Garstang community, which unfortunately I am not, and someone who is accessible around the town most days of the week.
A website, like any other 'newspaper', is pointless without interesting content, so thank you to all my contributors along the way. I am very proud of what we have achieved - and I'll see you down at the Riverside.' Ian Blezard
 |
Here are our Winners for January:
Congratulations!! |
| £1000 |
2422 |
Joan Wilkins |
| £100 |
4389 |
Thomas Richardson |
| £60 |
4237 |
Carolyn Rose |
| £60 |
4257 |
R Shorrock |
| £60 |
3856 |
Norma Shaw |
| £25 |
1754 |
Mark Salthouse |
| £25 |
1363 |
Joanne Armstrong |
| £25 |
3764 |
Francis Leighton |
| £25 |
3508 |
Brian Campbell |
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
Houston Cup R2 v Charnock Richard Reserves - Match Postponed
Liverpool v Manchester United [ITV] 12:45pm Saturday
LEP Reds v Wyre [H] 11:00am Sunday - Match Postponed
27th January 10:30
*WEATHER WATCH: it will come as no surprise to learn that a pitch inspection will be required in the morning! Very iffy!
With no fixture for the First Team on Saturday, the focus switches to Garstang Reserves and their Second Round Houston Cup tie at The Riverside. You can still read 'Stringy Post-match' on the team newspage though.
The more observant amongst you will have noticed that Garstang Reserves Houston Cup tie features the same opponents as last weeks league encounter! Always an interesting occurrence for you amateur psychologists this,working out how the result, 1-0 for Garstang, will impact on Saturday's game.
Here is Bails' view: "Saturday's leaguie game versus Charnock Richard showed that we can not only match the top sides in this league, but we can beat them as well.
I thought we played well right the way through, starting with Curwen who's kicking and all round distribution was top drawer. The back four of Carlo, Andy T Snr, Phil Roskel (who had to play out of postion at left back) and Jonny Baldwin (who was as ever - he says standard - I say class act) all performed well. Midfield again was superb with Andy Ireland, in only his second game this season, Adam Roskell, Ric Chamberlain and, of couse, Jack Swindlehurst who the Charnock defence had no answers to apart from resorting to kicking lumps out of him ending up with a deserved red card. Up front Dave Jack, having his second run out of the season with us, kept his 100% record of winning and getting on the score sheet, was backed up well by the hard working Dre, who put the goal on a plate for him. I also had a very strong bench with Taylor Jnr, Swanick and Southward getting on and putting themselves right in my thoughts for Saturday along with Joe Miller and Phil Jamin, who did not get on but showed the right attitude.
Saturday, Charnock will certainly be up for the game which, as well as a ral cup tie, promises to be a great game of footy as well. But if we play like we did last week , like I know we can, then we should be going into the next round of the cup. Get yourself down and support the lads!", Bails.
Kick off is at 1:30pm.
Bails also added a word of thanks to Tom Kelsall for his support, and goals, over the last couple of seasons. Tom has started a new job working away from Garstang and will no longer be available. Cheers and good luck, Tom.
Garstang FC Youth continue their league campaign on Sunday morning at the Riverside with the visit of Wyre FC for the 11:00am kick off.
The two teams last met in mid November when Garstang ran out comfortable winners and realistically, barring a bad attack of over-confidence, Sunday's result should not be in doubt.
Alec Curwen says, "After such a long lay off, last Sunday's game was really pleasing. All the lads turned up with the correct attitude and were more than ready for the game. Their fitness from all the weeks of training definitley showed, on what was a really heavy pitch, and we looked a lot fitter than the opposition.
The team is now looking really strong with the younger end now growing in confidence. Players like Adam Barton-Eccles, Joe Collinson, Matt Ayrton and James Gibbins are all looking comfortable at this level and keep improving week on week. A mention too for Sam Livsey who controlled the center of the park in the first half before running out of steam and also Dan Sutciff who came in at center half and had a very solid game.
Home again on Sunday; I look forward to seeing you there" , Alec.
*February matchday poster is here.
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Poulton Town 2 Garstang 2
Garstang Reserves 1 Charnock Richard Reserves 0
Garstang Youth 5 Thornton Cleveleys 1
22nd January 20:00
Playing with the galeforce wind, you always felt that Garstang's 1-0 half time lead, courtesy of Stringfellow, would not be enough. And so it looked as Poulton edged into a
2-1 lead into the second half, but Garstang are made of sterner stuff these days. Making light of the weather, Poole toed in an equaliser as Garstang played the better football to the end.
 |
| The woodwork saved Poulton twice in the first half. |
A good performance from the Reserves too with David Jack getting the goal that settled it.
A good weekend was made even better on Sunday as Garstang Youth Team rocked up with an impressive 5-1 victory over Thornton Cleveleys. Oscar Panepinto (2), Tom Graham and Jack Swindlehurst (2, one a penalty) provided the goals to take Garstang third in the league with games in hand.
First and Youth Team match reports are now available.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Poulton Town [A] 2:00pm Saturday
WLRD1 v Charnock Richard Reserves [H] 2:00pm Saturday
LEP Reds v Thornton Cleveleys [H] 11:00am Sunday
20th January 10:30
*WEATHER WATCH: Sunday game is on.
Garstang FC return league business on Saturday with a 2:00pm kick off at Poulton Town - FY6 7RH.
Poulton Town are having a good season, currently occupying third place in a league where no one team is matching Wrens earlier dominance. Unbeaten in five would look daunting for Stringy's squad but for the fact that three of them were draws. Clearly Poulton don't give much away, but an improving Garstang should feel capable of pinching at least a point.
There was enough football on view against Lostock to keep the self belief building; we just need to work out how to finish a game with eleven on the pitch!
Garstang Reserves are set to entertain Charnock Reserves at The Riverside in the first of two consecutive meetings. Tomorrow sees the league encounter ahead of next weeks Houston Cup tie.
Bails is "Really looking forward to having a game this Saturday, not having got a game on since November 26th. We having already played Charnock, away at their place when we ended on the wrong end of a 3-0 scoreline. Looking back though, it was never a 3-0 game as we created good chances early and late in the game and, although Charnock are a very good side, I know we are every bit as good as they or anybody else in this division for that matter!
With a bit of luck and composure in front of goal, we should get somthing out of this game. We have worked hard in training and even played a friendly! We have a full and strong squad to choose from and all the boys are really up and ready for getting this game on."
Garstang Youth Team have shared the same period of inactivity as the Reserve side, so they too are desperate to get a game on at The Riverside on Sunday: kick off is scheduled for 11:00am.
Thornton Cleveleys are the opposition, and it's a game where the home side have something to prove! In a very good season, still 100% in the league, Garstang's exit from the Youth Cup 0-3 at the hands of Thornton must represent the low point! Ports and Alec will be making sure that they have the 'right heads' on this time.
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Garstang 2 Lostock St Gerards 4
LEP Reds v Euxton Villa [H] Match Postponed
14th January 18:00
Garstang weren't the worst team here! A slow nervous start for Stringy's home debut handed Lostock a two goal initiative, but a fine reposte from Asa Stone saw the home side in the ascendancy at the end of the first half; a half punctuated regularly by 'letter of the law' yellow cards.
Leon Gierke got the equaliser, chipping Brindle in the Lostock goal, as Garstang started to look the only winners. At that point the first half's yellow cards, like chickens, came home to roost as Stringfellow, then Stone, both headed for the early bath.
 |
| A big save - Brindle claws out Swash's header. |
As the game moved into extra time, nine man Garstang still carved out the better chances, despite the visitors nicking a breakaway goal to go 3-2 up, but finally ran out of steam, losing the fourth right at the death.
Match report now on Team Newspage.
**February fixtures added.
***Stringy post-match is on the First Team Newspage.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
Richardson Cup v Lostock St Gerards [H] 1:30pm Saturday
LEP Reds v Euxton Villa [H] 11:00am Sunday
13th January 09:30
Garstang FC take a break from the rigors of the league on Saturday when they entertain Lostock St Gerards in the first round of the Richardson Cup: the kick off is at 1:30pm.
And what a tasty encounter this promises to be! First off, it's Manager Stringfellow's home debut, and a first chance for the Riverside Regulars to cast an eye over Stringy's fledgling squad with new faces Nat Benson, Matthew Rice and Danny Horton prominent. Benson is a Preston based centre half who's played at Nelson, Rice a right winger who has come through the Myerscough Development Centre and Horton, centre midfield, has played for Nelson College were he was captain.
Stringy is edging closer to his first win and, as he says, "There were plenty of positives to take from the Slyne game. It was a performance full of grit and determination. I felt we had the better of the first half and defended well in the second half after losing two players to red cards. It was great to see Matt Poole on the pitch after his ankle injury.
Saturday will be the first time that we have played at home since I took charge of the squad. We are looking forward to playing at The Riverside and building on the positive result from the Slyne game."
The game will be spiced up further by the return of former manager Stu Darley accompanied, no doubt, by one or two other former Riverside favourites.
See you there!
It's a big game too for Garstang Youth Team as Euxton Villa are the 11:00am visitors on Sunday for an early championship decider!
Garstang and Euxton are the only clubs remaining with a 100% record and, whilst both defences have proved to be miserly with goals conceded, Euxton have netted almost twice as many goals showing an instinct to push on for the full ninety, even when a game is comfortably won.
This promises to be the best game you will see on a Sunday at The Riverside this season.
You should be there as well!!
Garstang Reserves have no fixture.
WEEKEND RESULT:
Slyne 2 Garstang 2
A first point for Stringy in this feisty encounter. Luckily all the goals came in the first half as the second half was devoted to red cards, one for Slyne and two for Garstang. Chris Squirrell got both the goals, one a penalty.
Match report now available.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Slyne with Hest [A] 2:00pm Saturday
WLRD1 v Euxton Villa Reserves [H] Match Postponed
LEP Reds v Charnock Richard [A] Match Postponed
6th January 15:00
***Update 3: Slyne game on!!
**Update 2: Reserves v Euxton is off. Bails has arranged a friendly v Broughton on the Myerscough 3G with a 2:00pm kick off.
There will be a pitch inspection at Slyne.
*Update: morning inspection at The Riverside.
Welcome to 2012!
After being pushed into the deep end at Thornton Cleveleys on November 26th, Garstang FC Manager Stringfellow has managed just 90 minutes of competitive football in the intervening six weeks so he, more than most will be keeping an eye on the weekend weather.
Despite the lack of serious action, Stringy's new squad have worked hard over the break. "We are full of confidence going into the Slyne game," he says. "We have trained hard over the past few weeks and we are looking forward to finally playing a game in the league. It's a local derby, and a six pointer for both clubs, and we will be going up there to take three points and get our season started."
Slyne, two places and ten points above Garstang, have also been weatherbound; their last outing a 1-0 defeat at Fleetwood Hesketh. You can find the game at LA2 6BG.
Garstang Reserves, having endured an even longer layoff, have a tough looking return when third placed Euxton Villa Reserves visit the Riverside tomorrow for the 2:00pm kick off. Baileys squad train with the First Team, performing well in the pre-Christmas training game. Bails, with only one defeat in his last six games, will be expecting some redress for the 3-0 defeat at Euxton at the begining of October.
Match postponed - Garstang Youth, still with a 100% record in the league, head for Charnock Richard again on Sunday with an 11:00am kick off against the bottom team. Charnock, PR7 5LZ and a goal difference -42, clearly have nothing to lose and the words 'banana' and 'skin' will feature in Ports' pre-match.
**Updated Riverside January Match Poster here.
|
Here are our Winners for December:
Congratulations!! |
| £1000 |
2254 |
Robert Sapey |
| £100 |
2804 |
Neil Parkinson |
| £60 |
3675 |
Mr D Sayer |
| £60 |
2130 |
Tony Mashider |
| £60 |
2291 |
Mr J Rogers |
| £25 |
1642 |
G & KA MacNair |
| £25 |
4091 |
Michael Wright |
| £25 |
2851 |
Ian Shouesmith |
| £25 |
1312 |
Steve Gray |
FINALLY: SOME WORDS FROM THE COALFACE
27th December 14:00
First Team Manager Mike Stringfellow
The lads will be training hard over the Christmas break.
The squad is coming together and the performance against Charnock Richard was a big positive for me as we competed for over an hour and played some quality football.
I’ve only been in the job for a short time, but I have learned a lot about the Club.
The Youth and the Reserve teams are training with us on a weekly basis and there are some good players in both teams. Training together will bring the whole of the Club together as one.
It’s been frustrating for myself with games being called off; we have no points to show for all the hard work that has been put in by everyone. I am looking forward to our first game back against Slyne. It’s a big game and we are all positive about getting a good start to the New Year. Stringy
Reserve Team Manager Paul Bailey
Pre-season was good. We had a good mix of players; a few new faces mixed in with the old. Our first league games went well and we looked strong, played good football and kept a good shape playing a 4 1 4 1 formation.
We then hit a bad patch where old habits came back, making silly mistakes and bad decisions. We changed the formation to a 4 4 2 which seemed to put us back on track. As a team we were playing good solid football. Yes, we will still make the odd mistake but hopefully we will pick up on the oppositions mistakes and get a few wins under our belts.
With the squad I have, which now has six lads that have come through from the Under 18, plus the usual oldish heads, I am really positive not only about the rest of this season but about the next few.
I would like to thank a few peaple who have helped me so far this season: Alec Curwen and Mark Bendall, whose input has been superb on match days, Adrian and committe for their help and support.
Cheers all and have a good Christmas. I look forward to seeing you all down at the Riverside in the New Year. Bails
Youth Team Manager Dave Porter
The management team are happy with the season so far, no team we have played as of yet have been any better than us, in fact, in every game so far we have been in control and had spells where teams could and should have been out of the running, but this is something that the lads as a team know about and realise during these good spells we must finish teams off. If not then we leave ourselves a mountain to climb - as we have done in all the cup competitions so far, but that's in the cup and I know these games have made the lads more determined.
Our form in the league has been good with all players giving everything they've got. As a manager I cannot ask for any more. With some of the Youth Team playing regular football in the Reserves on a Saturday - Oscar Panapinto, Dan Sutcliffe, Phill Jammin and Jack Swindlehurst as well as Tom Graham and Sam Livsey in a couple of games - it proves that the future of Garstang Football Club lies within the Youth Team. I'm sure that, in three or four years time, when we watch the senior squads on a Saturday afternoon, we will be cheering on familiar faces.
As for the rest of this season we must concentrate on doing things right with a goalkeeper who is loud with good hands and a great kick, a more than solid back four who do not want to concede, a midfield that works as hard without the ball as it does with it, two wide men who never waste the ball in good positions, a centre forward who continues to give opposition centre halves a torrid time, and a bench that every week offer their support even when not playing are all an active part. Thanks lads.
A big thankyou to Dan Curwen for dragging himself out of bed on a Sunday morning to run the line, and also to Gaz Fawcett, although he is only there in body sometimes, for doing the warm up but still offers so much to the lads with his experience - in football I mean. Also thanks to all the parents and supporters who offer their support, rain or shine, good or bad, and to Dave Graham whose match reports save me so much time you wouldn't believe!
Finally a massive thankyou to Alec who brings everything together, works to make sure everything is in order, and makes my job more enjoyable. Thanks pal!.
All the best for the new year. Ports
Terrace Representative Dick Gudgeon
I normally do a mid and end of season report on the highs and lows. This year has not had as many highs as we would have liked!
After watching a few pre-season friendlies, we set off for Stoneclough on August 6th in our newly acquired mini bus, loaded up with jaffa cakes and werthers plus a number of new players. The only problem we had on the M6 was when we were passed by a road sweeper, but our trusty driver Les managed to get us there on time. The hospitality at Stoneclough was first class even providing our players with a pre warm up brew. I normally cadge a free coffee but this was the first time I had seen a club provide one to all the visitors. Not a lot to report on this match except if game had ended in 16 minutes we would have won 2-0.
The next game was at Tempest where again we were 2-0 up, finishing up at 3-3. The first home game was against Vickers. We lost 1-0 fielding a very unsettled team. With new players appearing every week, I tried to learn to recognise players by their numbers but that did not work as they kept changing positions. The truth is that I am useless at remembering names, in fact I stuggle to remember our Chaimans name!
The next few games we lost or drew, but still new players were being introduced. An inevitable management change took place in November when we were introduced to Michael Stringfellow - I think his dad has a club in London so that could be ok for some sponsorship. Over to you Les.
Back to our new Player Manager Stringy who has taken on a team having not won a game. With virtually the same team, he lost 1-0, but played with a different attitude. Due to the weather, a few games have been postponed so I have only seen a few training sessions, but with the atmosphere, attitude, morale and entertaining football that is being played, I am sure we are round the corner with the light at the end of the tunnel almost in sight.
A Happy and goal scoring New Year to all. Dick
PS: invite your neighbour or friend, even your Granny, to the Riverside in the New Year. We need more support.
COMMERCIALLY SPEAKING:
26th December 19:30
Despite the trials and tribulations that surround the running of a football club we can be pleased with the progress we have made commercially and so, on behalf of the Chairman and Committee of Garstang Football Club let me begin by giving an enormous thank you to the following companies who have backed our vision for the future of the football club: Tony Vile of Rockform Ltd., Bob Horum of Garstang Cars Ltd., Edgar Wallace of Preston Plastics Ltd., Mick Gornall at The Kings Arms and Andrew Pyke of Ribblesdale Auto Electrics Ltd..
We have of course many more, too many to mention individually, who have supported us by Sponsoring Matches, Sponsoring Players and Advertising with us via Ground Perimeter Boards. We are no less grateful for their support.
The Chairman has referred to the Ground Development Plans that are being brought to reality by the success of our 'Score' Lottery, but most people are unaware of the person who has made a significant contribution to that success. His name is John Wood. John has gone out in all weathers to enrol new members and to collect from present members. He has more than doubled the size of the membership enabling us to double the prize fund. John, You are a Star! Thank you.
Whilst we are on the subject of the 'Score' Lottery, it would be most helpful if all members who pay annually could pay your subscription, to any committee member, as soon as possible. If you would like John or myself to collect just ring me on 07967 337416. Again, thanks to all of you who have become members.
On Thursday 29th December we will be holding our annual Race Night at the Kings Arms. We would be delighted to see you there. On the same night we will be drawing the December 'Score' Lottery with a £250 Christmas Bonus going to the £1000 winner but only if they are in the Kings when the draw is made. All I will tell you is that the draw will take place between the first race at 7.30pm and the last race at 10.00pm!
 |
With no winner present in the Kings, the Christmas Bonus went to
Croston House Cancer Help Charity in Garstang. |
And here's one for your diary: Comedy Night at the Wyrebank Banqueting Suite on Friday 13th April 2012. Tickets: £20 including supper. This is a must if you like a laugh and uaranteed by three top line northern comedians in Norman Prince, Mike Kelly and Venn Tracey - don’t miss it!
None of what you have read would have been possible without the support of our Chairman’s Company, John Wilding Citroen Ltd. and on behalf of the Club I would like to express our sincere gratitude.
 |
| Mike Stringfellow takes delivery of his Citroen Grand C4 Picasso from the Club’s Chairman and Principal Sponsor, John Wilding Citroen Ltd. |
And just one more! You may not have even have heard about all this if it hadn’t been for our fantastic website. Our thanks to Ian Blezard for creating this great vehicle that helps to market our Club.
A Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year to all of you who have supported Garstang Football Club throughout the year.
Les Taylor
FIRST UP: THE CHAIRMAN'S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE
23rd December 17:00
Aa Christmas approaches, we find it a time to remember lost ones and reflect on the past, what we have done and what we have achieved. It’s also a time to enjoy and catch up with friends you’ve not seen. To me, and you I’m sure, it’s a time to look forward, to plan for the coming year. A time to get excited about what we plan and hope to achieve, and to set targets and goals for the coming months.
We at Garstang Football Club can only be positive for the coming year. There is a buzz around the team. We have a new, young and enthusiastic first team management in place with plenty of playing experience among them. All our managers and players should look forward to 2012, and I wish them all the best of luck; with hard work and good team-work our goals will be achieved.
Off the field we have a busy and exciting 2012 ahead. As I am sure you are aware, our ground development plans were passed, so now it’s time to get quotes in place so we can bring these to fruition. We also need to upgrade our changing rooms to meet the standards of the West Lancashire Premier Division and to give our players a better environment. We are to start this work at the end of the season, so we will be busy!
All this takes up a lot of time, and I thank everyone involved with the Club for the hard work involved, without your continued support this could not be done. This will all cost a considerable amount of money and, without our successful lottery, all this would just be a dream. But we must never stand still and just think the lottery will happen. We all need to work at it, push people to join and, more importantly, stay in it during these difficult financial times. Please keep pushing this, as it’s our future if we want to keep progressing and have the best facilities for the local footballers. It’s our future.
2012 will be a challenge. Success does not come easy. I can assure you we will keep working hard to achieve success for the Club and the town. Garstang should and will be challenging at all levels in the near future and at a facility of which we can all be proud. Please support our teams, it’s great for the lads on match days to see such big crowds with plenty of vocal support, and thank you on behalf of the players for supporting us to date.
Hopefully, I will seeing you at our Race Night on 29th December at the Kings Arms. It will be a great night and someone will be getting a nice Xmas present, and if it’s you, and you’re there, it will be even better.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and a big thank you to all who have supported me and Garstang Football club during the last twelve months.
Enjoy.
Adrian Wilding
CHRISTMAS CATCH UP:
18th December 09:30
So, that's it for 2011; a roller coaster year with a bit of a soggy ending!
As usual, we will bring you a few 'mid-term reviews' over the next couple of weeks, so pop back and see us occasionally. Have a good Christmas.
**Update: meet the Physio here.
***Training game match report here.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Blackpool Wren Rovers [H] GAME OFF
15th December 18:00
**Update: standing water and snow on the pitch; there is no chance of playing tomorrow. All senior players are reminded that there will be a full training match at the Globe Arena at 12:30pm. Contact team management if you are unsure of kit requirements, etc..
So, hopefully, we get our last game pre-Christmas on Saturday when Blackpool Wren Rovers, the current League Champions, are our visitors for the 2:00pm kick off. And it really is the only game in 'town' as the Reserve and Youth Teams have no fixture.
"We have another tough test on Saturday." says Stringy "We have to learn from our mistakes against Charnock and then take all the positives into the game against Wrens. The squad is evolving and improving every week and there is lots of competition for places, and that is always a positive for any manager.
All our players will be training hard over the Christmas period - note the dates are below fellas - as we need to get off to a flyer after the Christmas break and start picking up points along the way.
On the injury front Matty Poole is now back in full training and will be in the squad after the holiday. We have also have signed Dominic Ward. Formerly with Lancaster City, Dom had a couple of outings for Garstang two seasons ago, he has a knee injury at the moment but he will be fit after the Christmas period."
| Christmas Training Dates - All Players |
| Dec 17th |
12:30 to 13:30 |
Globe Arena |
| Dec 21st |
20:00 to 21:00 |
Globe Arena |
| Dec 24th |
10:00 to 11:00 |
Globe Arena |
| Dec 29th |
18:00 to 19:00 |
Garstang Leisure Centre |
| Dec 29th |
19:00 to 22:00 |
Kings Arms, Garstang |
| Jan 04th |
20:00 to 21:00 |
Globe Arena |
**Les Taylor has a number of Garstang's Trendy Travel Tops for sale at £30. If you want to look the part, call Les on 07967 337416.
HOLIDAY SOCCER SCHOOLS ARE BACK:
4th December 18:00
The Soccer Schools are back for the Christmas Holiday. Organised in conjunction with Morecambe FC Community Sports, the schools are open to boys and girls aged between 5 and 16 years. Running from December 19th to 23rd inclusive, they will be held on the Astroturf pitches at Morecambe's Globe Arena, and free transport will be available from the Garstang Riverside.
Full details, and a booking form, can be found here. Act quickly!
**Details of Garstang Vets recent exploits are now here.
CHARNOCK: STRINGY's VIEW
13th December 16:30
'It was a good performance on Saturday. We competed with Charnock and played some great football. 3-1 was not a true reflection of the team’s performance.
Those who made it to the game will have seen that the new lads settled straight into the team, the three in midfield working well together until Danny Horton's injury. Danny has played for Amersham Town and Newman College, where he was captain. The other two, Michael Nolan and Ryan Dodd, both come to us from AFC Fylde, where they are on the fringe of the First Team squad, to gain experience. Dodd has captained their Reserves side and also played at Freckleton last season.
We are, without doubt, improving as a team and we can now go into games confident of picking up points. The squad is still short on numbers, however, and so I’m still working to bring new players in. Hopefully, a new face will be in the squad on Saturday.'
Stringy
DICK GUDGEON'S 7-0 SCORELINE:
12th December 10:00
Garstang's #1 fan, Dick Gudgeon, celebrates his 70th birthday today.
Have a good one Dick!
 |
| Gudgeon, Gudgeon give us a wave! (mouse over) |
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Charnock Richard 3 Garstang 1
10th December 18:00
A debut goal from Ryan Dodd gave Garstang a deserved lead early in the second half. It also gave Charnock a wake-up call, and three quick and sloppy goals in the next ten minutes decided the game. Garstang continued to compete well for the rest of the game, however, and will find positives in their performances.
First Team match report now on team newspage.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Charnock Richard [A] 2:00pm Saturday
WLRD1 v Thornton Cleveleys Reserves GAME OFF
LEP Reds v Charnock Richard [A] GAME OFF
VETS V Clifton Casuals Veterans [A] 11:00am Sunday
9th December 16:00
UPDATE: Riverside now OFF. Charnock game goes ahead. Sunday's Youth Team game is also OFF.
Other postponements are here.
A full house of fixtures are scheduled for this weekend but, a glance out of the window will tell you that we are unlikely to see them all played.
Stringy: "We were very frustrated that last weekend's home game again Slyne with Hest was called off, as it would have been a great opportunity to get our first win. On the plus side, however, I have had an extra week to work with the squad which has been strengthened ahead of the Charnock Richard game by the signing of Michael Nolan and Ross Ainsworth from AFC Fylde this week. Both are great young prospects who are coming to us to gain experience.
The squad is improving each week, which brings positive competition for places, always a good thing. On the injury front, Matty Poole is still two to three weeks away from being match fit.
We obviously have a tough test tomorrow, away from home, but I'm confident of going to Charnock and getting something."
A pitch inspection is required at Charnock Richard; expect an update on here around 10:00am in the morning.
Thornton Cleveleys Reserves are scheduled to visit The Riverside but, with torrential rain falling again as I write this, tomorrow's game is very doubtful. Again, a formal inspection will be made before 10:00am tomorrow.
Garstang Youth Team, denied their early season 'championship decider' against unbeaten Euxton last week are also due to head for Charnock Richard, on Sunday. The Charnock Team, still looking for their first points of the season, lost 0-2 at The Riverside a month ago and so shouldn't have enough to interrupt Alec and Ports' team's own unbeaten run.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Slyne with Hest [H] OFF
LEP Reds v Euxton Villa [H] OFF
VETS V Lytham Vets [A] 11:00am Sunday
3rd December 10:00
All weekend games are at The Riverside are postponed due to the waterlogged pitch.
Bails' Reserves get to sit this weekend out as they have no fixture, but that in no way dilutes the weekend's fayre with two huge games on the menu.
Garstang FC welcome Slyne with Hest to The Riverside, kick off 2:00pm, for what Manager Stringfellow knows is a 'must win' fixture. Premiership survival now depends upon taking maximum points from the teams immediately above us. We need that elusive first victory but, Slyne will be no pushover, they have beaten both Euxton and Fulwood in their last two away games.
Stringy says: 'After our good performance Saturday, we will be full of confidence going into the Slyne game. Obviously, it a massive game for both teams and we will be looking to take three points. We plan on having some new faces to add to our improving squad and I'm looking forward to my first game as Player Manager at The Riverside.
I hope the supporters will get behind the team and give us a lift on Saturday.'
Sunday morning's Garstang Youth fixture is certainly worth getting out of bed for as Euxton Villa, the only other team with a 100% league record, are the visitors.
Both team's have shown themselves to be very solid in defence, and equally able to open up the opposition at the other end, but Euxton have proved to be much more adept, and ruthless, in converting their chances, scoring at twice Garstang's rate. Tempted? Kick off is at 11:00am.
His spare weekend has allowed Bails to catch up on the paperwork! Read him here.
Garstang Vets are back in action this weekend against familiar opponents, Lytham. The game is away with an 11 o'clock kick off. This fixture has thrown up some interesting score lines in recent times, from a 4-3 thriller in Lytham's favour to an 11-2 thrashing by a strong Garstang side. There are selection problems a plenty with Xmas do's, holidays and work commitments restricting player availability, so it is a case of grabbing the first 13 or so oldies walking past the King's Arms on Sunday morning.
Next Sunday sees another fixture with the Vets away to Clifton Casuals. This will be another tough test against a side that boasts several former professionals and is a team that the Vets have yet to play against. It is hoped that a few more bodies will be available for this one to assist those who will be still recovering from this weekends fixture.
STRINGY: POST MATCH
28th November 17:00
I felt we deserved a share of the points Saturday when there was a super effort from the lads, full of character and determination.
And there were lots of positives to take from the game. I thought we defended well as a team and created chances from set pieces. However, we need to create more chances from open play, so we will be working hard on Wednesday, and the following weeks, on creating and finishing in the final third.
Leon Gierke has joined the squad; as you know he’s a very experienced player and will help the young lads, hopefully scoring us some goals.
I’m expecting to bring in some more new faces for Saturday's game to help strengthen the squad.
Stringy
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Thornton Cleveleys 1 Garstang 0
Garstang Reserves 2 Stoneclough Reserves 0
Gregson Lane 1 Garstang 2
25th November 18:30
New Manager Effect? Whatever it was, this was a vastly improved performance from Stringfellow's squad who were worth a share of the points.
 |
| Howell powerless to stop the winner. |
Garstang Reserves secured their expected victory at The Riverside, although not as comfortably as it should have been: Panepinto and o/g, the goals.
On Sunday, an excellent win for an injury hit Garstang Youth Team: goals from Panepinto and Graham.
First and Youth Team match reports on team newspages.
|
Here are our Winners for November:
Congratulations!! |
| £1000 |
3282 |
Janet Collinson |
| £100 |
3748 |
Pamela Fisher |
| £60 |
3280 |
Chris Wood |
| £60 |
2662 |
John Pedder |
| £60 |
4208 |
Mrs MM Jackson |
| £25 |
3049 |
Roger Denton |
| £25 |
3679 |
DA Naylor |
| £25 |
1343 |
Andrew Johnson |
| £25 |
1145 |
Reg & Isobel Armstrong |
STOCK CLEARANCE SALE:
25th November 14:00
Stuck for a Christmas pressie? Les Taylor is clearing his car boot of the remaining Garstang FC merchandise stock - at discounted prices!
Talk to him at a game, or call him on 07967 337416.
Product details are here.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Thornton Cleveleys [A] 2:00pm Saturday
WLRD1 v Stoneclough Reserves [H] 2:00pm Saturday
LEP Reds v Gregson Lane [A] 11:00am Sunday
25th November 12:30
Garstang FC's new Gaffer Mike Stringfellow gets no favours from the fixture computer as he is pitched straight into the deep end at Thornton Cleveleys in his first game. Thornton, who started the season very strongly, have lost a bit of form in recent weeks, losing to Fulwood and Stoneclough in their last two outings, so this is not an easy game to call. One thing that is certain is that, come four o'clock on Saturday, 'Stringy' will have a very good idea what the West Lancs is all about!
Still enthusing about Wednesday's first training session, Stringy, is happy that he has some good footballers and a good squad with which to work. 'Obviously, I will be looking to strengthen the squad in key areas, but every player will get the chance to keep their shirt,' said the Gaffer.
You can expect a couple of new, but familiar faces in the squad on Saturday, and the Manager will be getting a good view of the game from the middle of the pitch. Kick of at Bourne Road is at 2:00pm.
After last week's unhappy episode at Charnock, Garstang Reserves will welcome the visit of Stoneclough Reserves to The Riverside for the 2:00pm kick off. Although scoring almost as often as Garstang, Stoneclough are shipping four goals a game which leaves them still looking for their first league win. Bails is still missing key players, but will be boosted by the return of Andy Ireland to the squad.
So, come on Bails. No messing about. Three points please.
Garstang Youth Team also get to atone for recent demeanours when they head back to Gregson Lane on Sunday: kick off 11:00am. Beaten on penalties in the Youth Cup on their last visit to the Shawes Arms, Garstang admitted to an 'off day' well out of keeping with their league form.
Last Sunday's 6-0 victory over Wyre was, however, far too easy to have too much significance on Sunday and Alec Curwen's squad will need to find a much more ruthless streak in front of goal if they are to keep the 100% run going.
STRINGFELLOW MEETS HIS TEAM:
24th November 15:00
New Manager Michael Stringfellow held his first Garstang FC training session last night. Clearly, this is a hectic time for him, but he managed to find time to pen a few words for you:-
'I can’t wait to get started and I’m delighted to get this opportunity. The ambition the club has shown matches my own and it’s the right time and the right opportunity for me to come to a club like this. Some may see it as a backward step after playing in the Evo-stik leagues but, after speaking to the Adrian Wilding, it is clear that the club has the potential to go a lot further.
I have played for some great managers and played with a lot of great players and so I hope to pass the knowledge that I have acquired on to the players at Garstang Football Club.
The players trained hard last night, and at a great tempo. We will be taking this into the game on Saturday and looking for a positive start. Thanks.'
Stringy
*Stringy's Fylde departure is detailed here.
MICHAEL STRINGFELLOW JOINS GARSTANG:
Former Morecambe and Fylde Player Succeeds Richard Thomas
23rd November 16:00
It is with regret that Garstang Football Club announce the departure of Manager Richard Thomas and his Assistant Ben Adjei.
It is unfortunate that the appointment hasn’t worked out to the mutual benefit of Richard and the Club. We are most grateful for Richard and Ben’s input during their time with us and, on behalf of the Chairman and the Management Committee, they leave with our best wishes for the future.
You can read Richard's comments here.
The Club have felt it necessary to act quickly in view of our precarious position at the bottom of the league and are, therefore, delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Stringfellow as Player Manager with immediate effect.
Michael has an impressive pedigree starting his professional career with Morecambe FC; playing over 100 games in six years. In 2006 he moved to Barrow FC where he made a further 35 appearances. A brief spell with Stalybridge Celtic preceded a move to Lancaster City where he skippered the side to a Play-Off Final in 2009.
Garstang have signed Michael from AFC Fylde, where he has been since July 2010. His full-time occupation is as a Community Officer with Morecambe Football Club.
This is clearly an important appointment for our club and hopefully re-emphasises the message that our ambitions off the field need to be supported by those on it.
Some early thoughts from Michael tomorrow. In the meantime, should you wish to contact him, you can email him via mike.stringfellow@garstangfc.com.
WEEKEND RESULTS:
GARSTANG 2 TEMPEST UNITED 2
CHARNOCK RICHARD 3 GARSTANG RESERVES 0
WYRE 0 GARSTANG YOUTH 6
18th November 17:30
Eighty five minutes on the clock, two up and looking for a third, Tempest thought they had this won. A Chris Squirrel penalty later and Garstang finally got into the game, Dave Jack getting a point stabbing home the last kick of the game, below.
Disappointment for the Reserves, though, going down 0-3 at Charnock.
A comfortable victory over Wyre for Garstang Youth Team on Sunday: Jamin 3, Panepinto 2 and Swindlehurst with the goals.
 |
| Phil Jamin with his first of three. |
First and Youth Team match reports now available.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP V TEMPEST UNITED [H] 2:00pm Saturday
WLRD1 V CHARNOCK RICHARD [A] 2:00pm Saturday
LEP REDS V WYRE [A] 11:00am Sunday
18th November 16:00
Take a glance at the league table on the left, and you will know all that you need to know about tomorrow's Premiership fixture at The Riverside! Is it muck or nettles!!
As Garstang FC were being humbled by Hesketh, Tempest were taking an unexpected point from Wrens - which makes it very difficult to call the game either way. So, who wants it most?
Richard Thomas: "I think its fair to say that last week was, without doubt, the worst afternoon we've had as a team and one of the toughest afternoons I've experienced in my career as both player and manager. Tomorrow is, again without doubt, the biggest game of the season and we all know a win will take us oFf the bottom and claw us a little closer to other teams.
We are working hard to continue to develop the existing squad and we had a productive high tempo indoor session on Thursday evening. As a squad we now, more than ever, need to stick together, not point the finger, and be prepared to reflect on ourselves rather than pass the buck on to others.
We welcome back some players who were missing last week, which will add strength and depth to the squad, and, as always, we look forward to the game. Although times are tough at the moment, myself and the squad are relishing every fixture and are determined to do our upmost to change the fortunes of Garstang FC."
Kick off is at 2:00pm.
Back to league action for Garstang Reserves after last week's Houston Cup victory with a visit to Charnock Richard, the team they have drawn in the next round of the Houston Cup. Whilst performances are never as convincing as Bails would like, he is delighted with the team's fighting spirit. They will need it!
Garstang Youth Team head for Thornton (FY5 4BZ) and Wyre FC on Sunday in a Division One Reds fixture. Last week's victory wasn't as convincing as it should have been and Alec Curwen will be looking for a 'bit more' against a team who have lost six of seven. Kick off 11:00am.
WEEKEND RESULTS:
FLEETWOOD HESKETH 5 GARSTANG 0
GARSTANG RESERVES 2 MILNTHORPE CORINTHIANS 0
GARSTANG 2 CHARNOCK RICHARD 0
12th November 20:00
At the end of the season, when we look back, I hope that we can identify today as the low point! Garstang FC made a makeshift Fleetwood Hesketh team look good as, although they worked hard, Garstang were unable to stop the home team getting through to the byeline with apparent ease, and paid the price.
 |
| Keeper Howell judged guilty for a fifth minute penalty. |
Fortunately, Bails' Reserves kept the show on the road with their Houston Cup victory over Milnthorpe; Salthouse and Panepinto with the goals.
First team match report added.
And on Sunday, a good win for the Youth Team with Phil Jamin and Tom Graham getting the goals. The match report is now on the team newspage.
***Les Taylor was one of the guests on Radio Lancashire's 'Non-League Forum' on Friday night. Hear it here.
*** Garstang Reserves get a home tie versus Charnock Richard in the Second Round of the Houston Cup: to be played on January 28th.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP V FLEETWOOD HESKETH [A] 2:00pm Saturday
HCR1 V MILNTHORPE CORINTHIANS [H] 1:30pm Saturday
LEP REDS V CHARNOCK RICHARD [H] 11:05am Sunday
11th November 12:30
Having got a point against the team four places above them last week, Garstang FC head for 'three above' Fleetwood Hesketh on Saturday and, with 'two above' Slyne and 'one above' Tempest due at The Riverside soon, the next month may well define our season!
As Thommo says, "Last week was back to a step in the right direction but, in order to progress up the league, we need to turn these 1's into 3's. Stoneclough was a good game to be involved in and it could have gone either way. All in all, I think a point shows the development of the side as we lost to them on the opening day 4-2.
Saturday is another tough game where we are hoping to get something out of it but, unfortunately, we are a little light on numbers tomorrow due to unavailability and injuries, but we go to Fleetwood Hesketh in a positive frame of mind. I honestly feel that with just one win, we will go from strength to strength and climb out of this predicament, cementing our place in this league."
Kick off is at 2:00pm at Fylde Road, Southport PR9 9XH.
It's a 1:30pm kick off for Garstang Reserves at The Riverside with Milnthorpe Corinthians Reserves making a rare visit for the First Round of the Houston Cup. The good win against a tough Norcross side last week will have Bails' team looking forward to this one - although with Milnthorpe only having picked up one win from their travels this term, the words 'banana' and 'skin' do spring to mind!
Garstang Youth Team bowed out of their last remaining cup competition last Sunday when, after clawing their way back into the game, they lost out as a result of a 'disappointing' performance in the penalty shoot-out.
So, it's back to league action on Sunday at The Riverside, kick off 11:05am, with Charnock Richard, yet to register their first league points this season, the visitors.
***Marc Armstrong handed over the Club's annual donation to the CRY charity, from monies raised at the Golf Day, during the week. More here.
WEEKEND RESULTS:
GARSTANG 1 STONECLOUGH 1
NORCROSS & WARBRECK 2 GARSTANG RESERVES 3
GREGSON LANE 2 GARSTANG 2 aet - lost 3-2 on penalties
5th November 18:00
A super goal from Swash wasn't enough to light the fire at The Riverside and, in the end, Garstang will be satisfied with the point.
A hard working performance and plenty of fireworks at Norcross, however, as the Reserves made it to the end one goal and one man ahead. Bails lit the blue touchpaper, getting sent to the car park after twenty minutes, as Taylor (pen), Kelsall and Stuart put Garstang in charge. But Norcross had the last word, going down to ten men, they then took the game to Garstang, pulled a late goal back, and were pushing hard for an equaliser at full time. Garstang deserved the win though.
 |
| Ben Stuart in for the third. |
First and Youth Team match reports now available.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP V STONECLOUGH [H] 2:00pm Saturday
WLRD1 V NORCROSS & WARBRECK [A] 2:00pm Saturday
STYT V GREGSON LANE [A] 11:00am Sunday
4th November 12:30
Stoneclough are Garstang FC's visitors to The Riverside on Saturday for the first of the winter, 2:00pm, kick offs. Coincidentally, Stoneclough were also the opposition on the first day of the season when Garstang saw a two goal lead dissolve into a 4-2 defeat in a 'welcome to the West Lancs' encounter.
Stoneclough's current form is similar to our own as they too haven't recorded a win in their last six games. How far have the two teams come? Get yourself to The Riverside for two o'clock and judge for yourself! Here's Richard Thomas ahead of the game:-
"Well, it was a major setback last week with the result against Lostock but I suppose that’s football! As a squad we cannot dwell on it, but need to look at the positive steps we have taken in the games previous to last Saturday. November is now a massive month for us and the message was delivered loud and clear to the lads at Thursday's training that we need to believe in ourselves as individuals, and a team, in order to get out of our current situation.
This week has been successful both on and off the pitch. The planning application being approved and a new sponsor coming on board shows the work of the commercial director Les Taylor and we, the football management staff need to match this with results on the pitch. To help, we welcome on board Marc Armstrong who is coming in as a First Team Coach. Myself and Ben both look forward to working with Marc and his wealth of knowledge and experience of this league will be invaluable.
The game tomorrow is a tough game, but we know the strengths and the areas to exploit with Stoneclough. We welcome back to the squad Will Still and Adam Leigh, but lose Jamie Bryson to the Lancashire County squad, which is a great achievement for the individual. Matty Poole and Garreth Lewis are still missing due to injuries although, on a plus note, Michael West and Chris Squirrell are both fit after injury scares from last week. We have to thank the work of our physio Nigel Pallett for getting these players fit and ready for the fixture.
We are all looking forward to the challenge in front of us and we hope to see you at the game tomorrow."
Bails takes his team of Garstang Reserves to Norcross on the back of an excellent victory last time out. Certainly, tomorrow looks a much tougher proposition as the opposition don't give much away on their home turf, as league leaders Eagley found out on their recent visit.
It should be an interesting afternoon!
Garstang Youth embark upon yet another cup competition on Sunday when they visit Gregson Lane in the Preliminery Round of the Syndicate Trust Youth Trophy. The game will be played at PR2 5AX, behind The Shawes Arms in Preston, with an 11:00am kick off.
Last week's postponement has given the team two weeks to rue their missed opportunities at the start of both halves against a good Thornton team and Gregson's recent 2-1 league victory over Burscough Dynamo suggests this will be another tough encounter.
Gregson Lane are unbeaten at home, although Fishwick did get a draw there.
BRYSON GETS COUNTY CAP:
3rd November 08:30
A fit again Garstang winger Jamie Bryson has been called into the Lancashire FA U18 representative side on Saturday for their game against a Liverpool FA side.
Excellent news for Jamie, who was worrying that he may miss the game having suffered a knock at Lostock last Saturday. He had already missed an earlier call up last month due to injury.
PLANNING PERMISSION GRANTED:
2nd November 22:00
We are delighted to be able to tell you that our Planning Application has been approved for the development of the perimeter fencing, floodlights and turnstiles at The Riverside.
We are grateful for the support that we have received from the Councillors and the Planning Committee, and especially to Graham Salisbury and his team, who have been working on our behalf.
Adrian Wilding: "This is an exciting new era not only for the Football and Cricket Clubs, but for the Social Club as a whole. However, this is only the beginning. Much discussion will need to take place with all relevant parties before the plans can be brought to fruition but we are well on the way in providing the Town with a sporting facility of which everyone can be proud."
NEW SPONSORSHIP DEAL:
2nd November 18:00
Garstang Football Club are delighted to announce that Preston Plastics Ltd., another local company, have agreed a major Sponsorship Package to support the Club for the rest of this season and for the two seasons to follow.
Preston Plastics Managing Director, Edgar Wallace, agreed to the sponsorship deal because he liked what Garstang FC wanted for the future both as a football club and as an integral part of the Garstang community.
Les Taylor, our Commercial Manager, said that Mr. Wallace was involved with other companies and, under the agreement, we would do our best to promote those companies as well.
The name of 'Buka Lounge', a recently opened Preston Cocktail Bar, will be seen on the First and Second Team shorts. Gemini Occasions who provide 'Party Cups and Chocolate Bouquets' will also feature on the ground signs and on this website, as will the name of the 'Perfect 10 Night Club' of which Mr. Wallace is a director.
“The fact that companies with the stature of Preston Plastics are joining our other sponsors and buying into our vision, reinforces our beliefs and ambitions for the Club in the Garstang community”, said Les.
RICHARDSON CUP DRAW:
30th October 08:30
The draw for the first round of the Richardson Cup was made yesterday and, surprise, it's Garstang v Lostock St Gerard's, at The Riverside.
The tie will be played in January, probably.
The full draw is here.
 |
| More on Community Newspage!! |
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Lostock St Gerard's 4 Garstang 1
Garstang Reserves 4 Mill Hill St Peter's 0
LEP v Tarleton Corinthians [H] - Match Postponed
29th October 19:00
'One - nil up and cruising', Garstang started well at Lostock, but our fragility re-surfaced when we suffered from a harsh penalty decision. Three set pices and three free headers later and it was Lostock cruising....to a comfortable victory.
New signing Matt Swash got the Garstang goal.
All smiles at The Riverside though, Bails' boys winning 4-0 with a league first for Oscar Panepinto, one for Adam Swanwick and two for Rick Chamberlain. 'Collinson Man of the Match' was Jack Swindlehurst.
First Team match report available.
|
Here are our Winners for October:
Congratulations!! |
| £1000 |
3219 |
Thomas Jolly |
| £100 |
3980 |
S Bradford |
| £60 |
3431 |
R Pugh |
| £60 |
1414 |
Linda Smith |
| £60 |
1011 |
Joan Gorton |
| £25 |
3187 |
Karen Dixon |
| £25 |
1340 |
RW Thistlethwaite |
| £25 |
1409 |
Freda Collinson |
| £25 |
4056 |
EJ Wilkins |
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP V Lostock St Gerard's [A] 3:00pm Saturday
RD1 v Mill Hill St Peter's [H] 3:00pm Saturday
LEP v Tarleton Corinthians [H] 11:00am Sunday
28th October 17:00
Garstang FC head for Lostock St Gerard's, in their fourth away fixture in a row, and a meeting with a few familiar faces! Lostock too are finding the going tough under new management, although three points and four goals against Stoneclough last week will have given them a lift.
Whilst 'unbeaten in three' looks good on the Garstang cv, Thommo's boys will need to find their shooting boots to keep the run going. You can find the game at PR5 5UA and, for the last time this year, kick off is at 3:00pm.
Garstang Reserves, and the Riverside faithfull will be looking for a repeat of last week's entertaiment although, given the statistic that Mill Hill St Peter's have drawn eight of their twelve games, one suspects that it will be a somewhat tighter affair.
Last up this weekend, Garstang Youth return to league action after last Sunday's disappointing defeat at Thornton, for only their third league fixture of the season. Back at The Riverside, for the 11:00am kick off against Tarleton Corinthians, Ports and Alec will be reminding the team of the Burscough performance; something that would please the spectators as well!
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Fulwood Amateurs 0 Garstang 0
Garstang Reserves 3 Haslingden St Mary's 2
Thornton Cleveleys 3 Garstang 0
VETS 3 BAE Warton 3
22nd October 20:00
Another goalless draw for the First Team today and, of course, in our situation there is some merit in that.
There was more meaningful action in the first five minutes at Fulwood than the following eighty five... in marked contrast to The Riverside where an entertaining game saw Jack Swindlehurst (2) and Andy Taylor getting the goals for a deserved Reserves victory.
Senior match reports now added.
Denied a couple of early chances to get in front, Garstang departed the Syndicate Trust Youth Cup, beaten 3-0 by a very strong Thornton side.
Match report now on Youth Team Newspage.
Vets report on Community Newspage here.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP V Fulwood Amateurs [A] 3:00pm Saturday
RD1 v Haslingden St Mary's [H] 3:00pm Saturday
STYC v Thornton Cleveleys [A] 11:00am Sunday
VETS v BAE Systems [H] 11:00am Sunday
21st October 12:00
The 'Full Monty' this weekend with all four teams in action!
With Richard Thomas away, Ben Adjei gets to try out the hot seat as he leads Garstang FC to Fulwood for their 3:00pm kick off at Lightfoot Lane. All Ben will ask is that the team pick up where they left off at Vickerstown, and there should be some reward!
If anything, Bails has the tougher job at The Riverside when Garstang Reserves take on Haslingden St Mary's Reserves, the team sitting one place above them in the league, following last week's disappointing performance. With familiar faces returning to the teamsheet, however, it shouldn't take much to get their season going again.
Top billing for the weekend deservedly goes to Garstang Youth Team who, following last week's gutsy league victory, head for Bourne Road, Thornton Clevelys for another big game in the quarter final of the Syndicate Trust Youth Cup. Understandably, Ports and Alec are smiling at the mo:-
"It's back to the Cup again this weekend with a trip to Thornton Cleveleys on Sunday morning. After last week's terrific victory against a very good side in Burscough Dynamo, things are looking very good in the Youth Team set up. If we carry on performing in this manner and with the determination shown last week, there is no reason why we shouldn't be competing for some honours this season.
Sunday's game will hopefully see the return of Jack Swindlehurst and Sam Livesey who both missed our last game due to injury.
A special mention to Josh Heap, Alex Schultz, Callum Thompson and Michael Andrews who sat on the bench last Sunday, didn't get frustrated at not getting on the pitch in a tight game, and supported the eleven players on the pitch for the full ninety minutes. Garstang Youth is now very much a team and not a group of individuals. As Ports' said in the dressing room, it's not just about this week but about the full season and next season for this group of players and everyone will have a part to play.
So a very good start to the season but we need to keep pushing and training hard and rewards will hopefully come our way."
Last, and certainly least, Garstang Vets have declined the invitation to Thornton and Freeport in favour of a fixture against BAE Systems Vets at The Riverside, also kicking off at 11:00am on Sunday. According to Parky:-
"This is a team that the Veterans have not played before and are therefore an unknown quantity. Our scouting missions have not come back with any fruitful information about the opponents so it will a case of a cagey start to the game. The fixture has been switched to the Riverside, weather and pitch permitting, and is due to kick off at 11am. Once again the parent club has shown support for allowing the fixture to be played and, despite the condition of some of the usual suspects who will be turning out, it is hoped that not too much heavy treading or damage is done to the pitch. It is hoped that, as per previous games, the football served up is entertaining - if not so fast flowing!"
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Vickerstown 0 Garstang 0
Tempest Reserves 4 Garstang Reserves 1
Garstang Youth 2 Burscough Dynamo 1
16th October 15:00
An excellent draw for the First Team at Vickerstown, matching their fourth placed opponents in every department in a well earned draw built on a Simon Howell penalty save, below.
No joy for the Reserves, however, still with resources over-stretched and going down 4-1 at Tempest, Mark Salthouse getting the goal.
Garstang Youth beat a strong Burscough Dynamo in the Sunday game after going behind to an early goal. A Chad Walmsley free kick equalised before Jack Salisbury headed the home side into the lead, below, although they still had to work very hard to secure the points.
Match reports and photographs now available.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Vickerstown [A] 3:00pm Saturday
WLRD1 v Tempest Reserves [A] 3:00pm Saturday
LEPSFL Reds v Burscough Dynamo [H] 11:00am Sunday
14th October 10:00
Garstang FC head up to Vickerstown for a re-arranged fixture on Saturday, kick off 3:00pm at LA14 3NB. Vickerstown, currently fourth in the league, have yet to drop a point on their travels. Their form at Park Vale is far less impressive, however, and having picked up only one win in five they will give the Garstang visitors cause for some optimism.
Hopefully, the 'unavailable' list will be shortening for Manager Thomas and he will look to build on last week's outing as he seeks to reverse the 0-1 defeat to Vickerstown on the Riverside's opening game of the season.
If you are not tempted by the charms of the Walney Riviera, Garstang Reserves have a shorter journey for a tough looking encounter with Tempest United Reserves at Chew Moor, postcode BL6 4HP.
Manager Bailey, too, will be looking at his unavailable list as he prepares for the game against a team who have yet to drop a point at home.
Garstang Youth return to league action at The Riverside on Sunday with the visit of Burscough Dynamo Green for the 11:00am kick off. Although convincingly back into winning ways last Sunday, Garstang will find Burscough, second placed and unbeaten in four, a much tougher nut.
A game worth watching: get down there!
FIXTURE CHANGES:
10th October 11:00
There are fixture changes in all three of our competitions. Update your diaries!
There is also a new match poster to download - here.
Match reports are now available......
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Euxton Villa 1-1 Garstang
Garstang Reserves 1-2 Fleetwood Hesketh Reserves
8th October 18:00
A win continues to elude Garstang first team who had to settle for a draw away at Euxton. The home side were reduced to ten men just before half time, but they went a goal up not long after the break. Stone scored a deserved equaliser for Garstang near the end.
A Mark Kippax goal was not enough for the second team as they again slipped to defeat.
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP - Away v Euxton Villa (Saturday 3pm)
WLRD1 - Home v Fleetwood Hesketh (Saturday 3pm)
7th October 14:00
There are no easy games in the West Lancs Premier League and the trip to Euxton is another tough game for Tommo's developing squad. Euxton sit tenth in the table and always prove difficult opposition to break down. The same fixture last year saw Garstang lose two nil. Performances have been improving and Garstang need to get that first win somewhere so why not on Saturday.
After playing for 70 minutes last week I am sure that Bails will be hoping for players to return to the squad and boost the numbers. After a promising start the reserves have dropped off lately and need to get back to winning ways. Fleetwood Hesketh sit mid table and have had mixed fortunes on their travels, but they will be keen to get back to action after not having a game last week.
Garstang Youth Team have no game.
WEEKEND RESULTS:
Garstang 1-2 Eagley
Euxton Villa Reserves 3-1 Garstang Reserves
Garstang Youth Team 4-1 Brinscall Village
3rd October 10:00
Saturday was a poor day for the senior teams with both suffering defeats.
At home the first team were level entering the final couple of minutes and looking the most likely to score when once again they conceded, meaning more points dropped and a 2 -1 defeat.
With resources stretched the second team conceded three away at Euxton Villa and they could only manage one in reply - Jonny Baldwin. Manager Bailey was forced to name himself on the bench as players cried off for a variety of reasons, he did get 70 minutes but he could not influence the score line from the pitch.
Sunday brought a change in fortunes with the Youth Team winning in the cup at The Riverside. A brace a piece from Swindlehurst and Jamin saw them through with a 4-1 win.
|
Here are our Winners for September:
Congratulations!! |
| £1000 |
1262 |
Cliff Trickett |
| £100 |
2254 |
Robert Sapey |
| £60 |
1128 |
Neal Redfearn |
| £60 |
2906 |
Patricia Errington |
| £60 |
3923 |
Steven Howard |
| £25 |
3059 |
Joanne Woodruff |
| £25 |
1411 |
Linda Smith |
| £25 |
2481 |
Shiela Johnson |
| £25 |
1186 |
Rob Butler |
WEEKEND FOOTBALL:
WLP v Eagley [H] 3:00pm Saturday
WLRD1 v Euxton Villa Reserves [A] 3:00pm Saturday
STY Cup v Brinscall Village [H] 11:00am Sunday
30th September 12:00
It's more of the same for Garstang FC on Saturday at The Riverside, ko 300pm, as they entertain another strong, competitive and typical West Lancs outfit in the form of Eagley FC.
Currently occupying sixth place in the league, the visitors are unbeaten on the road this season, securing a 3-1 victory at Golborne Sports in the Lancashire Shield last Saturday. Garstang Manager Thomas, despite last week's injuries, will be looking to bed in his new acquisitions - read him on the Team Newspage.
Garstang Reserves, after last week's combative affair, head for Euxton Villa and, hopefully, an afternoon more focused on football where Bailey's team can recover their early season form.
Kick off is 3:00pm at PR7 6HH.
Finally, Garstang Youth Team are back on the cup trail again with the visit of Brinscall Village in the Syndicate Trust Youth Cup, kick off at The Riverside at 11:00am.
Last Saturday's disappointing result against Aspull was clearly an 'off day' and Ports and Alec will expect more from their squad against a team who have lost both their opening league fixtures, the last one by 7-1 at Poulton Town.
"All players reported in fit at last night's training", says Alec Curwen, "and are looking forward to this one. There is a feeling from all the lads that they want to put things right after last week's performance where, in the second haf, we did everything right apart from putting the ball in the net."
"Competion for places is strong as we now have one of the biggest squads in our division and team selection is difficult. If you're not in the starting eleven, keep training hard and your opportunity will come. Just grab it and make Ports' job even harder!"
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