Mixed Fortunes Today September 27th 18:00 hrs First team match report here..... Reserve team match report here..... All Today's Shield Results: Burnley Belvdere 1 v 3 Golbourne Sports Today's League Results: Premier Division: Reserve Division One: All the day's results and tables are here..... |
||||||||||
Garstang FC Golf Day: 26th Septemner 19:00 hrs Twenty one teams competed for the David Quinney Memorial Trophy; the winning team being skippered by Mick Hoyle, the Cheif Excecutive of Lancaster City FC. Everyone enjoyed their day's golf, their meals, and the presentations in the Garstang Golf and Country Club afterwards. Adrian Wilding thanked everyone for taking part including a full mini-bus load from Heysham Golf Club. Adrian also gave special thanks to Andy Harkin for organising the day and to 'Davo' Davis whose raffle raised over £300 for club funds. The day's results can be found here..... Here are the photographs of the event; at least the ones that our legal advisors will allow us to show to you. |
||||||||||
|
||||||||||
Somerside Back at the Riverside:
Dave Porter, who was part of the squad last season and whose playing career stretches back a long way with the club, has been appointed as Scott's Assistant. Chairman, Adrian Wilding added, 'We are delighted that Scott has returned to the club as manager. We need stability throughout the club. Work going on off the field must be complemented by what is going on in matters surrounding the playing side'. |
Garstang Football Club have moved quickly to appoint Scott Somerside as their new manager.
|
||||
|
Preston company, Ribblesdale Auto Electrics are to sponsor the Club's new 'Score' Lottery. The first draw will be made on the last Friday in January with a first prize of £500, a second prize of £100, then £50, £25 and £10. 
disappointing. Credit has to go to Tempest who worked hard and were very physical in their approach; but in both areas I felt we should have been able to match them. 
Chicago, Chicago:
27th October 08:30hrs
tackles and playing, in patches. The disappointment comes from the lack of self belief towards the end of games. It will come, but it will only come from the experience of locking teams out. While the memories of games given away are still fresh, the jitters will be there. 
Commercial Update:
And the very first step is this photograph courtesy of Fred Miller. Can you identify the players and accurately date the photograph?
With over sixty people attending and enjoying some great fun, the night was a huge success. Compare Andy Pike thanked everyone for attending and making the night a success, with special thanks to Mick and Jackie for hosting the event. The highlight of the night was a ten minute 
DVD watched by the players and guests launching Garstang Football Club’s new initiatives for the future of the Club and football in the community.
The Club also launched the exciting “Score” Lottery, which is available for anyone to join. This is a monthly draw starting in January 2009, with a first prize of £500. There will also be a jackpot draw every twelfth month with a first prize of £1000. A club spokesperson said “everyone’s a winner”. For a small monthly standing order payment of £5, or a yearly payment of £60, you not only have a chance of winning some great prizes, you are also doing your bit to help football in the community at your local Club, Garstang FC. All monies raised will go towards the development of Garstang Football Club’s facilities, for the current teams, but most importantly to make sure we have the best possible facilities for the future. 
May I on behalf of everyone connected with Garstang Football Club welcome you to our Website. It is a privilege to be Chairman of Garstang Football Club at what must be the most exciting time in the clubs history. The newly created website is one of a number of initiatives that hopefully will bring us closer to the community. In turn we hope the community will become more aware of us and be prepared to support us. A successful town football team can do much for the town of Garstang. We hope that you will read with interest and just maybe we will see you down at the Riverside supporting the team or if you are a business taking up one of the opportunities available on the commercial page. 
Big Launch at the King's Arms 
Saturday Results Service Charnock Richard 2 Garstang FC 2: In a rerun of the season's opening game, the current league leaders, Charnock Richard, scored in the dyeing seconds to grab a share of the points in a repeat of the 2-2 draw; the Garstang goals coming from Geoff Wilson and Matt Baldwin, his first for the First Team. Thornton Cleveleys Reserves 0 Garstang Reserves 0: Manager Bails will be pleased to see the end of the run of defeats; a much better performance - and we could have nicked it at the end. Today's Other Results: Reserve Division One: Full results and tables here, First Team match report here, Reserves here. Weekend Previews:
Charnock Richard's Captain, Andy Roberts, makes his 450th appearance for the club tomorrow and is still the same threat he was 449 games ago!. There have been goals a plenty at Charnock with Roberts, Sanderson and Hayton all in double figures so far this season. All this, combined with Baldwin in the goals behind an excellent defence, means Garstang will have to show the same sort of character that they showed throughout last season. Manager Somerside will be looking to keep the good run of form going and will need some big performances tomorrow in the league leaders backyard. Matty Baldwin did his First Team chances no harm last week with a solid display, and with Coar, Cox and McEvoy all coming through midweek training sessions well, it’s hoped a strong Garstang squad can put in a decent performance tomorrow. Directions: Leave M6 at J28, turn right and head down the A49 through Euxton and into Charnock Richard. Pass the Bowling Green Public House and, approximately 0.75 miles later, turn left into Church Lane. Take the first right into Charter Lane - postcode PR7 5LZ.
Directions: Follow your nose(!!) down Amounderness Way towards Fleetwood, going straight across at the Morrisons Roundabout. Go straight on at lights and, after 200 yards, turn right into Bourne Way. Straight across at the lights and the ground is on the left - postcode FY5 4QA. "I'm proud of you all"
The feedback from the sponsors and the general public who were there was very positive and great for the future of the club. I hope you all enjoyed the evening and found it very productive, as I did. We have a great opportunity in the 'Score' lottery, please support it and I would ask you all to try and get at least five completed forms back to Davo , Mark or Les as this will make all the differance to the future of Garstang FC. Please be part of it and do your bit. Once again thanks for last night, and good luck this weekend. Adrian Backstage at the Pattern Arms: More exciting times for Garstang FC at last nights launches in the Pattern Arms. Despite appearances, it was more than 'alright on the night'. A full report, with the official photographs is available here.
New Kit Sponsors: The Pattern Arms played host to a full squad of 30 players and management staff, all dressed in club shirts and ties, together with all our Principal Sponsors. The evening began with a presentation by our new partners the Vitality Complementary Therapies Clinic on health, fitness and nutrition which was well received and appreciated by all club members. Scott Somerside's summary of the presentation, and some of the key points made by the Vitality staff, are available on the First Team news page here. Les Taylor opened the new kit launch meeting by explaining the importance of such an evening, recognising who the sponsors were, before introducing them to the players. 'It was important that we didn't just look upon our sponsors as financial inputers. They had become friends of the club", said Les. Here are the sponsors 'official' photographs.
All the sponsorships will be in place until the end of season 2009/10. There was special thanks given to Mick Gornall from the Kings Arms who has sponsored the club for many years and had allowed another sponsor to come in in order to generate more income by moving his name to the rear of the shirts. Everyone present acknowledged Mick's gesture. The Chairman, Adrian Wilding, re-iterated Les' comments and brought to everyones attention the importance of getting behind the Score Lottery which could well be the making of the club for the future.He thanked all for their attendance and for their contribution for making it such a good night. Garstang Football Club would also like to thank on record Ian, Jackie and staff from the Pattern Arms, not only for providing the venue, but for an excellent supper.
Thursday evening saw Garstang FC unveil another key partner. This time it was the turn of Vitality, experts in Injury Treatment and rehabilitation, to explain how our new partnership will work. They explained how they will work, initially with the player, establishing correct diagnosis of injuries, treating the damaged area and then helping the player back to fitness. They then work with the management team at Garstang FC, helping to recommend progressive training sessions which are in line with the appropriate stage of recovery. The physios will advise on the correct timeframe for re-introduction to training and, ultimately, full recovery for matches. The Vitality team also discussed the correct 'self help' treatment of injuries, referring to the R.I.C.E. acronym; Rest Ice Compression Elevation. They explained the frequency of icing an injury and when, later on, to apply heat to aid the recovery. Nutrition too was touched on, an advice sheet being left for each player with useful tips on when and what to eat prior to matches. They finished their presentation with a brief explanation of health related products and natural supplements and touched on alternative Chinese treatment methods including acupuncture.
I strongly believe this partnership shows a commitment by the club to the players of Garstang FC. It is important not only for them as footballers, but also for the players as individuals, that we ensure any injuries are treated as professionally as possible. A summary of FAQ's for you to read and print is here. Care in the Community: Note: This game was played two weeks ago, but the report has just been forwarded to us via Myerscough College Veterinary Department.
As ever, this match was played in an excellent manner with both sides trying to play football and only the occasional foul to keep the referee interested. From Garstang’s point of view, it was a game of missed chances with Hutton, Whittingham, Porter and Hindle all missing early chances. It was shortly after Hindle's missed opportunity when he was crudely hacked down by the INVISIBLE MAN while chasing a through ball and was unable to continue. Fullback Painter then decided to show the others how it should be done and calmly took control of the ball on the edge of the area before curling it into the top corner. Garstang’s lead didn’t last long when a cross from the left found a Lytham forward whose header was far too powerful and was helped over the line by Watson in the Garstang goal. Garstang continued to pass the ball well but, either the final ball, or the finish, wasn’t up to scratch. The missed chances came back to haunt Garstang when a corner from the right somehow took seven ricochets and ended up nestling against the back of the visitors net. Garstang kept pushing on but shouldn’t have bothered because it would have saved further embarrassment to Hutton, who missed two easy finishes, and Hands who also should have done better when '1 on 1'. Credit should go to Hurst and Tugman, who rolled back the years and were always confident in defence, and Rafferty, who was still the same hard working player of old. Garstang will return to the same venue in January and will try to avenge this second defeat on the trot by this Lytham team who are always a pleasure to play against. Garstang Veterans Squad: Eamonn (Non Velcro) Watson, Russell (Rusty) Hurst, Robert (Tugger) Tugman, Simon (Handsy) Hands, David (Ace Reporter) Porter, Jim (Kipper) Kippax, Dave (PC) Rimmer, Mick (Silver) Gornall, Paul (Nelly) Hutton, Bill (Who shot me?) Hindle, Sean (Raff) Rafferty, Allan (Smithy) Smith, Ian (Witty) Whittingham, George No Name, and Jamie (Sharpshooter) Painter
Eagley: Second Thoughts: Our third defeat on the trot: conceded ten goals and only scored three, which I think says it all. We seem to be giving goals away for toffee and struggling to score. All that said, I was very happy with the way we started, playing five across midfield with one up front. And scoring a good goal. Matt Walton linked up well with Rory Waite, who was making his return after a short spell at Wyre Villa. After looking comfortable holding Eagley's very strong front line, we switched off and got punished. Before the first half was over, we conceded a second which was just as poor, although we equalised before half time. The second half, I was quite pleased.We worked hard till the end, setting a good tempo, and Rory should have scored to put us 3-2 up. But it was not to be as the referee had other ideas, allowing a blatant hand ball which led to Eagley snatching a third and winning goal; much to my disappointment as you can imagine!
Bails
Pattern Arms Reminder: All playing staff and committee members are reminded of our important meeting at the Pattern Arms, Winmarleigh on Thursday evening, November 27th, from 7:15pm. The agenda includes a presentation on 'Nutrition for Footballers' by 'Vitality', followed by a photoshoot with our new shirts and shirt sponsors. A 'Hot Pot Supper' will be provided and the dress code is white shirt and club tie.
**No connection, but the latest Garstang Vets report is now available here. Riverside Matchday Poster: The latest matchday poster for the Riverside is available here. It covers the Christmas holiday period, so please print out a copy or two and display them in your neighbourhood.
I was disappointed with the way we started, but not really surprised. We looked sluggish and quiet in the warm up, possibly due to going so long without a game. Several lads played after a week of ‘man flu’, in particular Gaz Fawcett, who was very doubtful right up to kick off. Testament to the lads for putting in such a solid, hard working performance. Man of the match for me was a toss up between Gaz and Jimmy Brindle. Eagley score lots of goals and it’s easy to see why; the movement and technique of their forwards is very good. Their goal, though, came from a midfield position and at the time, I was critical of our lads for not closing down but when someone hits it so well there’s not a lot you can do. Our reaction to the goal was great. The lads had half joked previously about winning a game after going a goal down instead of dropping points when in front. I thought we dominated from their goal to the half time whistle. At least three chances should have been taken, particularly from headers, but Geoff Wilson's finish was worth the wait. A steady second half performance, particularly at the back where we looked more solid and unflustered, was topped off by great technique on the free kick from Wayne Cropper. Richard Wilson could, and possibly should, have scored after getting on the end of an earlier quickly taken Cropps’ free-kick. I had some difficult choices today with Andy Taylor (Snr) doing everything right previously with the Reserves and pushing for a starting place with us. The decisions about substitutions in the second half were also tricky. I thought the Wilsons had both done really well but were just starting to fatigue after working so hard, so I brought on Alan Coar and young James Butler. Substitutions when the game’s tight are always a gamble but if we’re to establish ourselves as a quality Premier Division side, draws at home against low lying teams are no good to us (no disrespect to Eagley). The daft stuff by our opponents at the end was frustration and also a desire to unsettle us. It nearly worked too as, once again, a referee at the Riverside managed to find six minutes of injury time. The save from Jimmy Brindle at the death was heart stopping and incredible, but it would have been extremely unjust had he not managed to keep it out. It was always going to take Matt Baldwin time to adjust and to understand what was expected. When he did, he looked comfortable at this level. With a couple of shots on the turn, some good hold up play, and hard wor, he came out of the game with a lot of credit. Overall, I was very pleased. We’re reasonably placed in the league but with our next four fixtures away from home, we’re going to need as much character as was shown today, with just a little more quality in front of goal. Scott
A last minute super save from Jim Brindle (shown in first half action), on his return to the Riverside, secured all three points for the First Team in today's hard earned 2-1 victory over Eagley. Having conceded an unstoppable opener to Eagley, Garstang got back into the game thanks to a Geoff Wilson equaliser; Wayne Cropper being credited with the winner from a well flighted free kick, finding the net with Andy Ireland and the Eagley defence in close attendance. The Reserves, who took the lead with Matty Walton's first goal for the club, then needed Andy Taylor to pull them level at 2-2 with a goal just on half time. Their return to form could not bring home the points, unfortunately, with Eagley nicking the only goal of the second half to finish 3-2 winners. Today's Other Results: Reserve Division One: Full results are here, First Team Match report here, Reserves here. Cardiac Risk in the Young: The 2008 Garstang FC Golf Day raised £100 for the C.R.Y Charity, donated in memory of David Quinney. Here is Mick Quinney's letter of thanks: To All at Garstang FC, Thankyou so much for your generous donation to C.R.Y in memory of David. It means so much to us. We have forwarded the cheque to them. Yours sincerely Visit the C.R.Y website here. January Fixtures: The draft January fixtures are now available; the First Team at home to Vickerstown on January 3rd, the Reserves away at Norcross & Warbreck. The fixture lists have been updated; all the January games for all teams are shown here. Please remember that these fixtures may change; so check here before travelling to a game. Weekend Previews: Another attempted double header this weekend with both the first and reserve teams lineing up against Eagley. Garstang V Eagley: With the weather looking favourable, there's every chance that the First Team will be entertaining Eagley FC at the Riverside this weekend. It is three weeks now since the First Team last played, so all the squad should be eagerly (!!) awaiting tommorrows game. Eagley travel up to Garstang currently sat second bottom of the Premier Division and, although they have conceeded more goals than anybody in 45, they are also the divisions second highest scorers with 29, and most of their goals have yet again been scored by Grimshaw, who won the golden boot in 2004/05, and Swailes, the other big centre forward who has a brother currently playing for the MK Dons in the football league. Garstang are set to use new signings Butler and Brindle along with the returning Coar. With Williams ruled out with his ankle in plaster, and Cox out with a broken nose, Manager Somerside will have a tough decision to make on whom to partner with Wilson up front against the divisions weakest defence. Eagley Reserves V Garstang Reserves: The Reserves travel to Eagley Reserves with manager Bailey pulling his grey hairs out as his team have worryingly started to leak goals, conceding nine goals in their last three games, when previously they had conceded only eight goals in the last nine games. Last season, in their championship winning 26 game season, they conceded just 23. Although recent injuries haven't helped, the defensive unit is still the same as last seasons so perhaps we may get the bit of luck, and the clean sheet, that is needed tomorrow. Eagley Reserves are hit and miss and have dropped points against some sides at the lower end of the table yet have already noteably taken six points from Charnock Richard Reserves. Rory Waite has returned from Wyre Villa and goes straight into the squad whilst Bardsley and Wormleighton are both missing. It promises to be an interesting afternoon for the Reserves and Manager Bailey will be looking for some strong, brave performances tomorrow. Charnock Richard: Second Thoughts: We started the game well and with a good tempo, and for the first 45 minutes matched Charnock. With a little bit of luck we could have had a goal or two. But luck seems to have deserted us for now. The second half was a big disappointment. We never really got back into our stride and conceded some very sloppy goals. Nobody got into their stride and we never looked like scoring - or even creating a chance. The most disappointing aspect being the lack of a good solid challenge in the middle of the park. These things we will work on in training over the coming weeks. Player wise, Andy Taylor Snr had a good game, with some great deliveries in a man of the match display. Matt Walton again came off the bench and showed great spirit and fight and looks as if he will be a great asset for the club. Bails
Weekend Review: Another blank weekend for the First Team as the weather again intervened. The Reserves, meanwhile, may have wished for the same fate as they unexpectedly suffered a 0-4 defeat at the hands of Charnock Richard. Match report here. Here are the significant weekend results: Premier Division: Reserve Division One: The full weekend results and tables are here. It's the Weekend Preview: With the First Team rained off last Saturday it is expected (hoped) that both games tomorrow survive the weather. Also the club would like to welcome back Jim Brindle (right) who has returned as first team keeper. Jim left the club to try his hand in the Conference North with Lancaster City and returns after a short spell at local rivals Wyre Villa. Jim is an excellant keeper with plenty of experience despite only being 24 years old which is young in goalkeeping terms. Coppull Utd v Garstang: The first team make the short trip down the M6 to face Coppull Utd. Coppull are inconsistent at present winning a game and then losing a game. As they lost last Saturday the first team will need to be on their metal to secure the points. The first team had a no game last week so the players are fresh and raring to go. Miller, Butler and Matt Baldwin join the squad. Garstang Reserves v Charnock Richard Reserves: The second team are at the Riverside and host Charnock who they drew with on the opening day of the season. The visitors have lost their last two and Garstang will be looking to make home advantage count. Manager Bailey will be giving a debut to an exicting player who comes to the club via Les Taylor's extensive network of football contacts. If all goes to plan this prove an excellant future link for the club. I don't want to give to much away so you will need to visit the Riverside tomorrow and support the team. Reminder to All:
The first draw may not take place until the 30th January 2009 but now is the time that we want the application forms filled in and returned. The applications have to be imputed on to the computer, the membership cards processed and posted out well before the first draw. My message is simple: Everyone wants to know a winner! No one wants to know a loser! So why not be a winner with Garstang F.C. by responding now! You can pick up an application form from the Garstang Courier office or at the Kings Arms. We will even drop you an application form off - just ring 'Davo' on 07947 019893 or download an application form here. Ps: The 27th November is an ideal opportunity for players to return any forms that they have. Regards Les Chance to meet the Sponsors and learn about Nutrition: On Thursday November 27th, Garstang Football Club will be holding a unique event at the Patten Arms in Winmarleigh. All players and club officials are requested to attend from 7:15pm. The evening will open with an introduction to our new health and fitness partners, 'Vitality', who will explain how we will work together to improve player’s fitness and recovery, and also touch upon the subject of 'Nutrition for Footballers'. This will be followed by a press launch and photoshoot featuring our new sponsors with the new first and reserve team kit. In addition to photographs of groups of players with the sponsors, we will also take first and reserve team squad photos for use in publicity material and on website. All player's are urged to attend in order to show their support to the club's sponsors and also to learn from the Vitality presentation which will hopefully improve their match day performance. A ‘Hot Pot’ Supper will be served during the evening and this will kindly be provided by the Pattern Arms. Barnoldswick Town: Second Thoughts:
I was very pleased that the players learnt vital lessons from last Saturday and there was no bickering, in fact the spirit the lads showed was top notch. Our first half display was extremely pleasing as we used the big pitch to our advantage and passed the ball about well. It must have been a good game for those watching as both teams played a high standard of football. Both teams created chances and on another day we could have taken at least a point from the game. If you forget the result I am very happy with the team's effort and if they maintain this level in upcoming games we will get our rewards. I was extremely impressed with Matt Baldwin's response and attitude when he came on with us trailing by two goals. He worked hard, did not sulk and created a couple of good chances for himself but he was denied by excellant goalkeeping. I would like to thank the committee, in particular Andy, for the minibus which the club arranged to take us on the lengthy journey. I would also like to say a massive thanks to Fred for driving the minibus and then running the line. It was certainly a great help and I know the lads appreciated it. Roll on Saturday Bails
Good Performance at Barnoldswick: The second team made the long trek to Barnoldswick and despite a good performance they left empty handed. Read the full match report here..... Reserves Lose at Barnoldswick: With the First Team rained off, attention switched to Barnoldswick where the Reserves, despite playing well, went down 3-1 to a very good Barnoldswick side. The match report will be available on Monday. Results of games played today: Reserve Division One: All the day's results and tables are here. It's the Weekend Preview:
No doubt, there'll be a few of you stood on the railings tomorrow remembering the 'good old days' when all football was like this! No, it's nothing to do with the mud; it's about the first and second strings playing the same club at the same time. Tomorrow is such a day with Barnoldswick Town and, with both their teams going well in their respective leagues, two even and competitive games are in prospect. Garstang v Barnoldswick Town: Ex PNE and Rochdale centre forward Michael Holt brings his Barnoldswick Town team to the Riverside this week for the West Lancs Premier Division fixture. Town are having an excellent season so far and sit third in the table, despite losing to Freckleton last weekend. Player/manager Holt will start upfront and Garstang will also have to watch goalscoring captain Stewart Airdrie in the middle of the park. Manager Somerside is yet again hit with an injury list containing Coar, Taylor Snr and Cox, although Richard Wilson has now declared himself 100 % fit. Garstang will be looking to continue their recent good form in the league and will need a similar performances this week from Wayne Cropper,who was singled out for praise last week, in the centre of the park. Barnoldswick Town Reserves v Garstang Reserves: An 11:30 am departure awaits the Reserves this week as they make the long trip East to Barnoldswick Town's Silentnight Stadium with the intention of keeping the stadium silent! Club Legend Fred Miller has volunteered to drive the mini-bus to the game, so I am sure there may be a stop on the way home, hopefully celebrating a good result, Barnoldswick Town were promoted two seasons ago, at the expense of Garstang Reserves, so hopefully we can pay them back this weekend. Manager Bailey is awaiting news from the First Team injury list before he can finalise his squad for this weekends local derby!. Directions: Follow M65 to the end, then straight on at roundabout onto Vivary Way. Go through two sets of lights to roundabout and bear left to Barnoldswick. On entering Barnoldswick, go straight ahead at lights to mini-roundabout and turn right through built up area. At bottom bear left, go for 100yds and go through park gates onto Victory Park. On entering park keep left and the pitch is at the bottom. Postcode BB18 5EN. The Secretary Speaks - Again:
Since my last article both teams have successfully managed to climb their respective divisions and I am sure that is a great credit to the two managers, Scott and Bails, who have been busy working the lads hard on Tuesday and Thursday nights the last four or five weeks to improve the players fitness and, noticeably, the lads are looking fitter and sharper. It was particularly nice to see a Joe Miller brace the other week and having now got those two goals this season, he has already equalled his father's total goal scoring record in twenty years of playing for Garstang! Off the field, the promised interview with Niall’s girlfriend Alex is also ready to post, so we'd better all say our good-byes to Niall this weekend! I am sure most of you have met Ben Perry-Acton's girlfriend Laura and, in true Scott Mills style, I have managed to get a copy of Laura’s diary! So look out, too, for the first instalment coming later this week! It was also very kind of Geoff Wilson to hand out invitations to all players and officials to his upcoming wedding to Louise at Christmas, and it's very good of Geoff to want us all with him on his wedding day, although I do hope that the best man's black eye has cleared up by then! I see the West Lancs Fixture Secretary has been kind to the First Team again with our December fixtures! Also, please do not forget that the Reserves have a mini-bus going up to Barnoldswick this Saturday. Obviously it’s nice to welcome new players into the squad and I am sure that Simon Williams, Matty Walton and Lee Fleming will prove to be valuable members of Garstang FC. It's also a pleasure to see recognition from higher teams for our players as well and Tiny Beesley has 'flown the nest' and signed on at Lancaster City FC. It's good to see a player, and a personal friend, getting recognition from a higher team and I, like everybody else at the Club, wish him well. If he puts in the same dedication, effort and commitment at Lancaster, then I am sure he will prove as popular there as he was at Garstang - as long as they don’t give him any back-passes! Right I better go and read the next chapter of Laura’s diary! It’s hot stuff boys! Regards Andy December Fixtures: The First Team had better have a good look around the Riverside after the Eagley game as that's the last time they'll see it this year! The December fixtures are now on the First and Reserve team fixture pages. BAC / Springfields: Second Thoughts The less said about the first half the better! I have to say we were our own worst enemy, arguing and bickering throughout the first half. After a few choice words at half time we did improve slightly. Our shape was good and we scored seven goals away from home. Defending at times was poor, but Jags Swanwick and Johnny Baldwin never ducked a challenge. A good all round performance from the returning Mark Kippax; a good debut sub appearance from Matt Walton and, with Kelvin Bardsley looking stronger and sharper each week, these are all good plus points - three big plus points for us to move forward with. It must be said that we missed Joe Miller's heading ability in the back line but, all in all as Wormo said in the match report, 3 points, 7 goals and an away win.
Tiny Moves On: Garstang Keeper Neil Beesley has played his last game for his hometown club. Tiny is leaving the Riverside for the Giant Axe following an approach from Lancaster City last week. The 25 year old keeper, who rose from relative obscurity to play a significant part in last season's championship adventure, will take a place on the Lancaster bench on Saturday in the UniBond League encounter at Salford City. Garstang FC would like to, formally, wish Tiny good luck as he seeks to further his career, and Andy Harkins will add a few more words in his 'Secretary Speaks' feature on Wednesday.
I was very pleased with the performance this weekend. The lads have been working hard on their individual fitness levels and the extra training sessions for most players are starting to show benefits. Alan Coar had to start on the bench this week, despite his protests, as recent early injuries had forced us into making changes at points of the games that have not suited us. Geoff Wilson’s been working hard and I am happy to play Simon Williams up front or anywhere across the middle, so it wasn’t really a gamble. Wayne Cropper came into the middle and showed great discipline, working hard, strong in the tackle and particularly effective in the air. Stoneclough’s advantage of numbers in the middle meant a tough afternoon for all our midfield but once the lads understood that Stoneclough's advantage of numbers in the middle meant more space for us in across their back line, we looked comfortable. I do think that, had it not been for several outstanding saves by their ‘keeper, we would have won by at least five. No criticism of our shooting; most shots were struck well and on target, just really good goal keeping. At the other end, Tiny had one shot to save all afternoon. We can’t afford to get carried away though. We are going in the right direction; the feeling is right, but there’s still lots to do. With the fitness levels up we can start to work more with the ball at training, more possession play. Up until now this hasn’t been a priority. With the pitches getting heavier though, the work done without the ball in recent weeks will prove to have been a key building block for the games ahead. Scott
While the First Team were making hard work of what should have been a comfortable victory over Stoneclough; final score 2-1 with goals from Andy Ireland and Simon Williams (right), the Reserves were part of a ten goal fest at BAC/Springfields, strolling to a 7-3 win with a four goal haul for Matt Baldwin. Jonny Baldwin, Mark Hewitt and an o/g accounted for the others. Here are today's other significant fixtures: Premier Division: Reserve Division One: Challenge Cup Round One: All the results and tables are here, including the draws for the next round of the West Lancs Divisional Cups. |
||||||||||||||
Charnock Richard V Garstang FC: The First Team make the journey to Charter Lane to face table toppers Charnock Richard in what’s probably game of the day in the West Lancs Premier Division. Charnock are always a very strong home side so the First Team will need to show all the right signs tomorrow in what will be a keenly contested game.
Thornton Cleveleys Reserves V Garstang Reserves: Certain people are talking as if the Fleetwood V Hartlepool FA cup tie is the biggest sporting event on the fylde coast this weekend, yet we know otherwise as the Reserve Team travel to cod land looking to put right their wrongs of the last couple of weeks. Manager Bailey must have been disappointed last week having scored two goals away from home for little reward. Even without Baldwin and Kippax, the Reserves showed last week that there are goals in the side so hopefully Waite and Walton will continue to work hard up-front and the defence/midfield will show the necessary gritty determination needed at the moment. Wormleighton and Bardsley are both back in the squad and Swanwick is cutting his holiday short and flying in from Spain especially for the game - much to the annoyance of Louise!! 
As Chairman of Garstang Football Club I was honoured and proud of all who could attend last night. To see Garstang FC represented this way, in the numbers and dress attire, was a credit to you all and Ii thank you for that. I'm sure others will agree with me that it makes all the hard work that we all do worthwhile when you get such support from all at the club. 
Garstang Vets travelled to play on a pitch just off the Kirkham junction on the M55 for a Sunday morning game against the ever welcoming hosts from Lytham on a surface that was an absolute credit to the grounds man. 
The View from The Dugout:
Back on Track:A Happy New Year: Just a quick line to wish everyone at Garstang Football Club a happy and successful 2009 - from everyone at Garstang Football Club! At some time in the next 24 hours, our website will receive its 10,000th visitor since its launch back in October, so get the Champagne on ice! Wormy's Eye View: After the domination of Reserve Division Two last season Bails and I were cautiously optimistic for the season ahead; a top five finish and a good cup run being the target for the 2008/09 campaign. And after a very limited pre-season, a point away from home at Charnock Richards and a 6–1 hammering of Freckleton seemed like an excellent step along the way to achieving that with new boys Robbie Butler and Andy Taylor Snr improving the quality of the squad no end. The next three games saw Garstang host two of last season’s top teams at the Riverside, Euxton Villa and Fulwood Amateurs, and then visit another away from home in Poulton Town. Each of these games was played with a ‘skeleton squad’ due to holidays and work commitments and, even though each game was lost, they were all incredibly tight and only a one goal deficit was recorded in each fixture. The step up in quality from Reserve Division Two to Reserve Division One became rather apparent over those few weeks. No longer was it simply a case of lumping the ball to Matt Baldwin to score four or five per game, and getting away with a few casual mistakes at the back. No, against the top team,s goals were very hard to come by and mistakes at the back were clinically punished. We were very happy with the commitment of the lads and the maturity, of what is still a very young squad, during these 'big games', with the exception of Bambi whose experience and noise at the back has been invaluable. With what must be an average age of around 21, even the old heads, the seasoned campaigners as it were: Jonny Baldwin, Ryan Twiname, Jags Swanwick and myself are still only 24 to 26. Even though the results didn’t go our way for those three matches the attitude was fantastic and there were some very positive signs, the introduction of Carlo Maticheccia at centre half, Kelvin Bardsley’s debut and Andy Taylor Jnr’s emergence as a mature central midfielder. Our games against the top sides earlier in the season were based on harrying and harassing the opposition, Paul Southward played well in a number of positions; that boy loves a tackle! On the negative side, barring the 6–1 drubbing of Freckleton, goals were hard to come by, only Matt Baldwin, Shultzy and Dre Maticheccia scored in the first five matches of the season, and in three of the five games, we failed to score. Special mention must go to Jags here for going in goal when Bambi had to work. He only conceded one goal in the two games he was in the net, made some cracking saves, and broke a rib in the process!. A run of four successive home fixtures followed, each a must win game if aspirations of a top five finish were to be realised as they were all against mid table teams from last season. The boys didn’t disappoint! A 2–0 victory over Tempest was followed the welcome return of Scott Somerside to the club. Not only did training improve, the feeling around the club improved as well. The Reserve lads were talking about perhaps getting their chance in the First Team again - I’m still waiting for the call Scott!, and they were getting fitter and generally enjoying their football again. A 3–1 victory against Eagley followed and, although the first half was poor, the second half display was fantastic and included the goal of the season so far, Lee Flemming’s volley from 25 yards. Next, local rival’s Thornton were brushed aside 3-2 in torrential rain in another great game and, finally in this run, a high flying Burnley Belvedere were beaten 2–0 although the shoreline could and, perhaps should, have been greater. Young Mark Hewitt scored twice in this run and was causing havoc down the right hand side, Joe Miller grabbed a brace against Burnley and looked back to his best, and Jonny Baldwin scored a cracker against Thornton and was playing well in a variety of positions. Even I bagged a screamer that changed the game against Thornton! So, four wins on the bounce, Ryan was returning from his hernia op, the back four were performing well, goals were coming from midfield, and talk of titles was creeping into the dressing room. Then came a tricky run of fixtures, five away games in six weeks with only Charnock Richards at home. It looked like the winning run was going to continue when Matt Baldwin scored a stunner after two minutes against Tempest but they came on very strong in the second half to win 2–1. Against Springfields away, a 7–3 victory masked what was generally a scruffy performance, and then a 3–1 defeat against Barnoldswick banished any illusions that we were going to compete in this league without a fight. To be fair, the first half performance away at Barnoldswick was exceptional but, as has been the case on a number of occasions this season, we did not take our chances and the opposition made our mistakes cost us. On the plus side, we had a cracking night in Clitheroe on the way back, and Andy Taylor Jnr lost his shoes. Then came the only major disappointment of the season, the 4–0 home defeat to Charnock. Nothing seemed right about it; the preparation, the attitude and the woeful way we gave up in the second half. The only positives being the introduction of 17 year old Matt Walton, who has been a revelation since joining us, and perhaps the fact that it served as a wake up call to us all. Next up came Eagley away and the 'second debut' of Rory Waite who was been a good capture. Rory has improved as a player since his last spell with us and is a welcome addition to the squad. He was unlucky not to score in this game as we lost again, 3–2, but the referee later apologized for a mistake he’d made in not spotting a handball in the build up to Eagley’s winner. That made it all better then, eh Bails?. A battling 0–0 draw away at Thornton in the thick fog could have been three points but for Jags’ 50p head, but the performance was much better. There was no disguising, however, that a run of one victory, one draw and four defeats was not the sort of form that would see us challenging for honours at the top of the table. Our league form this season has been odd: great in patches with the run of four wins at home' and awful in patches with the second half at Tempest and Barnoldswick, and Charnock at home. The rest has been mostly good and, with a little more luck, we could have had some big results against the top teams from last year. Part one of our aim for the season, a top five finish, is still achievable, but it will take some big results away from home in the remaining fixtures. We’ve had some good news stories in the first half of the season: Matt Baldwin and Andy Taylor Snr making an impression with the first team, Kipper Kippax becoming a dad, a healthy quota of young talent being blooded into the Reserves and Grego Sutkowski, I feel I must mention the big fella here purely for his ability to down pints – it really was an event to watch! The final good news story came with progress in the Houston Cup at the expense of table toppers Poulton and Bambi’s finest hour. So, a good cup run is still very much in the offing – bring on the quarter finals, bring on Wyre Villa. Cheers, Wormo. Match of the Day: With no football taking place over the festive season, First Team captain Geoff Wilson is getting married. At 12 o'clock on Saturday the 27th of December, Geoff will be saying "I do" to the lovely Louise Gornall at St Mary & Michaels Church, Bonds, Garstang. As he did not want to cause any arguements amongst his army of friends the big man has chosen his brother and fellow First Teamer Richard Wilson to be his best man. The after match celebrations will be held at The Great Mains Hall, Singleton. The couple will be honeymooning in Kenya. However this will not be for a couple of weeks so Geoff will be available for selection in the upcoming games. Everyone involved at the club would like to wish the happy couple all the best and hope that they have a great day and life together.
Keeping the song title theme going, this is just a quick 'Merry Christmas' from this side of the monitor. Thankyou for visiting us but, 'look to the future now, it's only just begun'! Thanks, too, to our many budding reporters and photographers: the press bench by the tennis courts is looking quite full on match days. And if you get bored of mince pies and Garstang Blue, there's always the forum! It seems so long since we had a game of football: fortunately Scott Somerside has penned a 'Mid Season Review' to get us all back in the groove for January 3rd. You can read it here. Ian Wormleighton has also provided a Reserve Team Mid-term Report here. Mid-Season Review: It’s about that time of the season when we look back on where we are, the ups and downs and the hopes for the New Year. Although the weather has contributed to making it a relatively quiet December, the 'Resis' have managed to complete half of their league games; the first team have a little catching up to do having played only 12 of 30 games scheduled. With the worst of the weather not necessarily over, this could mean several night games through March and April, a slight concern. The problem with missing games affects not only match fitness, we were just about there before the bad weather kicked in, but the psychological side takes a hit. Players and backroom staff alike thrive on the routine of playing, and hopefully winning, week in-week out. It has been important to maintain some form of football every week. When games are cancelled we have looked to train anywhere we can, sports halls, council fields, anywhere. The lads have been great in this area. The numbers at training have been in the 20’s every session and, with travel and work commitments, this is considerably higher than normal at this level. The attitude at training has been superb. No-one loves fitness work, but the lads have rolled their sleeves up and got on with it. The road running work has been done without moaning. It makes our jobs as coaches so much easier when the players are so positive. As a club we continue to work both teams together at training and with match day decisions, Ports, Bails and myself continue to bounce information off each other regarding player selection, ably assisted by Andy Harkins. Andy is my only link to how things went at the start of the season and will continue to act as a great sounding block for me. For the last two years we have looked to ensure that both teams are as strong as possible. The number of injuries, suspensions and holidays means that a successful First Team is going to need to include players from its second string on a fairly regular basis. This joining of the squads has also meant a generally happier ship. Competition for shirts is strong without resentment. Players can play up or down, depending on various stages of injury, fitness and ability without there being animosity. I would say harmony across the squads, including backroom staff, whilst remaining competitive in the highest leagues possible for the club, is an achievement we should be proud of. On the field, the First Team are in with a shout for the league. Games in hand need to be converted to points, but several wins and a couple of draws in our last five games is a good return. Players may come and go, but I am confident we will be in the mix come April. The Resis too have steadied the ship, stopping the goals going in, and are looking a lot more solid. Losing Matt Baldwin to the First Team was always going to be a huge loss, but ironically it’s probably done several players more good than harm. They can no longer rely on Matt or Mark Kippax banging three or four goals in to beat a side. Now it means more concentration, more defensive work and more playing as a unit. The Houston Cup victory against Poulton was a classic example of where the team are tighter than earlier in the season. New players coming in have proved their worth. Matty Walton, Simon Williams and James Butler from my junior side have all shown promise. Simon was unlucky to break an ankle, whilst James has not really had much chance to prove himself in matches due to the weather. Matt has shown some real steel and pace and it may prove difficult for Bails to keep him out of my clutches for the First Team. Rory Waite has also come back in and looked an asset. Another hard working youngster, he has shown a lot of the characteristics which are key to the future of the club. Andy Taylor (snr) was a great addition from Fulwood and continues to be a player the club needs on the field and not on the bench, a difficult one to get right, and Niall Cummins is a player of real quality. George Norrie may nick of few of ours for Lancaster but, in bringing Niall to Garstang, I think we haven’t done too bad. On that note, losing Tiny was a tremendous loss, but Jimmy Brindle coming back has helped soften the blow considerably. I can’t mention ‘keepers without a quick word for Kristian Maycock who recently produced one of the performances of the season for the Reserves against Poulton Town. The average age of the two squads continues the come down, without letting too many old guard retire too early. One or two who have retired and left may need to be roped back in by the club to help push things even further forward for the future. The backing from the Adrian and the rest of the committee has been great. The lottery is an incredible bonus for the club and, if this gets the backing from the town that it should, then the future of the club is assured. In summing up, I think things are going really well. We’ll continue to do things the right way. We’ll play with passion, pride and honesty. If we come up short, we’ll pick ourselves up and go again. I can’t promise anything more than that anyone watching will never see a Garstang FC player giving less than 100%. If they do, they won’t see him for long! Seasons greetings to you all. Good News and Bad News: There is to be training, trainers and boots, for all players at the Riverside from noon on Sunday December 28th - Booooo! But this will be followed by the fancy dress tour of the town from 2:00 pm - Hooray! Team Manager Scott Somerside extends the invitation to all players, committee members and web staff to tour the First Fair Trade Town with him when he will attempt to trade some pieces of paper for some alcoholic beverages! See you there.
A Postcard from the Chairman: “I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year” In my few months back as your Chairman I feel some excellent foundations have been put in place, both on and off the field. Granted it has not all been plain sailing but life, and certainly footbal, never is. I am sure 2009 will bring many more challenges and by working as a team off the field, as our managers and players do on the field, Garstang FC can and will go forward. We are very fortunate to have some great people and characters involved with the club, people who are committed to keeping Garstang FC successful, and I thank you all for the time you give to the club. The website and the 'Score' lottery happened very quickly and everyone’s help is needed to keep these going. I never expected these initiatives to be up and running at such an early stage, but now they are we must fully support them as they could easily fold as quickly as they came. I, like other people, know these are excellent for the club and will help to improve facilities in all areas at the club. At Garstang FC, we are not losers so we all need to work hard to make these winners. The games I have seen so far have been of mixed interest and frustrating at times. But, what is obvious, is that through your hard work, major improvements can now be seen and that can only be for the good as we move through the season. Garstang FC has got great determination, friendship and spirit throughout all its playing, management and committee teams. Let’s keep that going in all areas and I believe the right people working together can only bring enjoyment and success for all our efforts. Have a good Christmas and here’s to a fruitful 2009. Adrian
Baron Cup Final: For a number of years Garstang FC has been proud to host the Baron Cup Final at the Riverside. This trophy, played just before the start of our season in August, is the final game of the Catforth & District Summer League season and is the most important game of the Summer League. Garstang FC was concerned to read an article in The Courier indicating that the fixture was being switched to Fleetwood Town's ground. As a result we have spoken with Summer League officials to clarify what is happening and we have been informed that, at present, no decision has been made. It would appear that, through a new sponsorship deal, the league has been offered the opportunity to utilise Fleetwood's ground for their prestigious game, however only the league members, ie: the clubs themselves, can decide. This decision will be made in February 2009 when the league holds it AGM. Garstang FC have put their case forward to retain the right to host this fixture with the clear advantages of keeping the match within the local area. Once the club knows more, a further update will be provided. Houston Cup Draw: The Reserves have a home tie against Wyre Villa in the Third Round of the Houston Cup. The game is currently scheduled for February 14th. Here is the full draw:-
The Forum is now completing it's pre-flight checks with take-off scheduled for 20:00 hrs tomorrow, Monday, evening. You can visit the forum now, via the FanZone/Riverside Forum menu link, but you will not be able to interact with it until your registration has been approved. You can get ahead in the game by pre-registering now, but we recommend that you read the registration help files here before you do! See you on the forum!!
www.westlancashirefootball.co.uk: We are happy to announce that the West Lancashire League have joined the growing band of 'West Lancs Websites' with the launch of their new website last night. The content will build over the next few weeks as Chris Wight and his team transfer all the data from the old site to the new. You can access the site by clicking on the logo on the right or via the fanzone/football links pages. Desperate for Football? What was that about Groundhog Day? You've guessed it - it's 'Game Off' at Wyre Villa! Today, Sunday, at 2pm Wyre Villa Old Boys are playing Garstang Old Boys. The game is being held at Wyre Villa and they have assured us that the fixture will proceed whatever the weather! Among the stars featuring in the Garstang line up is First Team Assistant Manager Dave Porter, Reserves Manager Paul Bailey, Club Treasurer Marc Armstrong and Committee Member Paul Hutton. Saturday Results Service: Groundhog Day all over again for Garstang with both teams waterlogged again. So that's the football done with until next year. May as well get into the holiday mood! Oh, and here are the results of the games that made it through the rain:- Premier Division: Reserves Division One: All the results for the West Lancs Leagues are here. Pitch Inspections: Updated Both the Burnley United pitch and the Riverside failed pitch inspections this morning! January Fixtures: There are a couple of revisions to our January fixture list with the First Team now playing at Euxton Villa on January 10th and Coppull United on January 31st. There are no changes to the Reserves programme. The full list is here. West Lancashire League: It is with regret that the West Lancashire League announce the recent deaths of Life Member Mr Ray Goddard and also the Chairman of Milnthorpe Corinthians, Mr Terry Wills. Weekend Previews:
Burnley find themselves a bit like Garstang, in that the weather seems to be causiang havoc with both side's fixtures this season. The last time Burnley played was on December 6th although, what is more concerning is that they have not played at home since November 15th. All efforts will be made, of course, to get the game on and, with Wrens v Charnock scheduled tommorrow, as well as tough away games for Freckleton, Barnoldswick and Dalton United, a win for the First Team tommorrow could put them in a very healthy position over the Christmas period. Scott Somerside only has injury doubts over Fawcett and Williams, with everybody else reporting fit for duty. I have just spoken with the Burnley Secretary, and there will be a pitch inspection at 9:30 am in the morning.
With the likes of Danny Morris, Guy Sharrock and 'Bomber' all playing reserve team football at Poulton at the minute, tommorows game promises to be another gripping encounter. Bails should have a near full strength side to pick from although Matty Baldwin and Andy Taylor Snr may well be on First Team duty; weather permitting. The Garstang Manager will be looking for more good performances from Maycock, Miller and Walton as they go looking to ruin the Poulton Town Reserves Christmas Party! Update: There is a pitch inspection at 10:30 am at the Riverside.
Fingers Crossed: Previews later.....
Reminder: Les Taylor and his team are on duty outside the Kings Arms on Tuesday between 6 and 8 o'clock. If you have a little time, please pop along and help with the Lottery sales stall.
Premier Division: Results sheet here!!
Neither of today's fixtures have beaten the weather, so it's another blank weekend for Garstang FC. Our full postponements service will be on here later. Weekend Previews:
Scott Somerside has injury worries yet again with Geoff Wilson struggling with his knee, Fawcett ruled out with ankle ligament damage, and McEvoy still recovering from his recent bout of insomnia! However, on the plus side, Cox is raring to go, as should be the rest of the First Team squad, so it's just fingers crossed with the pitch inspection.
Bails has a near full squad to pick from tommorow, although Matty Baldwin may be on First Team duty. Although the Reserves hammered Freckleton earlier this season, anybody who thinks it will be another stroll in the park tommorrow will be in for a nasty shock as Freckleton will, I am sure, be coming looking for revenge. However, with 'Bambi' Maycock in the form of his life, I am also sure that the Second Team have enough to put in another all action, spirited display and hopefully get their just rewards. Remember that there are pitch inspections at 9:30 in the morning, so check back here to find out if it's football or Christmas shopping tomorrow afternoon! Doing Much on Tuesday?
If you're there, or and can lend a hand, please contact Les on 07979 235217. Here We Go Again - Pitch Inspections: A 9:30 am inspection is scheduled for Barnoldswick. Commercial Update: With about six weeks to go before our first prize draw, over 100 members have now been signed up for the Garstang FC 'Score' Lottery. Whilst that is great progress, we still have work to do as our initial target is 250 members. Once our membership exceeds that magic number, then we will have the guaranteed revenue stream that will underpin all our future plans and ambitions, both on and off the field. If you haven't yet signed up your family and friends, then please get on to it quickly - or even give them an unusual Christmas present! Either way, please return completed forms in the next ten days or so as we have to prepare the membership cards showing each member's five lucky numbers. Only 49 days to the first draw!!
We have also now finalised the details of our next Sportsmans' Dinner. It will be held on Thursday March 26th 2009, again at the excellent Blackpool Football Club venue, so get that date in your diary. The after dinner speaker is Dr Kevin Jones; and I can guarantee your enjoyment as he is one of the very best speakers available. There is more information here. Tickets, priced at £25, are now available from any committee member, or call me on 07979 235217. Les Houston Cup Draw: The draw for the quarter final of the Houston Cup will be made this weekend. Poulton Town: This game came just at the right time for us. At home, and against a good side near the top of the league in local rivals Poulton . A side full of quality players with a lot more experience than us. This would be a good test and what a test it proved to be. All the lads, including the three subs did a great job. Poulton's front line were not the quickest we will face, but they were intelligent and held the ball really well, with some neat football in and around our box. Great credit to our defence, marshalled by Joe Miller, and an inspired performance by Kristian Maycock (Bambi), who was outstanding, with one penalty saved during the game and two saves in the penalty shoot out. The midfield four matched Poulton every step of the way. Jonny Baldwin and Andy Taylor jnr excelled, cleaning up in front of the back four, and Matt Walton must have covered every blade of grass twice. It was also good to have Matt Baldwin back with us and, with a little bit of luck, he could have scored. With Lee Scultz returning from injury, the squad is looking good and starting to enjoy their football again. We played good solid football for 120 minutes and showed real quality with four well taken penalties, or so I am told as I don’t like watching penalty shootouts! With Bambi in that form, it was always going to be his day, but he was well backed up by a great team performance. Bring on the next round! Garstang Through on Penalties: Garstang 0 Poulton Town Reserves 0: A starring role today for Kristian Maycock as a string of saves, including a first half penalty, saw the game into extra time and then, with the score still 0-0, on to penalties - where he saved two more as the Reserves took the tie 4-3.
Today's other relevant results: Houston Cup - Round 2: Premier Division: Reserve Division One: Full results and tables are here. Match report here. Pitch Inspections: Updated Today's First Team Premier Division game at Haslingden is postponed. Weekend Previews: Haslingden St Mary's v Garstang: Weather permitting the First Team travel to Haslingden to play St Mary's in what is sure to be another tough battle. In the corresponding fixture last year there were three red cards and five yellow cards shown as, what set out to be a game of footbal,l soon turned into a war! Haslingden appear to be the draw specialists of the division so far and, with games in hand, they like Garstang could soon be in the top two or three of the league. The big Haslingden number ten is always a handful, and the right sided Clark is still worth paying particular attention to, as is 'The Mexican' who can play up front or in midfield. He single handedly picked Garstang apart in the game at The Riverside last season. Garstang will be looking to carry on in the same manner as last weeks performance. Fawcett is ruled out with an ankle injury although Andy Taylor is cup tied and thus will be available for the First Team squad. McEvoy looked excellent when he came off the bench last week, and Cox is nearing fitness and so he too may make the squad. Manager Somerside will have to decide whether to stick with last weeks successful formation or to change in response to Haslingden's perceived strengths.
Manager Bailey will have most of his squad from last week available as Waite did not play in the cup whilst registered at Wyre Villa. Much heart was taken out of last week's point at Thornton Cleveleys, ending a run of conceding soft goals. Steve McAllister brings his well organised Poulton Town Reserve side to Garstang full of confidence, in the middle of a good run, and looking to knock Garstang out of the cup. However, we all know that cup football is a 'funny old game' and I am sure Bails will fancy his chances at dumping our old enemies, Poulton Town, out of the Houston Cup. With the tie been played to a finish, I can see another penalty shoot out drama on the horizon! Kick off for this second round tie is 13:30hrs. Note to playing staff: In the event of either of tomorrow's games being postponed, Myerscough College indoor sports hall has been provisionally booked from 14:00 to 15:00hrs for '5-a-side' football. All are required to attend: if you are in any doubt, contact either manager. Houston Cup Eligibility: With the weather set to improve, a little, it's the turn of the Reserves to hit the cup trail on Saturday as they entertain league leaders Poulton Town Reserves at the Riverside in the second round of the Houston Cup. Not all players are eligible for this tie; the following registered Garstang players are cup-tied and, therefore, cannot play in this fixture: James Brindle, Adam Kilifin, Ben Perry-Acton, Lee Baker, Gary Fawcett, Andy Ireland, Simon Williams, Niall Cummins, Alan Coar, Geoff Wilson, Chris Cox, Richard Wilson, Andy Taylor Snr and Dee McEvoy.
A lot better, a lot happier; even in the warm up the lads looked and sounded a lot happier than they have in a while. We changed a few things around. How we do the pre match talk and things like that just to try and get a positive response and put some fun into it. The match itself; we played some good stuff and the lads responded to what was said. Andy Taylor jnr worked hard and took on board what we had said about last week, and put in a good solid performance. In fact all the lads worked hard and played well. We had a little bit of luck in the defence department, (eh Carlo), which had totally deserted us up till now. Rory Waite played as a lone striker, with Matt Walton getting forward as much as possible to support him, and both put in an excellent shift, chasing every ball, even the punt, when the defence / midfield were under pressure to clear the ball. I feel we have turned the corner, but we need to work just as hard week in and week out. With the ability in this squad, I feel we can start to enjoy the rest of the season, starting Saturday with a good cup run. Bails
*Reserves MoM photos added to November match reports.
When you go away from home and frighten the runaway leaders, then you know things aren’t going too badly. Would we have taken a point before the game? If I’m honest, probably yes. I knew we had to change formation to match them: we did and it worked. Injuries late on to Geoff Wilson, Andy Ireland and more long term to Gaz Fawcett obviously made a difference. Had we not conceded the first goal, I am pretty sure we would have won the game 2-0. That one gave Charnock the belief that they could score. Since the game on Saturday some of the lads have been going through the ‘if only’ stage of after-match analysis. There’s no point other than to look at things to work on in training. Our style of play in latter parts of matches will have to be looked at. Charnock had too much of the ball late on, and we will work on that. Other than that, I’m very proud of the lads. To have the confidence to go at teams like Charnock in their own back yard is great. A new stand, new pitch, new fencing, new changing rooms, £1 to get in, £1.50 for a programme - it’s easy to see how some teams could be a little intimidated, but not the Garstang lads. It’s important for a manager that no matter what the result, the players work hard for you and the club. I know everyone who watched the game on Saturday will be able to say each and every Garstang player gave everything. Win, lose or draw I’m happy with that. Scott
**Official Pattern Arms photos added here. |
||||
'So This is Christmas':
Sorry Folks - It's Shopping!
As you all know, next Monday and Tuesday are the dates for the annual Gartsang Victorian Christmas Festival centred around the High Street in the town. Les Taylor and a few other committee volunteers will be helping to steward the event and, equally importantly, manning a stall in front of the Kings Arms intending to recruit a few more into the Score Lottery.
January 30th 22:00 hrs
The first draw was made at the Kings Arms this evening by Landlord Mick Gornall.
Congratulations to our very first winners:
£500 - Ian Woods
£100 - David Thacker
£50 - Sue Garrett
£25 - Anthony Robinson
£10 - Reg and Isobel Armstrong
Initial report and photographs here.
Weekend Preview:
January 30th 16:00 hrs
**11:00 am Update: Both games are ON.
Coppull United v Garstang: The First Team travel south tommorrow, weather permitting again, to Coppull looking to kick start the year that has so far seen three out of the scheduled four games postponed.Although the postpoments have been a real nuisance, on the plus side it has given a couple of the players time to recover from injuries, etc, and tommorrow sees manager Somerside able to recall Cox and Williams to the squad after long term injuries. There is a return for Geoff Wilson following his recent wedding and honeymoon. Only Cummins is ruled out tommorrow with his recent ankle injury, Fawcett having declared himself fit for the game.
Garstang will have to be 'at the races' tommorrow as, from past experience, they will be up against a tough and determined Coppull side. Although Coppull don't have eleven world beaters in their side, they do have a very dogged and determined bunch that stick together and always have a go in every game they play. The excellent Baker will again have to stick close to 'Alice Band Man' who plays up front and is a handful, although Baker marked him exceptionally well in last years encounters, whilst Fawcett will have to keep an eye on'The Mexican' who also plays up top and, on his day, can be a handfull.
In last seasons games Coppull showed an ability to play 4-4-2, 3-5-2 or 4-5-1 without any problem and the Coppull management team weren't afraid to change formations and players throughout the 90 minutes.
Garstang Reserves v Turton Reserves: Manager Bailey will be desperatley hoping for a drying wind overnight so that the game at The Riverside gets the go ahead tommorrow morning. Turton Reserves currently find themselves struggling at the bottom of Reserve Division One with only six points gained from eleven matches. With Turton First Team scheduled to play at Rossendale's ground tommorrow it should be the 'real' Turton Reserve side on show tommorrow and not the 'first team' Turton reserve side that walloped Norcross last Saturday.
Adrian Hunt is scheduled to play for the Reserves in what should be a reasonably strong Reserve side on show and manager Bailey will be hoping for maximum points from this game, and then next weeks home game against Freckleton will nicely set up the eagerly awaited Houston Cup Quarter Final against our friends from down the road the following week.
January 30th 07:00 hrs
Yesterday, on the eve of the first ever Garstang FC 'Score' Lottery draw, membership broke the 200 barrier. A big push by Les and Davo helped drag in a few strays, but we are still a few members short of our target of 250.
The first draw will take place tonight, Friday, at 8:30 pm in the Kings Arms, and you are invited! You can still be part of the first draw by turning up at the Kings Arms with a fiver and either a completed standing order mandate or a cheque for £60. The application form is here.
Bon chance!!!
February Fixtures:
January 28th 17:00 hrs
The confirmed February fixture lists are now available here. There are no changes to Gartsang FC fixtures.
And A Good Time Was Had By All:
Matchday Sponsorship
January 27th 12:00 hrs
Our recent home game against Dalton United marked our first 'Proper' Matchday Sponsorship: well certainly since I've been at the club! The Matchday Sponsorship was part of a package which included, a Ground Sign and a years entry into the 'Score' Lottery, and I was delighted when Fleetwood business man and friend Ian Barnes offered to support us to this degree. Ian, whose company is Foulds Metals, has always supported junior football in Fleetwood and was only to pleased to give us a helping hand here at Garstang.
The day began at 12:30 pm in the Kings Arms where I met Ian who was accompanied by three guests. We had a fine lunch, and a drink or two, before making our way down to the ground to watch the game. Two of the party sheltered in the Social Club for the second half, but they were still very enthusiastic over our 1-0 win. More drinks preceded the presentations.
Our Chairman, Adrian Wilding, presented Ian with a plaque recognising their matchday sponsorship before Ian presented Lee Baker with his Man of the Match Trophy. The pictures were taken by Peter Wormleighton.
I'm pleased to report that our sponsors, Foulds Metals, were absolutely delighted with their day and would be happy to do it again.
So, now we know that we can do justice to a Matchday Sponsorship, I hope that we can make it a regular Match Day Feature in the not too distant future. If you know of any possible Matchday Sponsors, please let me know and I'll pursue it.
Les Taylor
Player Kit Sponsorship:
January 25th 14:00 hrs
Les Taylor has signed up Stewart Fersina Ltd. as our first 'Player Kit Sponsor'.
See who the player is below.
*You can also read about our first 'Matchday Sponsors' here.
Player Kit Sponsorship:
January 25th 14:00 hrs
 |
| Lee Baker |
|
We are pleased to anounce our first Player Kit Sponsorship.
Lee Baker's shirt will be sponsored by Stewart Fersina Ltd. Somec Works, Pratt Street, Burnley.
We are very grateful to Lee's sponsors for their support. This form of Sponsorship is designed to get a lot more people involved with the Club, and their favourite player, for little money. Stewart Fersina will receive two tickets for the presentation evening at the end of the season and they will be presented with the players autographed shirt during that evening.
If you, or your company, would like to sponsor your favourite player, then please contact Les Taylor. The fee is £75.
Results Service:
January 24th 20:00 hrs
Premier Division:
Burnley United 0 v 6 Eagley
Coppull United 1 v 4 Blackpool Wren Rovers
Fulwood Amateurs 1 v 1 Freckleton
Garstang P v P Barnoldswick Town
Haslingden St.Mary`s P v P Stoneclough
Poulton Town 2 v 2 Dalton United
Turton P v P Charnock Richard
Vickerstown CCFC 2 v 1 Euxton Villa
Reserve Division 1:
Barnoldswick Town 7 v 0 Poulton Town
Blackpool Wren Rovers P v P Tempest United
Charnock Richard P v P Burnley Belvedere
Eagley 4 v 2 Thornton Cleveleys
Euxton Villa P v P Garstang
Freckleton 2 v 2 Fulwood Amateurs
Norcross & Warbreck 1 v 6 Turton
All results and tables here.
Weekend Preview:
January 24th 10:00 hrs
*Update: Both games are, regrettably, postponed due to waterlogged pitches.
Garstang v Barnoldswick Town: More foul weather mid-week has meant that The Riverside is, once again, scheduled for a pitch inspection at 9:30 am tomorrow morning. This fixture is the third attempt to get a game on between the two teams as earlier fixtures, at both home grounds, have been lost to the weather.
Both teams had their first outings for several weeks last weekend. Whilst Garstang were putting one over Dalton, Barnoldswick were beating high flying Freckleton 2-0, away from home, earning their first clean sheet of the season in the process. Player Manager Michael Holt will be bringing an in-form team to the Riverside as they look to gain elevation to the North West Counties on merit.
Euxton Villa Reserves v Garstang Reserves: The Reserves too face tough opposition, after their two weeks inactivity, as they visit Euxton Villa, third in the table with games in hand.
Both Garstang managers, Somerside and Bailey, share the same selection problems this week as, with injuries and absences, their joint playing resources will be at full stretch.
Pitch updates will be available in the morning.
Come and have a go if you think you're old enough!
Lytham Vets 5 Garstang Vets 4
January 22nd 12:00 hrs
On Sunday 18th January Garstang Vets visited Lytham Vets at their Kirkham ground for their bi-annual fixture. After a defeat against the same opponents in November, the team were looking for a quick revenge.
The pitch was in excellent condition considering the recent weather and despite a few wintery showers before kick off, the game got under way in bright morning sunshine. It wasn't long before Garstang carved out the first serious chance. Jim 'Kipper' Kippax did a fantastic job of losing his marker before unleashing a rasping shot from five yards, only to see the ball go the wrong side of the upright. Despite stinging criticism from his team mates, Kipper did not let the miss effect him - although he was substituted a few minutes later.
Garstang continued to impress and, from a flowing move shortly after, the ball arrived at the feet of Olly 'Snake Hips' Bradshaw who dropped his shoulder for the 5,000th time of his career and gently curled the ball into the far corner of the net from eighteen yards. This was meat and drink (or fruit and veg) for the Waddle like Bradshaw. 0:1 to the boys. This however proved to be a turning point in the game as it brought the Lytham lads to life and despite dominating the first twenty five minutes, it was Garstang who were now defending.
After substained pressure Lytham won a corner on the right. The ball was swung under the bar of Pete 'The Cat' Davies, who was returning to the Garstang side after his heroics in the corresponding fixture last year. Unfortunately, there were no heroics from The Cat on this occasion as he flapped at the ball and punched it into his own goal. After the game Pete rechristened himself 'The Cat Flap'. 1:1. The last ten minutes of the first half proved to be a nightmare. Defensive mix ups and a general 'giving the ball away in all areas of the pitch' led to Garstang conceding two more goals before half time. Mick 'Silver' Gornall should have pulled one back on the stroke of half time after a delightful through ball from Simon 'Look No' Hands, but his shot was well saved by the Lytham keeper. Half time and 3:1 down.
 |
| Back Row: Martin Lawrenson, Olly Bradshaw, Russell Hurst, Jim Kippax, Rob Tugman, Ian Whittingham Front Row: Jamie Painter, Pete Davies, Mick Gornall, Neil Parkinson, Simon Hands, Sean Rafferty Missing, buying the first round: George Mills |
The second half saw Garstang on the attack again. On the right hand side was Scottish George and making sweet music on the left was Sean 'Gerry' Rafferty. Their probing passing unleashed the speed of Jamie 'The Kid' Painter and several chances were carved out. The move of the match saw 'Snake Hips' thread the ball to 'Silver' who played the ball out wide to 'The Kid' who beat his man and chipped the ball back to Martin 'Spuds' Lawrenson who roasted his marker before unleashing a ferocious shot. The keeper pulled off yet another great save as he turned the shot onto the cross bar and out for a corner. It was from the corner that Garstang reduced the defecit. The corner was initially cleared out of the area but a peach of a ball from 'Snake Hips' landed at the feet of Russ 'Geoff' Hirst. There was a suspicion of off side due to the length of time that 'Geoff' had taken to start the long run back to his centre half position after the corner, but there was no flag. In one movement, that took about 35 seconds, he swivelled on his right foot and unleashed (sliced) a shot into the top left corner. 3:2
It was now all Garstang and another goal seemed guaranteed. It was but, unfortunately, it came at the other end and was shortly followed by another. The first saw Rob 'Tugger' Tugman outpaced, by the 48 year old centre forward with a limp who somehow managed to find the net despite 'Cat Flap' trying to put him off by remaining as still as possible on his line. The second saw 'Silver' get robbed on the half way line and a couple of passes later it was 5:2.
Now most teams would have caved in at this stage but this Garstang team are made of true grit and, as the pub was not open yet, they decided to give it their best shot. Caution was thrown to the wind and Ian 'Le Tiss' Whittingham, 'Kipper' and 'The Kid', were all thrown up front. With ten minutes to go a long ball from 'Tugger' was headed on by 'Le Tiss' and somehow the ball found its way into the path of 'Llook No' who chipped the approaching keeper for an excellent finish. 5:3. The unthinkable was suddenly possible a couple of minutes later. After 'Snake Hips' and 'Gerry' interchanged passes the ball found its way to 'The Kid' who played a great first time ball into the path of 'Silver'. As he approached the by-line he pulled the ball back for 'Look No' Hands who suddenly became 'Look No' Feet as he somehow missed the ball from a mere two yards. His shame was short lived though and the miss suddenly became a fantastic dummy as Neil 'Parky' Parkinson cooly slotted the ball home at the back post on his debut. 5:4.
There was only one team ever going to score now but unfortunately the clock was beating the boys, and the bar was due to open. As we approached the last minute of injury time a corner was won and every player crowded into the box. This included 'Cat Flap' who was trying to make amends for his first half blunder. And how close did he come to achieving it. The corner was driven over from the left by 'Snake Hips' and somehow 'Cat Flap' found himself in exactly the same position as he had been in the first half. Unfortunately, this time he did manage to put the ball past the post and not into the back of the net. Full time 5:4.
This was a great, but frustrating performance and proved to be another defeat snatched from the jaws of victory. Many thanks to the Lytham boys for their excellent hospitality and good luck to Pete and family who move to Oz shortly.
Our next match will be announced soon and, to any other potential veteran teams out there, 'Come and have a go if you think you're old enough'!
Barron Cup - Latest
January 22nd 12:00 hrs
Any threat of a damaging disagreement over a major cup final possibly moving away from Garstang FC has been removed thanks to generous officials at the Riverside club. The Barron Cup final, the Catforth and District Summer League's showpiece final, has been at Garstang's ground for the last 10 summers but may this year go to Fleetwood Town.
The proposed move to Fleetwood's Highbury stadium has arisen through the summer league's new sponsor, Commercial Power, which has strong links with the Blue Square North club. Summer league officials who were keen that the proposal should not affect cordial relations between the league and Garstang FC have now been assured the friendly relationship continues. A spokesman for Garstang FC said officials understood that commercial reasons had prompted the proposed switch. He said: 'Garstang Football Club has been proud to host the Barron Cup final for ten years and are disappointed at the summer league's proposal to move away, however we fully understand the reasons behind it. The league needed to raise funds as a result of the affiliation with the FA and required sponsorship - it is part of that package that has resulted in this proposed change of venue. Only time will tell if this is the right plan for the prestigous final that attracts good crowds at the Riverside ground but we wish the league well and hope that it works. Over the years Garstang Sports and Social Club has benefited from these large crowds in terms of bar takings and we thank the league for this.'
Summer league officials had made clear that, but for the sponsorship deal, there would have been no question of the match not staying at Garstang. However, the valuable sum pumped into the league's coffers by Commercial Power meant that the league wished to take up the invitation to play at Fleetwood's well-appointed ground, which would be the first floodlit match in the league's history.
Even if the Barron Cup match is switched away, a summer league final could still be played at Garstang this year because the Parkinson Cup final has now been earmarked for the Riverside. The Garstang FC spokesman added: 'We respect the league's decision to move the final for commercial reasons and we will consider hosting one of the other finals. However, this will depend on the date of the final and our pre-season plans. The matter will be discussed at the February committee meeting.'
The proposed changes will also be discussed at a summer league committee meeting next month before going to the annual meeting on March 9th for ratification.
The View from The Dugout:
Dalton United
Scott Somerside
21st January 10:00hrs
Saturday’s game was all about blowing off the cobwebs and getting back to playing matches. Six weeks training and not playing competitive games is so frustrating for everyone involved.
I thought we started quite well, settling down after the first exchanges and playing some reasonable football; no real chances but not really allowing opponents to settle on the ball. Dalton can play some very good football if allowed to and in patches looked a class outfit. As the game wore on though, with the odd exception, they weren’t really hurting us. Long balls into our box looked dangerous but were comfortably managed.
Lee did well in deliberately stepping over the ball for Andy’s accurate free kick to go in for the goal. Its takes all players to help defend, from front to back and all did well, in particular the back five (including Jimmy Brindle) were excellent.
We will need to play better though if we are to push on this season. We won’t always be able to defend so well, our opponents shots won’t always go on the outside of the bar instead of the inside. We will need to take games to opponents more than we did this week end.
That said, take nothing away from Saturday, three points against Dalton was a tremendous result especially with the top team dropping two points and the next three teams all losing. We’re still many points adrift but have several games in hand on those at the top. Ball retention remains an issue, midfield support for forwards and forwards holding on to the ball will be constant themes over the coming weeks. The next few weeks will be interesting in terms of injury cover but this gives players a chance to prove they're up to it when asked to step in. The Reserves will be crucial to maintaining our climb up the league.
Scott
Garstang 1 Dalton United 0
January 17th 16:00 hrs
An Andy Ireland* free kick found the net to give Garstang a first half lead, and resolute defending throughout the second half, against a good Dalton side, ensured that the home side hung on to the three points. Match report here.
A good day too for Foulds Metals; enjoying the very first Garstang FC Matchday sponsorship package. Expect to read more on this as well.
*Sorry Andy, I gave it to Wayne Cropper earlier!
Todays results:
Premier Division:
Charnock Richard 2 v 2 Burnley United
Coppull United P v P Vickerstown CCFC
Eagley 3 v 7 Blackpool Wren Rovers
Euxton Villa 2 v 1 Fulwood Amateurs
Freckleton 0 v 2 Barnoldswick Town
Garstang 1 v 0 Dalton United
Haslingden St.Mary`s 1 v 5 Turton
Poulton Town 1 v 0 Stoneclough
Reserve Division One:
Barnoldswick Town 0 v 1 Charnock Richard
Blackpool Wren Rovers P v P Poulton Town
Fulwood Amateurs 1 v 0 Burnley Belvedere
Norcross & Warbreck 6 v 3 Tempest United
Thornton Cleveleys 4 v 2 Freckleton
Turton P v P Euxton Villa
Full results and tables here.
Weekend Preview:
January 16th 7:30 hrs
*Update Saturday 09:30 hrs: - Riverside pitch fine, so 'Game On'!
Saturday November 29th 2008 seems like a life-time ago, yet that was the last time that the First Team kicked a ball in anger. However, looking at the weather forecast, and with fingers and toes crossed, we are at last confident of football for the First Team this Saturday.
John Balm brings his Dalton United side down to The Riverside for a match between two sides who both have games in hand on the leaders and who both find themselves in healthy positions so far this season. We all know that Dalton are a well organised outfit who like to play football and who will always compete for 90 minutes. Sam Stephens in the Dalton goal is not the biggest goalkeeper around, but he certainley makes up for it with his agillity and lightning quick reactions. Sam is currently studying at St Martins College and is seen every Wednesday night spying on the Garstang training sessions! 28 year old Gareth Jones leads the line for Dalton, for whom he has apparently scored over 250 goals and so the Garstang defence will have to stand up and be counted this Saturday.
Manager Somerside should have a strong 16 in his squad this Saturday with the Reserves having no fixture. Simon Williams is still four or five weeks from a return but new signing Adrian Hunt may be included in the line up. Matt Walton and Andy Taylor Snr. may also be added to an already strong looking First Team side as Gary Fawcett and Chris Cox are also fit. With Geoff Wilson away on Honeymoon, Somerside will have to decide who wears the Number 10 shirt but, other than that, the only difficult decisions appear to be whom to omit from the starting eleven and which five players, from the dozen or so available, get a position on the bench.
Kick-off is at 2 pm and, hopefully, the Town Team will put on a whole hearted display in front of the 'Riverside Faithful'.
With Garstang Reserves having no fixture, the only other highlight of the weekend will be another appearance by the mighty Garstang Vets when they take on Lytham Vets at 11:00 am on Sunday morning. Apparently the game takes place 'behind the Fairfield Arms' at Kirkham! Nuff said!
From The Courier:
14th January 09:00hrs
Fans go online to vote for Garstang's best player
Who was the best player to ever pull on a Garstang FC shirt?
That's the hot topic on a new discussion forum set up on the club's official website. It is the latest off-field development at the progressive Riverside club, proving that there's still plenty going on despite the lack of activity on the pitch where the weather has put paid to virtually all games in the last five weeks, including the first and reserve fixtures scheduled for last Saturday.
Website Manager Ian Blezard, helped by Andy Harkins and Joe Miller, has launched the fans discussion forum as part of the development of the new website www.garstangfc.com, which Ian says is growing nicely. "We ar now receiving over 1000 visitors every week" he comments, "but it had been a one-way communication. It allowed the club to talk to the fans, vital when we have to announce postponed games, but it didn't allow the fans to talk back to us, so we are pleased to be able to rectify that problem and to launch the Riverside Fans Forum."
A forum is a standard feature of all the bigger football clubs' websites, allowing fans to chat and air their views on line on anything related to their favourite team. "Football is a passion" added Ian, " and the fans can have strong views, but Gartsang FC welcome constructive debate. As a community club, we need to be certain that we know the views of our supporters and the Garstang community."
Discussions on the forum are 'moderated', however, in order to ensure that the language and sentiments expressed are acceptable. That task falls to Andy Harkins and Joe Miller. "Joe and I are moderators", said Andy. "I think of us as bouncers! We ensure that the discussions remain respectful because, on a more serious note, we are aware that the forum is accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds." Joe adds, "In order to join in with the chat you have to register, and have your registration approved by a member of the club. If you aren't on the list, you aren't coming in!"
No sooner had the forum launched last week than discussions turned to the subject of Garstang's best ever players and teams. Lots of well remembered names were thrown into the hat - goalkeepers John Jack and Steve Swarbrick, defenders Pete Eddleston and Mick Acton, and forwards Alan Curwen and Lee Nuttall being among the 35 names currently listed as contenders.
The technology used on the Riverside Forum allows the admin staff to run on-line polls, so members are now in the process of voting for their favourite players with the names of Dave Stone, Neil Ball, Mick Gornall and Richard Walmsley leading the way with the early voters.
If you would like to join the fun, check out the forum via the club website. The poll will run for the next ten days and the results will be featured in The Courier.
Further behind-the-scenes activity at the club has seen Commercial Manager Les Taylor and Treasurer Marc Armstrong preparing for the first ever Score Lottery draw. With over 150 members already signed up, the £500 first prize winner will now be drawn, live, in the Kings Arms at 8:30 pm on January 30th.
"There is still time for new members to be part of the historic first draw," said Les, "Just phone me on 07979 235217."
'Score' Lottery - the Big Push:
January 12th 12:00 hrs
With the first draw now just 18 days away, it's time for the big push. It's time for you to sign up those lingering few and get the Lottery off with a bang! Les Taylor has more of the stoty below.
Lottery - Prelaunch Update:
January 12th 12:00 hrs
Looking at my lottery members list, I can't see all your names there yet, but I am pleased to see that our membership has now passed 150. Whilst that is good going, I have to remind you that we will not judge the first phase to be a success until we reach 250 and so, with the first draw just a couple of weeks away, I need you to keep selling and sign up all the 'promises' that you have. Remember the mantra - 'You have to be in it to win it'.
The draw itself is going public and will be made at 8:30 pm in the Kings Arms on Friday January 30th. I hope to see lots of you there for this very significant event.
Since I joined the Club I have, as you know, also spent a lot of time sorting out sponsorships for the coming seasons for which, quite rightly, we get them a lot of publicity. With all this razzamataz going on, however, I don't want us to forget those who quietly work away helping us along in many other ways.
Among them is former Garstang FC keeper Glenn Joyce who I would like to thank, on behalf of the club, for donating two new match balls. His obvious enthusiasm for his former club has also encouraged the "Kings Clubbers Golf Society" to sign up as members of our 'Score' Lottery. Glenn, and his partner Julie Murphy who was physio for a number of games, will always be made most welcome down at the Riverside. Their support is most appreciated.
Les Taylor
February Fixtures:
January 12th 08:00hrs
The West Lancs League has issued an updated fixture list for February, although there are no changes to Garstang fixtures. You can read it here. February games will, of course, revert to a 3:00 pm kick off - 2:30pm in the Houston Cup.
Catch-Up Football:
January 11th 09:00 hrs
Another blank weekend has signalled the announcement of the West Lancashire League's provisional plans for rescheduling postponed games.
Starting in mid February, clubs with floodlighting installed will play some mid-week fixtures with a 7:30 pm kick off time. The Clubs involved, Barnoldswick Town, Blackpool Wren Rovers and Burnley United start their midweek fixtures on February 17th and 18th - details here.
The First Team have obviously played at Wrens, and our visit to Barlick is scheduled for a Saturday, so if we are to pick up a night game, it will be at Burnley.
The Houston Cup ties frozen off yesterday will now be played on February 7th and, whilst Garstang Reserves are already through to the next round, they may be involved in some rearranged league games as a result.
Midweek fixtures, for clubs without floodlights, will commence in the week of April 6th, and a full league programme will be arranged for Easter Monday, April 13th, with an afternoon kick off.
Here we go again....................
January 10th 22:00 hrs
Just the one game made it through:-
Division 2: Walney Island 1 v 1 Burnley Belvedere
Pitch Inspections:
January 10th 09:30 hrs
Following early inspections, the heavy overnight frost has put both games in doubt.
There will be further inspections made at 11:00 am.
*Update: Garstang 0 Weather 2
January 10th 11:00 hrs
With no sign of the predicted 'warmer winds', both pitches remain unplayable and both games are again, regrettably, postponed. Games Off!
Weekend Previews:
January 9th 17:30 hrs
Euxton V Garstang: Last season Garstang took six points from Euxton so perhaps they could be our lucky side as later last season Euxton took three points off our title rivals Blackpool Wren Rovers.
Mark McDonnell’s Euxton side are always well organised and, on their day, they can be simply brilliant yet, when not on their day, they can be at best average, having already taken points off Charnock Richard and Wrens this season yet having lost points against a few of the lesser sides in the division. Goalkeeper Ross Baxter is one of the best at this level, and 'Trigger' will be playing in midfield causing havoc as usual. Mark McDonnell also has the 'young Adrian Briggs' still to turn to and, although he must be in his 40’s now, he still has the ability to pop up with a goal or two. After the prolonged winter break Sommerside has Fawcett, Cox and Coar back fit making Williams the only absentee. So, fingers crossed, its game on and hopefully a good start to things on the pitch for 2009.
There will be a precautionary pitch inspection at Euxton at 10:00 am ahead of the 2:00 pm kick off.
Garstang Reserves v Blackpool Wren Rovers Reserves: Following last weeks result at Norcross, Manager Bailey has recalled Kippax to his squad, and is including new signing Adrian Hunt as well, so there may be one or two changes this week at The Riverside. Wren Rovers Reserves are a young side with plenty of pace up front. However the equally pacy pairing of Miller and Swanwick will deal with the two Wrens' centre forwards comfortably, I am sure.
From the car park, The Riverside pitch looks like Wembley yet, having just walked across it this evening, I think that any frost or rain overnight could have another game in jeopardy. There will be an inspection at 9:00 am in the morning. Kick off is scheduled for 2:00 pm.
December Team of the Month:
January 9th 15:00 hrs
The Surridge Trophies Premier Division 'Team of the Month' award for December has gone to Fulwood Amateurs. Obviously our First Team defenders are a little disappointed as they know that they went through the month without conceding a goal!
Full details are here.
Adrian Hunt:
January 9th 15:00 hrs
Garstang FC is pleased to announce the signing of a new player, Adrian Hunt, from Lytham Town.
Adrian had previously played for Kirkham for two years after moving North from the South East. As a junior he had a spell with Norwich City. He now lives in the Garstang area. "Adrian looks lively, has a great first touch and an eye for goal. Once match fit, I am sure he will prove a quality signing", reports Scott Somerside.
Welcome to Garstang FC, Adrian!
PhotoWall updated.......................................
January 6th 12:30 hrs
Norcross 3 Garstang Reserves 1:
January 3rd 16:30 hrs
After conceding early, Garstang Reserves had more than enough possession to get back into the game but we failed to create the chances, Norcross showing them the way and opening up a three goal lead. Alan Coar pulled a goal back from the penalty spot at the end. Match report here.
 |
| Andy Taylor tries his luck |
Today's results:
Only one other game beat the freeze - Fleetwood Hesketh 6 v Crosshills 0
Pitch Inspections:
*Updated:
January 3rd 10:30 hrs
First Team Game Off: Despite the temperatures not having dropped as forecast, the Riverside has not thawed sufficiently and remains unplayable this morning. The First Team game v Vickerstown CCFC is postponed.
Reserves Game On: Norcross & Warbreck, closer to the coast, has had a milder night and their game against Garstang Reserves will go ahead at 2:00 pm.
The Reserves are one of only eight games currently beating the weather.
Weekend Prospects:
January 2nd 13:30 hrs
An unofficial pitch inspection at the Riverside today had it frozen hard. With a heavy overnight frost on the forecast, prospects for tomorrow are not good.
A formal inspection will be made in the morning.
The full weekend fixture list is here.
Mid Season Report:
January 2nd 12:00 hrs
It is the time of year when many of us reflect on our achievements, or failures, from the past year before looking forward to the year in front of us. Garstang Football Club, when considering the past year, is proud of what has been achieved, and is confident in what the future holds.
The Club had a very turbulent start to the season following the appointment of former Trimpel manager, George Norrie, as First Team Manager. Unfortunately for Mr. Norrie, he was following in the footsteps of a very successful duo, Hargreaves and Somerside, who had guided Garstang FC to their first ever West Lancashire League Championship back in April. It had been a shock for the Club when the pair resigned, leaving, what proved to be, a very big hole to fill. Norrie’s departure was overcome by the return of Manager Scott Somerside, who quickly brought back stability to the club’s playing sides and, with the help of Reserve Team manager Paul Bailey, they have managed the playing squad to produce two increasingly competitive sides who are both now handily placed in their respective West Lancashire League tables.
Off the field,there has been just as much activity. The committee were aware that the club needed more than successfull Golf Days and Race Nights to propel the club forward and so persuaded Adrian Wilding to return as Chairman. Under his stewardship, better operating procedures are now in place which will help the club function in a more professional manner with a higher profile in the Garstang Community. Under Mr. Wilding, the Club now have a Commercial Department, and new principal sponsors are in place, along with a Website that is regarded as being ‘as good as you will see in the Football League’. Now add to all this the new "Score Lottery", which kicks off at the end of January, and you will see that there is a lot of optimism surrounding the Riverside club.
But the Club hasn’t forgotten its primary purpose and it is very refreshing to see more and more Garstang residents finding their way along to the Riverside on a Saturday afternoon. If you would like to join them at the start of the new year, they have a fixture against Vickerstown CCFC, who are based on Walney Island, kicking off at the Riverside at 2:00 pm on Saturday January 3rd.
"We have a long way to go to achieve our objectives", said a club spokesman. "This is only the beginning. We want to be in the position such that, if the committee considered it the right time to apply for membership of the North West Counties League, then we would have the facilities to do so. Once we have our Lottery up and running, we will also be exploring the possibilities of grants that will help us to achieve our aims".
One major event to help raise more funds will be the club’s next prestigious Sportsman’s Dinner that will be held at Blackpool Football Club on Thursday March 26th. The Principal speaker is one of the best after dinner speakers in the country, Doctor Kevin Jones, and with much loved comedian Johnnie Casson supporting him, the event will be one not to miss. Tickets are available now for £25 from Les Taylor on 07979 235217 or any committee member.
To sum up, it is often said that, "Everyone wants to know a winner and no one wants to know a loser". We sincerely hope that many more of the Garstang people will want to join us and help the Club become a winner in 2009. A Happy Christmas to you all.
Les
'Score' Lottery:
Second Draw
February 27th 20:30 hrs
Garstang Fan Dick Gudgeon made the draw; here are the winners:-
£500 - Joan Wilding (1177)
£100 - Alan Coar (1386)
£50 - Jim Brindle (2018)
£25 - Alan Coar (1388)
£10 - David Bithell (1846)
Photograph here.
Site News Updates:
26th February 22:00 hrs
Our site maintenance resources are stretched a little thin over the weekend and so any news updates will be posted on the forum as it is easier to do. Normal service will be resumed on Tuesday.
If you are reading this and thinking that maybe you would like to get involved with the design and upkeep of the site, then email here.
Turton FC:
Second Thoughts:
Ian Wormleighton Reviews the Game
26th February 22:00hrs
Overall, Bails and I were very pleased with the performance, and the result, on Saturday in what was always going to be a tough away day. As opposed to the Poulton match, there was an intensity and a buzz to the warm up that led to an excellent start to the game. The lads did just what we asked – worked incredibly hard without the ball, challenging for everything and then attacking with pace and creativity.
The first goal was well deserved and I was very pleased for Andy Taylor Jnr to score as his attitude over the last few weeks has been fantastic – unfortunately it is rumoured that he going to watch the X-Factor tour on Saturday and won’t be able to play (sorry Andy but that really needed to go on the website!)… Realistically we could have taken a three or four goal margin into the dressing room at half time, which was the only real disappointment in the game, the way we let Turton back into things. Although we didn’t shirk out of the physical battle we did let our intensity drop for the final ten minutes of the first half and they did score with their only real attempt on goal.
It’s obviously very difficult to get your heads up for the second half after conceding so close to half time but, after a shaky 10 or 15 minutes we were back on top, and that was credit to everyone. Individually, Ryan Twiname had a great game in the middle of the park and Jonny Baldwin also looked back to his best. Joe Miller’s sending off couldn’t have been more clear cut, but he had been playing well up until that point. Jonny and Joe seem to be rekindling the understanding that they had at the start of the season when our defense was the best in the league and Bambi Maycock continues to be a great source of talk at the back too. Paul Southward continued his good form and Jags Swanwick must get a special mention as, particularly in the second half, he looked like a natural left back. It was good to see young Mark Hewitt back after injury and he did well against a very physical side. Ady Hunt and Kipper Kippax missed a couple of chances each but they have the look of an outstanding partnership, although Rory Waite played well when he came on and looks like keeping the pressure on for a shirt at the weekend. After the game Ady said that his first Garstang goal was either going to be a screamer or be bundled in of his backside – it couldn’t have been a much sweeter strike and it was rather well received by his teammates!
Finally, as I ended the match with the armband, it is also important to point out the 100% record with me as skipper. Think on Bails…
Wormy
The View from The Dugout:
Haslingden St Mary's FC
Scott Somerside
February 24th 08:00 hrs
With Matt Baldwin and Lee Baker pulling out before kick off, it meant more changes. I decided to risk throwing James Horton and Niall Cummins straight back in, it was a bit of a gamble but I opted for a more attacking approach this weekend.
On paper it looked fine and in patches we played a little more football than of late, but still not enough to claim we were ever in total control of a game I was hoping to be more comfortable in. We still need games together and the changes meant new pairings in defence, in midfield, and up front: never ideal but I was pleased in all these areas. Big Geoff Wilson worked hard up front but never really got the rub of the green. We decided at half time that another draw was not the target and, pushing Simon Williams up, was a matter of when and not if. It worked well and he got his reward on the day but it was never really that fluid.
I need competition for places and when Matt and Lee are fit, along with Andy Taylor Snr., Richard Wilson, who made a sound contribution coming off the bench to set up the first goa,l and Rob Butler, who had played well the week before but was unable to play due to work commitments this week, I think we should be more competitive.
We are still in a healthy position in the league but have some real tough tests coming up against all the top sides. If we get a little more luck keeping players injury free, we should be OK. I was really pleased with the turn out of local spectators on Saturday, it made for a good atmosphere. Thanks to all those who came along. Please keep coming to see the Resis’ and the First Team; it does make a difference to the lads.
Scott
|
| February 23rd 09:00 hrs |
The Second Lottery draw will again be made, live, on Friday February 27th at 8:30 pm in the Kings Arms in Garstang. If you have friends or relatives who are 'still thinking about it', bring them along to sign up and they too could be a winners!
League Fixtures:
February 22nd 13:00 hrs
The draft fixture programme for the remainder of the season is here.
Two Good Wins:
February 21st 19:00 hrs
Both Garstang teams delivered today. The First Team eventually beat a tough Haslingden outfit 2-0, both goals coming from Simon Williams. The Reserves too put in a performance, coming back to win 2-1 at Turton after conceding a poor opener and having skipper Joe Miller sent off. Andy Taylor Jnr. and Adrian Hunt bagged the goals.
First team match report here, Reserves report here.
 |
| James Horton goes close for the First Team |
.png) |
| As the Reserves repel early pressure |
All the days results are here, and tables here.
This week is the first week since 1st November, and only the second week since September, that no fixtures have been postponed. For the statisicians, this season so far there have been 266 West Lancashire League, plus 25 Amateur Shield, matches postponed solely due to the weather. This translates into a total of nine blank Saturdays.
Weekend Preview:
February 20th 15:30 hrs
Garstang FC v Haslingden St Mary's FC: Following last weekends point at Stoneclough, the First Team go into tomorrows game looking for all three points to keep themselves right in the mixer for the top of the West Lancs Prem.. Haslingden are renowned throughout the league as a typical East Lancashire side, rough, tough and ready to rumble! They are always an organised side that can play a direct style of football yet also, when needed, they can mix it up with some neat football as well. Their big blonde number 10 is a real handful for any centre half as he uses his six foot plus height and his physical build to his advantage. I remember last seasons home game when 'The Mexican' dropped off the front pair and single handedly picked Garstang apart, so he will need particular attention if he plays. Ex Clitheroe right sided player Clark, who got sent off for hacking down Mc Evoy last season, is a tough tackling right back or right sided midfielder and this, combined with 'Screech' at centre-half and 'Crusher' who keeps goal and likes to cause havoc wherever he goes, means tomorrows offering at The Riverside will not be one for the faint hearted! Sommerside has last minute fitness tests for Baldwin and Horton but, with everybody else fit and raring to go, if both come through their fitness tests unscathed, the manager will have a squad full of quality at his disposal with competition for places all over the park.
Turton Reserves v Garstang Reserves: Manager Bailey takes his troops on what is probably the hardest away day in worldwide football! Turton FC play at what can only be described as a real home teame wicket The spacious changing rooms, the excellent clubhouse, the red hot showers, and the Wembley like surface all make for a real pleasant day out! However, back to the football and, after last Saturdays defeat to Poulton, who in my opinion would of given most Premier Division sides a good run for their money on the day, the Reserves came out of that game with their heads held high rather than their tails between there legs! With a second half display that was full of pride and passion, where many sides would have rolled over and died the likes of Miller, Baldwin, Swanwick and Wormleighton gave their all and I am sure Bailey will be looking to bring the that performance into tomorrows game and have a 'right good go' at Turton. Like the Turton First Team, their Second Team are also In a real rich vein of form as the recent introduction of several new players seems to have had the desired effect at the club.
Directions: Leave the M65 at J5, signposted Haslingden and Shadworth and proceed on to A6177 towards Haslingden. Turn towards Edgeworth at the Grey Mare Public House and then turn immediately onto Moorfield and then turn left onto Thomasson Fold. Allow plenty of time as the ground is hard to find!
**Houston Cup: The Wyre Villa Cup clash will now take place at the Riverside on March 14th, kick off 2:30 pm. The full draw is here.
The View from The Dugout:
Stoneclough AFC
Scott Somerside
February 19th 17:00 hrs
In trying to sum up my feelings after Saturday’s game at Stoneclough I have gone from angry, through frustrated, and I am only now, on Thursday, able to find a few positives! It was definitely two points dropped, although, but for a couple of lapses in concentration at the back, we would have come away with all three points. Indeed, had we put our chances away, we could have run out comfortable winners. All that is just gloss though: too many ‘would haves' and 'could haves’. In the end, there was nothing to choose between the two sides and, had we shut the door at the end, maybe we would not have looked to address the obvious gaps.
I was reasonably happy with our performance for about an hour. Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t great, but we are looking to play a bit more football and I did bring in a couple of lads from the Reserves to shake things up a bit. Both Andy Taylor snr and Rob Butler did well. We obviously haven’t coped well with the lack of matches, extra training sessions are poorly attended, and players aren’t really going out of their way to keep fitness levels up when we aren’t playing matches - hence part of the reason for the changes. I appreciate it’s difficult. It’s easy to lose focus without regular matches.
When coaching the lads during the week, we are always looking to improve what we see on match days. Passing remains a bugbear, as does finishing, but we are working on it. Creating chances isn’t too much of a problem. I counted five clear cut chances on Saturday. It is an old cliché, but it’s true - ‘goals win games’.
So….frustrated, yes, and a little disappointed with attitude to fitness, but still optimistic. We’re still in with a fighting chance of doing very well in the league and I’ve yet to see any team in the league who we should be afraid of. So we push on and look to Saturday to kick start the second half of the season. I’m looking for a reaction from the lads and am confident I’ll get it.
To our spectators, come and cheer us on. We really do like to see the people of Garstang cheering us on. Come in the club house after the match for a drink and a chat too. We’re looking to make ourselves more available to all spectators, young and old. A great piece from Dick Gudgeon in the new 'Face in the Crowd' section, by the way.
Scott
Poulton Town FC:
Second Thoughts:
Manager Paul Bailey Reviews the Game
19th February 07:30hrs
After last weeks 7-0 win against Freckleton, we faced the team sat second in the league, Poulton Town, a totally different challenge. In the first half we were out played. We did have a game plan, which must have gone in one ear and out the other! The players were more concerned with Poultons shape and how they were playing, rather than doing what we had asked them to do.
At half time I again went through what we needed to do. This included a much higher tempo and winning the second ball. I think that everyone got the message and I think that most spectators at the game could see the difference in the second half.
I am 100% happy with our second half performance and with a little bit of luck we could have got a point or even nicked a win. After missing out last week against Freckleton, I'd just like to say the four lads that returned to the squad showed the sort of great character that is needed this season. Thanks for that guys. And to the one or two ex players who said we were way out of our league, they should maybe stay and watch the whole of the game before having a pop at us in the pub or, maybe, better still come down and give us a hand, eh?
Bails
FanZone News:
February 17th 21:00 hrs
A Newspage has now been added to the FanZone area.
There you will find the first of our 'Face in the Crowd' features, together with details of our new Riverside Forum based 'GFC Marketplace'.
Please note that you can only access the FanZone News via the Page Menu on this page - until I get time to update all the navigation menus!
Results Service:
February 14th 20:30 hrs
In an entertaining game of football, for a neutral, Stoneclough twice fought back on to level terms to finish Stoneclough 2 Garstang 2; their second equaliser coming in injury time. Baldwin and Fawcett were on target for Garstang.
The Reserves, playing at the Riverside, were unable to reproduce their Houston Cup form, the final score being Garstang Reserves 1 Poulton Town Reserves 2. Kippax got the goal.
All the days results and scorers are here, tables here.
First Team match report here, Reserves here.
Weekend Preview:
February 13th 13:30 hrs
Stoneclough v Garstang: It’s down the M61 tomorrow afternoon as Somerside takes his side to play 'The Claret & Blues' of Stoneclough. They have struggled to adapt to life in the Prem following their promotion last season as runners-up to Vickerstown. However I am sure the Stoneclough management duo, aka The Mitchell Brothers, will turn out a reasonable side and will demand nothing short of the work rate that they got from their squad in the previous meeting with Garstang this season when they lost 1-2 at the Riverside. Captain Hill will look to star in the middle of the park with everything going through him and, on his day, he is as good a midfielder as any in the West Lancs.. Stoneclough have struggled to score goals this season and I wonder whether either Ralph or Fisher, who are both top drawer, have returned yet?
Manager Somerside has both Cummins and Horton ruled out, although Fawcett and Cox both benefited from a run out in the stiffs last weekend! The pace of Williams will be key tomorrow, whether he’s used out wide or up-top, and the ever impressive Baker will need to carry on his good form as Garstang look to bring back all three points on Saturday night.
Garstang Reserves v Poulton Town Reserves: Before the weather played havoc recently, we were all anticipating a Houston cup derby this weekend. However, instead we have a league derby as Steve McAllister brings his Poulton Reserve side to Garstang still smarting from going out of the Houston Cup to Garstang before Xmas. That day Poulton Reserves had three lads whom played regular first team football last season in captain Guy Sharrock, Danny Morris and, of course, Bomber, and we shall find out tomorrow if all three have got back into the first team.
Manager Bailey has no new injury worries ahead of the game, yet he will delay announcing his squad until the final 14 travelling with the First Team has been announced. I am sure that he will be keen to keep hold of a couple of lads whom played last week to get match fitness in the Reserves although he will be just as keen, as always, to support the First Team and, as always, let Somerside pick and choose from the full compliment. This is something that Bails should be highly commended for and it doesn’t go unnoticed.
**With Bob Freemen still a bit under the weather, Andy and Davo will be setting up the ground and pushing the pies. Get well soon Bob.
Freckleton FC:
Second Thoughts:
Manager Paul Bailey Reviews the Game
10th February 19:30hrs
I was obviously disappointed after last week's game and knew that freshening things up was the right way to go. After discussing things with Scott, it was decided that we use Chris Cox, Dee McEvoy and Gaz Fawcett, all of whom haven’t played much football recently and were very much in need of a game.
Leaving players out is never easy and it was also particularly hard on Adrian Hunt to be left on the bench, but we needed to see new signing Horton in action. After 45 minutes the decision proved right as we played a more relaxed football than of late and attacked with freedom. We also defended excellently with Joe Miller coming back into the team. Dee was excellent in midfield and up front Kippax - was just Kippax.
I feel that I was a little harsh on myself and the players last week but, it definitely worked, and if we keep this level of performance up for the rest of the season, then we will be ok.
Finally, all the players people who were left out of the starting XI took my decision well, but a special mention should go to Andy Taylor Jnr. who missed out totally, but stayed on to vocally support the team. This is the type of attitude that I think the club needs because, as we try to progress, my decisions will not get any easier, and the way Andy took it, is a credit to him. I also know that although he took it well, he will be out to prove me wrong in the weeks ahead.
Bails
'Score' Lottery:
First Draw
February 9th 17:30 hrs
Ian Woods, our first £500 winner, picked up his cheque earlier today from Andrew Pyke of Sponsors Ribblesdale Auto Electrics (L) and Club President Mick Gornall (R).
More details can be found here.
 |
| Image | Garstang Courier |
March Fixtures:
February 7th 21:30 hrs
The draft March fixtures have been added to the fixture pages. They include our first night game, a return to Barnoldswick on March 3rd.
Reserves Back in the Saddle:
February 7th 19:00 hrs
Well, as they say, "When you fall off, you need to get straight back on"!
With the help of the Bobfather, a bit of sun, and two managers desperate to see some football, Garstang Reserves, boosted by the addition of first team players in need of a game, got back on the horse as they steamrollered Freckleton 7-0.
 |
| James Horton slides in #6 |
Match report here; full results here and tables here.
**The postponement of several of todays Houston Cup Second Round ties means that the date of the Third Round ties will be rescheduled. The Reserves tie v Wyre Villa will not now take place next Saturday: instead the Riverside will host a league fixture against Poulton Town Reserves.
Weekend Preview:
February 7th 13:30 hrs
Riverside Update:
**A close call, but it's game on at the Riverside. KO 3:00 pm.
The Barnoldswick pitch is frozen hard and so the First Team game is off.
Note: The League moves back to 3:00 pm kick-offs today.
Barnoldswick Town v Garstang: The First Team are on their travels again this weekend with the delights of Barnoldswick awaiting. And this could prove to be a good time to be playing them as they have lost their last couple of league games, both by a 1-2 scorline, at home to Turton and away at Euxton.
However, ex-Preston and Rochdale centre forward Michael Holt, who currently manages Barnoldswick, will be desperate to put an end to that sequence. Holt himself still combines playing and managing, and he is a real goal scoring threat along with captain Airdrie, playing in the middle of the park and scoring goals for fun. At the back, big Mitch Walker in goal stands about 6' 4" and, on his day, he can be hard to beat.
After last weeks game at Coppull, read the manager's post match assessment here, Manager Somerside has a near full strength team to pick from with only Cummins ruled out with his dodgy ankle. Williams and Cox are fully fit, although lacking in match fitness, and they will be joined by forward James Horton, making his trial debut with the squad. All three are able to operate through the middle and so Somerside should have attacking and defensive options a-plenty this weekend.
Garstang Reserves v Freckleton Reserves: Last Friday I bravely mentioned that Turton Reserves were sat at the bottom of the Reserve Division One and I then predicted three points for Paul Bailey's Reserves. I do not intend to inform anybody of Freckleton's league position this weekend and neither am I giving any predictions!
Manager Bailey should, in theory, have a pretty much full side to choose from and, after last week's game, I don't think anybody could question any changes made this weekend. With next week's big cuptie against Wyre Villa only seven days away there's an opportunity for someone to impress this weekend and force their way into contention.
I am sure Bails will be looking for the Garstang Reserve Team that we all know, who can defend properly, be well organised, win their tackles in midfield, play the simple balls and take any chances when given them. When they do this, then they are a match for anybody in the division.
Weather: After a beautiful day, the Riverside pitch is all marked out and playable. There is a forecast of a hard frost, however, so a precautionary check back here in the morning is adviseable for news of the Reserves game. The information from Barnoldswick is less promising as there is currently snow on the pitch. Again, the severity of the frost tonight will dictate whether the groundsman can get on and clear the snow. Again, news in the morning.
Garstang Xmas Festival:
February 16th 19:00 hrs
Thanks from the Chamber of Commerce for our help at the event. The letter is here.
Cardiac Risk in the Young:
Aged 14 to 35?
February 6th 10:30 hrs
"For those of you who weren't lucky enough to have known him, David Quinney was player and friend of Garstang FC before he tragically passed away. His was a yound man with his whole life ahead of him, but he had an undiagnosed heart condition that meant he went to bed one night and never woke up."
"Since the Quinney family suffered their loss they have been fundraising for 'C-R-Y' with the view to holding screening days in the area. These days, March 6th and 7th, are now in place at Myerscough College and the Club would urge as many people as possible to attend."
David's dad, Mick, said "We hope to fill the two days screening and get as many people checked as possible. We can't force people to attend, and most of those in the 14 to 35 year age range will think that they are fit and healthy, so it would not affect them. All I can say is that David was a fit lad who loved playing football and golf and we didn't think that he would be affected. Like most lads of his age he too thought he was indestructible, but I would ask you to spend just ten minutes of your time being screened."
Club Treasurer Marc Armstrong added “I was honoured to have known David who was a healthy fit young lad with a love of sport, all of which made it even harder to believe that he had died of a heart condition. I would strongly urge all players to attend these screening days which the Quinney family have organised. A lot of fundraising has taken place in order to finance the two days so that you can have the free screening which could save your life. I have booked my appointment, and yes I am under 35 before you ask, and it is very simple to do."
On Friday the March 6th there are appointments from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Saturday March 7th there are appointments from 9:30am to 3.30 pm. There are plenty of slots available but log on here to secure your place.
Don't put it off. Book now.
The View from The Dugout:
Coppull United
Scott Somerside
February 6th 15:00 hrs
The wind blowing straight down the pitch had a big impact on last weekend's game and I was frustrated at our inability to cope with it. Time and again when a short pass was on we went long and when a long ball was called for we chose to play short.
There was no shortage of commitment again, but there was a distinct lack of quality. Losing players like Alan Coar, Danny Whittaker and Ben Perry-Acton was always going to hurt in a numbers game but, on Saturday, it was their quality in possession that we missed. The players in now need to step up the quality in possession and we on the coaching side need to step our game up also. We’ve extended the training sessions on Tuesdays and are looking for more from the lads on Thursday’s also.
Matty Baldwin’s free kick was as close to perfect as you will see anywhere; virtually no run up, top corner and the ‘keeper routed to the spot. That aside though, class moments were noticeable by their absence.
Our opponents on the day did everything possible to take advantage of the conditions. At one point I had the spare match ball kicked out of my hand and thrown over the dugout to delay the ball going on quickly - sporting? They were hard working but, when they went down to ten men, we should have been able to go on to win it. Several players carrying injuries didn’t help, but that’s just looking for excuses really.
I’ve demanded more quality. Let's see how we all respond!
Scott
Turton FC:
Second Thoughts:
Manager Paul Bailey Reviews the Game
5th February 16:30hrs
It’s a good job that I have had time to think about the performance against Turton last weekend because, if I'd written this any sooner, then my comments wouldn’t have been very favourable at all.
Looking back on the game now, however, there is no way that I could fault the commitment, the passion, or the work rate, but I was unhappy with the lack of ideas shown by players who have proven themselves in the past. The players showed an unusual lack of quality and were guilty of making continuous bad decisions. I take part of the blame myself for using a new formation but, even so, I was surprised that the players couldn’t cope.
On the plus side, I was very pleased with the performance of Adrian Hunt and also Paul Southward, who was my Man of the Match - until he got himself sent off. I am also sure that it was a one off performance and I am more than happy that the players selected will be good enough to win future matches. So now I am looking forward to and preparing for this week’s home game against Freckleton and to seeing just how the players will react after what was “just a bad day at the office”.
Bails
Matchday Help Wanted:
February 4th 10:30 hrs
Garstang Football Club are looking for more help on Match Days!
"As the club moves forward, with matchday sponsors, ever more advertising boards, 'Man of the Match' presentations and the like, we need more people involved on match days.
We need someone to help our Groundsman with the nets and advertising boards. Two cheerfull ladies behind our serving hatch would also be a big improvement on the two miserable erm, committee members we have there now, who could be best employed elsewhere. Another person to sell raffle tickets, a football card and lottery memberships would also significantly help our fundraising".
So if you would like to give a helping hand on match days, please contact us here, through any committee member, or just give Les Taylor a ring on 07979 235 217.
We would be very pleased to hear from you.
A Disappointing Day:
February 1st 01:00hrs
Both Garstang teams will be unhappy with their performances, returning to football following the weather enforced lay-offs. After going ahead with a Matt Baldwin free kick, the First Team will feel that they should have taken all three points at Coppull rather than allowing their opponents to take a 1-1 draw.
The Reserves will just be unhappy, going down 0-2 to lowly Turton at the Riverside.
First Team match report here: division results and scorers here.
Reserves division results and scorers here: match report later.
All the West Lancs results here and tables here.
And in case you missed it, Burnley Belvedere go through to the next round of the Challenge Cup, beating Askam United 17-16 in a penalty shootout. And that was after drawing 5-5 at the end of extra time!
Midweek Preview:
March 30th 12:00 hrs
*** Update: A bit ugly, but a well-deserved 2-1 victory tonight. The opener came from James Horton; the second a Geoff Wilson assist, in off a couple of defenders, the keeper and Gaz Fawcett. 2-0 up at half time, Burnley pulled one back in the second half, a penalty after Jimmy Brindle tripped the centre forward. Full report on first team newspage.
The first midweek fixture of 2009 sees the First Team travel up the M65 on Wednesday evening to play against Burnley United. The game is scheduled for a 19:45 pm kick off, under floodlights, as Burnley share their ground with Burnley Athletics Club.
Although Burnley currently lie bottom of the Premier Division, they appear to be a very mixed bag as they demolished Barnoldswick during last week and then got beaten by Eagley at the weekend. Whether the midweek fixture suits Burnley better, only time will tell. Sommerside's team, of course, can only go out and do their best, whoever the opposition is.
Following Saturdays victory against Coppull United, the Manager still has long term injury worries regarding Cox and Williams. However Geoff Wilson and Joe Miller have both served their seven day suspensions and are available, if selected. Richard Wilson is unavailable, due to a pre-booked commitment. The back three will need to stand tall again on Wednesday night to combat the ariel threat that Burnley may provide.
Matt Baldwin will have a late fitness test to see wether he makes the trip, and Kippax and Hunt may well be making the journey after illness. Jonny Baldwin was used as a late substitute on Saturday and he too may now get the chance to prove his worth at First Team level. AH
The View from The Dugout:
Coppull United FC
Scott Somerside
March 30th 17:30 hrs
"Players missing? So what? Deal with it!" - Great advise from the Duchess!
I was really pleased with the way we started Saturday’s game. We were quiet in the warm up but there was a confidence and a bit of a bounce about the lads. It soon became clear that the confidence was not misplaced.
The early goal helped to shape the game our way. The quality of the defensive unit gives all the players such a lift; it’s a great platform to build on. Niall Cummins and James Horton were putting a bit of pressure on themselves to score so it was nice for them to get the goals. Me, I’m not bothered who scores, but forwards don’t like to go too long without adding to their tally.
We were never really under threat; one or two catches for Jim but not much else to be concerned about. Man of the Match was a fight between defenders, maybe with Adam Kilifin making a claim too, but there’s a case to be made for others as the defence had a relatively easy afternoon, dealing comfortably with high balls pumped in.
Pass and move training sessions didn’t really transfer into the match but attempts were made and the odd dropped shoulder here and half a step over there were encouraging if not match changing. That said at this stage of the season I’ll take two-nil wins every week!
Yes I’m looking for development in my players but I’m not prepared to throw away all the good, sound building blocks of work rate, determination and solid defending. The next three games will decide whether we’ve an eye on a top three spot or more concerned about our end of season trip to Lloret de Mar!
Thanks for all who came and watched on Saturday. There’s an open invite to all Garstang supporters to catch us in the bar after the games if you want a chat.
Scott
March Lottery Winners:
March 29th 10:30 hrs
The 'Score' Lottery draw was made in the Clubhouse before yesterdays game. Here are the winners:-
£500 - 1355 - Margaret Taylor
£100 - 1799 - Garstang Golf Club
£50 - 1854 - James Painter
£25 - 1674 - Paul Rimmer
£10 - 1729 - John Wilding Car Sales
Garstang 2 Coppull United 0:
March 28th 18:00 hrs
With more enforced changes due to illness and suspensions, Garstang will have welcomed the early, settling, goal from James Horton. Coppull responded, finding Brindle in good form, after which the visiting keeper became much the busier of the two, Niall Cummins making the game relatively safe with the second goal deep into the second half.
 |
| Horton, hidden, sees his shot blocked before heading in the rebound |
| Premier Division: | ||||
| Blackpool Wren Rovers | 3 | v | 0 | Vickerstown |
| Taberner 2, Sharples | ||||
| Eagley | 4 | v | 2 | Burnley United |
| Grimshaw, Regan, Crompton, Bagdadby | Barnes 2 | |||
| Euxton Villa | 1 | v | 1 | Turton |
| Zevina | Pendlebury | |||
| Freckleton | 2 | v | 1 | Dalton United |
| Carey 2 | Johnson | |||
| Garstang | 2 | v | 0 | Coppull United |
| Horton, Cummins | ||||
| Haslingden St Mary's | 2 | v | 1 | Barnoldswick Town |
| Barker, Selby | Craig | |||
| Stoneclough | 0 | v | 1 | Fulwood Amateurs |
| Newsham | ||||
| Reserve Division One: | ||||
| BAC/Springfields | 3 | v | 3 | Freckleton |
| Foy, Edigi, Leeming | n/k | |||
| Barnoldswick Town | 4 | v | 1 | Fulwood Amateurs |
| Powell 3, Oldroyd | Heaps | |||
| Euxton Villa | 0 | v | 1 | Eagley |
| Stewart | ||||
| Norcross & Warbreck | 2 | v | 2 | Burnley Belvedere |
| Bryan 2 | n/k | |||
| Poulton Town | 3 | v | 1 | Tempest United |
| Eastwood, Morris, Thompson | Carter | |||
| Turton | 4 | v | 2 | Thornton Cleveleys |
| Leece 4 | Whitewood, Scott | |||
GFC Sportsmans Dinner 2009:
March 27th 10:00 hrs
A great night! Here are the photographs and the brief press release.
Over 350 people attended Garstang Football Club's Sportsmans' Dinner, which was held at Blackpool Football Club. It was both a financial and a social success.
Les Taylor: "We moved away from the usual football speaker, but I think that everyone appreciated the quality and humour of the of guest speaker, Doctor Kevin Jones. He was followed by one of the best comedians in the country, Johnnie Casson, and with the much loved Mike King as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening, then the ingrediants were there for a great night".
The club would like to thank everyone who attended and who contributed to the evening.
 |
| Alan Dryden presents the 'Shearer Ball' to Adrian Wilding |
 |
| The pre-diner gathering 1 |
 |
| The pre-diner gathering 2 |
 |
| The guest speakers and the raffle girls |
 |
| Mike King works the auction |
 |
| Geoff Wilson embarasses the Chairman....again |
 |
| And there's always one................ |
| additional images | Garstang Courier |
Weekend Preview:
March 27th 20:00 hrs
Garstang v Coppull United: A large crowd is expected at the Riverside tommorrow to watch the Garstang v Coppull fixture as the Reserves, Preston and Blacpool all have a spare weekend, and the draw is due to be made for the March Score lottery winner.
Coppull will arrive, as usual, very organised and hungry, if not a little un-disciplined! It's hard to predict how they will line up tommorrow as they are equally comfortable playing 4-5-1, 4-4-2 or a well organised 3-5-2; although 'Alice Band Man' is sure to play up front, and Grimshaw should play centre midfield.
Somerside has the returning Cropper and Richard Wilson this week and, also, Robbie Butler is available for selection. Miller and Geoff Wilson are serving seven day suspensions. Hunt and Kippax were both promoted from the Reserves last week, and both will be looking to start tommorrow. Bamba will also be looking to get involved again tommorrow as may one or two of the Reserve squad, who obviously have no game. Perry-Acton is back with Clitheroe FC tommorrow, although the returning Butler will help to balance up the squad.
Games are set to come thick and fast now for Somerside's team with midweek fixtures due throughout the month of April. AH
Got a New Mobile Phone?
March 24th 15:00 hrs
Then point it at www.garstangfc.com/mobile and stay connected. IB
The View from The Dugout:
Home v Euxton Villa FC
Scott Somerside
March 23rd 15:00 hrs
Geoff Wilson, Richard Wilson, Wayne Cropper, Rob Butler, Chris Cox, Simon Williams, Matt Baldwin and James Horton; all injured or unavailable. This list shows why it’s so important for Garstang FC to ensure the Reserves are trained the same way as the first team. Players coming in have to be able to cope straight away. On Saturday, Mark Kippax and Adrian Hunt did everything that was asked. I substituted Mark for tactical reasons at half time. I'm not sure it paid off, but Mark certainly did enough to warrant consideration for the first team squad and, once Adrian got used to the pace and better quality centre halves, I was really pleased with him too.
I obviously see things slightly differently than others. The match report talks of most of the crowd being frustrated. I can see that but I’ve asked for more football in the final third and things take time. I think we played some good stuff in patches again. I may be biased, but I think we could have won by three or four. I thought, even with ten men, it was us creating chances and pushing forward. I did hold us back with a couple of minutes to go though. I just thought, if we had got caught with a sucker punch at the end, the lads would have been devastated. We did keep two forwards throughout the game, so we remained positive.
At half time we spoke about the importance of coming out of the game with something. No-one is bothered that we had a man sent off when they look at the table. We wanted three points, we felt we deserved it and knew we were capable of it, so we sent them out to go and get the win.
Next Saturday we’ve got some players back, but they’re going have to really impress at training to get anywhere near the starting eleven.
Scott
March Score Lottery Draw:
March 23rd 13:00 hrs
The March Score Lottery Draw will now be made before Saturday's home game against Coppull United, in the Social Club.
Les Taylor said, "We will alter the venues of the draw from time to time in order to help create interest and to enrol new members. To be fair to committee members, our Sportsman's Dinner will have taken place on the Thursday night and so, another day to get over the event for all concerned won't go amiss if we move the draw from Friday".
Membership for the lottery has now reached 220; just 30 short of our initial target, so if you would like to be in the draw and have that chance to win the first prize of £500 then drop in at the Riverside on Saturday, or ring Davo on 07947 019893 or Les on 07979 235 217, or download an application form here. LT
All Square:
March 21st 18:30 hrs
A much-changed First Team fought back from being one goal and one man down after half an hour to share the points at Garstang 1 Euxton Villa 1. The 'one man' was Andy Ireland, red carded for a hand ball on the goalline which gave Euxton a penalty and their only goal. First team debuts for Adrian Hunt, Mark Kippax and Seydou Bamba; and a surprise temporary return for Ben Perry-Acton. Dee McEvoy got the goal, below.
Match report now on team news page.
 |
Fulwood Reserves 0 Garstang Reserves 0: The Reserves too, shared the points. With a much improved performance on last week, they competed well with high-flying Fulwood, deserving at least a draw. Match report later.
Results and Scorers for March 21st:
League tables here. IB
| Premier Division: | ||||
| Barnoldswick Town | 2 | v | 5 | Burnley United |
| Craig, Bradshaw | Eagan 3, Stowe, Hutchinson | |||
| Blackpool Wren Rovers | 3 | v | 0 | Fulwood Amateurs |
| Kavanagh, Rowe 2 | ||||
| Coppull United | 1 | v | 2 | Turton |
| Grinshaw | Handlon, Pendlebury | |||
| Eagley | 1 | v | 3 | Vickerstown |
| o/g | Bruce, Jackson, n/k | |||
| Freckleton | 0 | v | 2 | Charnock Richard |
| Roberts, Hayton | ||||
| Garstang | 1 | v | 1 | Euxton Villa |
| McEvoy | Bolton (pen) | |||
| Haslingden St Mary's | 3 | v | 2 | Poulton Town |
| Siddall, Smart, Taylor | Holloway 2 | |||
| Stoneclough | 0 | v | 3 | Dalton United |
| Johnson 2, Rategan | ||||
| Reserve Division One: | ||||
| Charnock Richard | 2 | v | 1 | Burnley Belvedere |
| Proctor, Quinn | Thomms | |||
| Fulwood Amateurs | 0 | v | 0 | Garstang |
| Poulton Town | 2 | v | 1 | Norcross & Warbreck |
| Walsh, Sharrocks | Dawson | |||
| Thornton Cleveleys | 5 | v | 0 | Tempest United |
| Whitewood 4, Impett, Turton | ||||
| Turton | 1 | v | 1 | Blackpool Wren Rovers |
| Leese | Friend | |||
Weekend Preview:
March 20th 12:30 hrs
Garstang v Euxton: Back to a 3pm kick off at The Riverside this week when we host a First Team fixture against Euxton Villa. Villa will, no doubt, still be hurting following last week's fixture when Garstang ran out comfortable winners.
Manager McDonnell will, I am sure, have had a few choice words to say to his team after last week's showing at Euxton and I am sure he will be looking for a response this week. Having spoken with Mark at length last Saturday, before the game, he informed me that Villa were also blessed with a long injury list and also had key players unavailable due to work commitments. He also said that 'Trigger' would be back this week where he is sure to start in midfield and do his usual 'let's see how many people I can upset today' routine! We wait and see whether 'Faz' will be returning from his hamstring injury this week or there may be a return to the first team for the evergreen Briggs who played for Villa reserves last week. The three Villa substitutes, Bingham, Craddock and Blundell, certainly appeared to improve Villa's game when introduced last week and the old phrase 'beware of the wounded animal' comes to mind.
Somerside will have to make enfoced changes this week, however, and he has the recently signed Bamba in his squad along with Baldwin and Horton. Long term injury's to Williams and Cox will see them both ruled out, although Ireland makes a timely return following his family duties last Saturday. There may also be a chance tomorrow for a couple of Reserve Team regulars to step up and show everybody that they can cut it at West Lancs Premier level.
Fulwood Amateur Reserves V Garstang Reserves: Manager Bailey takes his troops south for the short journey to Lightfoot Lane to play title chasing Fulwood Amateurs. Following last weekends cup exit, the league now becomes the main priority with the chance to cement their place as the best Garstang Reserve side in the history books. In 2001/02, Chris Acton's reserve side finished third off the bottom of Reserve Division One, so Bailey's current flock are well on course to beat that achievement.
Hopefully, three points tomorrow will get them nearer the required points total and then, a final push over the remaining weeks, and a top five finish is more than achievable. Bailey may lose a player or two to the First Team this weekend but, I am sure that he will turn out a more than capable side, beat Fulwood tomorrow and wipe the smile off their 'friendly' manager Bateson's face! AH
Wyre Villa FC:
Second Thoughts:
Manager Bailey looks back on the game
19th March 18:30hrs
Funny old game football! One week we are playing some outstanding football, the next we are awfull, and that is putting it mildly!
I have to say that the referee wasn't too good, as bad as I have seen this season, and the liner was, well, worse. This said, I take nothing away from Wyre. They totally deserved their win. I can't put my finger on why we were so poor. Not one of the starting eleven played well. We failed to pressure them and force the pace of the game.
So we take this defeat on the chin and move on, taking what few positives we can from this game and will work on them in training. That was not a true reflection of Garstang Reserves. I know the lads can and will play a lot better.
Bails
The View from The Dugout:
Euxton Villa FC - Away
Scott Somerside
March 16th 16:00 hrs
Injuries, holidays, family commitments………I don’t think I’ve been able to field the same team twice! This week’s first team unavailable list was; James Horton (pedestrian v motor vehicle, only one winner there), Andy Ireland (best man at his dad's wedding), Chris Cox (damaged eye socket), Simon Williams (knee ligament damage) and Matty Baldwin (still receiving treatment for bad back / nerve damage). In affect I had eleven fit players, plus Matty, James and Dave Porter for the bench. Raiding the reserves to strengthen our bench was discussed and excluded. Next week sees the Wilson brothers and Wayne Cropper away on a snow boarding trip and Rob Butler with work commitments, all four played well on Saturday and will be missed.
So the team that was sent out to meet current Lancashire Shield holders and fourth in the league had an unfamiliar look and feel to it to say the least. I wasn’t worried about the attitude and commitment, the lads just wanted to get out there and carry on the way they finished against Wrens. I was worried about a new look midfield with at least three of them playing unfamiliar roles. The themes of this year have been to allow the players to make more decisions for themselves on the ball, to play more football and to try and enjoy their football more. To add to the discipline and focus of previous campaigns, rather than scrap it, has always been the aim.
I could only watch in admiration at some of our football in the first half. Balls played in to centre forwards feet, runs from deep supporting forwards, wing backs flying down the line and crossing with accuracy. We scored early, which helped, but then hit the post and bar and the worry was that, with all the play, we hadn't capitalised with enough goals. I needn’t have worried too much. 3-1 one at the interval and without going over the top it could have been six.
We lost focus a little after an opponent was taken to hospital, the lengthy stoppage favoured the home side for some reason, and again the team with ten men, they’d used all their subs, getting the momentum and pushing forward. That said, we had three more goals disallowed; all three decisions were incorrect and shocked even the home fans. A goal at the end killed off the resistance as it would have been a complete travesty of justice had Euxton got anything out of the game.
I gave Man of the Match to Wayne Cropper immediately after the game, but this should probably have been shared between Wayne, Lee Baker, Dave McEvoy, Gaz Fawcett and Geoff Wilson. Geoff’s first half display was described by Andy Harkins, and I agree, as “a contender for the best performance by a centre forward at amateur level”. It’s important not to get too carried away with a performance like this. You can try and play good football and sometimes it works. Some days your opponents don’t let you play, sometimes they do. I think it’s fair to say that Euxton won’t play as poorly again, ever, their set up's too good, the players are too good, and the manager's too experienced. It’s up to us to keep pushing forward, whatever side we put out next Saturday, and with no two weeks the same, there’s never a dull moment. Pleased, yes very pleased with the performance this weekend.
I hinted last week at possible new signings. Well this week we unveil Seydou Bamba. Seydou is signed for Chorley but, until his visa is sorted by the FA, they will only allow him to play at West Lancs level. We’ll see on Saturday what we have. He’s trained with us and Andy Harkins and I travelled to watch him in a reserve match against Clitheroe last week. The verdict was positive, fast and skilful. We may need to add a ‘Garstang edge’ but things look promising. Please make Seydou feel welcome!
Mixed Fortunes Again:
March 15th 08:00 hrs
The roles were reversed this weekend with the First Team delivering the goods with some style at Euxton Villa whilst the Reserves were suffering a disappointing defeat in the Quarter Final of the Houston Cup back at the Riverside.
Euxton Villa 2 Garstang 4: At Euxton, two goals each from Geoff Wilson and Gaz Fawcett eventually made the game safe. Despite dominating the game for long periods, the concession of a couple of soft goals at critical times didn't help the fingernails although, bearing in mind the long injury list, it was a very satisfactory outcome that sets up next Saturday's return fixture nicely.
During the game, there was a lengthy stoppage following an injury to Euxton player Chris Blundell when an ambulance was called as a precautionary measure. Chris returned home last night, having been given pain killers in hospital for the lower back pain where he appears to have trapped a nerve or some such. We wish Chris a full and speedy recovery.
Match report here.
 |
| Wilson and Fawcett celebrate the fourth goal |
Garstang Reserves 1 Wyre Villa Reserves 2: A very good crowd turned out at the Riverside for the local derby against Wyre Villa in the Houston Cup. An even first half at 1-1, goal from Ryan Twiname, saw Wyre sneaking the winner in the second with the Reserves, unable to pick up last weeks tempo, disappointingly leaving the cup. Report later.
Results for March 14th:
League tables here.
| Premier Division: | ||||
| Charnock Richard | 1 | v | 1 | Turton |
| Hayton | Burrows | |||
| Dalton United | 2 | v | 2 | Freckleton |
| Shaw, Jones | Carey 2 | |||
| Eagley | 0 | v | 0 | Coppull United |
| Euxton Villa | 2 | v | 4 | Garstang |
| Atherton, Woodman | G Wilson 2, Fawcett 2 | |||
| Stoneclough | 1 | v | 2 | Haslingden St Mary's |
| Fisher | Pearson, Clarke | |||
| Vickerstown | 3 | v | 3 | Barnoldswick Town |
| Bruce, Kieran, Read | Holt 2, Chapman | |||
| Houston Cup - Round Three: | ||||
| BAC/EE/Springfields | 5 | v | 1 | Fleetwood Hesketh |
| Hothersall 3, Page, Egidi | Tierney | |||
| Barnoldswick Town | 2 | v | 1 | Tempest United |
| Powell, Smith | Barnes | |||
| Fulwood Amateurs | 5 | v | 0 | Burnley Belvedere |
| Armstrong, Storey, Heaps, Jacques, Jepson | ||||
| Garstang | 1 | v | 2 | Wyre Villa |
| Twiname | Norton, Gregson | |||
| Reserve Division One: | ||||
| Blackpool Wren Rovers | 0 | v | 1 | Poulton Town |
| Eastwood | ||||
| Freckleton | 0 | v | 3 | Euxton Villa |
| Dickinson, Shaw, Pilley | ||||
| Thornton Cleveleys | 3 | v | 1 | Charnock Richard |
| Collin, Butler, Whitewood | n/k | |||
| Turton | 10 | v | 3 | Norcross & Warbreck |
| Mitchell-Reece 6, Birchey 4 | Wheeler, Fullalove 2 | |||
Weekend Preview:
March 14th 09:30 hrs
*** Pitch inspections: the predicted overnight heavy rain did not materialise so it's game on at both venues. Bring your wellies!
Heavy pitches and a foul forecast don't offer much promise of free-flowing football tomorrow but, fingers crossed, we'll have two more highly competitive games to keep us entertained.
Euxton Villa v Garstang: Following on from last weeks battling display against Wrens, much of the same will be required as the First Team travel south to play the current Lancashire Amateur Shield Champions, Euxton Villa. Mark McDonnell's Euxton side will, as always, be well organised and provide a tough task for Somerside and his travelling army. The games against Euxton this season have been postponed twice, both home and away, and hopefully, tomorrow's game should take place without any problems.
In previous match previews, I have commented about Euxton been 'good cop' one match and 'bad cop' the next, and they do still appear to be like this when you look at their recent results. Big goalkeeper, Ross Baxter, must stand about 6'6" and sits behind a well drilled back three or back four, depending on which formation McDonnell sends out and, as ever, he always has the trump card of the evergreen Adrian Briggs to call upon.
Somerside has lost Ireland from last week due to family commitments, but hopefully Baldwin will come through a late fitness test and be available for selection. Manager Somerside willl have a look at the opposition and the playing surface tommorrow before naming his starting eleven but, if all involved show the same commitment as last week, then I am sure that Garstang can bring something back up the M6.
Garstang Reserves v Wyre Villa Reserves: A 2:30 pm kick-off awaits this weekend's offering at The Riverside as local rivals Wyre Villa FC make the short journey from Stalmine for a Houston Cup Quarter Final. Not much is known about Wyre Villa Reserves this season, however, combine a local derby with a cup tie and you know what you're in for!
Manager Bailey was delighted with the news that Hunt is available for the game as he was not cup-tied whilst playing at Lytham earlier this season. Andy Taylor Snr. was cup-tied earlier on this season when on First Team duty so, unlike other clubs at this stage of the season, Bailey will be playing what is his regular Reserve Team without the influx of any non-cup tied First Teamers, and I am sure he has every confidence in them going out tommorrow and putting in the necessary performance to take them into the cup semi-finals.
Patience and positivity may well prove to be the key to tommorrow's game as Wyre Villa will have plenty of fire in their bellies and will prove to be as stern a test as Bailey's Reserves have faced all season.
April / May Fixtures:
March 13th 07:30 hrs
The confirmed fixture lists and kick off times are now available through to the end of the season.
There are two changes to home fixtures from the draft lists. The Reserves now entertain Barnoldswick Town on Thursday April 16th at 6:30 pm (from May 2nd) and the visit of Burnley United in the Premier Division is scheduled for May 2nd with a 3:00 pm kick off (from April 28th).
Catforth & District Summer League
March 12th 18:00 hrs
The Barron Cup Final saga isn't quite resolved yet as the chosen venue, Fleetwood Town, is no longer available. Here is the report of the league AGM, held earlier this week:
Summer footballers have lost the prospect of playing a final at one of Lancashire's top non-league grounds. The Catforth & District Summer League will not now stage this year's Barron Cup final at Fleetwood Town because the Highbury pitch is to be relaid before the next winter season. The plan to play at Fleetwood arose through the league's new sponsor, the Bispham-based energy broker Commercial Power, which has strong links with the Blue Square North club. But now the final, the traditional finale to the summer season, looks likely to stay at Garstang, its home for the last decade.
The league's other two finals, in the Parkinson Cup and the Hargreaves Cup, are both earmarked for Bilsborrow.
Four new teams are set to join the league for this season, which is due to start on April 27 with 7pm kick-offs throughout the summer. Stalmine, whose first team has been promoted to the top division, are entering a second team, while Goosnargh will have a third team. The other newcomers are Grimsargh and Anfield of Blackpool. Leaving the league are both Elswick teams, Kenlis, Bradley Wanderers and one of Bilsborrow's two teams.
The provisional set-up is: Division 1: Chipping, Fleece, Catforth, Preston City, Goosnargh, Treales, Stalmine. Division 2: Chipping Res, Real Bonds, Bilsborrow, Brockholes, Ribchester Rovers, Anfield, Goosnargh Res. Division 3: Preston Acute Hospital, Church Inn, Fulwood Park Rangers, Black Horse, Grimsargh, Stalmine Res, Chipping 3rds, Goosnargh 3rds.
The league is still seeking two more teams for this season and interested parties are urged to ring 01772 654636 or 01995 604549 as soon as possible.
Garstang FC were asked for a comment regarding the final venue. Here it is: "Garstang FC is more than happy to host the Baron Cup Final dependant on their own pre-season plans. The Club has said from the outset that they wanted to be involved in this prestigous cup final, as they have been for the last ten years. The club would urge Summer League Officals to make a decision on the venue for the final as, even though Fleetwood Town's ground has been ruled out, the league seems reluctant to make a final decision. The Club has had excellant relations with the league over the years and is slightly perplexed by the latest statement from the league that the final is 'likely' to be at Garstang."
Blackpool Wren Rovers FC:
Second Thoughts:
Manager Bailey looks back on the game
12th March 18:00hrs
This was probably one of the best displays since I've been manager. Fast aggresive and superb attacking football and, when we needed to defend, we did so without appearing rushed or whacking the ball aimlessly up the pitch.
Jonny Baldwin was outstanding at centre half and looked back to his old self with great tackling and sensible distribution. Saying that, all the back five were excellent with Jags Swanwick again playing at left back and still not looking out of place.
Wide midfield, like last week, worked their socks off, but this time got their reward; both Dre Maticheccia and Matt Walton having a hand in two goals.
The front two, Kip Kippax and Aidy Hunt could easily have had three goals each. They never stopped; working back hard and making intelligent runs forward. I'm chuffed that they both got on the score sheet with two very well taken goals.
Wormy and Kelvin Bardsley totally dominated the centre of midfield, defending well and creating several chances for the front pair.
But the most pleasing thing about Saturdays game was that everything we talked about and worked on in training was starting to show and, not only that, it worked. Anybody watching could not have failed to be entertained by this Garstang display. A superb all round performance from all. Well done lads.
Bails
Exciting Times at the Riverside:
March 11th 18:00 hrs
The Garstang Riverside Sports Complex is set to undergo an amazing transformation.
Garstang Sports and Social Club, the umbrella organization which oversees all the Riverside changing room and social facilities used by the football, cricket and rugby teams, and many other sports, will shortly apply for outline planning permission on a major redesign of the building that will bring the changing and entertainment facilities into the 21st century.
Here is a copy of the first draft of the plan - you can zoom in on the image.
The Sports and Social Club Management committee, enthusiastically lead by Mick Richardson, are already deep in discussions with local advisors regarding funding for the project and hope to be able to report on progress within the next two months. It is too early to set a targeted completion date for the ambitious project yet, but assuming all goes to plan, it will certainly be sooner rather than later.
We at Garstang FC are very enthusiastic about this development coinciding, as it does, with our own equally ambitious plans to regenerate the football club, both on and off the field, with the intention of giving the Garstang Community the highest level of football and facilities that we can achieve. We are fully committed to working with our colleagues from the other sports to make this happen.
To make sure that we can assist the Social Club Committee in a positive and creative way, we have co-opted GFC supporter Andrew Pyke on to our own committee. Andrew has a lot of experience of working with committees and management organisations in bringing to the table and successfully implementing projects within the community. He will have special responsibility for liaising with the sports and social club committee, on our behalf, during the detailed internal design phases and beyond.
Rest assured, we will keep you informed every step of the way.
Here Come the Girls:
New Matchday Catering
March 11th 09:00 hrsGarstang Football Club are pleased to have come to an agreement with Julie Porter and her sister, Tracey, to operate the catering franchise on all matchdays.
 |
| Julie (right) and Tracey (left) with the pot washer! |
This move will allow better facilities for supporters, match sponsors, and visiting officials to the Riverside clubhouse. 'We are committed to offering a better and higher standard throughout all the Club's operations', said Chairman Adrian Wilding. 'I'm sure that Julie and Tracey will do an excellent job. Please give them your support on matchdays.'
Sportsman's Dinner
March 10th 12:00 hrs
March 26th will soon be here and it promises to be a great night for all. The Committee would like to thank everyone who is supporting this event which is now virtually sold out. That's 400 people supporting the development and running of Garstang FC.
Les Taylor is now finalising arrangements for the evening so it is important that any outstanding ticket or advertising money is handed in to him, or any other committee member, so that we can all relax and enjoy the evening.
If you wish to travel on one of the three coaches running to the event, then you must let Adrian Wilding know immediately. Email him here. The coach routes are shown below.
| Coach #1 | 17:30 pm | Depart Heysham Golf Club |
| 17:50 pm | Pick up Dalton Square, Lancaster | |
| 18:00 pm | Pick up Boot & Shoe, Scotgarth | |
| 19:00 pm | Arrive Blackpool FC | |
| Midnight | Depart Blackpool FC | |
| Coach #2+3 | 18:00 pm | Depart Kings Arms, Garstang |
| 18:10 pm | Pick up Grapes, St Michaels | |
| 19:00 pm | Arrive Blackpool FC | |
| Midnight | Depart Blackpool FC |
We must know exact numbers by March 18th so that we can order extra transport if required. Seating is tight on the coaches and priority will be given to those who have confirmed a seat. Anyone just 'turning up' will probably miss out!
Nomis Sports UK
March 10th 12:00 hrs
Garstang Football Club have landed another major sponsorship. Nomis Sports (UK) Ltd. have agreed to sponsor the Pre-Match Warm-Up Shirts for the First and Reserve Team squads. Nomis Sports specialise in top of the range football boots.
In addition, Nomis are to sponsor a 'Performance of the Season' award by supplying a pair of high quality Football Boots for both teams. The recipients of these prizes will be nominated by both managers and awarded at the end of season presentation night.
Glenn Joyce, Chief Executive of Nomis Sports (UK) Ltd, said "The introduction of a Performance of the Season award will reward an individual who, in the eyes of the manager has contributed in a way that makes or has made a real difference to the club." Glenn added, "Nomis are commited to providing the highest technological products that support and enhance a player's performance at all levels, from grass roots right through to professional level"
 |
 |
The View from The Dugout:
Blackpool Wren Rovers
Scott Somerside
March 10th 09:00 hrs
The last few weeks have been quite a test for all involved at the club. Seeing young Simon Williams come back from a broken ankle only to see him injured again with knee ligament damage was particularly difficult. Matt Baldwin’s back continues to be a problem and with long term concerns with Geoff Wilson, Lee Baker and Gaz Fawcett, it’s a continual balancing act on the fitness front.
The less said about the Freckleton game the better; I know it’s over a week ago but I can only now bring myself to discuss it. Although I made changes I wasn’t prepared for the total breakdown all over the pitch. After a reasonable first twenty minutes, almost every pass or header went to an opponent. With the exception of the back line, Lee Baker, Wayne Cropper, Dee McEvoy and Jimmy Brindle, the rest were awful, me included. I was worried about the reaction, I didn’t know which team would turn up against Wrens. On the day, though, the only things that let us down were the weather and the deterioration of the pitch. Obviously I would have liked to come away with at least a point, and had either Geoff Wilson or Gaz Fawcett converted their respective headed chances, we would have done so.
I don’t blame the referee for the sending off, Rob Butler was booked earlier in the game, jumped to block a cross and his hand was in the air. If this had been at the other end I would have been shouting for a penalty and a card too. I don’t blame Rob either, these things happen when you’re committed. I’d sooner this than players who crouch and hide so they don’t get hurt. The commitment shown, particularly when down to ten men, was incredible.
Wrens will probably fall short of the title again this season. They are a good side with many quality players but, as several of their party said after the game, if they had had half of our commitment, determination and effort, they would have won more in recent years.
The really good last quarter of an hour, though, masks a little of our deficiencies. Yes, we finished stronger than of late, but sometimes, when it’s ten against eleven, this happens. I am changing things gradually. More football is being encouraged and with this will come a few more mistakes. Three steps forward and two back, but still going forward in player development terms. This is important, for the club to keep going forward, the players have to improve as individuals. Either this or bring in better players. It’s tough but this is reality. Standing still in technique terms but working hard isn’t enough, we have to improve. So I will continue to work on the individual techniques, still passing and moving, but there will be no surprises when crossing and finishing is emphasised at training this week, and I will also look to bring in the odd player in key areas - watch this space.
Scott
Bring On the Villa:
9th March 16:00 hrs
The Reserve Team's Houston Cup Third Round Tie at home to Wyre Villa on Saturday is an excellent opportunity to renew old acquaintances, especially for three of the current squad members who played for Wyre last season. The players in question, Rory Waite, Rob Butler and Kristian “Bambi” Maycock, will all be eagerly looking forward to this game.
Maycock is a man who can always be relied on to give opinions, and he didn’t let us down when asked for his thoughts on the draw. After pausing to gather some thoughts, “Interesting”, was his reply! But since then Bambi has been furiously trying to arrange for both teams to continue the contest after the 90 minutes with drinking games in the Kings Arms. Bambi is obviously pleased to have the opportunity to play against Wyre again. He has played in this fixture several times in recent years, appearing for both teams, and only three seasons ago, signed for Garstang just seven days after playing against us for Wyre. I’m sure Bambi can be relied on to be quiet in the days leading up to this game.
Rob Butler is new to Garstang this year, having previously played all his Saturday football at Wyre Villa. Rory Waite only played half a season at Wyre, but he scored goals in many of the games he played for their Reserves, and also featured in their First Team.
There are other links between the clubs including the First Team Assistant Manager Dave Porter and Reserve Team Manager Paul Bailey, who both played there in the 90's. First Team captain, Geoff Wilson, also had a spell there and, more recently, committee member Paul Hutton was Villa’s First Team manager for a short, if unsuccessful, spell. Paul and Dave Porter played in the Reserve side that came close to winning Reserve Division One and they have both said that it was one of their most enjoyable times as players under the unique management style of the “terrible twins”, Martin Mooney and Peter Turnbull, who always insisted that you weren’t allowed to leave the clubhouse until you’d lost all your money at Three Card Brag, usually to the local card shark, Stuart Crolla.
Because of the close proximity of the teams, there will obviously be a bit of spice to the game, but there is no doubt that all players, officials and spectators of Wyre Villa will be made more than welcome. Wyre Villa chairman, Graham Bradley, and committee member, Martin Mooney, are both fantastic characters who we hope to see at the game if other commitments don’t get in the way.
Honours shared with the Wrens:
March 7th 20:30 hrs
Despite scoring first through Gaz Fawcett, a hard working First Team saw the result slip away, Wrens grabbing all three points with a late-ish penalty, a hand ball against Rob Butler which earned him a second yellow. Result: Garstang 1 Wrens 2.
In contrast, the Reserves had another good day, bringing home the points with goals from Hunt, Walton and Kippax. Result Wrens 0 Garstang 3.
 |
| Adrian Hunt on target again. |
| Image | Peter Wormleighton |
All the results and scorers are here.
First Team report here, Reserves here.
Weekend Preview:
March 6th 19:30 hrs
Another double header this weekend with both Garstang teams lining up against Blackpool Wren Rovers.
Premier Division: Wren Rovers are visitors to The Riverside this week with both sides still in the hunt for the title and victory for either side may have a huge bearing come the end of the season. Wrens dropped points at home to Charnock last week after conceeding two late goals (sounds familiar!) yet there are still many twists and turns left this season with five or six sides still having title ambitions.
Wrens will look to get the ball down and play some attractive attacking football through Pickering and Rowe, whilst the defence pairing of Methven and the ever impressive Porter are always solid, along with Kennerley between the sticks.
Scott Somerside is definatley missing Williams with fitness tests due for Baldwin and Fawcett. With Tuesday nights postponement certain players have had a week to think about last weeks poor performance at Freckleton and I am sure they will show the neccesary to put it right this week. Last week Somerside played Cropper, Baker and McEvoy in a 3-5-2 formation and, although the team was well beaten, the three centre halves all came out of the game with their pride intact so lets hope that this week all eleven can hold their heads high at 16:45 pm.
Reserve Division One: Manager Bailey takes the Reserves to School Road tommorrow with a strong looking squad boosted by last weeks victory, and by the return of Taylor Snr., Taylor Jnr. and Hewitt. Bailey has kept faith in his back five of Maycock, Southward, Swanwick, Miller and Baldwin, and his faith has been repaid with some sterling performances from them during recent weeks. This, combined with a fine looking partnership up top of Hunt and Kippax means that the Reserves have every chance of picking up points tommorrow at Wrens.
However Bailey has shown during recent weeks that nobody's shirt is guaranteed and anybody who underperforms or is found wanting tommorrow may risk their place in next weeks Houston Cup Q/F against our fierce rivals Wyre Villa.
All the weekend fixtures are here.
Cardiac Risk in the Young:
6th March 07:30 hrs
The screening tests are taking place at Myerscough today and tomorrow.
You did book a test didn't you?
Last chance here!
BAC/Springfields FC:
Second Thoughts:
Manager Bailey Reviews the Game
5th March 17:00hrs
Going back over Saturdays game I think that maybe I was a little hard on the lads in our chat after the game. To be fair, they had worked hard and, for much of the game, played the way we had mapped out for them to play.
We started quite well. Not as good as last week against Turton, but that was always going to be hard to match. We seemed to play well in spells of five minutes and, when we did, we were head and shoulders above Springys.
Aidy Hunt again played very well, working hard for 90 minutes and he took his goal well. The defence, although put under strong pressure at times, never looked like caving in. Kelvin Bardsley and Wormy looked good in midfield, but both tired towards the end. Again to be fair, they worked their socks off. Dre Maticheccia, I thought, was outstanding and played a crucial part in the only goal of the game.
However, because we only took one of our many chances, we ended up hanging on to the three points in a game which should have been dead and buried well before the last 20 minutes.
But when all is said and done, three points and a clean sheet is all I ask for, and that is exactly what I got.
Match Preview:
March 3rd 08:30 hrs
***It's Off!!! - the weather has again intervened, the Barnoldswick pitch is under water and unplayable. The fifth attempt is postponed, the sixth will be made on Tuesday April 7th.
Note: Would players please report for training tonight.
Barnoldswick Town v Garstang: These two teams make their fifth attempt to get a game on tonight at the Silentnight Stadium. Kick off is at 7:45 pm under the new floodlights.
Manager Somerside will be anxious to get the season quickly back on track after Saturday's disappointing result but he will be awaiting injury reports before he can settle on his formation.
Barnoldswick surprisingly went down 1-5 to Blackpool Wrens a couple of weeks ago. However, ex-Preston and Rochdale centre forward Michael Holt, who currently manages Barnoldswick, got them going again with a 2-0 victory over Fulwood last Saturday. Holt himself still combines playing and managing, and he is a real goal scoring threat along with captain Airdrie, playing in the middle of the park and scoring goals for fun. At the back, big Mitch Walker in goal stands about 6' 4" and, on his day, he can be hard to beat.
Directions: Take the A59 to Gisburn towards Skipton and turn right at Barnoldswick signpost. Travel approx 2½ miles, carry straight through built up area to second zebra crossing and, at mini roundabout, turn left. Drive on through built up area, at bottom turn left and travel approx 100yds to Victory Park gates on right. On entering park bear left, past ball park and new pavilion, to field at end of road on left hand side.
Weekend Preview:
May 8th 20:00 hrs
This is it. The big one. The players have been in training for weeks and, if rumours are to be believed, their form is peaking at exactly the right time.
Kick off is 7:30 for 8:00 pm. You're all invited!!
Garstang Finish Third:
Wrens 2 Dalton United 0
May 5th 23:00 hrs
Happily, Wrens were in no mood to see their season fizzle out and, despite fielding some fringe players, they comfortably beat Dalton United at Bruce Park this evening. Dalton were industrious, but Wrens played much the better football.
So that's it. A good third placed finish for Garstang FC. See you in August!
Will It Be Third?
May 4th 07:30 hrs
Dalton United visit Blackpool Wren Rovers on Tuesday evening needing only one point to move up into a third place finish, dropping Garstang into fourth.
Wrens needed a victory at Stoneclough last Saturday but, in drawing 1-1, they left Charnock alone in top spot. Tomorrow's result will not, therefore, affect their league placing. Dalton picked up the Richardson Cup last week and so, with both teams having a successful season, let's hope that they are both in a mood to finish it in style at Bruce Park. Kick off is at 6:45 pm.
Barnoldswick Town meet Springfields tonight, Monday, in the final of the Houston Cup. In the 'funny old game' department, Springfields are bottom of the league having conceded 104 goals! The game is being played at Padiham FC, kick off 7:30 pm. Result Barlick 1 Springfields 2
Goodbye, thank you and good luck.
Scott Somerside
 |
It's The Last Match:
Scott Somerside Leaves
May 2nd 18:00 hrs
Garstang 0 Burnley United 2: 'Uninspired' seems about right for today's defeat by the better team, Burnley United. Garstang mounted their normal late challenge but good goalkeeping and wayward finishing sent Burnley home happy.
Today, however, events off the field were more significant as Scott Somerside made public his resignation from the manager's position. Here is the official announcement from Garstang Football Club:
Garstang Football Club are sad to announce the departure of their Manager, Scott Somerside. Scott is leaving the club because of increasing work and family commitments which will make it impossible for him to devote the time necessary to manage a successful football team.
Scott took over from George Norrie at the end of September last year and immediately steadied the ship. His record of 12 wins, 6 draws, and 6 defeats leaves the club with a top four finish in the league. Considering the early season upheaval, the departure of a number of good players, and a continuing injury list, one could only describe the season as a major success and a credit to Scott's management skills in getting the very best out of the people round him, most of all, the players.
Although Scott may be best remembered for the part he played as Garry Hargreaves’ number two, when Garstang FC were crowned as League Champions last season, this season's achievements should never be underestimated. The Chairman and Committee would like to thank Scott for all his efforts and wish him well for the future.
Adrian Wilding added, "We tried very hard to keep Scott at the club, but we must respect his decision and move on. He knows that he will always be made welcome down at the Riverside at any time in the future. However, nothing stays the same, and it is our job to secure a new manager as soon as possible. It is important that we retain the stability and appoint someone who is capable of building on the work that Scott has done".
Match report tomorrow.
Dalton beat Haslingden 3-0, and Wrens drew at Stoneclough 1-1.
Wrens Keep Going:
April 30th 07:00 hrs
Blackpool Wren Rovers kept their late run for the Premier Championship going last night, picking up three points at Burnley United with a 6-0 victory.
Burnley are, of course, due at the Riverside on Saturday.
Harkins Steps Down:
April 27th 12:00 hrs
Club Secretary, Andy Harkins, has officially confirmed his decision to resign from the post after the Burnley game on Saturday. After the best part of five seasons in the job, Andy is looking forward to a less demanding role in the future.
When Ian asked me to write a short piece for the website due to me standing down as Secretary at the end of this season I was, of course, only to pleased to do so. I sat and wrote a few paragraphs of thankyou’s and pleasantries but, when I sat back and read it, it just didn’t look right. It just wasn’t me. There was no humour, no sarcasm, no honesty and no ruthlessness - so I threw it on the fire! So bobbins to all those who I upset, I’m gonna lift the lid and open a can of worms, in an article suitably named Warts 'n' All. And it's nothing to do with Ben Perry-Acton!
 |
| Harkins on duty |
I took over the reins as Garstang FC secretary, officially, on Saturday September 17th 2005, having served on the committee since, I think, 1998, on the day that the First Team went to Haslingden St Mary's in Division One of the West Lancs, and got comprehensively spanked 5-1. How times have changed! I stand down on the Saturday May 2nd 2009 with the Reserve Team just having had the best season on record for a Garstang side and the First Team and current West Lancs Premier Division champions, guaranteed a top five finish with a third place realistically theirs if they want it. How times have changed!
During my four years and eight months as Club Secretary, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time, and I have met and made many, many good friends along the way. When you are involved in any amateur football organisation, however, you do unfortunately meet a few plonkers along the way too! And believe me I have met my fair share! With most of them, I have had an enjoyable run-in or two, but with some of them I haven’t even lowered my principles to speak to them! They all know who they are! I dare say that, during my stint, a few players, committee men and supporters from our own club, as well as from the opposition's, have thought the same about me, and so to them all, I offer the old one fingered salute!
In my time as Secretary, I have worked closely with, I think, four different First Team managers and two or three Reserve Team managers including the current manager Paul Bailey, who has now written himself into the history books as the most successful Reserve Team manager in the history of Garstang FC. I think Acy would be the First Team manager when I first took over as Secretary and, although he was only briefly in charge, I have always got on very well with him and still have a lot of time for him.
Then along came a certain Garry Hargreaves. I struggle to find words at times to describe 'The Gaffer' as he did, and still does, mean the world to me. Not only did he teach his players how to win, but he also turned me from somebody who was a decent happy go lucky lad, who was just happy to accept second best, into somebody who had to win at all costs! 'It doesn’t matter who or what you upset as long as you win!' and that’s straight from The Gaffer‘s mouth! My mother, God love her, still comes out with her classic line, 'Our Andrew was a grand lad before he met that Garry Hargreaves'. During The Gaffer’s two and a half year stint he, like me, managed to just about upset everybody along the way, and yet I wouldn’t change any of it. In fact, I possibly regret not upsetting even more folk! Whilst The Gaffer was in charge, I became close friends with Scott and Steve Baker, enjoying some good times with them both and, for all that they’ve done and still continue to do, I salute you both. I was mortified when The Gaffer and Scott decided to wrap up at the end of last season. However, I respected their joint decision and, if I were to be brutally honest, I did agree with them both. I decided, however, that for the good of the players of Garstang and for the good of the Football Club, I would stay on as Secretary and continue to give all I’ve got.
This turned out to be much, much harder than I thought possible as, last season in particular, I had given the lot. Everything that I had, including the kitchen sink, got thrown in. The Gaffer left me with the clothes I stand in and my soul, although he nearly got that off me as well. I think only a handful of people will know or understand that I went through the most demanding 12 months possible. Yes, we brought The West Lancs. Prem and Reserve Division One to Garstang FC but, my God, we went to hell and back to do it! Would I change anything? Not a chance!
So with The Gaffer and Scott gone, the club welcomed a few changes as Adrian Wilding came in as Chairman, Les Taylor arrived as Commercial Manager, and also a strange looking chap who reckoned he was going to produce some sort of website! I confess that I met all this with the typical Harkins type of greeting! Tell 'em all to clear off! We don’t need a Chairman, Commercial Manager or any of this website carry on! However, ten months down the line I am willing to admit how wrong I was. With all the changes, it hasn’t been the easiest of times and I have had my ups and downs with all three of them. However, Adrian, Les, and the Funny Looking Fella From Fleetwood, are now firm friends of mine and I have the utmost respect for all three of them. I know that, whilst they are strongly involved, Garstang Football Club can and will only go one way, and that is forwards, both on and off the field. They really have been a breath of fresh air and I personally thank them for all their efforts this season - and for putting up with me!
Like I said, this season I have found it hard and maybe I haven’t given as much this as I gave last season. I have heard people mention the fact but, my God, I’ve tried. I did every pre-season session; I've been to practically every game; and I’ve given it another good go.
I was no help really in the hunt for a successor to The Gaffer and Scott because, no matter who took over, I wasn’t going to be best chuffed, even if we’d of appointed Rafa or Fergie! Then I somehow stumbled upon the third manager of my secretarial stint! George arrived, and then he left. On a serious note though, I did try my best with George and I tried to help him out all pre-season and in the first seven league games and four cup games when he was manager, but it wasn’t to be and George bit the bullet!
I must mention that, soon after George had left, I sent a text out to a few people, one of whom was Ben Perry-Acton. My text went something like: ‘George has got a new job coaching at Travellers Choice’. Everybody else laughed and understood, but Benjy sent me a text back saying ‘Are they any good?’. I replied ’ Are you taking the Micky’, to which Benjy replied ‘Well what division do they play in?’. At this point I realised that Benjy must be thicker than I first thought so I had to phone him up and explain the joke and that Travellers Choice were a coach hire firm!
 |
My fourth manager arrived and I was delighted to see Scott back at the helm. At the time I said, as did one or two others, that Scott would probably be a better assistant than a manager and, yet again, I stand corrected as Scott Somerside is one hell of a manager. His achievement this season has been nothing short of out-standing and his next miracle will probably involve bread, fish and 5000 people! Of course Scott’s job was made harder by the loss of Tiny and Alan to Lancaster, and Benjy to Clitheroe. I am also willing to admit that I have missed those three lads tremendously since they left as they were probably the players to whom Ii was closest, although I advised all of them to go and fill their boots at their new clubs.
 |
So what’s next for me? Well, I intend to stay on the committee. I will run the line, warm the pies or even eat them if need be. However, I am certainly not committing to anything next season. I am delighted that Paul Hutton has agreed to take over as Club Secretary and I will help him out wherever I can. I hope that he has as enjoyable a time as I have had in the role. As I said earlier, Garstang FC, under the Chairmanship of Adrian Wilding, can and will go from strength to strength, and it will go a damn sight further in the future.
My final piece to you all is this: and more, much more than this, I did it my way!!.
Andy
 |
Andy will be very much missed as Club Secretary, having given many years of commitment, passion, and time to help the Club during his term of office. The committee, and everyone involved in Garstang FC, will join me in thanking Andy for all his efforts while in this position . Not only will his talents be missed at our club level, but also at league level.
At the end of the current season Andy will continue to work closely with Paul Hutton, who will take over as Club Secretary, to ensure a smooth transition. We all look forward to seeing Andy on the pitch side, enjoying the games from a different angle, next season and I personally look forward to working with him in his new role as 'just a committee member'.
Adrian Wilding
It will be impossible to replace the passion that Andy has for the club.
Two moments immediately spring to mind. Firstly, when Andy was the person egging everyone on to jump in the river after winning the championship last season with him having no care about his famous striped suit getting damaged.
The second moment of real passion was partly at my expense because it was in the game, last season, against Wyre who I was managing at the time. Danny Whittaker scored the opener for Garstang and the impromptu 'ove in' between Andy and Danny on the far touchline was something that would have been more appropriate behind closed doors. That was a real show of passion.
Congratulations on your success at Garstang, Andy, and I hope that with your continued support, last season's achievements can be repeated.
Paul Hutton
Garstang 2 Turton 1:
And we're third!
April 25th 18:00 hrs
Scott Somerside's 'hands up who's fit' team selection paid immediate dividends as his mobile forward line cut through the famous Turton back four, opening up a 2-0 half time lead with goals from Hunt and Cummins. In the second half though, Turton stopped arguing and started playing, scoring midway through the half. Garstang continued to create chances a-plenty, but it still needed some goal-line heroics from Brindle to pocket all three points.
Match report on first team newspage.
 |
| Brindle and Wilson are baffled for the Turton goal |
Elsewhere, Freckleton lost to Haslingden St Mary's, 0-1, puting us in third place. Dalton United won, beating Burnley United 2-0, to stay on our heels.
April "Score" Lottery Draw:
April 24th 20:00 hrs
Here are this month's winners:
£500 - 1541 - Bev Nicholson
£100 - 1769 - Norman Gill
£50 - 2076 - Jonathon Armstrong
£25 - 1567 - Eamonn Watson
£10 - 2119 - Tracey Dixon
The View from The Dugout:
Scott Somerside
April 15th 21:00 hrs
I know the silence from the First Team dug out has been deafening of late, i.e. no recent web site comments, but the games have been coming so thick and fast that by the time I’ve thought about the previous game, the next is upon us and it’s on with trying to put a side together.
I’ve gone on about missing players but, due to the injuries, a handful of reserve team players have been given their chances and have not let anyone down. Adrian Hunt, Rob Butler and, more recently, Kelvin Bardsley, Joe Miller, Jonny Baldwin and Andrea Maticheccia have all come in and played really well. Kelvin has just been edged out for ‘Man of the Match’ for the last two games and Aidrian is working his backside off for the team.
I’ll try and briefly sum up the recent games that I’ve not commented on, so here goes……
Fulwood (H) – awful, beaten by a side who were more organised and determined than we were on the day; very rare, but credit to them.
Barnoldswick (A) – could have had all three points but happy with one on the night, we finished really strongly.
Freckleton (H) – Geoff being Geoff, yes I should have taken him off before the trouble, but what a second half! Only going to be one winner. What determination, what responsibility by Adam Kilifin in stepping up for the penalty, and what a strike by Richard Wilson for the winner. Goal of the season? And in case anyone missed it, the save by Jimmy Brindle just after half time was of the highest calibre. Barnoldswick (H) – It’s nice to score early. Our opponents didn’t really turn up on Easter Monday but that’s up to them. I was pleased to get four goals for our efforts. Nice to hear Gaz Fawcett was seen training hard on Easter Sunday, well done Gaz.(No more!).
So, six out of six over Easter. Very pleased with that return and nice too for the fans who turned up to watch. I think they will have gone away relatively happy.
Ok, we’ve four left to play and, at this stage of the season, these games are almost impossible to predict. Some teams and players just want the season to end, and some, hopefully most of our boys, want to finish as strongly as possible. We’ll see. Third place is just possible, remains the target and is in our hands if we win all four remaining. Anything less than fourth though and I’ll be disappointed after having all worked so hard.
So for now, please continue to come and support us, both the First Team and the Reserves, it makes such a difference to the lads.
Scott
The View from The Dugout:
Burnley United
Scott Somerside
April 2nd 22:30 hrs
A new manager, several old players returning and four ‘new’ signings just before kick off and scoring seven goals over their previous two matches meant Burnley United were always going to be unpredictable.
Andy Ireland’s injury in the warm up meant a quick re-shuffle, the players probably reacted quicker to their positions than me. Niall Cummins and James Horton helping out in midfield took a little time to bed in, but they did really well.
As the match report rightly says, it wasn’t pretty but it was gutsy. Several other teams with less resilience would have come away with nothing. So at the end it was a good night and a good hard fought three points. Dave McEvoy was amongst those who stood out but, again, I could have picked any one from about half a dozen.
Eight games left and up into fifth place. Are we too far behind the top two to put in a serious challenge? Maybe, but a similar score line this Saturday and the run in might just get interesting. I'm not sure I saw the referee produce a card when Jimmy Brindle brought down their forward for the penalty, so we’ll check - “eight quid is eight quid” - and the match report has been ammended to show that Gaz Fawcett scored the second goal.
See you all on Saturday.
Scott
