Macca_SAFC Posted December 4, 2005 Author Share Posted December 4, 2005 Leigh RMI v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-1-3-2) Winter, Spender, Wilkinson, Folkes, Griffin, Hand, Baker, Kerr, Buckley, Paynter ©, Ellington It was goalless at half time with Leigh perhaps being the better side. 20 seconds into the second half, Spender handballed in the area and Mike put Leigh ahead from the spot. Paynter levelled with a strike from 10 yards. A 1-1 draw was the final score. Leigh RMI 1 Stalybridge 1 MOTM: Mark Drew (Leigh RMI) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 4, 2005 Author Share Posted December 4, 2005 We were now 20th and I was very worried. We had 6 games to secure survival and these would surely be my most tense as manager. Stalybridge Celtic v Nuneaton Bororough Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-1-3-2) Winter, Spender, Wilkinson, Folkes, Griffin, Hand, Baker, Kerr, Hadland, Paynter ©, Ellington Erm...well, it was a 0-0 with pretty much nothing happening. Stalybridge 0 Nuneaton 0 Attendance: 339 MOTM: Neil Moore (Nuneaton Borough) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 4, 2005 Author Share Posted December 4, 2005 We remained in 20th, 3 points clear of Hyde. Up next was a tough game against 3rd placed Worksop. Worksop Town v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-1-3-2) Winter, Spender, Griffin, Wilkinson, Folkes, Hand, Hadland, Baker, Kerr, Lovell, Paynter © It was no surprise after 24 minutes of heavy pressure, Worksop took the lead through Morris. Norton soon made it two before the home side were down to 10 men, Chapman sent off for a second bookable offence. We did well in the second half as we tried to take advantage of the extra man but we couldn't break through Worksop's stubborn resistance. Worksop 2 Stalybridge 0 MOTM: Blake Norton (Worksop Town) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 4, 2005 Author Share Posted December 4, 2005 A last minute equalizer for Hyde against Moor Green had narrowed the gap to two points. Stalybridge Celtic v Hednesford Town Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-1-3-2) Winter, Spender, Wilkinson, Folkes, Griffin, Hand, Hadland, Kerr, Baker, Paynter ©, Murray Our hopes of survival soared when on 35 minutes Murray marked his return to the team with a goal, capitalising on a shocking back pass. In the second half we went two up, Hand converting a penalty. Hednesford couldn't recover and we picked up an incredibly vital three points. Stalybridge 2 Hednesford 0 Attendance: 344 MOTM: Tom Baker (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 4, 2005 Author Share Posted December 4, 2005 Jamie Hand had taken a blow to the head and could be out for 2 weeks. He couldn't have picked a worse team to be injured but we would have to make do without him. Gainsborough Trinity v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-1-3-2) Winter, Spender, Wilkinson, Folkes, Griffin, Fields, Hadland, Kerr, Baker, Paynter ©, Murray The first half was a pretty even affair but neither side came particularly close to scoring. It was end to end stuff second half but in the 6th minute of stoppage time, the away section went crazy. Substitute Lee Ellington had scored the goal that would keep us in the Conference North for another year. Relief poured over me - we had survived. Gainsborough 0 Stalybridge 1 MOTM: Lee Ellington (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 4, 2005 Author Share Posted December 4, 2005 We had picked up more injuries in that game, Folkes and Winter both ruled out for the last two games, though it didn't cause me too much worry. Hinckley were relegated but Hyde were still in with a chance, with two teams still catchable. We had moved up to 18th with a highest possible finish of 12th. Stalybridge Celtic v Stafford Rangers Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-1-3-2) Pettinger, Spender, Griffin, Haran, Wilkinson, Fields ©, Hadland, Baker, Kerr, Paynter, Murray After 26 minutes I was forced to bring Shephard on in an unnatural left back position with Griffin limping off. An awful clearance by Pettinger let Jephcott slot home the opener for Stafford. After half time, Stafford scored two headers, Jephcott scoring once more along with Bannon. Stalybridge 0 Stafford 3 Attendance: 331 MOTM: Liam Murray (Stafford Rangers) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 4, 2005 Author Share Posted December 4, 2005 Yet more injuries had occured, Griffin and Haran both out of the final game. The season was to finish with the local derby at Droylsden. Droylsden v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-1-3-2) Pettinger, Spender, Wilkinson, Sykes, Barnard, Hand, Hadland, Kerr, Baker, Paynter ©, Murray Fearns put Droylsden one up early on, squeezing the ball in during a goalmouth scramble. On 35 minutes we were level, Paynter slotting home confidently. After half time, Fearns put Droylsden back in front but Paynter was on hand once more to equalize. Fearns thought he had his hat trick but the offside flag ruled it out very harshly according to the replay. The score was 2-2 as the referee blew the final whistle on a long hard season. Droylsden 2 Stalybridge 2 MOTM: Darren Beasley (Droylsden) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 5, 2005 Author Share Posted December 5, 2005 The season was over. Our final position was 19th, which the board were satisfied with. These were the final promotion and relegation places for the English leagues. English Premiership Champions: Arsenal Relegated: Fulham, Bolton, Charlton English Championship Champions: Southampton Promoted: Leeds Play-off winner: Luton Relegated: Sheff Utd, Brighton, Crewe English League One Champions: Doncaster Promoted: Gillingham Play-off winner: Southend Relegated: MK Dons, Barnsley, Yeovil, Scunthorpe English League Two Champions: Torquay Promoted: Rochdale, Lincoln Play-off winner: Leyton Orient Relegated: Wrexham, Boston Utd English Conference National Champions: Morecambe Play-off winner: Kidderminster Relegated: Southport, Altrincham English Conference South Champions: Weymouth Play-off winner: Sutton Utd Relegated: Lewes, Eastleigh English Conference North Champions: Alfreton Play-off winner: Lancaster Relegated: Hyde, Hinckley In the cups, the Champions League was surprisingly won by Werder Bremen, beating Chelsea, Real Madrid and Juventus on their road to glory. Barcelona lifted the UEFA Cup after an extra time win over Hertha BSC. Closer to home, Tottenham's penalty shootout victory over Man Utd won them the FA Cup. A derby win over Southampton in the final gave the Carling Cup to Portsmouth. Lower down the leagues, Swansea lifted the LDV Vans Trophy and Weymouth completed the double with the FA Trophy to add to their league title. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 5, 2005 Author Share Posted December 5, 2005 Final League Table <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | C | Alfreton | | 42 | 21 | 13 | 8 | 62 | 40 | +22 | 76 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | | Worksop | | 42 | 19 | 15 | 8 | 62 | 38 | +24 | 72 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Moor Green | | 42 | 19 | 15 | 8 | 66 | 43 | +23 | 72 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Redditch | | 42 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 47 | 48 | -1 | 63 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5th | P | Lancaster | | 42 | 17 | 11 | 14 | 67 | 54 | +13 | 62 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 6th | | Northwich | | 42 | 15 | 16 | 11 | 54 | 46 | +8 | 61 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7th | | Harrogate | | 42 | 16 | 10 | 16 | 54 | 50 | +4 | 58 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 8th | | Leigh RMI | | 42 | 12 | 22 | 8 | 45 | 42 | +3 | 58 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 9th | | Barrow | | 42 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 53 | 53 | 0 | 58 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 10th | | Nuneaton | | 42 | 15 | 13 | 14 | 42 | 48 | -6 | 58 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 11th | | Hednesford | | 42 | 15 | 11 | 16 | 55 | 55 | 0 | 56 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 12th | | Stafford | | 42 | 16 | 7 | 19 | 50 | 53 | -3 | 55 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 13th | | Droylsden | | 42 | 13 | 16 | 13 | 47 | 51 | -4 | 55 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 14th | | Gainsborough | | 42 | 12 | 17 | 13 | 51 | 50 | +1 | 53 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15th | | Vauxhall Motors | | 42 | 13 | 13 | 16 | 51 | 51 | 0 | 52 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 16th | | Kettering | | 42 | 13 | 13 | 16 | 53 | 55 | -2 | 52 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 17th | | Hucknall | | 42 | 14 | 9 | 19 | 46 | 63 | -17 | 51 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 18th | | Worcester | | 42 | 12 | 12 | 18 | 42 | 48 | -6 | 48 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 19th | | STALYBRIDGE | | 42 | 9 | 20 | 13 | 42 | 48 | -6 | 47 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 20th | | Workington | | 42 | 11 | 14 | 17 | 53 | 67 | -14 | 47 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 21st | R | Hyde | | 42 | 10 | 13 | 19 | 56 | 69 | -13 | 43 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 22nd | R | Hinckley | | 42 | 7 | 16 | 19 | 47 | 73 | -26 | 37 | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre> Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
displaced_seagull Posted December 5, 2005 Share Posted December 5, 2005 Survival, excellent Let's hope you can build for the next season Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 5, 2005 Author Share Posted December 5, 2005 Thanks d_s, let's hope so. Shame about Lewes and Brighton both going down. It was clear to see from the league table where our problems lay. We simply weren't scoring enough goals. Defensively we were solid enough but improving the attack was my priority for the summer. There would be a lot of players leaving the club in the near future as I would not be offering them new deals. I would announce all of these in due course for the footballing world's eyes had turned to Germany, and World Cup 2006. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 5, 2005 Author Share Posted December 5, 2005 Only one day gone of the finals and there had been two major shocks. Jason Euell's penalty for Jamaica had seen off the German hosts and Drogba's doubled had given Ivory Coast a 2-1 win over holders Brazil. Back at Stalybridge, I accepted an offer of 50k for Jamie Hand - every player had his price. England got off to a good start with a 2-0 win over South Korea. I thanked Hand as he left the club, unable to resist the lure of a higher level. Brazil were left stunned as a loss to Germany meant they were unable to qualify for the second round. England drew 1-1 with Paraguay in their second fixture while amazingly Germany followed Brazil out of the competition, the hosts 2-0 loss to Ivory Coast ensuring the Africans would be joined by Jamaica in the second round. England's progression was secured with a 1-1 draw with Poland. The only other 'big' nation to set off back home was Holland who had missed out on goal difference to Ireland. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 5, 2005 Author Share Posted December 5, 2005 Back in England, Owen Paynter won the fans player of the year award. The board told me I would have 14k to spend after the Hand sale though I wasn't expecting to use most of it. Our fixtures would begin at home with Workington visiting. My assistant also introduced me to three new youngsters who had signed for the club. All 15, Chris Price, the second in the squad, looked a star in the making. I also organized our pre-season friendlies, with Norwich and Northampton both confirmed for matches at Bower Fold. I was also waiting for an answer from Derby. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 5, 2005 Author Share Posted December 5, 2005 Over in Germany, England fans suffered just like they had two years before as Portugal knocked them out on penalties. Ireland were also eliminated, USA beating them 4-1. One by one, nations were sent crashing out until there were only 4 left in. Ivory Coast claimed a 4-2 victory over Italy in the third placed play-off before Spain were crowned champions for the first time, defeating Mexico 4-3 after extra time in the final. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 The opening of the transfer window had seen many comings and goings at the club. The list of departures was long. The following had all left the club: Released Mark Barnard Paul Pettinger Mark Haran Kevin Parr Paul Sykes Jody Banim Barrie Keeling Phil Eastwood Glenn Murray Ben Smith Nathan Wharton Moved to other clubs Tom Fields (Sutton Utd) Mark Lovell (Alfreton Town) Jamie Hand (Stevenage Borough - 50k) Adam Buckley (Halifax Town) Coming in was only Neil Davis, scorer of 22 goals for Moor Green last season. With his age, I wasn't expecting him to play every game but his experience could be useful. I was linked to the vacant Wrexham job. Though not the outright favourite, it was nice to have my name mentioned but I had decided to reject any approach if it should come. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 I soon announced another new signing. I'd seen a lot of Karl Murray at Woking and once he was released I was quick to sign him up. He would make his debut in the friendly with Norwich Stalybridge Celtic v Norwich City Pre-season friendly Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Winter, Spender, Griffin, Wilkinson, Folkes, Hadland, Kerr, Murray, Baker, Paynter ©, Davis Norwich piled on the pressure from the off but it took until the 40th minute for McVeigh to make it 1-0. After half time, goals from Henderson, Ashton and El Ouargui led to the result most expected, the gulf in ability all too clear. Stalybridge 0 Norwich 4 Attendance: 6047 MOTM: Jurgen Colin (Norwich City) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 After the game, I revealed new signing Paul Foot to the media. A centre back, he would mostly be used as back-up for the coming season. A similar role would be filled by Chris Mason, a left back who signed on the dotted line. Stalybridge Celtic v Derby County Pre-season friendly Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Winter, Spender, Griffin, Wilkinson, Folkes, Hadland, Price, Murray, Kerr, Paynter ©, Ellington Derby showed their superiority early on but despite heavy pressure, we were just seconds away from half time when they finally broke through, Pedersen the scorer. In the second half, goals from Ashton and Arnold gave Derby a comfortable victory. Stalybridge 0 Derby 3 Attendance: 5994 MOTM: Lee Camp (Derby County) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 My next signing was a milestone for me, as it was the first of my transfers which involved a fee. Though only a grand, Andrew Appleby looked a very good signing after being left out at Shelbourne. Stalybridge Celtic v Northampton Town Pre-season friendly Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Winter, Spender, Griffin, Wilkinson, Folkes, Hadland, Price, Murray, Kerr, Paynter ©, Appleby The first 20 minutes could've resulted in goals for either side but a cruel deflection off Griffin gave the away side the advantage. It was two just before the break as Cross got past our defence. In first half injury time it was three, Gilligan getting on the scoresheet. Late on in the second half, we showed some signs of improvement. We nearly came back, Paynter scoring twice late on but it wasn't enough. Stalybridge 2 Northampton 3 Attendance: 102 MOTM: Ryan Gilligan (Northampton Town) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 James Winter had pulled his hamstring late on in the game but was expected to return in time for our opening league game. I organized one final friendly, a home game with Camberley Town. Another new signing arrived, left winger Mitchell Cole arriving for £1k from Southend. On the other wing would be Michael Maidens who arrived from Hartlepool. Stalybridge Celtic v Camberley Town Pre-season friendly Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Buxton, Hockenhull, Mason, Folkes, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Appleby, Paynter © After 20 minutes we fell behind as Robertson broke free. After half time, a first goal for Appleby levelled the match and the score remained unchanged until the final whistle. Stalybridge 1 Camberley 1 Attendance: 82 MOTM: Andy Hayward (Camberley Town) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 I added to the squad once more with the arrival of Andy Williams from Hereford. A striker, his pace would help us to unravel opposition defences. He signed in time for the start of the season. Stalybridge Celtic v Workington Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Buxton, Spender, Griffin, Folkes ©, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Appleby, Williams The season got off to a dreadful start as a shocking error from Buxton in goal allowed Farrar to slot the ball into the empty net. Soon it got worse with Kerr going off injured, replaced by Davis in a tactical switch. In the second half we pulled deservedly level, Cole firing home a penalty on his debut. With just three minutes left, Workington goalkeeper Tate came out of his area to clear. His clearance fell short and Griffin's long range effort was turned in by Gray to give us three well earned points. Stalybridge 2 Workington 1 Attendance: 352 MOTM: Andrew Appleby (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 Scott Kerr's injury would see him out for up to 4 weeks which was a blow. I was very pleased with the performance against Workington and hoped we could build on it in the coming weeks. Vauxhall Motors v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Buxton, Spender, Griffin, Folkes, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Price ©, Appleby, Williams After 26 minutes we took the lead as Maidens headed in his first for the club. Maidens was once again the scorer in a near identical goal 10 minutes later. Just before half time, Vauxhall Motors restored some hope with a McGivern header. Our fans were left biting their fingernails towards the end but we held on to make it two wins from two. Vauxhall Motors 1 Stalybridge 2 MOTM: Michael Maidens (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 Stalybridge Celtic v Worcester City Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Buxton, Spender, Griffin, Folkes, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Price ©, Appleby, Williams Just two minutes in and we were behind, Carty netting from a well worked set piece. We levelled as Richards put the ball past his own keeper under heavy pressure from Williams. Near instantly Williams gave us the lead, his first for the club. In the second half, Maidens scored a wonderful free kick to make it 3-1. A fluke goal from Kelly made it 3-2. Once more there were some tense final moments but we defended well for the win. Stalybridge 3 Worcester 2 Attendance: 590 MOTM: Andy Williams (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
displaced_seagull Posted December 7, 2005 Share Posted December 7, 2005 Great start to the season, 3 wins on the bounce Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 It was going so well... Winter was fit again after his pulled hamstring, the injury taking longer than expected to clear up. Leigh RMI v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Winter, Spender, Griffin, Folkes, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Price ©, Appleby, Williams We trailed early on as Folkes mistakenly put the ball into his own net. It was soon two as Mike headered home. Second half goals from Brackstone and Simm resulted in an embarassing 4-0 defeat. Leigh RMI 4 Stalybridge 0 MOTM: Leam Coyne (Leigh RMI) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 England got their EURO 2008 qualifying off to a solid start with a 4-2 win over Albania. The only other home nation to win was Northern Ireland, beating Armenia 2-0, with Scotland and Wales losing to Slovakia and Cyprus respectively. In the midweek fixtures England won once more, Lithuania dispatched 2-0. Scotland got a respectable 2-2 draw in Holland while Northern Ireland won 2-1 in Romania, while Wales won 3-0 against Israel. I was very pleased to hear that Scott Kerr was now fit and ready to play on Saturday. Stalybridge Celtic v Moor Green Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Winter, Spender, Griffin, Folkes ©, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Williams, Appleby An even first half finished goaless but within 19 seconds of the restart we took the lead, Appleby netting his first competitive goal. Moor Green soon levelled, Middleton on target. The score stayed 1-1 till the final whistle. Stalybridge 1 Moor Green 1 Attendance: 352 MOTM: Gerard O'Connor (Moor Green) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 Altrincham v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Winter, Spender, Griffin, Folkes ©, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Williams, Appleby We took the lead early, Maidens striking a cross shot from around 30 yards near the touchline into the top corner. Before the 5 minute mark it was two, Appleby headering in the second. Shortly before half time Appleby was stretchered off, with Davis his replacement. After half time Cole made it 3-0 from the spot. Then Murray made it 4-0 from the spot, his first goal for the club. Williams scored the fifth before the referee continued his penalty craving and gave one to Altrincham, which Wright duly converted. They then got another as Sentance's cross evaded everyone. Altrincham 2 Stalybridge 5 MOTM: Michael Maidens (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 7, 2005 Author Share Posted December 7, 2005 It was awful news regarding Appleby, the lad suffering a broken leg. It really did ruin what was an excellent performance by the team. We weren't sure who we would be playing next but the draw for the FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round revealed we would be on the road, Barrow our opponents. Barrow v Stalybridge Celtic FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Winter, Spender, Griffin, Folkes ©, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Williams, Davis An awful error from Winter gave Barrow an early lead, Tarrant giving the simple task of passing the ball into the empty net. We rarely threatened before half time and were lucky to go in only a goal behind. On 60 minutes though we were level, Williams finding room to volley past the keeper. With just 7 minutes left, Winter defied belief and made another abysmal mistake, Tarrant once again the profiteer. We threw everything forward but thanks to James Winter, we were out of the cup. Barrow 2 Stalybridge 1 MOTM: Neil Tarrant (Barrow) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 8, 2005 Author Share Posted December 8, 2005 Some fans muttered their approval at the news that Winter had been injured during the match, but were quickly upset that Maidens would be joining him on the sidelines. Hucknall Town v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Flynn, Spender, Griffin, Folkes ©, Wilkinson, Hadland, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Davis, Williams After 13 minutes we took the lead as Williams latched onto Davis' through ball before slotting the ball home. After half time Hucknall drew level, Cooke with a firm header from a corner. Neither side could find the net again with a draw the outcome. Hucknall 1 Stalybridge 1 MOTM: Russell Cooke (Hucknall Town) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 8, 2005 Author Share Posted December 8, 2005 Our injury worries were increased as Williams reported a knock, ruling him out for a couple of games. Our goalkeeping crisis was lessened as I completed the £1k signing of Adam Wilkes from Port Vale. Stalybridge Celtic v Worksop Town Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Folkes ©, Wilkinson, Hadland, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Davis, Ellington After a dull first 60 minutes, Worksop went in front through Morris. Despite some heavy pressure we failed to equalize and lost 1-0. Stalybridge 0 Worksop 1 Attendance: 1504 MOTM: Anthony Jackson (Worksop Town) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 8, 2005 Author Share Posted December 8, 2005 Our goalkeeper crisis got worse as Wilkes was confirmed to have damaged his shoulder. This meant we had our best three goalkeepers injured - not good at all. England didn't play on international weekend but there was a good result for Wales, recording a 2-2 draw in Germany. Scotland were held at home 1-1 by Armenia. I was pleased to see that Winter had recovered, leaving us with an established goalkeeper. Then he went and broke his finger, leaving us in crisis once more. England won 3-0 against Russia in midweek while Scotland won by the same scoreline in Romania. Northern Ireland lost 3-1 to Sweden but Wales thumped Andorra 6-0. Stalybridge Celtic v Northwich Victoria Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Flynn, Spender, Folkes, Wilkinson, Griffin, Hadland, Kerr, Murray, Cole, Davis, Ellington I wasn't confident about this game - pitting our reserve fourth choice keeper who didn't even have a contract against Johnny Allan, one of the hottest talents in non-league football is never wise. And as fate would have it, he was bloody superb. Northwich couldn't get past him as the game finished 0-0. Whoever said non-contract? Stalybridge 0 Northwich 0 Attendance: 1057 MOTM: Willie Gibson (Northwich Victoria) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 9, 2005 Author Share Posted December 9, 2005 I was informed after the game that the FA Trophy 2nd Qualifying Round draw had been made. We would be hosting Aylesbury. Later in the week, Jonathan Flynn got injured - b*gger. Stalybridge Celtic v Nuneaton Borough Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Flynn, Spender, Griffin, Folkes ©, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Davis, Williams We led after 5 minutes thanks to Kerr's shot being turned in by Adams. Just before half time Nuneaton levelled through Reeves. Five minutes after the restart, we were ahead once again - thanks to an own goal once again, Oddy the unfortunate soul. Cole extended our lead from the spot quickly after. With seconds remaining, Nuneaton restored some pride with a goal from Blekinsopp. Stalybridge 3 Nuneaton 2 Attendance: 1210 MOTM: Mitchell Cole (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 9, 2005 Author Share Posted December 9, 2005 I bolstered our defence with the capture of Jamie McCombe from Lincoln. We were losing the ball in the air too much so at 6'5" ,Jamie would be very useful. Barrow v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Flynn, Spender, McCombe, Wilkinson, Griffin, Maidens, Cole, Kerr, Murray, Davis ©, Williams Murray gave us the lead within 2 minutes of kick off. Davis' first goal for the club gave us a two goal cushion. This cushion didn't last long as Pomroy pulled a goal back for Barrow. The comeback was then completed through a header from Anthony.Maidens put us back in front soon after - it had only been 30 minutes. After half time, a deflected free kick from Cecil levelled the scores once more and the final score was 3-3. Barrow 3 Stalybridge 3 MOTM: Graham Anthony (Barrow) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 10, 2005 Author Share Posted December 10, 2005 Scott Kerr had twisted his ankle in the game, ruling him out for as long as a month. Gainsborough Trinity v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, McCombe, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Price ©, Davis, Williams The first half stayed goalless - as did the second half in a bore draw. Gainsborough 0 Stalybridge 0 MOTM: Nick Ellis (Gainsborough Trinity) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 10, 2005 Author Share Posted December 10, 2005 I was informed that Simon Spender would not be available for our FA Trophy tie as he was playing for the Welsh U21s. Stalybridge Celtic v Aylesbury United FA Trophy 2nd Qualifying Round Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Hockenhull, Griffin, McCombe, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Price ©, Davis, Williams We took the lead on 23 minutes, Davis headering in a cross from Cole. Aylesbury lost Jenkins as his two-footed lunge saw him sent for an early bath. With 15 minutes left, Maidens finished off the plucky minnows. It was Maidens again who scored deep into injury time. Stalybridge 3 Aylesbury 0 Attendance: 330 MOTM: Michael Maidens (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 10, 2005 Author Share Posted December 10, 2005 In the days international fixtures England continued their qualification campaign with a 2-1 win in Luxembourg. Scotland and Northern Ireland played out a 1-1 draw while Wales against Turkey was goalless. In training Mitchell Cole pulled his hamstring, meaning he'd be out for up to a month. The FA also faxed us with the FA Trophy draw. We had a home tie once again but Moor Green would be tougher than Aylesbury. England recorded an excellent 6-0 win over Poland in midweek while Scotland and Northern Ireland lost to Sweden and Slovakia respectively. Wales won 1-0 against closeby Ireland. Stalybridge Celtic v Burscough Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, McCombe, Wilkinson, Griffin, Maidens, Price ©, Murray, Price, Davis Williams After a goalless first half, the game didn't really liven up much until 11 minutes before the end. At only 16 years old, Price couldn't have hoped for a better start to his career than a 30 yard free kick. Unfortunately, we couldn't hold the lead as Johnson broke through to score. Stalybridge 1 Burscough 1 Attendance: 1422 MOTM: Brian Law (Burscough) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 10, 2005 Author Share Posted December 10, 2005 Stalybridge Celtic v Moor Green FA Trophy Third Qualifying Round Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, McCombe, Wilkinson, Maidens, Price, Murray, Price ©, Davis, Williams We gained the upper hand as Williams was brought down by O'Connor, who was sent from the field with Murray converting the resulting penalty. Davis doubled the lead soon after as we put ourselves into a commanding position. We were dealt a blow when McCombe limped off, replaced with Folkes. We held onto the two goal lead for the remainder of the match, booking our place in the first round proper. Stalybridge 2 Moor Green 0 Attendance: 329 MOTM: Adam Wilkes (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 11, 2005 Author Share Posted December 11, 2005 On the injury front, McCombe's was more serious than first thought. He had damaged his hip, forcing him to see a specialist for a couple of months. Maidens had a thigh strain, ruling him out for the next few games. The FA Trophy First Round draw was made and it fell kindly for us once more, Windsor & Eton or Boreham Wood due to visit Bower Fold. Droyslden v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Folkes, Wilkinson, Baker, Price, Murray, Price ©, Davis, Williams This derby clash had an edge to it - Droylsden were top of the league. We fell behind to an amazing strike by Brodie, firing the ball from well over 30 yards. Despite our best efforts, we couldn't force an equalizer as we slumped to our first defeat in six games. Droylsden 1 Stalybridge 0 MOTM: Simon Sturdy (Droylsden) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
irishregan Posted December 12, 2005 Share Posted December 12, 2005 I'm into this one, keep up the good work! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 Thanks irishregan, nice to know you're enjoying it I was pleased to extend the contracts of some of our key players, meaning the core of the squad would be at the club for at least another season. Stalybridge Celtic v Hednesford Town Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Folkes, Wilkinson, Baker, Price, Murray, Price ©, Davis, Williams We took the lead within a minute, Williams getting behind the defence. Before the ten minute mark it was two, Davis on target. A quick breakaway gave Hednesford striker McMahon the opportunity to bring his side back into the game, which he duly took. The rest of the match was a thrilling encounter, with both sides having shots against the woodwork and cleared off the line. Thankfully, we just about held on for a 2-1 win. Stalybridge 2 Hednesford 1 Attendance: 897 MOTM: Andy Williams (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 More injuries hit us, with Wilkinson and Baker both out for 2 weeks. This took us up to 7 sidelined players, the highest number in the division. In the FA Cup Third Round draw, the big tie was between Arsenal and Chelsea. For non-league fans however, Crawley's trip to Sunderland was of far more concern. The news that Scott Kerr had recovered was welcome - the news that Andy Williams had torn a groin muscle was not. He had been in good form and would be sorely missed. Harrogate Town v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Foot, Folkes, Hadland, Price, Murray, Kerr, Davis, Paynter © This dull game cruelly went against us as with 10 minutes left Holland scored a winner that Harrogate didn't really deserve. Harrogate 1 Stalybridge 0 MOTM: Lee Philpott (Harrogate Town) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 I was relieved to hear that Wilkinson and Cole had come through training fine and would be fit to play in our Trophy tie with Windsor. Stalybridge Celtic v Windsor & Eton FA Trophy First Round Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Folkes, Wilkinson, Hadland, Kerr, Murray, Cole, Davis © , Paynter We started well with Cole's cross somehow finding the net. We were pegged back quickly, a quick set piece resulting in Offiong's equalizer. Shortly before the break, Davis put us back in front. The lead was extended by Kerr on 50 minutes but Wallace's 80th minute goal made for a nervous last 10 minutes. We held on though to secure our place in the next round. Stalybridge 3 Windsor & Eton 2 Attendance: 329 MOTM: Adam Griffin (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 The draw for the second round had been made, with Conference side Forest Green the visitors in another home tie. Stafford Rangers v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Foot, Folkes, Baker, Price, Murray, Kerr, Davis ©, Mulvaney My slightly experimental line up did well to hold on for a goalless draw in this game. Stafford 0 Stalybridge 0 MOTM: David Luke (Stafford Rangers) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 Stalybridge Celtic v Kettering Town Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Folkes, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Davis, Paynter © After 15 minutes, Paynter broke through and gave us the lead. We soaked up some heavy pressure while dangerous ourselves on the counter but a mistake from Wilkes allowed Townsend to level late on. Stalybridge 1 Kettering 1 Attendance: 1111 MOTM: Josh Scott (Kettering Town) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 Wakefield-Emley v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Folkes, Wilkinson, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Davis ©, Paynter After 26 minutes, we took advantage of Ryan Valentine's sending off as Paynter headered us in front. It was Paynter again with our second as we looked comfortable. After half time, a mistake from Wilkes not too dissimilar from the one against Kettering allowed Cranfield to pull one back. The three points were secured by Murray's late penalty. Wakefield-Emley 1 Stalybridge 3 MOTM: Owen Paynter (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 Stalybridge Celtic v Gateshead Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Wilkinson, Folkes, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Davis ©, Paynter The first half was hardly a spectacle but on 60 minutes the game livened up, Davis putting us in front. Gateshead rarely threatened as we stretched our unbeaten run to 5 games. Stalybridge 1 Gateshead 0 Attendance: 1433 MOTM: James Curtis (Gateshead) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 Southport v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Wilkinson, Folkes, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Davis ©, Paynter Southport took the lead on the half hour mark, Robinson using his head effectively. It took us a long time to equalize but Maidens made no mistake with 12 minutes left. Southport 1 Stalybridge 1 MOTM: Peter Folkes (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 Workington v Stalybridge Celtic Nationwide Conference North In a relatively poor game, penalties from Davis and Wilkinson gave us the win. Workington 0 Stalybridge 2 MOTM: Peter Folkes (Stalybridge Celtic) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 Stalybridge Celtic v Vauxhall Motors Nationwide Conference North Stalybridge - (4-4-2) Wilkes, Spender, Griffin, Wilkinson, Folkes, Maidens, Cole, Murray, Kerr, Davis ©, Paynter During a dull game, the only incident really was an injury to Cole but with 10 minutes left, Davis popped up to give us the lead. This opened the game up by the away side couldn't equalize, giving us another win. Stalybridge 1 Vauxhall Motors 0 Attendance: 1416 MOTM: Pat Kavanagh (Vauxhall Motors) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Macca_SAFC Posted December 12, 2005 Author Share Posted December 12, 2005 Just a quick note to readers, apologies for the lack of detail in the last few reports. As I mentioned in the off topic thread a computer crash lost me several games and I was eager to get them done so I was back on track. Updates will be less frequent this week as I'm in a rush to finish all my work before the end of term but I'll try and get as much done as possible. Thanks for reading so far Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted December 13, 2005 Share Posted December 13, 2005 I keep on reading, cause I play this team too, hard, isn;t it? KUTGW! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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