Top of the pile in Lancashire after the first games of the Premiership season is Manchester City who secured an excellent 2-0 win at West Ham. Both goals were scored by Erikkson's new players and so the early indications suggest that this could be a good season for the Blues. Across the city Manchester United did not have such a happy start as they were held to a goalless draw by Reading, and even worse they will be without Wayne Rooney for the next few weeks after he fractured his foot. United's rivals Liverpool did get off to a winning start, beating Aston Villa 2-1, although their winning goal was from a free kick controversially given for a foul in which the Villa player appeared to be more fouled than foulee. Everton won the only all-Lancashire tie as they defeated Wigan 2-1 at Goodison Park. Osman and Anichebe put the Toffees 2-0 up and although Sibierski got one goal back, Everton held on for three points. Along with Wigan the only Lancashire side to lose were Bolton, who were beaten 3-1 at home by Newcastle. In a match dominated by talk of the return of Sam Allardyce, Newcastle raced to a 3-0 half time lead, although there was some hope for Bolton as Anelka scored a consolation goal following an end to end passing manoeuvre. That leaves Blackburn, who looked they were going to fall to defeat to Middlesbrough but two goals from substitutes, in the shape of Santa Cruz and Derbyshire, gave Rovers an excellent start to the season.
In the Championship Blackpool celebrated their return to the second flight with an excellent 1-0 win at Leicester. Also victorious were Burnley who caused a bit of an upset in a 2-1 defeat of West Brom. However Preston were unable to make it an opening day clean sweep as the could only manage a goalless draw at home to Norwich. In League One Oldham won 2-1 at home to Swansea, their goals coming at either end of the match. However manager John Sheridan was led off the field by police officers late on, after protesting too vehemently.
Morecambe were the only Lancashire League Two side at home on Saturday and over 3000 turned up to see their League debut. However they were held 0-0 by Barnet, but at least they are off the mark. Not so lucky were Rochdale who were thrashed 3-0 at Peterborough and will now be looking for a change in fortune. However there were two Lancashire winners - Accrington Stanley got a very good win at Wycombe, 1-0, whilst Bury spoilt the opening of MK Dons new stadium by going home with a 2-1 win.
Monday 13 August 2007
New Season Preview - Part Two
Sorry I've put this up a little late, but here is my preview of the various non-league leagues that started last Saturday.
Lancashire has just one side in the national division of the Conference, in the shape of Droylsden, newly promoted as champions of the Conference North. The Bloods will be one of the smaller clubs in the division this season, and for the likes of Oxford fans it may be a bit of a surprise when they go to the Butchers Arms. Droylsden haven't signed a great many players and are likely to be battling against relegation. A good start will be important and a lot will depend on how the clubs strikers, prolific at lower levels, cope with the step up.
Down into Conference North now and there are four Lancashire teams. Relegated last season were Southport, who have stayed full time and are hoping to go back up at the first time of asking. There has been a large turnover of players at the club and they only have a small squad. The first team is probably amongst the best in the league, but injuries and suspensions could harm the Sandgrounders promotion hopes. A playoff finish is perhaps the best they can hope for. The other Lancastrian new comers are NPL champions Burscough. Manager Liam Watson has won the Conference North before, but the Linnets will be looking to avoid relegation this season. Burscough have retained much of last seasons squad and should manage a lower mid-table position. This leaves the two sides that have been at this level for a while. Firstly Barrow will be looking to improve after a couple of poor seasons that have seen them closer to the bottom of the league than the top. Manager Phil Wilson has been retained but needs to do better if he is to keep his job, but I predict another season in the lower reaches of the league. And so to Leigh RMI. The Railwaymen are moving to a new ground in the next couple of years but I fear that they will be playing there at a lower level. They survived two years ago due to restructuring and made a slight improvement last season. However I can't see many weaker teams than them this year.
The NPL starts next weekend so straight on to the North West Counties League. The first division lost a number of its top clubs last season so an open title race can be expected. Amongst the Lancashire sides Trafford, Maine Road and Salford City will all be hoping to be in the leading pack, whilst Atherton Collieries could be up there if they have another good season. At the other end of the table Formby will be battling against relegation, whilst St Helens Town have had off field problems and are also likely to be trying to avoid the drop. That leaves seven Lancashire sides that are likely to be somewhere in the middle, although at this level there are always teams that do better or worse than expected, so who knows, perhaps one of Abbey Hey, Atherton LR, Bacup Borough, Colne, Flixton, Nelson, Ramsbottom United or Squires Gate might challenge this season, and I will predict Flixton to there or thereabouts when the season ends.
Finally Division Two. This league can crudely be split into those clubs that are looking for promotion and those that have been hanging round here for a while. In the first lot Padiham thought they might have had a chance of promotion last season, but the First Division was reduced in size and they will have to try again this year. Kirkham & Wesham are newly promoted from the West Lancashire League and have ambitious talk of the Football League within fifteen years. That goal is unlikely but promotion this year seems a much more reasonable suggestion. Of the other sides Bootle, Chadderton, Oldham Town and maybe one of the Ashton-in-Makerfield clubs might have a good campaign this season, whilst Blackpool Mechanics, Castleton Gabriels, Daisy Hill, Darwen and Holker Old Boys will be more worried about trying to finish out of the wooden spoon position.
Lancashire has just one side in the national division of the Conference, in the shape of Droylsden, newly promoted as champions of the Conference North. The Bloods will be one of the smaller clubs in the division this season, and for the likes of Oxford fans it may be a bit of a surprise when they go to the Butchers Arms. Droylsden haven't signed a great many players and are likely to be battling against relegation. A good start will be important and a lot will depend on how the clubs strikers, prolific at lower levels, cope with the step up.
Down into Conference North now and there are four Lancashire teams. Relegated last season were Southport, who have stayed full time and are hoping to go back up at the first time of asking. There has been a large turnover of players at the club and they only have a small squad. The first team is probably amongst the best in the league, but injuries and suspensions could harm the Sandgrounders promotion hopes. A playoff finish is perhaps the best they can hope for. The other Lancastrian new comers are NPL champions Burscough. Manager Liam Watson has won the Conference North before, but the Linnets will be looking to avoid relegation this season. Burscough have retained much of last seasons squad and should manage a lower mid-table position. This leaves the two sides that have been at this level for a while. Firstly Barrow will be looking to improve after a couple of poor seasons that have seen them closer to the bottom of the league than the top. Manager Phil Wilson has been retained but needs to do better if he is to keep his job, but I predict another season in the lower reaches of the league. And so to Leigh RMI. The Railwaymen are moving to a new ground in the next couple of years but I fear that they will be playing there at a lower level. They survived two years ago due to restructuring and made a slight improvement last season. However I can't see many weaker teams than them this year.
The NPL starts next weekend so straight on to the North West Counties League. The first division lost a number of its top clubs last season so an open title race can be expected. Amongst the Lancashire sides Trafford, Maine Road and Salford City will all be hoping to be in the leading pack, whilst Atherton Collieries could be up there if they have another good season. At the other end of the table Formby will be battling against relegation, whilst St Helens Town have had off field problems and are also likely to be trying to avoid the drop. That leaves seven Lancashire sides that are likely to be somewhere in the middle, although at this level there are always teams that do better or worse than expected, so who knows, perhaps one of Abbey Hey, Atherton LR, Bacup Borough, Colne, Flixton, Nelson, Ramsbottom United or Squires Gate might challenge this season, and I will predict Flixton to there or thereabouts when the season ends.
Finally Division Two. This league can crudely be split into those clubs that are looking for promotion and those that have been hanging round here for a while. In the first lot Padiham thought they might have had a chance of promotion last season, but the First Division was reduced in size and they will have to try again this year. Kirkham & Wesham are newly promoted from the West Lancashire League and have ambitious talk of the Football League within fifteen years. That goal is unlikely but promotion this year seems a much more reasonable suggestion. Of the other sides Bootle, Chadderton, Oldham Town and maybe one of the Ashton-in-Makerfield clubs might have a good campaign this season, whilst Blackpool Mechanics, Castleton Gabriels, Daisy Hill, Darwen and Holker Old Boys will be more worried about trying to finish out of the wooden spoon position.
Friday 10 August 2007
New Season Preview - Part One
The new season starts for a lot of leagues tomorrow, so here is the first part of my season preview, concentrating on Lancashire's Football League sides.
Starting in the Premiership and right at the top with the current champions, Manchester United. It doesn't take a great leap of faith to say that they'll be there or thereabouts again this season, and the players they have signed are a lot better than those they have let go. That said Nani and Anderson may take some time to adapt to the English game. However Hargreaves looks an excellent signing, whilst Carlos Tevez will surely want to get back to being talked about for his on-pitch exploits, rather than for contractual issues. United have a very good chance of retaining their title. However they need to make a good start, especially is Chelsea are struggling with injuries, and balancing domestic and European competition will be important. Of course Alex Ferguson has more experience of this than any other manager in the Premiership, and so he should be able to cope.
Liverpool have spent big in the transfer market this season, with the majority of the new players being of an attacking bent. A lot will be expected of record signing Fernando Torres, but he is another player who may take some time to adjust to the quirks of this league. An important factor will be how Rafa Benitez manages to rotate his strike force, which at times last season he seemed to have problems with. There is little doubt that Liverpool will secure a Champion's League place this season, but I feel that they are still a season or two away from making a serious challenge for the title.
The close-season at Everton has been dominated by talk of a new stadium in Kirkby, with fans split into both pro- and anti-move camps. In the transfer market they've been fairly quiet (at least until the last couple of days when they've been linked with Yakubu), with Phil Jagielka probably the biggest arrival. On the plus side they've not lost anyone crucial and so I would expect Everton to finish somewhere between the UEFA Cup places and mid-table. No doubt a lot of Evertonians will be hoping for a better European performance this season, in comparison to their last effort when they were knocked out of both Champions League and UEFA Cup at the first attempt.
Lancashire has two other UEFA Cup qualifiers in Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers. Bolton are now entering the period after Sam Allardyce and 'Little' Sam Lee will struggle to repeat the highs of his predecessor's reign. Wanderers are another club not to have made any particularly exciting moves in the transfer market, but again they have not lost anyone significant either, with the retention of Nicolas Anelka being crucial. I would be surprised if they make the UEFA Cup again but can probably expect a solid mid-table finish. Blackburn on the other hand may well improve their position this season. The signing of Roque Santa Cruz could be good if he can adapt to the English game, whilst there are a number of young players at the club who have now got some experience and will be expected to make serious contributions to the team. Balancing their domestic and European campaigns will be an issue, but I expect them to be much closer to the UEFA Cup spots this season, rather than relying on two other sides rejecting the Intertoto Cup.
Manchester City have certainly had an interesting summer. They have been bought by a Thai man wanted by that nation's authorities for various misdemeanours and he has appointed Sven Goran-Eriksson as manager. Sven will want to rebuild his reputation after his England years and Manchester City are also in need of rebuilding. A lot of money has been spent, mostly on players that are only known to Football Manager addicts, and a lot will depend on how many of them play as well as Tord Grip hopes they will. The best case scenario is a challenge for a European place, whilst the worse case would probably see the owner in a Thai prison and the club in crisis (again).
That leaves Wigan Athletic. They only survived with a final day victory last season and I suspect that they will struggle again. New manager Chris Hutchings does not have a particularly happy managerial record whilst their signings do not exactly send the pulse racing. New signing Jason Koumas will be important, and it may well be that too much depends on him. The losses of Baines and McCulloch are also marks against the club's survival. It could well be a long season for the Latics.
Three Lancastrian clubs are playing in the Championship this season. The most easterly are Burnley, who haven't greatly strengthened their squad, but have not lost anyone they can't do without. Another season of lower mid-table is quite likely, although injuries may send them a bit closer to the trapdoor then they might like. Down the Ribble Valley to Preston North End, for whom the big question is who will take over from David Nugent? Billy Jones from Crewe has been signed, along with Hawley and Nicholls from Carlisle, but anything higher than a mid-table finish looks unlikely. Completing our journey along the Ribble we come to the sea and Blackpool. The Tangerines are playing in the second tier for the first time in 29 years and survival will be their main aim. They have made some interesting signings, but a lack of experience at this level may harm their chances.
In League One Oldham Athletic are the only side flying the Red Rose flag. Last season they reached the playoffs and no doubt they will be hoping for at least the same again this year. The signings that the club have made look good and Oldham should at least repeat their feats of last season, whilst a challenge for automatic promotion cannot be ruled out.
Finally League Two, and first of all this levels longest inhabitants Rochdale. Dale finished a couple of places outside the playoffs last season and might be hoping to do a little better this season. Whether they will is debatable, but they should finish well clear of the relegation zone. For the county's other three representatives at this level the drop may be a more pressing concern. Bury finished just two places above the relegation places last year and will be looking for an improvement. I think that is likely, but they will have to hope to avoid too many injuries. Accrington Stanley (second version) finished one place above Bury in their first season in the League. They have signed a number of players from far and wide but I suspect they will be in for another tough season. And so onto Lancashire's newest Football League team, Morecambe. The Shrimps have made some good signings and will be happy with safety, which I think that they will achieve.
Starting in the Premiership and right at the top with the current champions, Manchester United. It doesn't take a great leap of faith to say that they'll be there or thereabouts again this season, and the players they have signed are a lot better than those they have let go. That said Nani and Anderson may take some time to adapt to the English game. However Hargreaves looks an excellent signing, whilst Carlos Tevez will surely want to get back to being talked about for his on-pitch exploits, rather than for contractual issues. United have a very good chance of retaining their title. However they need to make a good start, especially is Chelsea are struggling with injuries, and balancing domestic and European competition will be important. Of course Alex Ferguson has more experience of this than any other manager in the Premiership, and so he should be able to cope.
Liverpool have spent big in the transfer market this season, with the majority of the new players being of an attacking bent. A lot will be expected of record signing Fernando Torres, but he is another player who may take some time to adjust to the quirks of this league. An important factor will be how Rafa Benitez manages to rotate his strike force, which at times last season he seemed to have problems with. There is little doubt that Liverpool will secure a Champion's League place this season, but I feel that they are still a season or two away from making a serious challenge for the title.
The close-season at Everton has been dominated by talk of a new stadium in Kirkby, with fans split into both pro- and anti-move camps. In the transfer market they've been fairly quiet (at least until the last couple of days when they've been linked with Yakubu), with Phil Jagielka probably the biggest arrival. On the plus side they've not lost anyone crucial and so I would expect Everton to finish somewhere between the UEFA Cup places and mid-table. No doubt a lot of Evertonians will be hoping for a better European performance this season, in comparison to their last effort when they were knocked out of both Champions League and UEFA Cup at the first attempt.
Lancashire has two other UEFA Cup qualifiers in Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers. Bolton are now entering the period after Sam Allardyce and 'Little' Sam Lee will struggle to repeat the highs of his predecessor's reign. Wanderers are another club not to have made any particularly exciting moves in the transfer market, but again they have not lost anyone significant either, with the retention of Nicolas Anelka being crucial. I would be surprised if they make the UEFA Cup again but can probably expect a solid mid-table finish. Blackburn on the other hand may well improve their position this season. The signing of Roque Santa Cruz could be good if he can adapt to the English game, whilst there are a number of young players at the club who have now got some experience and will be expected to make serious contributions to the team. Balancing their domestic and European campaigns will be an issue, but I expect them to be much closer to the UEFA Cup spots this season, rather than relying on two other sides rejecting the Intertoto Cup.
Manchester City have certainly had an interesting summer. They have been bought by a Thai man wanted by that nation's authorities for various misdemeanours and he has appointed Sven Goran-Eriksson as manager. Sven will want to rebuild his reputation after his England years and Manchester City are also in need of rebuilding. A lot of money has been spent, mostly on players that are only known to Football Manager addicts, and a lot will depend on how many of them play as well as Tord Grip hopes they will. The best case scenario is a challenge for a European place, whilst the worse case would probably see the owner in a Thai prison and the club in crisis (again).
That leaves Wigan Athletic. They only survived with a final day victory last season and I suspect that they will struggle again. New manager Chris Hutchings does not have a particularly happy managerial record whilst their signings do not exactly send the pulse racing. New signing Jason Koumas will be important, and it may well be that too much depends on him. The losses of Baines and McCulloch are also marks against the club's survival. It could well be a long season for the Latics.
Three Lancastrian clubs are playing in the Championship this season. The most easterly are Burnley, who haven't greatly strengthened their squad, but have not lost anyone they can't do without. Another season of lower mid-table is quite likely, although injuries may send them a bit closer to the trapdoor then they might like. Down the Ribble Valley to Preston North End, for whom the big question is who will take over from David Nugent? Billy Jones from Crewe has been signed, along with Hawley and Nicholls from Carlisle, but anything higher than a mid-table finish looks unlikely. Completing our journey along the Ribble we come to the sea and Blackpool. The Tangerines are playing in the second tier for the first time in 29 years and survival will be their main aim. They have made some interesting signings, but a lack of experience at this level may harm their chances.
In League One Oldham Athletic are the only side flying the Red Rose flag. Last season they reached the playoffs and no doubt they will be hoping for at least the same again this year. The signings that the club have made look good and Oldham should at least repeat their feats of last season, whilst a challenge for automatic promotion cannot be ruled out.
Finally League Two, and first of all this levels longest inhabitants Rochdale. Dale finished a couple of places outside the playoffs last season and might be hoping to do a little better this season. Whether they will is debatable, but they should finish well clear of the relegation zone. For the county's other three representatives at this level the drop may be a more pressing concern. Bury finished just two places above the relegation places last year and will be looking for an improvement. I think that is likely, but they will have to hope to avoid too many injuries. Accrington Stanley (second version) finished one place above Bury in their first season in the League. They have signed a number of players from far and wide but I suspect they will be in for another tough season. And so onto Lancashire's newest Football League team, Morecambe. The Shrimps have made some good signings and will be happy with safety, which I think that they will achieve.
Gold Line Up Almost Complete
Three more matches in the Goldline Trophy have been played over the last couple of days. On Wednesday Tempest United hosted Ashton Town in a group 4 match. Both sides could qualify for the quarter finals with a win, and in the end it was Ashton who went through, winning a tempestuous game 2-1. However they did not score enough goals to displace Ashton Athletic at the top of the group so have had to settle for second place. The night's other match was in group 1 where Atherton Collieries travelled to already eliminated Stoneclough, and returned home with a 1-1 draw. The upshot of this was that Charnock Richard have now qualified for the quarter finals, but who will join them is still to be determined. In an as yet unscheduled game Atherton Colls will go to Hindsford with both sides able to go through with a victory. Atherton do have the advantage though, in that they can also go through to the next stage with a draw.
Last night saw the final game in group 2. Both Atherton Town and Euxton Villa had already qualified for the quarter finals, with the result of this match determining who would win the group. As it was it was the Manchester League side who won 2-0, consigning Euxton to runners up spot.
Last night saw the final game in group 2. Both Atherton Town and Euxton Villa had already qualified for the quarter finals, with the result of this match determining who would win the group. As it was it was the Manchester League side who won 2-0, consigning Euxton to runners up spot.
Wednesday 8 August 2007
Brightly Met
The group stages of the Goldline Trophy are drawing to a close and last night Group 3 became the first to complete all of its games. Breightmet United, who have played all three of their matches within the last week, made it three wins from three as they beat Atherton LR 3-0. This secured top spot in the group for the Manchester League side, whilst LR go through as runners up. In the nights other match Ashton Athletic secured a quarter final place, and most likely first place in group 4, as they defeated Elton Vale 6-3. The final placings in this group may still change depending on the result of tonight's game between Tempest United and Ashton Town. Tempest need a win to qualify whilst Town will go through with a draw. In theory a win for Ashton Town could raise them above their local rivals. This would put the two sides on seven points each. However as goals scored determines the placing of teams on equal points, Town will need at least eight tonight, having scored five goals to Athletic's thirteen.
Tonight's other Goldline match is in group 1 between Stoneclough and Atherton Collieries. Stoneclough are already eliminated so it is Collieries that are the only one with something to play for. The Atherton side can qualify tonight with a win should the secure at least five goals, whilst if this match is drawn then Charnock Richard will go into the quarter finals, and Collieries will have to wait upon their match against Hindsford.
Tonight's other Goldline match is in group 1 between Stoneclough and Atherton Collieries. Stoneclough are already eliminated so it is Collieries that are the only one with something to play for. The Atherton side can qualify tonight with a win should the secure at least five goals, whilst if this match is drawn then Charnock Richard will go into the quarter finals, and Collieries will have to wait upon their match against Hindsford.
Tuesday 7 August 2007
Van der Sar Saves Secure Shield
As I predicted the fate of Community Shield was decided by a penalty shoot-out on Sunday, after a fairly uninspiring ninety minutes of football. Ryan Giggs had put Manchester United ahead but Florent Malouda hit back for Chelsea just before half time. The second half was goalless and so penalties began. It was here that Edwin van der Sar, whose future as United's first choice keeper has been a talking point for some weeks, gave a timely reminder of his talents as he saved successive penalties from Pizarro, Lampard and Wright-Phillips. Admittedly he was helped by all three placing their kicks in fairly nice positions for him, but even so. Ferdinand, Carrick and Rooney made no mistakes with their efforts, and so United took the shield home for the sixteenth time.
Shortly after their rivals had won the first official silverware of the new season, Liverpool continued their quest for a pre-season trophy as they faced Feyenoord in the Port of Rotterdam Tournement. A 2-0 win over Shanghai meant a win would be enough to secure the trophy but Liverpool missed out as they could only draw 1-1. Royston Drenthe had put the hosts in front, but Gerrard equalised before the match fell into a bit of a squabble, with the Liverpool captain perhaps being lucky to stay on the field after seemingly hitting one of the opponents, although he was booked along with six team-mates. The tournament was won by Porto after they beat Shanghai 3-0.
Tonight sees two more Goldline Trophy games. In Group 3 Breightmet United host Atherton LR. Both sides have already qualified so this match will just determine who wins the group. Anything but an Atherton win will see the hosts take top spot. More interesting is the match in Group 4 in which Elton Vale host Ashton Athletic. The home side are already eliminated and Athletic will qualify for the next round with a draw. Even a defeat may be okay, providing that Ashton Town beat Tempest United tomorrow, with even a low scoring draw in that game perhaps being enough for Athletic. However it will of course be easiest for them to do their own work tonight.
The West Lancashire League continues tonight with early leaders Blackpool Wren Rovers hosting local rivals Poulton Town, who will be hoping not to lose as heavily as they did on Saturday. Other matches of note include Haslingden St Mary's trip to Turton and Garstang's long trip to Dalton United. Bottom side Fleetwood Hesketh will be hoping for better luck today as they host Preston-based Fulwood Amateurs.
Shortly after their rivals had won the first official silverware of the new season, Liverpool continued their quest for a pre-season trophy as they faced Feyenoord in the Port of Rotterdam Tournement. A 2-0 win over Shanghai meant a win would be enough to secure the trophy but Liverpool missed out as they could only draw 1-1. Royston Drenthe had put the hosts in front, but Gerrard equalised before the match fell into a bit of a squabble, with the Liverpool captain perhaps being lucky to stay on the field after seemingly hitting one of the opponents, although he was booked along with six team-mates. The tournament was won by Porto after they beat Shanghai 3-0.
Tonight sees two more Goldline Trophy games. In Group 3 Breightmet United host Atherton LR. Both sides have already qualified so this match will just determine who wins the group. Anything but an Atherton win will see the hosts take top spot. More interesting is the match in Group 4 in which Elton Vale host Ashton Athletic. The home side are already eliminated and Athletic will qualify for the next round with a draw. Even a defeat may be okay, providing that Ashton Town beat Tempest United tomorrow, with even a low scoring draw in that game perhaps being enough for Athletic. However it will of course be easiest for them to do their own work tonight.
The West Lancashire League continues tonight with early leaders Blackpool Wren Rovers hosting local rivals Poulton Town, who will be hoping not to lose as heavily as they did on Saturday. Other matches of note include Haslingden St Mary's trip to Turton and Garstang's long trip to Dalton United. Bottom side Fleetwood Hesketh will be hoping for better luck today as they host Preston-based Fulwood Amateurs.
Sunday 5 August 2007
Care In The Community?
Yesterday saw the first teams through to the quarter finals of the Goldline Trophy, although of the four going through only two were actually playing. First up, group 2 and in a bit of an upset Prestwich Heys, who have reached the last two finals and were the defending champions, were eliminated when the could only draw at home to Atherton Town. Atherton had been two goals up and although Prestwich did come back, they couldn't find a winner to extend their campaign. The point that Atherton picked up sees them through to the quarter finals, and also took Euxton Villa into the next round. Euxton go to Atherton on Thursday to decide who wins the group.
Yesterday's other Goldline game came in group 3 as Daisy Hill hosted Breightmet United. Breightmet won for the second time in three days, which was enough to take them into the quarter finals. The 3-1 win for the Manchester League side also meant that Atherton LR have qualified. Again the only thing left to determine is who wins the group, with Breightmet and LR meeting on Tuesday.
The West Lancashire League opened with every team in the Premier Division (and indeed in the First Division) scoring at least one goal. The top scorers were Blackpool Wren Rovers who go top of the nascent table after beating Southport side Fleetwood Hesketh by six goals to one. The other high scorers were Burnley United who had a fairly straightforward 5-2 win at First Division champions Poulton Town. Although Poulton found the step up tough, their fellow promotees Garstang had a much better start, as they defeated Eagley 2-1. In the match between last years second and fifth placed teams, Haslingden St Mary's took the three points with a 2-1 victory over Charnock Richard, whilst Dalton United, Euxton Villa and Fulwood Amateurs also won their opening games. The only draw was at Turton with Coppull United taking home one point.
Later this afternoon is the traditional (since the 1970s anyway) starter of the English season, the Community (nee Charity) Shield and sees Premiership champions Manchester United take on FA Cup winners Chelsea. To be honest I'm not sure that either side will be too bothered about winning the Shield, but I doubt that either side will be too keen to lose to their potential title rivals. For that reason I suspect it will be a fairly cagey affair, and would not be too surprised if the match went to a penalty shoot-out
Yesterday's other Goldline game came in group 3 as Daisy Hill hosted Breightmet United. Breightmet won for the second time in three days, which was enough to take them into the quarter finals. The 3-1 win for the Manchester League side also meant that Atherton LR have qualified. Again the only thing left to determine is who wins the group, with Breightmet and LR meeting on Tuesday.
The West Lancashire League opened with every team in the Premier Division (and indeed in the First Division) scoring at least one goal. The top scorers were Blackpool Wren Rovers who go top of the nascent table after beating Southport side Fleetwood Hesketh by six goals to one. The other high scorers were Burnley United who had a fairly straightforward 5-2 win at First Division champions Poulton Town. Although Poulton found the step up tough, their fellow promotees Garstang had a much better start, as they defeated Eagley 2-1. In the match between last years second and fifth placed teams, Haslingden St Mary's took the three points with a 2-1 victory over Charnock Richard, whilst Dalton United, Euxton Villa and Fulwood Amateurs also won their opening games. The only draw was at Turton with Coppull United taking home one point.
Later this afternoon is the traditional (since the 1970s anyway) starter of the English season, the Community (nee Charity) Shield and sees Premiership champions Manchester United take on FA Cup winners Chelsea. To be honest I'm not sure that either side will be too bothered about winning the Shield, but I doubt that either side will be too keen to lose to their potential title rivals. For that reason I suspect it will be a fairly cagey affair, and would not be too surprised if the match went to a penalty shoot-out
Friday 3 August 2007
The Big Kick-Off
First up Breightmet United finally started their Goldline Trophy campaign last night, with a 3-1 win at Bolton County. This result eliminates sees County eliminated. Breightmet now go on to play at Daisy Hill tomorrow, with the home side going through with a victory. However should Breightmet win then they will go through with Atherton LR. A draw will leave all three sides awaiting the result of Breightmet's meeting with LR. Tomorrow's other Goldline match is in Group 2 and sees Prestwich Heys host Atherton Town. Holders Heys can guarantee their future in the competition with a win, whilst a draw will leave them awaiting the result of Atherton's game with Euxton Villa. Defeat will eliminate Heys and see Atherton qualify alongside Euxton.
After Liverpool's attempts to win a tinpot trophy in Hong Kong were dashed by Portsmouth, the Reds tonight played the first of two matches in the Port of Rotterdam Tournement, and ran out 2-0 wins over Shanghai Shenhua. An early goal from record signing Fernando Torres put Liverpool in front and substitute Steven Gerrard secured the win with a second just after the hour. Liverpool now play hosts Feyenoord on Sunday and a victory is likely to give them the trophy.
Tomorrow's biggest event is the kick-off of the West Lancashire League, seemingly the first competition in England to get going. Over the last few years predicting Kirkham & Wesham for the title has been an easy selection, the Fylde side having won six of the last seven league titles. However they have now moved on to the North West Counties League, and so the title race is likely to be the most open in a number of years. Tomorrow's top match may be between last seasons runners up Haslingden St Mary's and Lancashire Amateur Shield winners Charnock Richard, both of whom who will be hoping to challenging. Of the other teams likely to be in the title picture Blackpool Wren Rovers host Fleetwood Hesketh, whilst Freckleton go to Euxton. The two promoted teams are at home, Poulton Town hosting Burnley United and Garstang entertaining Eagley. Predicting at this level is difficult, not knowing whos lost and whos gained players, but I'll predict Charnock Richard for the title, so you might as well put your money on them being relegated!
After Liverpool's attempts to win a tinpot trophy in Hong Kong were dashed by Portsmouth, the Reds tonight played the first of two matches in the Port of Rotterdam Tournement, and ran out 2-0 wins over Shanghai Shenhua. An early goal from record signing Fernando Torres put Liverpool in front and substitute Steven Gerrard secured the win with a second just after the hour. Liverpool now play hosts Feyenoord on Sunday and a victory is likely to give them the trophy.
Tomorrow's biggest event is the kick-off of the West Lancashire League, seemingly the first competition in England to get going. Over the last few years predicting Kirkham & Wesham for the title has been an easy selection, the Fylde side having won six of the last seven league titles. However they have now moved on to the North West Counties League, and so the title race is likely to be the most open in a number of years. Tomorrow's top match may be between last seasons runners up Haslingden St Mary's and Lancashire Amateur Shield winners Charnock Richard, both of whom who will be hoping to challenging. Of the other teams likely to be in the title picture Blackpool Wren Rovers host Fleetwood Hesketh, whilst Freckleton go to Euxton. The two promoted teams are at home, Poulton Town hosting Burnley United and Garstang entertaining Eagley. Predicting at this level is difficult, not knowing whos lost and whos gained players, but I'll predict Charnock Richard for the title, so you might as well put your money on them being relegated!
Thursday 2 August 2007
Eagles Down and Out
Two games in the Goldline Trophy last night. In Group 2 Eagley were eliminated after a 3-0 defeat at Euxton Villa. Euxton were two goals ahead early on, although Eagley did have a chance to get back in the game when they were awarded a penalty. However this was saved and Euxton secured the points with a third goal in the second half. Euxton now head the group, and can secure a quarter final place with a victory against Atherton Town next week.
In Group 4 Tempest United's chances of qualification suffered a blow when they lost 3-1 at Ashton Athletic. This result leaves Athletic joint top of the group with neighbours Ashton Town, whilst Tempest are a point behind, with each side having one game remaining; Athletic going to already eliminated Elton Vale next Tuesday, whilst Tempest host Ashton Town on Wednesday. Athletic are in the strongest position, with anything but a heavy defeat likely to send them through, whilst any winner in the other game will almost certainly qualify alongside them.
Tonight sees just one game, this time in Group 3. Finally Breightmet United get their campaign started as they host Bolton County. Anything but a win will eliminate Bolton whilst Breightmet have their fate, and indeed that of the entire group, in their own hands. Two victories will definitely see Breightmet through, although they should find future opponents Atherton LR and Daisy Hill tougher than tonight's opposition.
In Group 4 Tempest United's chances of qualification suffered a blow when they lost 3-1 at Ashton Athletic. This result leaves Athletic joint top of the group with neighbours Ashton Town, whilst Tempest are a point behind, with each side having one game remaining; Athletic going to already eliminated Elton Vale next Tuesday, whilst Tempest host Ashton Town on Wednesday. Athletic are in the strongest position, with anything but a heavy defeat likely to send them through, whilst any winner in the other game will almost certainly qualify alongside them.
Tonight sees just one game, this time in Group 3. Finally Breightmet United get their campaign started as they host Bolton County. Anything but a win will eliminate Bolton whilst Breightmet have their fate, and indeed that of the entire group, in their own hands. Two victories will definitely see Breightmet through, although they should find future opponents Atherton LR and Daisy Hill tougher than tonight's opposition.
Wednesday 1 August 2007
Into August
First a round up of the weeks first Goldline Trophy games. On Monday Charnock Richard became the first side to complete their fixtures as they took on Atherton Collieries at Alder House. Charnock, needing just a draw to secure a quarter final place, have been left waiting on other results as Collieries ran rampant and secure a 5-1 victory. In the nights other match, also in group 1, Stoneclough hosted Hindsford. This match was definitely one for the forwards, with the visitors securing a 6-4 victory. This result sees Stoneclough eliminated, whilst Hindsford are likely to need a win over Atherton Colls if they are to progress.
Last night saw one match each in groups 3 and 4. The group 3 match was between Daisy Hill and Bolton County. Both came into the game having had one match already, in both cases versus Atherton LR. Daisy Hill had lost 3-0 whilst County had managed a 0-0 draw. However these results turned out to be meaningless as Daisy Hill ran out 4-0 winners. This leaves Daisy Hill one point behind leaders LR, whilst Bolton are two further behind. These three sides all have one game left, in each case against Breightmet United, who finally kick-off tomorrow when the visit Bolton. I would expect the two North West Counties sides to go through, but Breightmet have their fortune in their own hands.
Finally to group 4. Whilst this weeks other three matches have seen a total of twenty goals, Elton Vale's match with Ashton Town saw just one, which gave Ashton all three points. This gives Ashton the lead of the group, whilst Elton Vale are eliminated. The next match in this group is tonight when Ashton Athletic host Tempest United. A Tempest win will put them into the quarter finals, whilst Athletic can go level with their neighbours Town with a win, and thus setting up a three way battle for qualification next week.
Tonight's other game is in group 2 where Euxton Villa host Eagley. So far both sides have secured a draw with Prestwich Heys, whilst Eagley have also been defeated by Atherton Town. Realistically both sides need a win if they are to go through to the next stage of the competition, although Eagley's need is more pressing as they have no more matches after this. In the West Lancashire league last season the two sides meetings saw Eagley win 5-1 at Euxton, with the return a 2-2 draw, so Eagley may have a slight advantage.
Last night saw one match each in groups 3 and 4. The group 3 match was between Daisy Hill and Bolton County. Both came into the game having had one match already, in both cases versus Atherton LR. Daisy Hill had lost 3-0 whilst County had managed a 0-0 draw. However these results turned out to be meaningless as Daisy Hill ran out 4-0 winners. This leaves Daisy Hill one point behind leaders LR, whilst Bolton are two further behind. These three sides all have one game left, in each case against Breightmet United, who finally kick-off tomorrow when the visit Bolton. I would expect the two North West Counties sides to go through, but Breightmet have their fortune in their own hands.
Finally to group 4. Whilst this weeks other three matches have seen a total of twenty goals, Elton Vale's match with Ashton Town saw just one, which gave Ashton all three points. This gives Ashton the lead of the group, whilst Elton Vale are eliminated. The next match in this group is tonight when Ashton Athletic host Tempest United. A Tempest win will put them into the quarter finals, whilst Athletic can go level with their neighbours Town with a win, and thus setting up a three way battle for qualification next week.
Tonight's other game is in group 2 where Euxton Villa host Eagley. So far both sides have secured a draw with Prestwich Heys, whilst Eagley have also been defeated by Atherton Town. Realistically both sides need a win if they are to go through to the next stage of the competition, although Eagley's need is more pressing as they have no more matches after this. In the West Lancashire league last season the two sides meetings saw Eagley win 5-1 at Euxton, with the return a 2-2 draw, so Eagley may have a slight advantage.
Monday 30 July 2007
Weekend Report
I've been away for a few days so an update on the games of the last weekend. Thursday saw two matches in the Goldline Trophy scheduled. However heavy rain saw Atherton Town's match with Euxton Villa called off, whilst Hindsford and Atherton Collieries did begin, but again rain intervened, with the match being abandoned in the first half. As yet no news on re-arrangements.
Friday was the final of the Premier League Asia Trophy in Hong Kong. Liverpool, with new signings Torres and Babel now with all the correct paperwork, failed to score against Portsmouth in a game of missed chances. Eventually, after a 0-0 draw, the match went to penalties. Unusually it was Liverpool who lost out in this, Torres and Benayoun missing their attempts, as Portsmouth won the shoot out 4-2 and thus taking the "coveted" trophy back to the south coast.
On Saturday Blackburn Rovers completed a fairly straightforward victory over a limited Vetra Vilnius side in the 3rd round of the Intertoto Cup. Goals from Pedersen, Roberts, McCarthy and Samba gave Rovers a 4-0 win on the day, making it 6-0 on aggregate. Blackburn now qualify for the 2nd qualifying round of the UEFA Cup and await Friday's draw to see who their next opponents will be.
Saturday also saw two more Goldline Trophy games.Holders Prestwich Heys could again only draw at Eagley in their group 2 game. A match, in which both sides led, finished up 3-3. Heys now have two points from two games and will need a win at home to Atherton Town in order to secure qualification for the quarter finals. The days other match was also a draw, Atherton LR managing only a 0-0 draw at home to Bolton County in group 3. LR are still very much in the driving seat for qualification, realistically needing just a draw in their final match against Breightmet United, whilst County will find the point useful in their qualification attempt.
In today's games, both in Group 1, Charnock Richard can secure a quarter final place with at least a draw at Atherton Collieries, and even a defeat is unlikely to harm their chances too much. Collieries are playing their first match in this years competition and will be looking for a good start to their campaign. In the other match both Stoneclough and Hindsford will be looking to get back on track after defeats to Charnock Richard, with defeat almost certain to end any losers hopes of a quarter final place.
Friday was the final of the Premier League Asia Trophy in Hong Kong. Liverpool, with new signings Torres and Babel now with all the correct paperwork, failed to score against Portsmouth in a game of missed chances. Eventually, after a 0-0 draw, the match went to penalties. Unusually it was Liverpool who lost out in this, Torres and Benayoun missing their attempts, as Portsmouth won the shoot out 4-2 and thus taking the "coveted" trophy back to the south coast.
On Saturday Blackburn Rovers completed a fairly straightforward victory over a limited Vetra Vilnius side in the 3rd round of the Intertoto Cup. Goals from Pedersen, Roberts, McCarthy and Samba gave Rovers a 4-0 win on the day, making it 6-0 on aggregate. Blackburn now qualify for the 2nd qualifying round of the UEFA Cup and await Friday's draw to see who their next opponents will be.
Saturday also saw two more Goldline Trophy games.Holders Prestwich Heys could again only draw at Eagley in their group 2 game. A match, in which both sides led, finished up 3-3. Heys now have two points from two games and will need a win at home to Atherton Town in order to secure qualification for the quarter finals. The days other match was also a draw, Atherton LR managing only a 0-0 draw at home to Bolton County in group 3. LR are still very much in the driving seat for qualification, realistically needing just a draw in their final match against Breightmet United, whilst County will find the point useful in their qualification attempt.
In today's games, both in Group 1, Charnock Richard can secure a quarter final place with at least a draw at Atherton Collieries, and even a defeat is unlikely to harm their chances too much. Collieries are playing their first match in this years competition and will be looking for a good start to their campaign. In the other match both Stoneclough and Hindsford will be looking to get back on track after defeats to Charnock Richard, with defeat almost certain to end any losers hopes of a quarter final place.
Wednesday 25 July 2007
Tempest In Bury
Three competitive games yesterday, so I'll start with the most easterly. Thus to Hong Kong where Liverpool secured a place in the final of the Premier League Asia Trophy with a 3-1 victory over local side South China. The Reds were without Fernando Torres and Ryan Babel, both still waiting for international clearance, and Steven Gerrard who was injured. However Riise gave Liverpool an early lead, with Alonso adding a penalty before the half hour mark. The Hong Kong side made a come back, scoring just before half time, but although Liverpool found the hot conditions tiring, they secured a place in Friday's final against Portsmouth, with Daniel Agger scoring a third goal before the end.
Moving 10 000 miles or so west to Bury, and Group 4 of the Goldline Trophy began with a seven goal thriller between hosts Elton Vale and Tempest United. The West Lancashire League side eventually run out as 4-3 winners. Finally in Group 3 there was an all North West Counties tie between Atherton LR and Daisy Hill. As would be expected from their relative league placings it was LR that secured all three points, ending up with a fairly straightforward 3-0 victory.
Tonight sees two more games. In Group 1 Charnock Richard are looking for a victory that would probably secure a place in the next round, as they host Stoneclough, who have yet to play in this years competition. In Group 4 it is the Ashton-in-Makerfield derby as Ashton Athletic host Ashton Town. Both sides play in the North West Counties Second Divison, so there shouldn't be too much between them. Last season Town won 2-1 at Athletic's Brocstedes Park, whilst the return match was a 2-2 draw. Overall in the league Town finished 8th, whilst Athletic were 16th, and so Ashton Town may start as slight favourites.
Moving 10 000 miles or so west to Bury, and Group 4 of the Goldline Trophy began with a seven goal thriller between hosts Elton Vale and Tempest United. The West Lancashire League side eventually run out as 4-3 winners. Finally in Group 3 there was an all North West Counties tie between Atherton LR and Daisy Hill. As would be expected from their relative league placings it was LR that secured all three points, ending up with a fairly straightforward 3-0 victory.
Tonight sees two more games. In Group 1 Charnock Richard are looking for a victory that would probably secure a place in the next round, as they host Stoneclough, who have yet to play in this years competition. In Group 4 it is the Ashton-in-Makerfield derby as Ashton Athletic host Ashton Town. Both sides play in the North West Counties Second Divison, so there shouldn't be too much between them. Last season Town won 2-1 at Athletic's Brocstedes Park, whilst the return match was a 2-2 draw. Overall in the league Town finished 8th, whilst Athletic were 16th, and so Ashton Town may start as slight favourites.
Tuesday 24 July 2007
Between The Showers
Well, the Goldline Trophy did get begun last night after the postponements of Saturday. In Group 1 Charnock Richard ran to an easy 5-1 victory over Hindsford. Charnock host Stoneclough on Wednesday and another victory should see them qualify for the quarter finals.
There were also two games in Group 3. Holders Prestwich Heys faced a harder than expected test at Euxton Villa. Indeed Euxton led 2-0 at half time, but the Manchester League champions did secure a point with a second half comeback; final score 2-2. In the other match Atherton Town went to the head of the group with a 2-0 victory over Eagley.
Tonight sees the opening matches in Groups 3 and 4. There is an all North West Counties clash in Group 3 as First Division Atherton LR host Second Division Daisy Hill (kick off 7:45pm). Last season Atherton finished in a lower mid-table position, whilst Daisy Hill were only three places off the foot of their division, and so I would expect that LR will secure victory tonight, especially with home advantage.
The opening match in Group 4 kicks off an hour or so earlier than the one at Crilly Park and sees Elton Vale host Tempest United. Bury-based Elton Vale finished fourth in the First Division of the Manchester League last season, although they were nine points adrift of the promotion places. Visitors Tempest, from Lostock way, are another team playing their league's second tier, in this case the West Lancashire League. Last season United finished in mid-table, and so I'll predict victory for Elton Vale, but I wouldn't put money on it.
Leaving the Goldline Trophy behind, there is another competition beginning today, although it is probably less prestigious to win. This is the Premier League Asia Trophy, involving Fulham, Liverpool and Portsmouth in the obvious location of Hong Kong. Portsmouth have already qualified for the final with a 1-0 victory over Fulham, whilst Liverpool kick-off in a few minutes time against local side South China. Liverpool should win fairly easily and a result similar to Manchester United's 6-0 friendly victory over Chinese side Shenzhen yesterday would not be surprising. Whether travelling half way round the globe is the best way of preparing for the new season is certainly debatable, but playing concerns are of course very much secondary to the commerical aspects of these tours.
There were also two games in Group 3. Holders Prestwich Heys faced a harder than expected test at Euxton Villa. Indeed Euxton led 2-0 at half time, but the Manchester League champions did secure a point with a second half comeback; final score 2-2. In the other match Atherton Town went to the head of the group with a 2-0 victory over Eagley.
Tonight sees the opening matches in Groups 3 and 4. There is an all North West Counties clash in Group 3 as First Division Atherton LR host Second Division Daisy Hill (kick off 7:45pm). Last season Atherton finished in a lower mid-table position, whilst Daisy Hill were only three places off the foot of their division, and so I would expect that LR will secure victory tonight, especially with home advantage.
The opening match in Group 4 kicks off an hour or so earlier than the one at Crilly Park and sees Elton Vale host Tempest United. Bury-based Elton Vale finished fourth in the First Division of the Manchester League last season, although they were nine points adrift of the promotion places. Visitors Tempest, from Lostock way, are another team playing their league's second tier, in this case the West Lancashire League. Last season United finished in mid-table, and so I'll predict victory for Elton Vale, but I wouldn't put money on it.
Leaving the Goldline Trophy behind, there is another competition beginning today, although it is probably less prestigious to win. This is the Premier League Asia Trophy, involving Fulham, Liverpool and Portsmouth in the obvious location of Hong Kong. Portsmouth have already qualified for the final with a 1-0 victory over Fulham, whilst Liverpool kick-off in a few minutes time against local side South China. Liverpool should win fairly easily and a result similar to Manchester United's 6-0 friendly victory over Chinese side Shenzhen yesterday would not be surprising. Whether travelling half way round the globe is the best way of preparing for the new season is certainly debatable, but playing concerns are of course very much secondary to the commerical aspects of these tours.
Monday 23 July 2007
STOP PRESS - Goldline Trophy Re-arranged Fixtures
The two matches postponed on Saturday have been re-arranged. Charnock Richard will play Hindsford tonight (6:30pm), whilst Stoneclough v Atherton Collieries is now scheduled for August 8th.
Rain, Rain Go Away
Although Lancashire has been less affected by the weekend's rain than other parts of the country, neither of Saturday's Goldline Trophy games survived the weather. Presumably these games will be rescheduled for either later in pre-season or the early days of the season. Two more matches are scheduled for today, although whether they will take place as planned is upto the weather. Currently the forecast looks okay, although there may be showers in the Preston area about 4pm.
Blackburn Rovers managed to escape the bad weather by travelling east to Lithuania for their Intertoto Cup 3rd round tie. Blackburn did not play to their best, but did not need to against Vetra Vilnius. A first half goal from Benni McCarthy put Rovers ahead, and a late second from Matt Derbyshire secured a 2-0 victory. Next Saturday sees the second leg at Ewood Park and Blackburn will be expecting to finish the job and secure their place in the 2nd qualifying round of the UEFA Cup.
Back to todays football (fingers crossed). Group 2 of the Goldline Trophy begins today with Exuton Villa hosting Prestwich Heys and Eagley going to Atherton Town. Euxton, of the West Lancashire League have finished in mid-table over the last couple of the seasons, and will have a tough task against holders Prestwich Heys, who have also won the Manchester League for the last three seasons. However Prestwich are having to recover from the tragic death of their manager Adie Moran, who died in Sri Lanka over the summer. No doubt the Prestwich players will be trying to win in memory of Moran.
The other match is another clash between Manchester and West Lancashire league sides. Eagley and Atherton Town both had mid-table finishes in their respective leagues last season, and both will be looking for a good start to their campaign, given that Prestwich would be expected to take one of the quarter final places, and so matches between the other three are likely to go a long way towards deciding the other quarter finalist.
Blackburn Rovers managed to escape the bad weather by travelling east to Lithuania for their Intertoto Cup 3rd round tie. Blackburn did not play to their best, but did not need to against Vetra Vilnius. A first half goal from Benni McCarthy put Rovers ahead, and a late second from Matt Derbyshire secured a 2-0 victory. Next Saturday sees the second leg at Ewood Park and Blackburn will be expecting to finish the job and secure their place in the 2nd qualifying round of the UEFA Cup.
Back to todays football (fingers crossed). Group 2 of the Goldline Trophy begins today with Exuton Villa hosting Prestwich Heys and Eagley going to Atherton Town. Euxton, of the West Lancashire League have finished in mid-table over the last couple of the seasons, and will have a tough task against holders Prestwich Heys, who have also won the Manchester League for the last three seasons. However Prestwich are having to recover from the tragic death of their manager Adie Moran, who died in Sri Lanka over the summer. No doubt the Prestwich players will be trying to win in memory of Moran.
The other match is another clash between Manchester and West Lancashire league sides. Eagley and Atherton Town both had mid-table finishes in their respective leagues last season, and both will be looking for a good start to their campaign, given that Prestwich would be expected to take one of the quarter final places, and so matches between the other three are likely to go a long way towards deciding the other quarter finalist.
Friday 20 July 2007
The First Glimmers Of Dawn
Though clubs have been playing friendly games for a couple of weeks now, things begin to get to serious this weekend with the first competitive games of the new season. Blackburn Rovers will be the first League side to be in action, when they kick off their Intertoto Cup campaign against Lithuanian side Vetra Vilnius on Sunday, but first of all will be the opening games of this seasons Goldline Trophy.
The Goldline Trophy is a competition for clubs in the Bolton area and draws teams from the North West Counties League, the Manchester League and West Lancashire League. The competition begins with a group stage in July and early August, followed by quarter and semi finals once the season has got going. The final is held at the Reebok Stadium each year, normally sometime in March. The current holders are Manchester League champions Prestwich Heys.
Tomorrow sees Group One have its opening games (both 3pm kickoffs). West Lancashire League side Charnock Richard start at home to Manchester Leaguers Hindsford. Charnock reached the final last season and won the competition in both 2000-01 and 2005-06. The Mossie Close side were fifth in their league last season and also claimed the Lancashire Amateur Shield. I would expect them to prevail against Hindsford who were only a couple of points above the relegation zone last season. However it is difficult to compare different leagues and I have no idea what changes in personnel have occurred at the two clubs over the summer.
The other Group One game is between Stoneclough, who play in the second tier of the West Lancashire League, and North West Counties First Division side Atherton Collieries. Stoneclough were fourth in their league last season, although eleven points adrift of promotion, but even with home advantage, I would expect that they will be too weak for a Collieries side who are coming off their best season in years, having finished seventh, and whilst well off the title battle, it was a big improvement on the relegation battles they have fought for much of the last decade.
On Sunday Blackburn will play Vetra Vilnius in the Lithuanian capital in the first leg of their Intertoto Cup 3rd round tie. The winners qualify for the 2nd qualifying round of the UEFA Cup.
Rovers received a bye to this stage and probably expected to meet Legia Warsaw. However Vetra, who beat Llanelli on away goals in the 1st round, were awarded a win over Legia after Polish fans started rioting in the 1st leg of the 2nd round tie.
So, who are Vetra Vilnius? The club was founded in 1996 and play in the originally named Vetra Stadium. The club has never won a major trophy, although they did lose the 2005 Lithuanian Cup final to FBK Kaunas. However they do have experience in the Intertoto Cup, with this being their fourth consecutive qualification. 2004 saw the club beat both Trans Narva of Estonia and Edinburgh side Hibernian, before falling to Esbjerg of Denmark. The following two seasons were less successful, with first round defeats each time, to CFR Cluj of Romania in 2005 and to Dublin-based Shelbourne last year. The Lithuanian league runs through the summer and Vetra currently sit 6th out of the ten clubs.
Blackburn have had a fairly quite summer, having signed two players (Nielsen and Rigters) and sold just one (Todd). They have had two friendlies so far, beating Wrexham 2-1 but losing to Arminia Bielefeld by the same score. Rovers have pretty much a full squad to choose from, with only Brett Emerton absent due to Australia's continuing involvement in the Asia Cup. Vetra should be a fairly straightforward game for Blackburn, but should bear in mind that Newcastle were given a couple of surprises in their games against Baltic opposition last season. Nevertheless I would expect Blackburn to win by a couple of goals, giving themselves a good platform for the second leg.
The Goldline Trophy is a competition for clubs in the Bolton area and draws teams from the North West Counties League, the Manchester League and West Lancashire League. The competition begins with a group stage in July and early August, followed by quarter and semi finals once the season has got going. The final is held at the Reebok Stadium each year, normally sometime in March. The current holders are Manchester League champions Prestwich Heys.
Tomorrow sees Group One have its opening games (both 3pm kickoffs). West Lancashire League side Charnock Richard start at home to Manchester Leaguers Hindsford. Charnock reached the final last season and won the competition in both 2000-01 and 2005-06. The Mossie Close side were fifth in their league last season and also claimed the Lancashire Amateur Shield. I would expect them to prevail against Hindsford who were only a couple of points above the relegation zone last season. However it is difficult to compare different leagues and I have no idea what changes in personnel have occurred at the two clubs over the summer.
The other Group One game is between Stoneclough, who play in the second tier of the West Lancashire League, and North West Counties First Division side Atherton Collieries. Stoneclough were fourth in their league last season, although eleven points adrift of promotion, but even with home advantage, I would expect that they will be too weak for a Collieries side who are coming off their best season in years, having finished seventh, and whilst well off the title battle, it was a big improvement on the relegation battles they have fought for much of the last decade.
On Sunday Blackburn will play Vetra Vilnius in the Lithuanian capital in the first leg of their Intertoto Cup 3rd round tie. The winners qualify for the 2nd qualifying round of the UEFA Cup.
Rovers received a bye to this stage and probably expected to meet Legia Warsaw. However Vetra, who beat Llanelli on away goals in the 1st round, were awarded a win over Legia after Polish fans started rioting in the 1st leg of the 2nd round tie.
So, who are Vetra Vilnius? The club was founded in 1996 and play in the originally named Vetra Stadium. The club has never won a major trophy, although they did lose the 2005 Lithuanian Cup final to FBK Kaunas. However they do have experience in the Intertoto Cup, with this being their fourth consecutive qualification. 2004 saw the club beat both Trans Narva of Estonia and Edinburgh side Hibernian, before falling to Esbjerg of Denmark. The following two seasons were less successful, with first round defeats each time, to CFR Cluj of Romania in 2005 and to Dublin-based Shelbourne last year. The Lithuanian league runs through the summer and Vetra currently sit 6th out of the ten clubs.
Blackburn have had a fairly quite summer, having signed two players (Nielsen and Rigters) and sold just one (Todd). They have had two friendlies so far, beating Wrexham 2-1 but losing to Arminia Bielefeld by the same score. Rovers have pretty much a full squad to choose from, with only Brett Emerton absent due to Australia's continuing involvement in the Asia Cup. Vetra should be a fairly straightforward game for Blackburn, but should bear in mind that Newcastle were given a couple of surprises in their games against Baltic opposition last season. Nevertheless I would expect Blackburn to win by a couple of goals, giving themselves a good platform for the second leg.
Monday 16 July 2007
Welcome to Lancashire Football
Hi, welcome to this blog. As the name suggests it is going to be about football in Lancashire, the county that has produced more League champions, FA Cup winners and European champions than any other in England.
Lancashire is home to seven of the current Premiership, including two of the 'big four', and I am of course going to provide coverage of their goings on. However I am also planning to provide news and commentary from Lancashire's other clubs, from the Championship down to the North West Counties League, and possibly even below.
One feature I do hope to include is 'the War of the Roses', in which I will keep score of whether Lancashire or Yorkshire clubs come out on top as they meet throughout the season. I am planning to have divisional competitions, but also an overall competition, in which Manchester United v Middlesbrough will count as much as Silsden v Squires Gate.
Finally the Lancashire that I am covering is that covered by the County Palatine, established in the early years of the last millennium. The main reason for this is that this has fixed borders, unlike the more recent 'counties' which seem to change every year. Therefore Manchester, Liverpool, Barrow and Blackpool will all be found in this blog.
Enjoy!
Lancashire is home to seven of the current Premiership, including two of the 'big four', and I am of course going to provide coverage of their goings on. However I am also planning to provide news and commentary from Lancashire's other clubs, from the Championship down to the North West Counties League, and possibly even below.
One feature I do hope to include is 'the War of the Roses', in which I will keep score of whether Lancashire or Yorkshire clubs come out on top as they meet throughout the season. I am planning to have divisional competitions, but also an overall competition, in which Manchester United v Middlesbrough will count as much as Silsden v Squires Gate.
Finally the Lancashire that I am covering is that covered by the County Palatine, established in the early years of the last millennium. The main reason for this is that this has fixed borders, unlike the more recent 'counties' which seem to change every year. Therefore Manchester, Liverpool, Barrow and Blackpool will all be found in this blog.
Enjoy!
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