Norcross & Warbreck Reserves 3 Garstang Reserves 1
West Lancs Reserve Division One
Saturday January 3rd 14:00 hrs

The Reserve's first match of 2009 took them on a short trip to Norcross & Warbreck on a freezing cold Saturday afternoon. As has been the norm over the past month or so, this match was in doubt due to the plummeting temperatures but, despite a very firm pitch, the game went ahead as scheduled. Manager Bailey had pretty much his strongest available squad to choose from along with the added presence of Alan Coar due to the First XI's postponement. Having ended 2008 on a reasonable high with a good performance away at Thornton, and the excellent cup victory against Poulton, spirits were high going into the match. A run out before the annual Fancy Dress party last Sunday had been ordered to run off the festive ale and turkey and hopefully give a competitive edge leading into the first game after the Christmas break.

Sadly, none of this came to fruition as the Reserve Team put in a rather lacklustre performance against a no more than average Norcross side. After just five minutes Norcross took the lead when their strike force combined effectively leading to a neat finish past Maycock. The rest of the half was a fairly evenly matched affair with very few chances and neither keeper having too much to save. Coar went closest for the visitors with a header that flashed past the post after good work down the left from Walton, who later saw an effort of his own go over the bar after a positive run, and Taylor Snr then worked a good shooting chance down the right. The referee was determined to break up proceedings as often as possible by awarding the home side numerous free kicks after fairly inconspicuous challenges, whilst failing to award Garstang anything for almost identical incidents!

The second half started much brighter for the reserves with Twiname beginning to assert his influence on proceedings. It was good work from Twiname down the right forcing a corner that lead to Garstang's first real clear chance of the match. Taylor Snr's cross found Wormleighton unmarked eight yards out and he really should have done better with his header. Despite that miss, it remained all Garstang in the opening exchanges and the away side came very close to leveling after a pacey break from Walton on the left took him into the box to cross to Baldwin who missed from a yard out, under a heavy challenge, after a tremendous effort to get himself into position.

Shortly after this, however, Garstang went two down after some sloppy defending from a throw in and a deflected through ball found a Norcross striker, virtually alone in the Garstang area, to finish coolly. The most disappointing aspect of the performance was to be found in the reaction to this goal whereby the lads seemed to think that a two goal deficit was beyond them; heads went down and the third goal soon followed. A careless foul by Swanwick on the edge of the 18 yard box resulted in a well converted freekick and that was the final nail in the coffin. Mark Hewitt's arrival from the bench with ten minutes to go seemed to add a little verve to the performance and it was he who stole the ball from a dawdling Norcross defender and was crudely felled for a Garstang penalty, which Coar calmly slotted for a consolation goal with just a few minutes left on the clock.

Match Sponsor: Stone Electrical. MoM sponsored by Collinson: Matt Walton – always a threat with the ball at his feet, a great outlet.

Garstang: Maycock, Taylor Snr, Swanwick, Miller (c), Bardsley, Walton, J Baldwin, Twiname, Wormleighton, Waite, A Coar
Substitutes: Taylor Jnr, C Maticheccia, Hewitt, Southward

Garstang Reserves 0 Poulton Town Reserves 0 aet
Houston Cup Round Two
Garstang win on penalties 4-3
Saturday December 6th 13:30 hrs

Top of the league Poulton Town were Garstang's opponents in the second round of The Houston Cup. Having received a bye in round one, this was the Reserve's first taste of cup competition this season and they rose to the occasion magnificently. On a bitterly cold Saturday afternoon, Garstang produced one of their best displays of the season to march into the last eight of the competition.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once again, the game was in jeopardy due to the Baltic conditions but having passed a pitch inspection at 11am, Garstang arrived at the Riverside in much improved spirits after last week's battling performance against Thornton. Wormleighton came in for the injured Southward, Bardsley for Rob Butler and Matt Baldwin, returning from a goal scoring first team display last week, replaced Andy Taylor Snr, who missed out due being cup tied.

Both teams began the game relatively slowly, perhaps due to the early kick off, and there was little incident of note until around the 35th minute when the game sprang into action, action that would continue for the next 85 minutes. Poulton's number nine bulldozed his way through on goal with only Maycock to beat, but Swanwick had other ideas and brought the striker down on the edge of the six yard box.

Above: Swanwick certainly got the ball but unfortunately the referee judged that he had taken the man first and pointed to the spot. Maycock guessed the right way and made a great stop, managing to keep hold of the ball in the process.

Within five minutes, Swanwick's afternoon was threatening to go from bad to worse when he brought down Poulton's left winger on the edge of the area when he was through on goal. The referee went to his pocket and pulled out a yellow card, instead of the expected red and it seemed that, for the first time in many a Saturday, Lady Luck was smiling on Garstang.

The second half started much better for the home side as they enjoyed more possession and began to create clear cut chances. Matt Walton was having much more of an influence on proceedings as he began receiving the ball to feet and running at his opposite number; one mazey dribble resulted in a cross finding Waite who missed from close range. Matt Baldwin had a good shot from distance saved by the Poulton 'keeper and Miller looked a threat from set-pieces. This seemed to stir Poulton who, for the remainder of the second half, created a number of excellent chances which produced some breathtaking saves from Maycock.

The game had a wonderful ebb and flow to it, Poulton would throw bodies forward, Garstang, with Miller, Maticheccia and Jonny Baldwin all putting in great performances, would defend stoutly and then launch waves of counter attacks using the pace of Walton supported Baldwin and Waite on the break. Baldwin and Waite almost combined to great effect in the dying moments of normal time as the latter played a great ball through for Baldwin to race on to but, unfortunately for him and the nerves of the management team, the finish was straight at the 'keeper.

It was a wonder that the score line remained goalless after 90 minutes. Extra time was played in much the same fashion with neither team looking to settle for the dreaded penalty shoot out. Maycock was once again at hand to produce numerous close range saves when the net seemed almost sure to ripple and Walton had a good chance in the last few minutes of the match.

And so, with neither side able to score in 120 minutes, the result of the tie went down to penalties. Manager Bailey chose not to watch the Garstang penalties through nerves, as it turned out his worries were thankfully misplaced, unlike any of Garstang penalties. With Poulton going first, both sides converted their first two spot kicks, Jonny and Matt Baldwin on target for Garstang, both with pin point, top corner efforts. Poulton's third penalty was saved excellently by Maycock, a full length dive to his right, and Walton calmly slotted in the reply. Both teams converted their fourth penalty with Shultz placing nicely, after a three mile run up, for the home side. Match point, as it were.

And how fitting it was, after a magnificent performance, for Maycock to save smartly to his left, his third penalty save of the afternoon, to send Garstang into the quarter finals.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Kristian Maycock – A near perfect goalkeeping display, his penalty heroics will live long in the memory, but his saves in open play were even better. Match Sponsor: Mike Harkins Electrical

Garstang: Maycock, Swanwick, Miller (c), C Maticheccia, Bardsley, Walton, J Baldwin, A Taylor Jnr, Wormleighton, Waite, M Baldwin
Substitutes: Shultz, Hewitt, Bell

Ricky Bamber with MoM Kristian Maycock

Thornton Cleveleys Reserves 0 Garstang Reserves 0
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Saturday November 29th 14:00 hrs

Having conceded 15 goals in the last five matches, the message from the management team for this weekend's visit to nearby Thornton Cleveleys was simple: keep a clean sheet and start to enjoy your football again. The game was in some doubt leading up to kick off due to the dense fog encircling the ground with nearby Norcross' game falling victim to the weather but fortunately the referee could just about make out all four corner flags from the centre spot and play got underway at 2pm as scheduled.

Garstang started with the same formation as last week's trip to Eagley with Andy Taylor Snr and Paul Southward coming in for Rob Bell and Ryan Twiname.

Southward was in the thick of the action for the first 30 minutes as he required the attention of the physio on three separate occasions having been the victim of some heavy challenges. Southward eventually limped off on the half hour mark to be replaced by Bardsley, an unlucky exit for a player who had worked so hard to get back into the starting XI. The first half was an evenly matched contest with only one real clear cut chance per team – Swanwick striking a crisply hit shot which was cleared off the line for Garstang, and Maycock pulling off a good save with his legs after the only real mistake from the Garstang back four all afternoon let in a Thornton striker on goal.

In the second half, although Thornton perhaps shaded the possession, Garstang certainly made the clearer chances and looked more likely to make the breakthrough. Garstang's back four of Taylor Snr, Miller, Maticheccia and Butler, who looked much more like the miserly back four that only conceded nine goals in the opening ten fixtures of the season, were ably supported by the tireless Waite up front and the hard working central midfield trio of Baldwin, Taylor Jnr and Swanwick, who kept Thornton's most dangerous player relatively quiet for 90 minutes. It was the latter of the three that perhaps should have won it for Garstang in the 70th minute. The once again impressive Matt Walton produced an outstanding piece of skill to beat two Thornton defenders near the right hand corner flag and then fizzed in a pin point cross only for Swanwick to head over from two yards out. Shortly after, Butler tested the Thornton 'keeper with a strike from 25 yards out but the majority of the rest of the game was played out in the middle third of the field with neither team creating another clear cut chance.

Five games ago, Garstang may have seen a 0 – 0 draw here as a poor result. However, after four defeats in the last five games, the Reserves can take a lot of heart from this battling performance. MoM sponsored by Collinson: Joe Miller – marshalled the back line well for Garstang, a much improved display by the skipper. Match Sponsor: Towers & Gornall Accountants

Joe Miller picks up his MoM from Peter Wormleighton

Garstang: Maycock, Taylor Snr, Miller (c), C Maticheccia, R Butler, Walton, Swanwick, J Baldwin, Taylor Jnr, Southward, Waite
Substitutes: Bardsley, Wormleighton, Hewitt, and Bell

Charnock Richard 2 Garstang FC 2
GFC Goals: G Wilson, M Baldwin
Saturday November 29th 14:00hrs

Garstang made the short journey to Charnock's tidy new Mossie Park ground knowing that anything less than 100% commitment would result in defeat. Charnock were sitting on top of the League, nine points ahead of their nearest rivals and fifteen points ahead of Garstang.

With only two minutes on the clock the visitors took a shock leed. The Charnock defence were caught square when Richard Wilson knocked the ball forward to Baldwin who headed on to Geoff Wilson who spotted the keeper off his line before exquisitely dispatching the ball over his head. It wasn't long, however, before Charnock were beginning to stamp their authority on the game. Dalton cut in from the right and unleashed a left foot shot that Brindle did well to push round the post but Garstang were giving as good as they got. A Cropper corner was unconvincingly palmed away by their keeper then Perry-Acton slipped a good ball inside the full back for Baldwin but the strikers effort was well saved. A series of four corners kept the home team pinned in their own penalty box. Charnock's next best effort came in the 38th minute when ex. Lancaster City winger Lee Clitheroe let fly from distance, but his shot screamed over the bar. Baker and Fawcett had been equal to anything that Charnock had to offer with the whole team showing a great commitment and togetherness as they went into the break with a half-time 0-1 scoreline.

In the 50th minute Charnock had a strong claim for a penalty kick turned down before Brindle was called into action again making a good save from Charnock's top scorer, Hayton. Garstang were forced into making their first change when Ireland limped off to be replaced by McEvoy. On 60 minutes, the League leaders were left rocking when Kilifin made a good cross from the right. Wilson's shot was punched out, Garstang won the ball again and fed Baldwin who made no mistake with a left foot drive from the edge of the box.

Manager Somerside immediately replaced Geoff Wilson with Coar. Charnock were now chasing the game and sent on Ex Bamber Bridge star Jimmy King and Dashti, but it was Garstang who almost increased their lead when the hard working Baldwin came close to making it three with another great strike that was tipped over by his namesake in the Charnock goal. As the pressure began to mount Cummins did well when he headed a Jimmy King free kick off the line. With only five minutes to go Charnock reduced the arrears when for the first time Garstang failed to clear their lines from a corner and the ball was finally poked over the line. Worse was to come when, with almost the last kick of the match, sustitute King who had made a big impact since coming on, drilled the ball through a ruck of players into the net to make the final score 2-2. The Garstang team trudged off justifiably disappointed at dropping two points but not too down hearted knowing that they had given the league leeders a big fright.

Garstang: Brindle, Baker, Fawcett, Ireland, Kilifin, R Wilson, Cummins, Cropper, Perry-Acton, M Baldwin, G Wilson
Substitute: Coar (G Wilson), McEvoy (Ireland), J Butler (R Wilson)

Eagley Reserves 3 Garstang Reserves 2
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
GFC goals: Walton, Taylor Jnr
Monday November 24th 22:00 hrs

Garstang took the lengthy trip to Eagley on a poor run of form, determined to prove a point after last week's disappointing result at home to Charnock. Manager Bailey made a few changes to his starting line up with Matt Walton making his first start for the club and Rory Waite making his first start since his brief spell with Wyre Villa.

It was the combination of the two new faces that produced the first goal of the game after a bright opening period from the visitors with Waite sliding a neat ball through for Walton to chase onto, rounding the 'keeper and finishing clinically. Sadly for Garstang the mistakes that have plagued their last few outings crept back into proceedings and they conceded two in a relatively short period of time. The first came courtesy of an unlucky own goal from Rob Butler and the second, after some good play from Eagley's strong number 10.

Unlike last week, however, Garstang heads did not go down and the lads showed good character to force an equalizer before half time. An Eagley attack broke down and Garstang hit the home side on the break at pace. Matt Walton managed to round the keeper once more only for his shot to rebound off the post, fortunately Andy Taylor was on hand to blast in from four yards out to open his account for the season.

After some strong words at half time from the gaffer, Garstang took to the pitch and battled excellently for 45 minutes. There were few clear cut chances for either team until Waite almost marked his return to the Garstang fold with a well deserved goal. Unfortunately, having been put clean through on goal, luck deserted the young striker and although he managed to get the ball past the onrushing 'keeper the ball drifted wide of the post.

The home side fashioned their winner after a blatant piece of foul play; a clear handball that the referee later apologised for missing. An Eagley striker managed to palm the ball through the Garstang back line and, after a scuffed clearance, one of the home side's substitutes was on hand to smash the ball into the back of the net.

Another gut wrenching defeat for the reserves but there were more positives to take this week. The returning Waite worked tirelessly, Twiname seemed to be recapturing his best form and Walton looked a threat every time he got the ball. Lately, it has seemed that each match report has ended with the bemoaning of bad luck – today's is no exception. It is clear that the defensive mistakes are going to have to be cut out if the Reserves want to achieve their aim of a top five finish. In their current form, however, the management team would just settle for a bit of good fortune.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Matt Walton – his pace was a constant threat for the home side, a great display capped of with a good goal. Match Sponsor: St Michaels Garage

Garstang: Maycock, Swanwick, Miller (c), C Maticheccia, R Butler, J Baldwin, Taylor Jnr, Twiname, Walton, Bell, Waite
Substitutes: Southward, Hewitt

Garstang FC 2 Eagley 1
GFC Goals: Wilson, Cropper
Saturday November 22nd 14:00hrs

Jim Brindle made a triumphant return to the Garstang line up on Saturday with two magnificent second half saves that helped secure all three points. Garstang's lack of match practice showed in the the first 15 minutes as the over-worked defence repelled a wave of Eagley attacks; although the best clear cut chance did fall to Matty Baldwin who blazed over following a good right wing cross from Geoff Wilson.

Eagley's efforts,however, were soon rewarded when Findlow let fly, from 25 yards, with an unstoppable strike which gave the astonished Brindle no chance. The goal did nothing to dent Garstang's resilience and determination. On two occassions did Brindle punt long balls down the middle to be picked up by Baldwin and both times he out battled defenders only to shoot wide. Eagley continued to play good football but were finding it difficult to cope with the home sides quick breaks with further chances falling to Cummins and Baldwin, this time well set up by Perry-Acton. Garstang almost went two down on 30 minutes when the usually dependable Fawcett was robbed in the penalty box, trying to play his way out of trouble, by Grimshaw whose resulting shot hit the post and went clear. Then a good move involving former Chorley sriker Matt Swailes, Grimshaw and Howarth saw the latter's shot go narrowly wide.

Chances were aplenty before Garstang finally equalised. The Eagley defenders failed to clear a Perry-Acton corner and the ball fell to skipper Wilson who volleyed home in style to send the teams into the dressing rooms on level terms at the interval.

Geoff Wilson scores the equaliser

The second half started in a similar vein when a strong run and cross by Kilifin was headed just over by Geoff Wilson. Then Brindle had to make the first of his two brilliant saves when he tipped over a speculative strike by Maitland from fully 25 yards. The game was in danger of boiling over when a late challenge by Findlow on Wilson, earned himself a booking before he was replaced by Young and then Howarth was cautioned for talking out of turn. The action continued. Kilifin, who had got forward to good effect had a good strike tipped over the bar by the visitor's keeper, Newbrook, before Coar replaced the battle weary Geoff Wilson who had put in a good shift for his team.

On 82 minutes the Manager brought on his latest recruit, Butler, to replace Richard Wilson. With only five minutes remaining Garstang were awarded a free kick on the left. Cropper hit what looked like a cross cum shot to the far post where, unfortunately for the visitors, a defender got his head to the ball and diverted the it into the net: a goal that I',m sure that Cropper would like to claim. Then well into injury time Brindle became the hero as the ball fizzed across his area, he showed amazing agility to keep out a last gasp effort from an oncoming forward.

The Garstang team can take much credit from this game playing with a strong self belief which will give them confidence for a series of away games starting with a game at top of the table Charnock Richard next Saturday.

Garstang: Brindle, Kilifin, Baker, Fawcett, Ireland, R. Wilson, Cummins, Cropper, Perry-Acton, Baldwin, G. Wilson
Substitutes: Coar, Butler, A. Taylor Snr., Porter

Garstang Reserves 0 Charnock Richard 4
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Monday November 17th 22:00 hrs

Garstang Reserves slumped to their third defeat in four weeks on Saturday against a much improved Charnock Richard team. Garstang went into the match in a positive mood after the mostly impressive performance against Barnoldswick last week but never really managed to get out of first gear for the majority of the game.

The first half was an evenly matched affair played on a very difficult surface that managed to be slippy and boggy almost in the same step with both sides working hard not to afford the other too much time in possession. This resulted in a fairly scrappy 45 minutes with very few clear cut chances – Ian Wormleighton went closest for the home side when he was played clean through on goal by Matt Baldwin but finished poorly, Cummins miscued the rebound then Wormleighton had a second bite at the cherry only for the 'keeper to pull off a good save.

The second half was certainly one to forget for Garstang as they shipped four goals with no reply. Charnock seemed more determined to get the three points and after their first strike it was almost one way traffic for the rest of the half. The most disappointing aspect of this performance was not the manner in which the goals were conceded but the fact that, after that first goal, Garstang heads seemed to drop and there seemed little way back into the match after that.

On a positive note, Andy Taylor Snr looked well on the road to recovery and produced an assured display and Matt Walton showed the fearlessness of youth as he continued to run positively at the visitor's impressive defense despite being four goals down. The lads must now show real character in response to this outing with three points away at Eagley on Saturday a good place to start.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Andy Taylor Snr – proved a constant threat with his dead ball skills and rarely wasted a pass all afternoon. Match Sponsor: Collinson - Sports Halls

Andy Taylor picks up his MoM from Peter Wormleighton -
and keeps an eye on his pint.

Garstang: Maycock, Taylor (Snr), Miller (c), J Baldwin, Bardsley, Swanwick, Twiname, Cummins, Wormleighton, Connell, M Baldwin
Substitutes: Southward, Walton, Butler, Taylor (Jnr)

Barnoldswick Town 3 Garstang Reserves 1
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
GFC goals: M Baldwin (pen)
Monday November 8th 20:40 hrs

For the second time in succession, Garstang Reserves conceded three goals away from home. This performance, however, could not have been more different to last weekend's disorganised outing against Springfields. The Reserves made the trip to the Lancashire/Yorkshire border with almost a full compliment of players after the first team's game was called off, and spirits were high on the minibus for the lengthy journey.

Usually, such away games are started rather sluggishly whilst the visiting team "gets the journey out of their system" but this was not the case here, any cobwebs were very quickly swept away with probably the side's best first half performance of the season. Against excellent opposition on the largest pitch in the league Garstang defended magnificently and played some wonderful football going forward – all that was lacking was the killer instinct in front of goal. Rob Bell and Lee Flemming led the front line well; forcing the home side's back four into numerous errors and the midfield quartet of Adam Swanwick, Ryan Twiname, Andy Taylor Jnr and Ian Wormleighton interchanged positions fluently and played some neat football in the middle third of the field. The back five were also outstanding against a physically imposing side with Jonny Baldwin producing his best display of the season, reading the game impeccably throughout, ably supported by skipper Joe Miller who conceded a considerably height disadvantage to his opposite number – think a cross between Peter Crouch and Jan Koller. Fullbacks Andy Taylor Snr and Kelvin Bardsley were strong in defense and not afraid to go forward and 'keeper Maycock was on hand to pull off 3 excellent saves when the home side did manage to penetrate the Garstang back line. Although the visitor's matched the home side step for step, they never really managed to create too many clear cut opportunities in the first period – Bell had an effort cleared off the line and Twiname stung the 'keeper's gloves with an effort from 25 yards.

After the efforts of the first 45 minutes, it seemed unlikely that Garstang would be able to maintain the intensity of the first half on a pitch of that size and that proved to be the case. Barnoldswick broke the deadlock with a cracking freekick from 20 yards after 55 minutes and their second followed shortly after with Garstang pushing for an equalizer. At 2 – 0 down, Garstang had their best chances of the game, Matt Baldwin came off the bench to great effect to create a couple of chances for himself and could have had another hat trick but for the outstanding Barnoldswick 'keeper. Skipper Joe Miller hit the post with a header and Wormleighton had a good header saved from almost the edge of the area. Barnoldswick's third goal killed the game off after Garstang went to sleep from a corner but there was time for a much deserved consolation goal from the penalty spot for Matt Baldwin after Swanwick, Hewitt and Twiname produced Garstang's best move of the game culminating in Twiname being brought down in the box.

This was an excellent performance by the Reserves and a 3 – 1 score line was unfair on the squad that had exerted so much energy and commitment. It is worthy to note that this was the first time this season that the margin of defeat has been more than one goal.

MoM sponsored by Collinsons: Jonny Baldwin – an outstanding contribution from the centre half. Read the game magnificently, was strong in the challenge and his distribution was quality.

Jonny Baldwin picks up his MoM from Fred Miller

Garstang: Maycock, Taylor (Snr), J Baldwin, Miller (c), Bardsley, Swanwick, Taylor (Jnr), Twiname, Wormleighton, Bell, Flemming.
Substitutes: M Baldwin, Hewitt, C Maticheccia, Southward, Grego 

BAC / EE / Springfields 3 Garstang Reserves 7
GFC Goals: M Baldwin 4, J Baldwin, Hewitt, o/g
Saturday November 1st 14:00hrs

It is difficult to know where to start in summarising Saturday's match, although the bizarre 7–3 scoreline does go some way to describing a peculiar game of football.

The match began poorly for Garstang, not helped by a shortened warm up; the players seemed several yards off the pace and were barely able to string two passes together whilst Springfield's young team, who had conceded 47 goals in their last 11 matches, were spraying the ball around well and causing the visitor's defense no end of trouble. Things began to look up for Garstang after 15 minutes when Twiname was felled on the edge of the area, the referee deemed that the foul had occurred inside the box and Matt Baldwin duly converted from the spot. Garstang seemed to expect the floodgates to open having scored first and lazily lost concentration to concede the equalizer. 'Keeper Maycock lost the ball in the sun from a long throw in and a Springfield forward scored from a yard out. The rest of the half was scrappy and untidy; the only real composed piece of play coming from Jonny Baldwin's freekick from 20 yards, making the score 2-1 to Garstang at the break.

The message from the manager at halftime was to quit the bickering, sharpen up and work together. After two minutes of the restart, the players had forgotten these words and conceded from another long throw in to pull the scores back to 2–2. The remaining 40 minutes were described by one spectator as "like watching Sunday league pub football" with both teams making sloppy errors and not learning from their mistakes. Mark Hewitt made the scores 3-2 in Garstang's favour with a powerful drive after a long ball from the 'keeper beat all of the home side's back line.

Matt Baldwin then scored another from the penalty spot when Andy Taylor had been brought down in the area after good work from Kippax to make it
4-2 and the home side's resistance seemed broken. However, after another lapse of concentration from a long throw in, Springfields pulled the score back to 4-3 only to see Garstang regain their two goal cushion almost immediately afterwards with Matt Baldwin claiming his hat trick after another long ball from Maycock.

At 5–3 the home side had a goal correctly chalked off for offside from yet another long throw in and then the game was all but wrapped up at the other end when a Springfield defender comically, yet strangely skillfully, turned into his own net after a cross from the left. Matt Baldwin scored his fourth, and Garstang's seventh, after another route one assist by Maycock with five minutes remaining to complete the scoring.

There is no doubt that this was a good three points away from home after last week's loss at Tempest but, apologies for using a Steps song title here, this was certainly a performance 'Better Best Forgotten'.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Matt Baldwin - second hat trick of the season for top scorer Baldwin. Match Sponsor: The Crown Hotel

Matt Baldwin picks up his MoM from Scott Somerside

Garstang: Maycock, Southward, Swanwick (c), J Baldwin, Bardsley, Hewitt, Taylor, Twiname, Wormleighton, M Baldwin, Kippax
Substitutes: Walton, Grego, Bailey

Garstang FC 2 Stoneclough 1
GFC Goals: Ireland, Williams
Saturday November 1st 14:00hrs

Manager Scott Somerside adjusted his side introducing Cropper to the midfield, moving Williams to a striking role alongside Wilson with Coar taking a place on the bench. The first real chance of the game came in the sixth minute when a fine through ball by Wilson put Williams in. The keeper had to make a great save to push the ball wide for a corner. From the resulting corner the keeper had to be alert again to keep out another rasping drive by Cropper. Garstang were knocking on the door again in the ninth minute. Cox weaved his way through the Stoneclough defence before setting up Cropper whose thunderbolt effort, the keeper was on hand again to prevent a certain goal.

It was all Garstang. On 20 minutes Cummins was given the freedom of the park but he shot wide. Stoneclough's resilience was broken in the 23rd minute when Wilson was brought down on the edge of the box in a cental position. Not for the first time, up stepped the reliable Ireland to curl his freekick over the wall into the top corner of the net; 1-0!

Stoneclough hadn't been given any chance to create anything due to the hosts hard tackling defenders. However, one such challenge by Cropper was a little too robust for the referee's liking and it earned him a booking. Cox's pace was continuing to cause problems. A good run and vicious cross was headed away, and then an inswinging corner by the wide man was headed over by Cropper. On a rare Stoneclough attack Fawcett did well to snuff out the danger when Bentley made a strong run into the Garstang box. As the interval approached another half chance fell to Bentley but he shot wide.

Monks repaced the injured Darby at the beginning of the second half for the visitors. The pattern of the game remained the same with further chances coming and going: Cummins missing another glorious chance on 52minutes. On 60 minutes manager Somerside made what proved to be a good tacticle decision replacing Cox with Coar, Williams returning to his more familiar role on the righthand side of midfield.

Stoneclough replaced Vanden Berg with Slater but this could not stop the waves of Garstang attacks. Good work by Wilson set up Coar but yet again a magnificent stop denied the Garstang forward. Two more chances fell to the out of sorts Coar before the eventual second goal came on 75minutes. Garstang were awarded a free-kick on the right. Perry-Acton's kick was headed straight back to him, he took the ball forward into the box before cleverly slipping the ball inside to Williams who lashed an unstopable shot past the keeper, 2-0. Game over? Not so! 80 minutes and Bentley, Stoneclough's best player, played a great one two on the edge of the home box then shot straight into Beesley's midriff, and then frustration earned the same player a booking for a trip.

The inevitable late goal was conceeded in injury time when Rees reacted quickest in the penaly area poking home following a corner, probably the first time that the defence had gone to sleep all afternoon. This was a good performance and should give the players more confidence to join the teams at the top of the league.

Garstang: Beesley, Kilifin, Perry-Acton, Baker, Fawcett, Cropper, Cox, Cummins, Back to Top Williams, G Wilson and Ireland
Substitutes: R Wilson (Cropper), A Coar (Cox), Miller (G Wilson)

Stoneclough: Teisay, VandenBerg, Rees, Makinson, Newton, Bently, Lucas, Hill, Darby, Heenan, Harrison, Substitutes: Monks, Slater

Garstang FC 3 Vickerstown CCFC 3 aet:
Vickerstown win 4-3 on penalties
GFC Goals: G Wilson, Cummins 2
Saturday October 25th 14:30hrs

Both sides can be praised for putting on such a brave display in what can only be described as atrocious conditions at the Riverside. Vickerstown who had beaten Garstang recently playing good football, started in a similar manner, moving the ball quickly over a very slippery surface, but it was the home team who took the lead when Wilson finished off a good cross from Williams on 12 mins.. Garstang then bossed the next 20 mins., with Cummins hitting the bar and another good opportunity being spurned by Wilson before the visitors levelled the score on 32 mins..

It was Vickerstown's turn to take control up to the break and then, immediately after half-time they were in front, only for the irrepressable Cummins to make it 2-2 within 2 minutes. The second half was like two heavy-weight boxers slogging it out against one another with both sides having to fight the elements as well but, unfortunately, no-one could get the all important goal to prevent the game going into extra time.

From the kick-off  Garstang were awarded a corner which was flicked on at the near post by Ireland for Cummins, who drove the ball home for what was hoped to be the winner. However, as has happened in recent games, this was not to be. With only a minute of injury time to play, slack marking allowed the visitors to make it 3-3 at the death. Whilst the management and players were bitterley disappointed to go out on penalties they can be proud of their efforts in such a game that could have gone either way.

Garstang: Beesley, Kilifin, Perry-Acton, Baker, Fawcett, Ireland, Williams, Cummins, Coar, G. Wilson and Cox.
Substitutes: McEvoy (Perry-Acton), Taylor Snr. (Ireland), R Wilson (Coar).
Not used: A.Taylor jnr. and W. Cropper

Vickerstown: Eccles, Doughty, Jackson, Brennan, Miller, D. Round Jnr., May, Gay, Back to Top Swarbrick, Bruce and Higginson
Substitutes: Keenan,  Adams, D. Round Snr.

Tempest United 2 Garstang Reserves 1
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
GFC goals: M Baldwin
Saturday October 25th 15:00 hrs

After last week's dominant performance against Burnley Belvedere and a fourth win on the trot, the Reserves went into Saturday's match full of confidence. Despite having to put himself on the bench due to lack of numbers, manager Paul Bailey selected a strong starting eleven, with the returning Ryan Twiname back in the team after a hernia operation, Adam Swanwick back in defense, after his spell between the sticks, and Rob Butler also returning.

Having played Tempest United just four games ago the management team decided to alter the formation from the tried and trusted 4-4-2 to a slightly more adventurous 3-5-2 in the hope of catching their opponents off guard, a decision that paid off almost immediately. After good work from Twiname in the middle of the park to win the ball, Matt Baldwin hit a screamer from all of 30 yards out into the top right hand corner. A lead after just five minutes looked like doubling soon after when Baldwin again struck from distance, this time producing an excellent stop from the Tempest 'keeper. The home side soon began to find their feet in the match and started to cause Garstang trouble down the flanks; an indication that perhaps the new formation still needs some work on the training ground. Garstang were put under a lot of pressure and it only seemed a matter of time before the home side would be on level terms.

Having squandered several good opportunities, Tempest pulled themselves all square with around ten minutes to half time after a cross field ball found an unmarked striker who bundled the ball past Maycock.

The first half performance was not too bad overall, but Garstang did seem a little uncomfortable with the new formation in a defensive capacity. The manager reverted back to a 4-4-2 in the second half in the hope that a more familiar formation would allow the team to get back on top of the home side but this challenge barely had chance to materialize. Uncommonly lacklustre defending from a freekick wide on the left hand side after just five minutes of the second half resulted in Rob Butler inadvertently turning the ball into his own net leaving Maycock with no chance.

For the remainder of the game, Garstang struggled to get out of second gear and rarely looked like getting back on level terms. Southward could have perhaps done better after good work from Matt Baldwin, and Mark Hewitt also had a decent opportunity to level, but the equalizer was not forthcoming. In the end, the visitors were perhaps slightly fortunate to have kept the score line down to 2-1 and only a string of top notch saves from Maycock prevented further misery.

Overall, not a great day for the second team. There were few positives to take from the game but it was good to see Twiname back in action after a long spell on the sidelines. MoM sponsored by Collinson: Kristian Maycock – kept the score down to just two with some excellent stops. Match Sponsor: The Pickerings Country House Hotel

Garstang: Maycock, Swanwick, Miller (c), Bardsley, Southward, Butler, Twiname, J Back to Top Baldwin, Wormleighton, M Baldwin and Hewitt
Back to Top Back to Top Substitutes: Bell, Bailey and Grego

Fulwood Amateurs 2 Garstang FC 3
West Lancs League Premier DivisionPhoto Gallery
GFC Goals: Whittaker, G Wilson, Cummins
Saturday October 18th 15:00 hrs

Garstang made the short trip up the A6 to Lightfoot Lane to meet local rivals Fulwood Amateurs expecting a tough afternoon ahead and, although the final scoreline reads 2-3, Garstang were better than Fulwood all over the park and the scoreline doesn’t do the performance justice. Without Coar and Taylor Snr., manager Somerside started Kilifin at right-back, with Perry-Acton back in at left-back, Cropper started in the midfield with Whittaker playing up front with Geoff Wilson.

Garstang started brightly and looked to play football out wide with Williams and Cox both encouraged to take on the Fulwood full-backs. Up front Danny Whittaker had his best game in ages working tirelessly, pulling the Fulwood defence all over the park and showing for every ball. When Whittaker plays like this he is almost unstopable and he really did give the Fulwood defence the run around for 90 minutes. Garstang troubled Fulwood every time they went forward and, in the first half, Lee Ward in the Fulwood goal was forced into two good saves to keep out Cummins and Whittaker. The Garstang back five of Tiny, Kilifin, Baker, Fawcett and Perry-Acton all looked tight and solid and, even though Fawcett had to receive treatment for an elbow in the right eye, he didn’t let that affect his game. The only time Fulwood managed to get through Baker and Fawcett, goalkeeper Tiny made an excellent save low down to his right hand side.

Garstang came out after the break looking to press on. Cummins picked the ball up in midfield and played a perfect through ball to Whittaker, who timed his run to perfection and beat the advancing Ward for the first goal (right).

The second Garstang goal came around the hour mark when Kilifin made an excellent tackle at right-back He then played a great ball through the Fulwood defence which Whittaker got on the end of, drew Ward from the goal and unselfishly squared for Geoff Wilson to make it 2-0.

Garstang had ground Fulwood down by now and the home team were reduced to long range efforts and high balls into the box. With 15 minutes to go, Garstang went three up when the hard working Williams forced the Fulwood full-back into conceding a corner. Perry-Acton floated the ball in and Cummins beat the static Ward to the ball to score with his head.

A different part of Cummins body was to play a part now as, on 89 minutes with the game all but won, Fulwood had the ball on the edge of Garstang's box and their striker shot to Tiny’s left hand side where the big goalkeeper dived only for the ball to strike Cummins backside and end up in the opposite corner. Again, on 90 minutes, the Fulwood right winger cut across Perry-Acton and Fawcett, and shot to Tiny’s left hand side. Yet again the big goalkeeper dived only for the ball to strike Cropper and end up in the opposite corner.

A frantic two minutes of injury time followed but, even so, Garstang were excellent value for the three points gained.

Garstang: Beesley, Kilifin, Perry-Acton, Baker, Fawcett, Cropper, Williams, G Wilson, Back to Top Cummins, Whittaker and Cox.
Substitutes: Ireland, R Wilson, Twiname

Garstang Reserves 2 Burnley Belvedere Reserves 0
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Gfc goals: Miller 2
Saturday October 18th 15:00 hrs

A wet and windy day greeted those who turned up at the Riverside to watch Garstang Reserve's fourth home game in a row. Having lost three games in a row earlier in the season, the second team were on a three match winning streak coming into this week's match, having beaten Tempest, Eagley and Thornton Cleveleys in their preceding fixtures. This week's visitors, Burnley Belvedere, were in a great form of their own having won their last four games scoring 20 goals and only conceding three along the way. With a wealth of riches available to him, manager Paul Bailey threw caution to the wind and decided to attack from the off, playing the majority of the team that had performed well against Thornton in the last match.

For a change it was Garstang who started the much brighter of the two teams producing what was probably their best first half display of the season. Captain Joe Miller set the tone, winning challenges, both in the air and on the floor whilst looking very calm and assured in possession alongside the returning Carlo Maticheccia at the heart of the home side's defence. It was Miller who made the breakthrough after quarter of an hour. Matt Baldwin swung in a corner which was met by the skipper with a thumping right footed finish at the back post into the roof of the net.

Garstang went for the jugular and dominated the rest of the half but the second goal would not come. A sharp save by the visitor's keeper from a close range effort from Mark Hewitt, a few wasted efforts from outside the box and a penalty appeal which was turned down after Matt Baldwin was felled in the box, kept Burnley in the game at the break.

As would be expected, the visitors began the second half more purposefully. Garstang seemed sloppy for the first quarter of an hour and in this time 'keeper Maycock made his only noteworthy save of the game, diving low down to his right to fend off a long distance effort. Garstang realised that the game was far from won and began to reassert themselves on proceedings with the impressive central midfield pairing of Andy Taylor and Jonny Baldwin at the heart of the resurgence. The second goal was only a matter of time away and arrived in a very similar manner to the first with Matt Baldwin delivering an in-swinging corner into the box which was eventually turned in by Miller for his second of the game. Initial suspicions of a Burnley own goal were turned away by the captain himself although video footage has so far proven inconclusive!

The remainder of the game was played out fairly comfortably by the home side who should perhaps have increased their lead – Matt Baldwin going close on two occasions and another even clearer penalty shout being turned away by the referee towards the end of the game.

Overall, another honest and hardworking display by the 14 players used by manager Paul Bailey with the only real disappointment being the inability to convert almost total domination in possession and good chances into goals. On a separate note, it is encouraging to finally see a squad with such depth and with so much competition for places. It can only benefit the team, and club, as a whole knowing that if one player is not putting in 100% in a match, or in training, there are one or two very capable players ready and willing to take their chance.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Joe Miller – Certainly Joe's best performance of the season. A rock at the back and a threat going forward. Match Sponsor: Fred Miller

Joe Miller picks up his MoM from Bob Freeman

Garstang: Maycock, Southward, Miller (c), Maticheccia C, Bardsley, Hewitt, Taylor, J Back to Top Baldwin, Wormleighton, M Baldwin and Fleming
Substitutes: Willoughby, Shultz, Swanwick, Bell, Grego

Garstang FC 2 Poulton Town 2
West Lancs League Premier DivisionPhoto Gallery
GFC Goals: Williams, Cummings (pen)
Saturday October 11th 15:00 hrs

Having previously been away from home for the past nine weeks, it was Garstang's first team who provided the Saturday afternoon entertainment down by the Riverside.

Manager Somerside shuffled the pack by playing Fawcett at centre-half, Ireland in at left back, Cummins in the centre of the park and Geoff Wilson at centre forward. Cox, returning after injury, was wide left and Simon Williams given his debut on the right wing.

It was clear from the start why Poulton have gone five games undefeated as they showed a determination to fight for every ball and to make sure that Garstang were in for a tough afternoon. Williams and Cox started to cause Poulton trouble down the wings with Coar and Wilson both working hard up front to try and unsettle the Poulton back four. The ball played in between the Poulton defence and Goalkeeper caused Poulton trouble throughout the first half and Coar could have helped himself to a brace before leaving the field with a re-occurrence of his hamstring injury. He was replaced by Cropper in the middle of the park with Cummins joining Wilson upfront.

Garstang took the lead ten minutes into the second half when a ball from the left hand side was met by Williams who marked his debut with a goal. Garstang were 2-0 up after 20 minutes of the second half when, having waved away a stone wall penalty for Poulton, Garstang broke away and Cummins was deliberately obstructed in the area, above, giving the referee little choice but to award Garstang a penalty from which Cummins scored.



.....and steps up to convert it!
Images | John Hastings

With 20 minutes to go, Garstang started to tire and Poulton were allowed time on the ball, looking to pressurise Garstang. Cropper opted to play a back pass from 30 yards out and, rather than put his size 14’s through the ball, Beesley failed in his attempt to control the ball - so that was 2-1. Poulton pushed on sensing that their hard work may just get them something out of the game and with 94 minutes on the clock, the sucker punch arrived.

A ball played in from the right hand side was just too high for Fawcett to head clear, Cropper tried to clear with his left foot and the ball spun over Baker's head dropping at the foot of the Poulton centre forward. His shot was block saved by Beesley only for it to kindly rebound up to his strike partner, who headed over the line to make it 2-2.

Positives are to be taken out of the game by Garstang as it ends a four match losing sequence but with the return of Cox, and Williams having a decent debut, it should have been a win.

Garstang: Beesley, Taylor (Snr), Ireland, Baker, Fawcett, Cummins, Williams, Wilson Back to Top G, Coar A, Whittaker, Cox

Substitutes: Kilifin (Taylor), Cropper (Coar), Wilson R, Baldwin J, Baldwin M.

Dalton United FC 4 Garstang FC 2
Photo GalleryWest Lancs League Premier Division
GFC Goals: Cummings, A Coar (pen)
Saturday October 4th 15:00 hrs

Garstang arrived at the rain swept 'Railway Meadow' ground hoping to get back to winning ways after two fruitless trips into Cumbria. The pitch was in excellent condition despite the torrential rain as the game kicked off.

With barely a minute on the clock, Dalton took the leed when the ball skidded across the Garstang box to the unmarked Johnson who made no mistake. Dalton keeper, Sam Stephen did well to claw away an in swinging corner by Ireland but it was Garstang who were under early pressure and Dalton doubled their lead on 15 mins. Beesley did well to turn a shot, from the dangerous Jones, round the post but was unable to keep out the resulting corner when Mitchell was quickest to react forcing the ball over the line. Beesley was brought into action again tipping a fine effort by Prosser over the bar. Garstang',s only other real chance in the first half hour was another Ireland corner that caused the home keeper problems:, that was until Cummings scored a rather scrappy goal in the 34th min. to get Garstang back in the game. The goal gave the visitors some momentum and, for remainder of the first half, they took control of the game. On the sroke of half-time a rasping drive by Cummings was blocked when it looked destined for the net to keep the score at 2-1.

Garstang drew level immediately after the kick off for the second half. Coar broke free into the Dalton box and was brought down by keeper Stephens, who was booked before Coar stepped up to score the equaliser. Coar then had the opportunity to put Garstang in front heading narrowly wide following a good run and cross by Perry-Acton.

After working so hard to get back into the game the visitors received a hammer blow when Jones headed Dalton back in front on 51 mins. It could have been four when Leech shot across the goal minutes later. It had suddenly become an uphill struggle for Garstang as they battled against the elements and a lively Dalton side. However, on 65 mins. Perry-Acton had an chance to level on the counter attack but he delayed his shot and Staffieri got back to make a saving tackle.

Garstang's task became more difficult when Coar and Fawcett were forced to withdraw with injuries, replaced by Cropper and Mattachecia on 68 mins. Andy Taylor had to block a long range effort from Callison and then Jones shot wide after Wilson had failed to intercept. The visitors last chance to get something out of the game came in the 79th minute when Cummings did well on the right creating space and laying on a great ball for sustitute Cropper, but with only the keeper to beat he put his shot on the wrong side of the post. Garstang's fate was sealed in the 84th min. when an innocuous looking challenge in the penalty area by Taylor gave Dalton the spot kick which was comfortably dispatched by Jones, below, to wrap the game up for the Cumbrians.


Garstang: Beesley, A Taylor A.(snr), Baker, Wilson G., Perry-Acton, Kilifin, Fawcett, Whittaker, Cummings, Coar, Ireland
Substitutes: Porter (Killifin 88 mins), A Mattacheccia (Fawcett 67 mins.), Cropper (Coar 67 mins.) Not used Wilson R.

Dalton: Stephen, Rigg, Callison I., Cooke, Staffieri, Prusser, Leech, Callison J., Back to Top Mitchel, Jones G., Johnson
Substitutes: Jones J., Cabtrick, Shaw

Garstang Reserves 3 Thornton Cleveleys Reserves 2
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Gfc goals: Wormleighton, J Baldwin, M Baldwin
Saturday October 4th 15:00 hrs

For the first time this season Paul Bailey had selection headaches of a positive kind ahead of the visit of Thornton Cleveleys with a very strong squad to pick from including the return of Matt Baldwin from first team action and only Wayne Cropper missing from last week's victory against Eagley.

The game started nice and brightly despite the wet and windy conditions down by the riverside. Both teams were working hard to close down and also trying to play football when in possession. The first goal was a rather fortuitous effort for the visitor's tricky number 10; arguably their best player. Finding himself in perhaps a little too much space just in from the left hand touchline he swung in a cross which looped into the net over Swanwick with certainly no blame attached to the 'keeper. Thornton began to get a grip on the game and Garstang started to look slightly ragged but fortunately for the home side their opposition were unable to forge any clear cut opportunities thanks to the impressive Jonny Baldwin and skipper Joe Miller at the centre of the home side's defense allowing Garstang to battle their way back into the match.

Matt Baldwin went close from a freekick from all of 25 yards and Mark Kippax looked dangerous in possession but the equalizer came from an unlikely source. Miller rose well to meet a Rob Butler corner finding Kippax on the edge of the area whose first time volley hit the post and the rebound was converted by Ian Wormleighton from eight yards out.

The equalizer came at a good time for the home side and they continued their momentum into the second half. Within a few minutes of the restart Garstang were awarded a freekick right on the edge of Thornton's penalty box after a neat one-two between Matt Baldwin and Wormleighton. Jonny Baldwin stepped up to curl a beauty of a strike, clipping the post on its way in. This, however, seemed to galvanize the visitors who began to find their rhythm once more scoring a deserved equalizer from a well delivered corner.

The weather continued to deteriorate throughout the second period with a strong wind and driving rain making it difficult to play 'pretty' football meaning that Garstang had to turn to the hard work that has served them well over the last few seasons. Every loose ball seemed to be won by a red shirt and every 50:50 challenge was being won by the home side with Andy Taylor and Jonny Baldwin, in particular, providing very committed and assured displays.

With the introduction of Dre Maticheccia, Garstang were looking more and more dangerous and the home side managed to force a winner from a more familiar face. Matt Baldwin latched onto a Butler freekick down the inside left channel, drove into the box and, after two attempts and a helping hand from the 'keeper, bundled the ball over the line with around 20 minutes left. This time Garstang were in no mood to surrender their advantage and held out for all three points.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Jonny Baldwin – a solid and composed display at the back and capped it off with a fantastic freekick. Match Sponsor: Mike's Sportsworld

Garstang: Swanwick, Southward, J Baldwin, Miller (c), Butler, Hewitt, Taylor, Wormleighton, Flemming, Kippax, M Baldwin
Substitutes: Willoughby, A Maticheccia, Bell

Garstang Reserves 3 Eagley Reserves 1
West Lancs League Reserve Division OnePhoto Gallery
Gfc goals: Cropper, Fleming, Hewitt
Saturday September 27th 15:00 hrs

Another Saturday, another selection headache for manager Paul Bailey. Several members of last week's victorious squad against Tempest United were away on holiday and other second team regulars were promoted to the first team squad for their trip to Crookland Casuals. Garstang Reserves welcomed yet more new faces to their ranks for the visit of Eagley in the shape of Lee Flemming (or Mr. Flemming to some of the younger readers, namely Garstang High School pupils) and Wayne Cropper who was returning to the fold after injury.

The game started very poorly for the home side on what was a pleasantly warm September afternoon. Garstang were poor in possession, second to every loose ball and guilty of making several individual errors. It was one of these individual errors that lead to the visitors opening the scoring after around 15 minutes, with the Eagley centre forward spinning past his marker and coolly curling the ball round Adam Swanwick who had no chance.

The performance did not improve and at half time the manager rightly read the riot act - the improvement in the second half was almost instantaneous. If ever the cliché "a game of two halves" were apt, it was here.

Garstang began at a great pace and were level within 5 minutes of the restart when Flemming beat the offside trap and rolled the ball to Cropper who finished expertly into the bottom left hand corner from the edge of the box. In only a matter of moments the home side found themselves ahead through an early contender for goal of the season. Mark Hewitt, a constant thorn in the visitor's side broke down the right and although he seemed to miss hit his cross, Flemming was on hand to curl an unbelievable first time volley right into the very top right corner from all of 25 yards.

Garstang looked transformed and were better than their opponents in all areas of the field. The back four of Rob Butler, Joe Miller, Jonny Baldwin and Paul Southward were not giving their opposite numbers anything and any half chances that did sneak through were comfortably dealt with by 'keeper Swanwick. Andy Taylor and Wayne Cropper were dominating the centre of the park and Ian Wormleighton was winning headers all over the pitch. Mark Kippax was also back to his skillful best, forging a good understanding with Flemming but it was the youngest member of the Garstang squad who made the game safe for the home side.

Mark Hewitt popped up with his second goal in two games to seal the points, after the keeper spilled the ball under pressure (above), with a good finish into the roof of the net from 6 yards out. Rob Bell and Kelvin Bardsley impressed from the bench in what was a fine second half performance.

Another excellent three points for the Reserves but lessons must be learnt from the poor first half where the positive attributes that have got them into this league – work rate, passion and desire, were almost non existent.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Mark Hewitt – an assist and his second goal in as many games capped off a cracking display. Match Sponsor: Carrs Jewellers

Garstang: Swanwick, Southward, Miller (c), Baldwin, Butler, Hewitt, Taylor, Cropper, Back to Top Wormleighton, Kippax, Fleming
Substitutes: Bell, Bardsley, Grego

Crooklands Casuals FC 1 Garstang FC 0
Lancashire FA Amateur Shield - Round Two
Saturday September 27th 14:30 hrs

On chances, Garstang should have won this game 6-3.
Instead, a sweet strike by Crookland's midfielder Adam Caine five minutes from time, gave the Cumbrians a hard earned passage into the third round of the Lancashire Amateur Shield.

It took Garstang some time to settle under the new management team of Somerside and Porter, their first chance coming on 13 mins. when Cummins shot wide following a long throw into the box from Taylor. Crooklands keeper Hewson, then did well to keep out a vicious inswinging free kick from Taylor. On 20 mins. Whittaker shot over after latching on to a good ball by Coar.

Crooklands attacks were becoming less frequent as Garstang took control. The visitors had two more chances to go in front before half-time. First Wilson should have scored when he headed over another good cross from Taylor, then Perry-Acton linked up well with Ireland and Coar before the stiker shot wide. There was a warning for Garstang on the sroke of half-time when the eventual scorer, Caine, shot narrowly wide from the edge of the box.

Garstang were again dictating proceedings as the second half got under way. Killifin was brought down near the corner flag but Ireland wasted the resulting free-kick. On 53 mins. Perry-Acton avoided two robust tackes before releasing Coar, his shot on the turn hitting the side netting. Whittaker had two more clear cut chances to win the game before Matty Baldwin replaced the injured Perry-Acton on 72 mins. Crooklands man of the match Caine went close again with another good effort from the edge of the penalty area.

The game was swinging from end to end as both sides tired and mistakes were a plenty. Fawcett volleyed straight at the keeper from a Taylor corner before the all important goal on 85 mins. The Garstang defence failed to cut out a cross from substitute Bell, the ball finding it's way to, who else, Caine who hammered the ball into the roof of the net.

To their credit Garstang still weren't finnished. A Coar free-kick was shoveled away for a corner by Hewson; the resulting kick was headed wide by Fawcett. With everyone piling forward for the equaliser Garstang were lucky not to conceed a second when Crooklands broke away and with only Beesley to beat Ex Kirkham and Wesham midfielder Lowes blazed over the bar.

Although it had been a better performance all round by Garstang sadly they were unable to convert chances into goals and out of the cup they went.

Garstang: Beesley, A.Taylor snr., Baker, G. Wilson, Perry-Acton, Kilifin, Fawcett, Whittaker, Ireland, Cummins, Coar.
Substitutes: Baldwin (Perry-Acton), Shultz (Killifin), and McEvoy (not used)
Crooklands Casuals: Hewson, Geldart, Davey, Muspratt (booked), A. Bell, A. Caine, Back to Top Lowes, G. Caine, Reid, Edwards, Gallagher.
Substitutes: P. Bell, Foster, Davis, Bradley

Garstang Reserves 2 Tempest United Reserves 0
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Gfc goals: Kippax, Hewitt
Saturday September 20th 15:00 hrs

Garstang Reserves welcomed back some of last week’s absentees as well as some familiar faces to their starting line up against Tempest United Reserves in what was a 'must win' game after three back to back defeats. Andy Taylor snr and Rob Butler returned to the full back positions whilst Dre Maticheccia came back from his eventful first team debut. The most interesting change from last week’s fixture, however, was the new look strike force of Mark Kippax and Graham Jack who have more than ably lead the line for Garstang’s First XI in years gone by.

It was this combination who created Garstang’s first goal after an opening period where the home side had dominated proceedings. After a hefty challenge to Andy Taylor jnr in the centre circle, Carlo maticheccia floated a cracking free kick towards the edge of the area which Jack rose to meet. Kippax latched on to the flick on, rounded the ‘keeper and bundled the ball into the net. The remaining 20 minutes before half time were played at a relatively slow tempo by both teams with Garstang perhaps shading the possession but certainly having more of the attempts at goal. Jack almost scored what would have been a much deserved goal after intercepting a clumsy back pass and beating the goalkeeper but unfortunately saw his effort hit the wrong side of the left hand post after almost running out of pitch. Along with the threat of Kippax and Jack, Dre maticheccia’s strong running was terrifying the visitor’s left back and perhaps Garstang should have taken more of an advantage of his work down the right.

The second half panned out very differently to the first with Garstang spending long periods on the back foot but then looking very dangerous on the break on several occasions. The central defensive pairing of Carlo maticheccia and Joe Miller were very assured in marshalling what was eventually a visitor’s front three for the majority of the half. The most impressive defensive moment, however, came from ‘keeper Maycock who pulled off an acrobatic wonder save from a Tempest thunderbolt that looked destined for the roof of the net and to equalize. After one or two slightly uneasy moments for the Garstang defensive line, due to sheer weight of attacking numbers, the second goal arrived from substitute Mark Hewitt. Butler received the ball on the left hand side and spooned a ‘cross’ into box. Hewitt ghosted past the entire Tempest defense to shoulder in the ball from a yard out to record his first senior goal for Garstang. Substitutes Paul Southward and Grego also came off the bench to good effect in the latter stages of the match.

Manager Paul Bailey will have been pleased with the character of his team after the three defeats in the past three fixtures to beat a team who have only suffered one loss all season. The Reserves must now take advantage of two more home games in a row to turn what has been a good start to the season, in terms of performances, into more points.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Carlo maticheccia: Looked calm and assured in the centre of defense. A great asset to the team with his pace and strong right foot. Match Sponsor: The King’s Arms

Garstang: Maycock, Taylor (snr), Miller (c), C Maticheccia, Butler, A Maticheccia, Back to Top Swanwick, Taylor (jnr), Wormleighton, Kippax, Jack
Substitutes: Southward, Hewitt, Grego, Porter

Vickerstown CCFC 2 Garstang FC 0
West Lancs League Premier Division
Saturday September 20th 15:00 hrs

There was a return to the side for Perry-Acton, Killifin, Cummins and skipper Geoff Wilson for the long trip to Walney Island. Garstang made a bright start and, after only 3 mins. Gierke had forced home keeper Eccles into a fine save, but with 13 mins. on the clock the visitors were slightly fortunate not to concede a penalty when Wilson bowled over Vickerstown striker Keenan in a somewhat clumsy challenge. The  home team were now beginning to dominate the game and the deadlock was broken when the lively Keenan was able to pick his spot after making a good run between Baker and Wilson. Beesley prevented Vickerstown going two up saving well from May.

Garstang's inability to take control of the game was causing much frustration within the team. Gierke earned himself a booking for disputing the referees decision.

The second half didn't start any better for Garstang. Vickerstown striker Bruce hit a post and then a Higginson free kick was blocked on the line. An improvement came about when manager Norrie changed the formation to 4-4-2. Andy Ireland was moved from a central defensive midfield role to one on the left and had an immediate impact. Good work from him won a corner which was well cleared, and then another strong run and cross by the rejuvinated midfielder caused the home defence problems. Gierke combined well with Perry-Acton as Garstang cranked up the pressure but the Cumbrian side held firm.

Probably, Garstang's two best chances came with just ten minutes to go when a Gierke strike was headed over by a Vickerstown defender, and then an Ireland free kick was punched away by Eccles.

Garstang's fate was sealed in the 90th minute when a Vickerstown counter attack resulted in a handball in the penalty area. Although the resulting penalty was saved the follow up made it 2-0, despite the protests of the visiting side.

Garstang:  Beesley, Kilifin, Baker, G. Wilson, McEvoy, Perry-Acton, Whittaker, Back to Top Ireland, Fawcett, Gierke, Cummins.
Substitute:Shultz (McEvoy)

Photo GalleryPoulton Town Reserves 1 Garstang Reserves 0
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Saturday September 13th 15:00 hrs

After a three week break from competitive matches Garstang’s preparations for the local derby with Poulton were hampered by the news that several key members of the squad were to be missing through injury, work commitments or promotion to the first team. Nevertheless, manager Paul Bailey, below with Dave Foster, was able to field a team of good footballers, each looking to stake a claim for a regular starting place as the more established second team players return to action.

Considering recent weather, the match was played in rather unusual conditions, namely warm, bright sunshine and the match began with Garstang on the front foot with Matt Baldwin and Mark Hewitt making headway down the channels. The home side soon got into their passing stride however with some neat possession in and around the halfway line. From early on it looked like Garstang were going to see very little of the ball and the Garstang bench ensured that the young starting XI retained their shape and only pressed as the home side ventured into the final third of the pitch. Garstang’s central midfield trio of Rob Bell, Andy Taylor and Adam Swanwick battled well in the centre of the park and despite Poulton enjoying the vast majority of possession; the visiting side’s goal was rarely troubled in the first period.In fact, it was the Poulton ‘keeper who was the busier of the two pulling off a top class save from a Baldwin strike from outside of the box, midway through the first half, which looked destined for the top corner.

The second half continued in much the same fashion as the first, with Poulton very much on top in terms of possession but creating very little goal threat. The home side was becoming evidently more frustrated and began to play the ball longer and from deeper as opposed to attempting to play football through the middle of the park. This played into the hands of the Garstang back four of Southward, Miller, maticheccia (playing out of position in the centre of defense) and debutant Bardsley, who impressed in his first competitive outing for the club.

Sadly for the visiting team the resistance couldn’t last and a lack of concentration at the back once again cost the team dear. As one of the home side’s attackers meandered into the box with the ball at his feet the danger seemed to be under control, but after a failed attempt to clear, the striker managed to get a scuffed shot which found its way to the back post where Wormleighton had lost his man who finished from a yard out. With only five minutes left on the clock, Garstang had little energy left to mount a comeback after what had been a draining defensive display.

This was another example of Garstang having the ability to compete with the top sides in this division but just falling short due to a lack of concentration. There are positive signs however; the strength of the squad is impressive, the determination and willingness has never been in question and, despite three back to back defeats, Garstang Reserves can still boast the best defensive record in the top division.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Andy Taylor: worked hard all game, pressed, tackled and won his battles and looked tidy in possession. Match Sponsor: Premier Readymix

Garstang: Maycock, Southward, Miller (c), Maticheccia, Bardsley, Swanwick, Bell, Back to Top Taylor, Wormleighton, Hewitt, Baldwin
Substitutes: Porter, Bailey, Grego

Askam United FC 4 Garstang FC 5
Lancashire FA Amateur Shield - Round One
Gfc goals: Ireland, Gierke 2, Whittaker 2
Saturday September 6th 14:30 hrs

Garstang stumbled through to the second round of the Lancashire Amateur Shield in a game that should have been sewn up by half-time.

There were only two minutes on the clock when a halmless looking free kick by Ireland squirmed through the keepers hands and into the net. Two minutes later and it was 0-2 in favour of the visitors when Gierke, unmarked, headed home a great cross from Coar. It could have been three in seven minutes when maticheccia, who was making his first appearance of the season, headed wide following a good cross by Schultz. Garstang did make it three on 19 minutes when Whittaker had room to turn in the box and fire past the hapless home keeper.

At this stage it looked like it was going to be the walk in the park but Askam had different ideas. In what was the hosts first real attack after 26 mins, Rayner waltzed round three flat footed Garstang defenders before shooting past Beesley. The complexion of the game suddenly changed. Beesley was called upon to make a smart save from Doherty and then matters got worse when a deflected shot found its way into the Garstang net for 2-3; then Askam's best player, Rayner, shot over after another good run.

Garstang restored the two goal advantage on the stroke  of half-time when Gierke fired home after some good work by Coar.

Garstang were determined to make hard work of this cup tie, continually giving the ball away when not under preassure. On 55mins the unmarked Birkett pulled another goal back for Askam, 3-4. Then Garstang really did  press the self destruct button when an off the ball incident involving Baker resulted in a penalty which was converted by Rayner; 4-4! And as if matters couldn't get any worse, Maticheccia received his marching orders when he reacted badly to a heavy tackle.

For the next 15 minutes Garstang were in complete disarray hanging on in a game that should never have been in doubt. Then in the 85th minute, against the run of play, Gierke did well on the right corner flag before crossing for Whittaker who shot through a mass of players, the ball going in off the post to secure avictory for a very relieved Manager.

Garstang: Beesley, Howey, Baker, McEvoy, Ireland, C Maticheccia, Fawcett, Back to Top Whittaker, Shultz, Gierke, Coar.
Subtitute: Cummins

Turton FC 1 Garstang FC 0
West Lancs League Premier Division
Saturday August 30th 15:00 hrs

Garstang suffered their first defeat of the season against a very well organised Turton side.

Despite the heavy conditions both sides started brightly playing some attractive football. The first real chance fell to Perry-Acton, in the 6th minute, who found himself on the edge of the Turton box but his shot was well blocked. The Garstang keeper then did well to smother a decent low cross as the home team gained momentum. Turton took a firm grip on the game on 25 minutes when a great through ball split the usually tight defence, leaving McCardow to slot home.

Despite the mounting preassure Garstang were still having their moments. The Turton Keeper flapped at an Ireland free kick but the ball went out of danger then Shultz robbed Turton midfielder, Johnson, deep in his own half before shooting weakly at the Keeper. Turton's diminutive 16 year old striker, Ward, was causing the Garstang defenders all sorts of problems as the first half drew to a close.

Garstang were out of the blocks first in the second half. First with a Gierke strike from outside the penalty area that went close and then a strong run from deep in his own half by Perry-Acton whose cross in front of the Turton goal failed to get the all important touch. It was all Garstang at this stage. A good effort by Andy Ireland was well saved by the home keeper, and then some good work by the hard working Cummins who put in a good cross for Gierke but the Garstang striker just failed to make contact.

This was the visitors last real chance as Turton regained control hitting the post twice in an 18 minute spell in which Beesley was called upon to make two good saves. It was a good effort by Garstang against a side who played football in the right manner from back to front and who should be a leading contender in the league this season.

Garstang: Beesley, Baker, G. Wilson, Perry-Acton, R. Wilson, Whittaker, Ireland, Back to Top Fawcett, Schultz, Gierke, Cummins.
Substitutes. Kilifin, Miller, McEvoy and Coar

Garstang Reserves 0 Fulwood Amateurs Reserves 1
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Monday August 18th 18:30 hrs

A stormy night at the Riverside provided the backdrop to another disappointing result for Garstang Reserves. Maycock and Twiname returned to the starting eleven with Swanwick starting his first outfield game of the season in the centre of the park.

Early signs were encouraging for the home side with Matt Baldwin and Dre Maticheccia causing havoc in the opposition half by getting the ball to feet and running at the centre halves. Chances were few and far between for either side during the opening encounters with the midfield quartet of Southward, Twiname, Swanwick and Wormleighton battling hard against the visitor’s five. The first real chance of the game brought about what turned out to be the only goal of the game. An outstanding in-swinging left footed corner left the Garstang defenders flatfooted and an attacking player powered an unstoppable header into the roof of the net. Up to the end of the first half, neither team created much apart from a long distance speculative effort by a Fulwood player hitting the bar. Maycock assured everyone that he had it covered.

The second half was a slightly more open affair as Garstang chased an equalizer. Fulwood’s impressive defence repelled attack after attack leaving the home side to try their luck from distance. The closest that Garstang came was when Baldwin seemingly had found the top corner from 30 yards only for the visitor’s ‘keeper to fly across his goal pulling off an incredible save. The more that Garstang afforded men forward, the more space that Fulwood’s intelligent attacking players had to play in. Maycock pulled off a string of impressive one on one saves to keep Garstang within touching distance but that illusive equalizer would just not come.

As with the performance against Euxton, there can be no blame attached to the effort and commitment shown by the Garstang players who battled throughout the game. In this much more competitive league, the Reserves must now come to terms with the fact that fewer chances are likely to fall their way and this is to be compounded by the fact that defensive errors or lapses are much more likely to be punished.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Kristian Maycock: looked assured throughout and made several top class saves in the second half. Match Sponsor: Allan’s Bobcat

Garstang: Maycock, Taylor, Miller (c), J Baldwin, Butler, Southward, Swanwick, Back to Top Twiname, Wormleighton, A Maticheccia, M Baldwin
Substitutes: C Maticheccia, Taylor, Hewitt, Bardsley, Grego

Garstang Reserves 1 Euxton Villa Reserves 2
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Gfc goals: A Maticheccia
Saturday August 16th 15:00 hrs

Confidence was high at the Riverside leading up to the visit of last year’s league champions, Euxton Villa, after the good start to the season. A few necessary changes were made from the team that beat Freckleton with Swanwick, Kippax, Carlo Maticheccia and Dre Maticheccia replacing Maycock, Kilifin, Shultz and the injured Twiname.

The game started brightly with Euxton’s forwards causing Miller and Jonny Baldwin trouble at the back with Kippax, Matty Baldwin and Dre Maticheccia doing likewise to the Euxton back four. The first goal, however, went Euxton’s way and came courtesy of the poor defending of a free kick – much to the annoyance of Garstang’s manager Paul Bailey. Euxton lined up a free kick 20 yards out from goal; Swanwick did well to get down to it but no Garstang players followed the ball in leaving the attacking team with an easy tap in.

This seemed to rouse Garstang and chances began to fall their way. Andy Taylor delivered numerous quality balls into the box which the visitors struggled to deal with and Rob Butler had a goal controversially disallowed much to the dismay of the home support. Nevertheless, the home side went in at the break trailing one nil.

The second half followed much the same pattern as the end of the first, with Garstang doing the majority of the pressing and Garstang’s defense, particularly captain Joe Miller, keeping the visitors at bay. Kippax, Matt Baldwin and Dre Maticheccia were beginning to impress themselves on proceedings throughout the second half and it was the latter who netted the equalizer mid way through the second half. A long throw by Taylor on the right ballooned and was flicked into the area. A good leap by Wormleighton found Maticheccia free inside the area to coolly slot home from eight yards for his first for the club.

Garstang remained on the front foot until late in the game when Euxton were awarded a corner. The initial corner was dealt with well but the resulting shot from all of 45 yards scuffed, bobbled and deflected its way into the area and very luckily fell to the feet of an Euxton midfielder who finished well from close range. This was a hammer blow to Garstang who had nothing left in the tank to mount a last ditch comeback.

The positives certainly outweighed the negatives in this performance but it was obvious to see the gulf in class from the opposition that Garstang faced in the league below last season and the teams that they will encounter this time around.

MoM sponsored by Collinson: Andrea Maticheccia – a busy, bustling performance capped with a good finish. Match Sponsor: Ten's Cafe Bar and Restaurant

Garstang: Swanwick, Taylor, Miller (c), J Baldwin, Butler, C Maticheccia, Back to Top Wormleighton, Southward, Kippax, A Maticheccia, M Baldwin
Substitutes: Twiname, Porter, Grego

Freckleton Reserves 1 Garstang Reserves 6
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Gfc goals: Baldwin 5, Schultz
Monday August 11th 18:30 hrs

Matty Baldwin scored five times in this 6–1 romp away at Freckleton Reserves.

Having conceded ten goals in their previous fixture, the home side began the match as if they had something to prove with some clever passing and strong running from midfield. However, as soon as Garstang had weighed up their opposition and pushed Twiname upfront alongside Baldwin, the match took on an altogether different complexion and Garstang proved much too strong for the young Freckleton side.

Top scorer in all divisions last season, Baldwin’s first came from a looped header over the young and indecisive Freckleton ‘keeper. This was closely followed by Shultz’s first of the season, a right footed curled lob from outside the box after a superb ball in from the right by Taylor. With twenty minutes to half time, the game seemed as good as over until a mistake at the back from Garstang put the visitors on the back foot and a flowing move resulted in a fantastic finish from Freckleton’s striker, a powerful effort from outside the box into the top corner leaving Maycock with no chance.

Garstang heads seemed to drop at this point and the home side pressed for the equalizer. The visitor’s midfield began to assert authority on proceedings, snapping into challenges and winning battles all over the park. Baldwin scored his second and Garstang’s third with a simple tap in after good work on the right from Killifin. Garstang could have been five up by half time but divots in the home side’s penalty box effected Twiname’s finishing on two occasions.

The second half continued in much the same fashion as the first had finished, with Garstang on the front foot and ‘keeper Maycock having very little to do. Baldwin’s hat trick was completed with a move from the old school. A cheeky short corner from Killifin, carried into the box by Baldwin who drilled home the ball from a narrow angle. Baldwin’s fourth was the best of the lot, he received the ball over the top of the defence drove into the box and impudently floated the ball over the ‘keeper’s head from the left hand side of the penalty area.

Garstang substitutions inevitably followed with Southward, Killifin and Wormleighton making way for the Maticheccia brothers, Dre and Carlo, and Rob Bell. Although all the subs did well on their introduction, it was Dre Maticheccia who made the most telling of contributions with some skillful runs, neat touches and played a neat one-two resulting in Matt Baldwin’s fifth of the night and Garstang’s sixth. All in all, a strong, battling performance whilst playing some decent football and delivering a good result.

MoM: Matt Baldwin, always in the right place at the right time with his left foot, and his head. Match Sponsor: TP2

Garstang: Maycock, Taylor, Miller (c), J Baldwin, Butler, Kilifin, Wormleighton, Back to Top Southward, Shultz, Twiname, M Baldwin
Substitutes: A Maticheccia, C Maticheccia, Bell, Bardsley, Grego

Blackpool Wren Rovers FC 1 Garstang FC 2
West Lancs League Premier Division
Gfc goals: R Wilson, Cummings
Tuesday August 12th 18:30 hrs

Garstang travelled to School Road to take on last years runners up and left with maximum points after an enthralling clash.

The visitors had the better of the opening exchanges and looked the stronger team as they created the better chances. An excellent through ball sent Fawcett clear on goal however his effort was saved by the advancing keeper. Winger Howley, who was impressive all game, delivered an inch perfect corner that Richard met with an unstoppable bullet header into the roof of the net. This well worked set piece gave Garstang a deserved lead and they looked likely to extend this however the home team were awarded a free kick for a handball only seen by the official. The resulting free kick was converted and the scores were level.

This decision upset Garstang and they lost their heads for a short time which allowed the Wrens back into the match. As the home side came forward Garstang defended well in numbers and prevented any clear chances on goal. As the half progressed the midfield of Whittaker, Ireland and Fawcett took hold and drove the visitors forward in search of the lead. Cummings and Geirke worked hard up front however they were limited to few clear sightings of goal. The ball was fed to Cummings out on the left wing and he cut inside with the ball at his feet. He then drifted past a challenge and unleashed a cracker into the top corner to put Garstang in front at the break.

The second half was an onslaught on the Garstang goal as the home team went in search of an equalizer. The visitors defended as a team and every one of them deserves tremendous credit for the superb rear guard action that secured the points for the reigning champions. At times Garstang rode their luck and Beesley made an excellent save from a free kick and in the dying seconds they survived a strong penalty appeal.

It is impossible to single out any player as the whole team's defensive performance was excellent. At times the team did not retain the ball very well but this was due to the constant pressure that Wrens put them under. Manager Norrie must have been proud of each and every player for the way that the team stuck together and frustrated the home team to secure a confidence boosting win so early in the season.

Garstang: Beesley, R Wilson, Perry Acton, G Wilson, Baker, Howley, Whittaker, Back to Top Fawcett, Ireland, Geirke, Cummins.
Substitutes: Miller, Kilifin

Charnock Richard Reserves 0 Garstang Reserves 0
West Lancs League Reserve Division One
Saturday August 9th 15:00 hrs

After a relatively quiet summer in the transfer market, Garstang Reserves took to the excellent pitch at Charnock with a side comprising of much the same nucleus of players that had gained promotion last season. Two notable additions to the starting line up, however, making their debuts were; right back Andy Taylor brought in from Fulwood Amateurs and left back Rob Butler from Wyre Villa – each making telling contributions.

Charnock had perhaps the better of the opening exchanges but had very few clear cut chances to show for their possession, with Joe Miller and Jonny Baldwin marshalling the centre of defence strongly against two much bigger and more experienced strikers. Garstang’s central midfield trio of Paul Southward, Ryan Twiname and the returning Ian Wormleighton began to take control of the game in the latter stages of the first half by winning challenges and pressing Charnock higher up the pitch. Chances started falling Garstang’s way with Matt Baldwin flashing a trademark left foot shot across the keeper and Carlo Maticheccia putting a free header over the bar from eight yards out.

It was Charnock who had the clearest chance of the half though. Breaking quickly from the back, the home side had numbers in the box and barring a strong save from Adam Swanwick and a goal line clearance from debutant Taylor, Garstang would have been trailing at the interval.

The second half followed a similar pattern to the first, Charnock perhaps shading possession but generally in areas that weren’t hurting Garstang. In fact, the home side’s only real chance came from a free header from a corner which the other debutant, Butler, managed to swing a right foot at and clear off the line and away from danger. Garstang still looked a threat on the break, with Lee Shultz’s powerful running from midfield causing Charnock’s back line problems and substitute Dre Maticheccia working well alongside the hardworking Matt Baldwin. It was Maticheccia, who probably had the best chance of the second half with a telling run into the box but was unfortunately thwarted in his attempts to beat the ‘keeper. Rob Bell and Andy Taylor also looked comfortable when they entered proceedings midway through the second half.

Overall a good point and a solid start for the newly promoted Reserve team against a team who finished fourth in this division last season but Garstang must remember that this season will not be interspersed with the ‘easier’ games that they encountered last season. Hard work, commitment and determination must continue in each and every game throughout this year’s campaign.

MoM – Adam Swanwick – thrust in between ‘the sticks’ under a lot of pressure and coped admirably. A couple of good saves (notably one flashy effort for the cameras), comfortable under the high ball and intelligent kicking. Clearly not a natural ‘keeper but he tried hard. Match Sponsor: Shepherds Dairy

Garstang: Swanwick, Taylor, Miller (c), J Baldwin, Butler, C Maticheccia, Southward, Back to Top Wormleighton, Twiname, Shultz, M Baldwin
Substitutes: A Maticheccia, Bell, Taylor, Grego

Garstang FC 2 Charnock Richard FC 2
West Lancs League Premier Division
Gfc goals: Gierke (pen), Whittaker
Saturday August 9th 15:00 hrs

The current West Lancashire League champions, Garstang, began the new campaign with a tough looking home fixture against last season's third placed team Charnock Richard. As usual Charnock brought a good following with them and they weren't disappointed with an excellent first half display from the visitors which had Garstang on the back foot long periods.

It was Garstang however who created the first real chance of the game when good work from Cummings resulted in Gierke pouncing on the loose ball but he saw his powerful drive clear the crossbar. Charnock's midfield then started to move the ball around the park well and only hard work from Ireland, Fawcett and Whittaker preventing them from taking control. Garstang defended well, in particular Perry-Acton who made an excellent tackle in the penalty area when it looked odds on that the Charnock forward would score.

Although the pressure was mounting, strong defending from Baker and Geoff Wilson meant that Neil "Tiny" Beasley in goal didn't have a save to make until mid way through the first half when the opening goal came. A bit of "pushing and shoving" from Richard Wilson led to a free kick on the left hand side of the box. Charnock delivered an excellent cross and a free header was met at the back post where the ball was poked over the line to make it 1-0. Still Garstang found it hard to get hold of the ball but kept working in the knowledge they were still in the game. On the stroke of half time the battling spirit told when Gierke was upended in the box and a penalty was duly awarded. Gierke watched the keeper dive to his right and coolly stroked the ball the opposite way.

This and a half time team talk from manager George Norrie gave Garstang a lift and they came out far stronger in the second half and it was now Garstang who started to dominate possession. This pressure told when Hawley got the ball wide on the right, stepped past a first challenge and delivered a pin point cross to Whittaker whose firm header skidded off the wet turf and bounced over the outstretched hand of the visiting keeper to put Garstang in the lead. Garstang kept pushing forward and Cummings, Gierke and Fawcett all had half chances to increase the lead.

With time ticking away Charnock were twice kept at bay with two superb saves from Tiny. The first a low crisp drive that was tipped round the post for a corner and the second was even better when a long dipping shot was pushed on to and then over the bar. Unfortunately it was a mistake that led to the last minute equaliser when Garstang failed to deal with a cross and the ball fell at a visiting forwards feet, his shot was handled on the line by Geoff Wilson and the resulting penalty just evaded Tiny's outstretched hand and found it's way into the corner of the net.

Garstang will be disappointed to concede a last minute goal but on the whole it was a good, strong, organised performance against a decent opposition and a draw was probably a fair result.

Garstang: Beesley, R Wilson, Perry Acton, G Wilson, Baker, Howley, Whittaker, Back to Top Fawcett, Ireland, Geirke, Cummins.
Substitutes: Kilifin

Photo GalleryGarstang FC 2 Haslingden St Mary's FC 0:
The Wilf Carr Memorial Trophy
Gfc goals: Cummings, Geirke
Saturday August 4th 15:00 hrs


Geirke Goes Close

GARSTANG lifted the Wilf Carr Memorial Trophy with a comfortable victory at the Riverside in front of a sizeable crowd. And it meant silverware for new boss George Norrie in his first competitive game in charge. In the build up to this match Garstang beat Longton by six goals to one and then Lancaster Reserves five-nil in the final friendlies of pre-season. These wins coupled with being the league champions gave the home side plenty of confidence going into the game and they took the match to the visitors in the early stages.

The opening chances of the game were headers which captain Geoff Wilson was unable to direct goalwards from good positions. The Garstang backline was solid and restricted Haslingden to knocking deep crosses into the box which Beesley dealt with well by either catching or punching clear. The first half was scrappy with both midfields battling hard but there was not much quailty football on display until the latter stages of the half. Garstang fashioned two good openings which fell to Geirke however he was unable to convert them and the chances went begging.

In the second half Garstang took the game by the scruff of the neck and dominated their opponents. The home side were totally comfortable throughout this half and it was only a matter of time before they took the lead. The visitors only half cleared the ball and it was knocked back into the area where Cummings latched onto it and calmly slotted home. Baker and Geoff Wilson were in fine form at the centre of the defence and there looked no way back for Haslingden after this goal. The centre halves were well supported by the full backs, Perry Acton and Richard Wilson, and this strong back line gave Garstang the platform to attack with confidence.

Ireland was relishing his new role in the centre of midfield and Howley had a good game wide left on his return to the club. The second goal was an excellant finish from Geirke as he smashed the ball in off the bar from a tight angle. Garstang had a couple of half chances to extend the lead but in the end they had to settle for a two-nil victory. This meant that Geoff Wilson had to step forward and lift the trophy on behalf of his team mates.

The league campaign begins next Saturday and Garstang will need to again step up their game to secure the three points. The club would also like to thank the Pickerings Country House Hotel who in addition to being match sponsor have assisted the club further with two new match balls for the coming season.

Garstang: Beesley, R Wilson, Perry Acton, G Wilson, Baker, Howley, Whittaker, Fawcett, Ireland, Geirke, Cummins.
Substitutes: R Coar, Miller, C Maticheccia

 

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