COUGARS COMEBACK AS COUGAR PARK WINS THE DAY

KEIGHLEY COUGARS 26 LONDON SKOLARS 18
BET FRED LEAGUE 1 @ COUGARS PARK
27 MAY 2018 --- 3PM

COUGAR PARK AND THE DANNY JONES STAND

A much encouraged comeback from the Cougars who were 14-6 down at the half time hooter saw the noisy home fans will their team over the line and even after Neil Thorman had popped a penalty over for London to make it 16 all Cougars found enough to run out winners.  If your not into your rugby league please read on because at Cougar Park you have a ground to wax lyrically about and with a football connection too, wow.
Yesterdays exertions to Cheshire saw a mid morning start from base station and a rather full train arrived in Leeds 1 and 1/4 hours later with a few bank holiday revellers already on the sauce.  A dash down to platform 4 for the Skipton train which departed in 5 minutes or so at least it should have done but there was a delay with the drivers arrival pending still saw me in Keighley at around 1250pm though.  With just one previous visit to the town, that was a short stop before re joining the train to take in a Silsden game in the NWCFL, a quick circuit of the streets saw me decamp to The Livery Rooms a Spoons establishment.  Having secured a seat a surprise in itself on a Sunday lunchtime and ordering straight away I was looking forward to a chill for half an hour only to be told 'afraid we are out of fish' in a fit of pique I opted for the golden arches which is situated by the ground on Hard Ings Rd.  Most people who visit Macs are there for one of two things if your a child who cares about the meal just give me the toy and if your an adult its a McFlurry, counter order placed the colleague adds 'anything else?' in anticipation I added 'dairy milk McFlurry'.  It was then I realised Keighley was out of most things I like 'sorry we have no Ice Cream'.  What hottest day of year, well nearly, and no ice cream.
With Keighley Cricket Club nestled up to the walls of Cougar Park it looked at good place to spend an hour but amazingly on a Sunday afternoon in Yorkshire no game was taking place.

COUGAR PARK AWAITS

Having consumed the fast food delicacies a stroll around to Royd Ings Ave for the main entrance, there are a few turnstiles tucked away by the cricket club, reveals a town very much like any other in this mills area of Yorkshire.  Light stone terrace back to backs are in abundance with washing across lines and kids playing in the streets the rolling hills were resplendent in todays sunshine with the trees brushing aside all before them in todays blustery wind.
For the footy fan then Steeton Fc newly promoted to the new NWCFL 1 North will move to ground share at Cougar Park I believe next season moving from their village ground that sits the opposite side of the Skipton Rail line to Silsden, it does appear a strange move and although sees them leave their village Keighley is very close by.

THE LADIES ARE IN CHARGE VONIE JANE AND ANNA A WARM WELCOME TO COUGAR PARK

With a little time to move off the watch the option to walk around to the main Royd Ings Ave entrance which takes you via an industrial estate, I remain unsure if this was previously houses, and to the main entrance that is looking bright and smart and clearly has had a successful lick of paint.  While taking a few pictures on a selection of equipment it was then that I attracted the attention from inside the gate of the lovely Anna who when I approached the turnstile was there to greet me and offer a warm welcome to the club as I might add was my turnstile operator Jane.  Once into Cougar Park we got into a quick conversation about where the blog was from and we are joined by Vonie who made up the all female team of Turnstile operators at this end of the ground.  Anna was going to come outside for a picture but now inside what better than to take a picture of all three of the lovely ladies who offered such a warm welcome to Keighley Cougars, thank you!

MATCH PROGRAMME V LONDON SKOLARS

The ever popular draw tickets were purchased and a short while later the programme at £3 some rugby league clubs match day literature disappoints but lets just add its not the case here this is a cracking effort for those who like their paperwork full of colour and articles to read well done.  Also of note is another plus point an excellent public address system well heard all around the ground.
Once inside the whole sweet shop opens up because this is ground visiting gold a stadium with history, emotion and Yorkshire grit seeping from every inch of it.  This ground descriptor cannot do it justice there is so much to describe and added to many characters who watch the games here it was one of those afternoons that I spent with a smile on my face for the whole time at Cougar Park.
Immediately to the left is a modern covered terrace standing on the terrace which is adorned with a flag in memory of Cougars player and Welshman Danny Jones who tragically died in 2015 at an away game against todays visitors.  I remember the time when this happened and the coverage on local TV it was a very sad period which the club did everything admirably possible to assist his family and clearly here with the main stand named after him and a memorial to him this guy is still remembered and much loved.

EAST TERRACE JUST RIGHT FOR A WARM SUMMERS DAY

The far side terrace a stepped uncovered enclosure backed off with four floodlight poles of the rail/ pit yard variety and at the centre point two raised metal cabins with front viewing points which I guess were previously for video vantage points.  Sweeping around the corner a slightly shallower uncovered terrace which backs onto Hall Ings Rd and also offers an exit gate after the game leaving me nearer to the station.  Bringing us back to the business end  the main stand is very much of the old style with a deep set of seating, for which a transfer is payable on top of todays £15 ground entrance, this side this side also mirrors the four floodlights on the opposite side with two rising through the stand roof.  To the far side of the stand are the bars, hospitality area all topped off with that obscure green roof metal finish.

COUGAR ALERT

The descriptor doesn't do it justice you will find many wonderful areas of this ground including the cougar climbing half way up the one of the far side floodlights, the actual Cougar mascot himself pacing the ground, the old scoreboard with massive clock face that ticked away the 40 minutes of each half, sadly replaced now by a digital one.  While the mascot must have a massive shirt to get over his furry body the back of it is sponsored by a local butcher Herd's with the fantastic rhyming tag line Cougars Pies for Cougars tries. Todays referee added some interest for me with John McMullen an official who I'd seen a few times in his early days in The National Conference League latterly I remember a few years ago at East Leeds RLFC.

REFEREE MCMULLEN TAKES ON WATER

The game then and as rugby league is not my main sport apologies for the next few paragraphs of match coverage.  With Skolars in a lowly position in League 1 it was expected Cougars would win probably comfortably and there in lies the problem in any sport I guess.  The home side had a poor first half in a game which was littered with errors although in fairness the blustery swirling wind that was present all afternoon did not help the home sides kicking which were mainly from wide positions. 
Inside ten minutes Neil Thurman had gone over and added the extras before Cougars levelled it through Adam Ryder try and Matty Beharrell who converted.  The maximum adavantage was gained by Skolars again though when Ryan Burroughs popped over for Thurman to add the extra two points.  To add to Cougars difficulties that man Thurman converted a penalty at the front of the sticks right on the hooter.

PRE MATCH ROUTINES NOT MUCH WARMING UP NEEDED ON A HOT DAY

Within two minutes of the re start Thurman added too more with a penalty that made it 6-16 and it was looking like a difficult afternoon for the hoe side.  Step up Anthony Gabriel for the highlight moment gaining possession 90 metres away from the try line he set off moving into overdrive and outpaced all comers to go over in the corner, conversion wide in the left was missed but moments later Cougars were within two of the visitors.  Man of the match Brad Nicholson twisted out of Skolars grasp to go over the whitewash to make it 14-16,  it was Perry Whiteley who added a try that put Cougars into the lead before unbelievable the visitors levelled it up at 18 apiece through you know who thanks to a penalty kick. 
Vinny Finnigan was given 10 minutes with nearly that to go and with the reduction in numbers for Skolars it gave Cougars the push they needed to get over the line.

AT LAST I HEAR YOU SAY MATCH ACTION

Keighley were in the ascendancy and Gabriel went over for a second time even though there were terrace suspicions of a forward pass this time Beharell added the extras and at 24-18 there was light between the two sides in Cougars favour.  With moments to go Beharell chose to pop the penalty over for two point to make the game safe and secure a comeback that had looked far from certain at half time.

GROUND OF CHARACTER WITH A GROUND FULL OF CHARACTERS

Not only is this a ground of character but full of them too with many an old lad watching I guess many through their formative and latter years its also the women on the terrace that can be the most interesting for the people watchers amongst you.  Mr McMullen I guess with temporary hearing loss to any of these comments would not have been able to appreciate them but they like to give their considered thoughts and often with a fair few chosen descriptive words added, it all makes for the cracking watch that rugby league is.
Have I missed anything out on this?  I'm sure I have well your just going to have to go for a visit to this wonderful ground to see what there is to write home about and although Steeton will be there next season you really need to go for a Cougars game to experience it at full throttle, I don't think you will be disappointed.
Journey home was smooth enough if not packed, again, with added juiced up revellers in their mature years joining the train at Sheffield with thankfully a swift departure just after base station was arrived at just before 7.30pm.

MIDDLEWICH HIT 7

MIDDLEWICH TOWN 7 HALEBANK 1
CHESHIRE LEAGUE 1 @ SEDDON ST
26 MAY 2018 --- 3PM

RORY GORTON MAKES IT 3-0 IT MIDDLEWICH TOWN FC

Middlewich hit seven in their chase for runners up spot in the Cheshire League 1 ultimately though with Pilkington wining at Lostock Gralam that position would be taken from them but this was a comfortable win on a club fun day that consisted of a reserve game at noon before a goalkeeping coaching session with Brian Jenson sandwiched in between the two games.
As the end of the season fast approaches the extension into The Cheshire, Staffordshire and MRA leagues has provided a breath of fresh air and todays visit was equally as interesting as the others over the last few weeks.  Today was a day of engineering works and Northern Rail strikes so planning would be important and with Halebank unable to raise a side in mid week I did fear for the game.  Thankfully a couple of texts later on Friday the Middlewich secretary and League fixture secretary calmed my doubts and after nearly messing up a amended timetable from base station we found ourselves in Derby for the first change, we this weekend being Dan, Mick and yours truly.
The one carriage special was fully loaded out of Derby and by the time we departed at Crewe it was a relief to make the smart walk to the adjacent Crewe Arms, bus stop mind you, for the aquamarine 37 that would depart us just shy of our ultimate destination and outside The Kings Lock Fish and Chip establishment, walking into the town we took a first look at the canal.

THEY ARE BACK

Interestingly in the town there are 3 canals, 3 major roads and 3 rivers I was off to the bookies for a bet on the game yes you've guessed it..........4-1!
An amble along the main shopping street Wheelock St gave up a Tesco Express and within about 100 yards a large Tesco store, not sure how long they will both survive and here in Midllewich itself I guess the big boys have seen off many of the local shops that today were sadly few and far between.  Passing the interesting Bull Ring a steeped former amphitheatre which now showed the local bus stop only at regular intervals.  We had a tow path walk back along the canal coming out by the Big Lock Pub and onto Finneys Lane which gave up a small car park and Middlewich Town Fc and their social club and MUGA.

THE UNIQUE DUG OUT STAND AT SEDDON ST

There was already a lot of activity with the reserve game v Eagle Sports having just concluded the bar was area was a hive of activity, once again a club with a smart facility and the walls adorned with past glories.  Into the ground for a circuit and its most interesting feature is its high rectangular stand with the double dug outs built into the base, there are a further set over the far side of the pitch and the teams did split themselves between them as per last week at Knutsford.

THE FAR SIDE WITH SMALL STAND AND FURTHER DUG OUTS

Hard standing and corporate red and white railed barriers are the order of the day and behind the far dug outs a small covered stand straddles the half way line.  The main stand is raised with two rows of seats which if you are tall are very low to the floor and offer a knees under chin experience that the most strenuous of exercise would never give up.  A real ground of non league character which gives up its former NWCFL days before the requirement for floodlights something that the club does not have.  The feel around the club is of a lovely little community set up based in the town and if nearer its one that would be on my list regularly with the social club and a snack bar open with the normal admission set at just £2.

BRIAN JENSON FORMER BURNLEY AND NOW CRUSADERS CHAMPIONSHIP WINNER 17/18

The next event of the day had just started with former Burnley and now Crusaders Championship winner Brian Jenson setting up his goalkeeper coaching session.  We were joined today here by a fair collection of hoppers all taking in their end of season game and once again we were pleased to see Sean Blaney alongside Ben and Pat from Sheffield Fc who its always a pleasure to catch up with.  During the game Mick was off speaking to many other people were interesting conversations followed and I finally caught up with Geoff who once again was an interesting chap to talk to in relation to football around this area.  Good to meet you all today!

JAMIE PETRIE INTO THE BOX FOR MIDDLEWICH

Todays visitors Halebank put up some sterling opposition in the opening 20 minutes and belied their lowly position in the league, plus they should also be applauded for getting a side out to fulfil this fixture especially with the Liverpool final I guess losing them a few options. 
It was Lewis Galloway who had an early chance for the visitors but he couldn't get a powerful enough shot away and ultimately after an encouraging start by Halebank it was the home side who took the lead after 25 minutes when Mike Evans was put through and he slotted past the visiting keeper Dylan Whitley.  Sadly for the visitors this seemed to hit their confidence after being on the end of a few heavy defeats the floodgates were about to open seven minutes later when Mike Whitehead crossed for Rory Gorton to double the Middlewich lead.  Just a minute later a free kick 20 yards out sealed the afternoon for Halebank when Gorton converted it to make it 3-0 and we went into half time with a fourth when Mark Adamcycz drove in from the edge of the box.

MIKE EVANS OFF DOWN THE WING FOR TOWN

The second half started encouragingly for Halebank when Kevin Dunning hit a post but service was returned to normal shortly afterwards with the home sides fifth when Jamie Petrie crossed for Adamcycz to head home for his second of the game after 47 minutes.  Aster a period of play were Midllewich were guilty of missed chances something that could have proved costly if the second place spot had gone down to goal difference it was the visitors who reduced the arrears when Elliott Cunningham fired home.

GORTON GETS A SHOT IN FOR MIDDLEWICH TOWN

The closing stages though belonged to Middlewich Town who added a penalty from Dean Burgess after Petrie had been fouled in the box and it was seven following a corner off the right that was well headed home by Scott Twite.
An entertaining affair for the home side that probably should have seen them secure more goals with credit to Halebank who never gave up all watched by a healthy crowd approaching 3 figures this had been a pleasant afternoon watching another Cheshire League game in an attractive setting with some nice facilities.
Return journey to the 37 bus stop saw Sean lead the way he had spotted the short cut and we were soon on our way to right outside Crewe station were we bade him farewell and we popped off on the one carriage bus on rails back to Derby and with a sharp connection a base station arrival at just before 8pm.

CHESTERFIELD TOWN AND ALLESTREE SERVE UP 7 GOALS

CHESTERFIELD TOWN 3 ALLESTREE 4
MIDLANDS REGIONAL ALLIANCE PREMIER @ LANGER LANE
24 MAY 2018 --- 7PM
It was Derby based visitors Allestree who pulled off a remarkable victory by the odd goal in seven twice coming back from behind before taking the chances that mattered in this MRA Premier game.

LANGER LANE HOME OF CHESTERFIELD TOWN FC

After recent travels it was great to have the opportunity to make a local journey to visit a set up that it had been a fair while since my previous visit too many years ago then I care to remember.
Approaching the ground via the tree lined Langer Lane this beautiful evening gave up at the top on the left hand side the Chesterfield College sports grounds and approaching on the sloping driveway a wonderful summers evening view towards the trees and rolling fields and finally the village of Wingerworth.
The set up here surrounds a small changing room block offering up a pitch slightly to the left, in use tonight, and one to the right further away there is I guess room for a third one in the middle void.  The educational feel is added to by the site being surrounded with grey metal spiked fencing seen so often around schools today.  There is no furniture to describe except to say the pitches are in pretty smart condition with some good line markings compared to some seen this season.  To the house side and far goal end high catch nets are in place to stop the loss of footballs into gardens and heavy undergrowth areas.
Having received a warm greeting from home manager Barry there was a fair selection of hoppers arriving from all over the country who would make up this small crowd of 20.  Former manager Simon Dixon was in attendance and he was joined by Steve Bates both of whom are now taking on new challenges in The CMFL with Renishaw Rangers.  While on the CMFL the home side along with quite a few other MRA sides are expressing an interest in joining the new regional division 1 within its structure.
It was a welcoming night with tonight's referee Rob Rees offering the chance for a quick catch up and he had a good game with some excellent sprints he was ably assisted by Georgia Ball and Jack Ross.  After a period of injury it is to be hoped Rob's experience will once again grace the EMCFL and CMFL next season.

ALLESTREE 3 POINTS BETTER OFF OH YES AND £500 THANKS TO GLADIATOR SPORTS

Before the game The Gladiator Group a Derby based design company presented Allestree with a £500 cheque and so the photo opportunity provided a good record of the visitors team tonight too within featuring the usual amount of pictures tonight.
This was intended to be a quick midweek local blog however both sides provided goals and chances galore so here goes, the home side took the lead on after three minutes when Sam Labrum cross for
Cory Burton at the far post to convert.  Within ten minutes Allestree had equalised a corner of the left was met by the deflective header of Robert Rooney.

MATCH ACTION WITH ALLESTREE JUST ABOUT IN CONTROL

Chances continued with Alex Laurence for the visitors having his effort saved at the other end Joe Clarke missed a good chance at the back post.  On the half hour mark Chesterfield took the lead again when visiting keeper Neil Crofts raced out arrived to late and the ball fell to Clarke slotted the ball home into the unguarded goal.  Town looked to extend their lead with Burton and Craig Purcell having efforts saved before on the stroke of half time Allestree equalised again when Jamie Laird fired home a sharp finish.
Within four minutes of the re start referee Rees endeared himself to the visiting side with a penalty award duly despatched by Toby Bowen to give Allestree the lead for the first time.  Efforts were coming in from both sides as the game opened up with at the stage the visitors looking likely to go on to increase their lead however Chesterfield went so close on 81 minutes when a through ball from Jack Wyn found Theo Jarrald who lifted the ball over Crofts in the visitors goal only for it to strike the bar.
Just two minute on though and Allestree doubled their advantage when a good run from Bowen set up Laird who after the intial save put away the re bound for his second of the game.  As we entered stoppage time Wyn provided a perfect left wing corner for Harry Denton to head home to reduced the arrears to 3-4.

STEADY HERE COMES A SPRINT

Within a minute referee Rees had called an end to proceedings in what had been an open and chances packed end of season encounter but it was lowly Allestree who had secured all three points, this game could have gone either way and as a neutral a draw would have probably fitted the cards.
A final footnote With Robert Rooney and Ollie Shearer on the team sheet for Allestree it would have been churlish of me not to mention the headline possibilities but it didn't happen!
   

DRUIDS INTO EUROPE

CEFN DRUIDS 1 CARDIFF MET 0
WELSH PREMIER LEAGUE EUROPA LEAGUE PLAY OFF FINAL @ THE ROCK
20 MAY 2018 --- 1225PM

EUROPE HERE WE COME FOR CEFN DRUIDS

A fantastic end to a wonderful season for Cefn Druids and their overjoyed manager Huw Griffiths was sealed by a solitary James Davies goal after 17 minutes and it was that strike that would send The Ancients into a Europa League spot and all the thrills of a European encounter for this village side.
With Welsh football securing many an obscure kick off time to provide S4C and its footy programme Sgorio with a prominence for the game in the Principality this one looked to be out of my reach with a 1225 start, thankfully though the good lady fancied a trip back into Wales after enjoying the Welsh Cup Final a few weeks ago.
With a departure just after 8.30am, even that would be an hour later than the Met team, we passed by the Britannia Stadium home of Stoke City and previous to that Meir where I couldn't help childishly suggest I wonder if they have cats there. On the approach to Market Drayton a vintage tractor rally raised a sigh of relief as what must have been 50 plus of the slow moving beasts were traveling the opposite way, yes result.  Anyway by the time we were by the border the navigating was going well and travelling through Loggerheads it was good to note that thankfully we were not!

EARLY VIEW OF THE MAIN STAND AT THE ROCK

With a slight deviation through the edge of Ruabon we parked up in Rhosymedre at just shy of 11am and with time to play with made a trip to the former Druids ground for a loo visit and aisle 5 for some snacks yes of course its a Tesco now.  Arriving back at The Rock the sight of a former quarry and the clubs new ground we found the turnstiles still locked at 1130 so after a little hovering we spotted Nicky John from Sgorio and Malcom Allen expert commentator, who shortly after greeted Wayne Allsion ex of Chesterfield, Sheffield United etc who is now connected to Cardiff Met.

TOWARDS THE BUSINESS END

The gates were finally unlocked about 45 minutes before kick off and after securing a coffee and more importantly for the good lady a seat it was time to complete a circuit of this unique ground.  Without describing it again because it was covered last season for a league game versus Llandudno it is just worth recommending a visit purely for the sight of the rock face behind the far touchline and although not as dramatic as Braga in Portugal its well worth a visit.

THE ROCK @ THE ROCK

As we arrived to kick off time its worth mentioning that the convoluted way teams get there but I cant because its too complicated!  In the last few weeks Cardiff Met overcame Barry Town Utd 4-1 in a play off semi final, there are normal 2 of these but because the Cup Final went Connah's Quay way there was only one.  So we arrived at todays play off final something that Cardiff had experienced and lost in last year and with an overall estimated value of around £200,00 it was not just the achievement of wining the game that was on the cards this afternoon, however how much of that may be lost in costs travelling to some far off place in a few weeks is I suspect unknown.

MET MANAGER CHRISTIAN EDWARDS BEFORE THE GAME

Cardiff Met started strongly and looked to threaten Druids goal and clearly their manager Christian Edwards had set out a game plan to get at the home side early on.  Slowly though Druids got a foothold into the game and one remarkable move saw Davies have his effort blocked before Alec Mudimu have his first effort blocked before his follow up received the same treatment.  The game was now a very open affair but through Arek Piskorski the home side had the threat and indeed on 17 minutes his sharp run and low cross fed Davies who saw his first effort blocked by Emlyn Lewis but he made no mistake lashing home the rebound to give Cefn the lead.

THE £200,000 GOAL FROM JAMES DAVIES

Cardiff Met were on the hunt for the equaliser and although both sides could have claims to have had a fair few goals each it was the visitors who saw an excellent half volley from a tight angle on the right from Rhydian Morgan excellently saved by Michael Jones before a golden opportunity in front of goal with just the keeper to beat saw Eliot Evans lift the ball high over the crossbar.
Following the turn round the game developed into the footy version of the cricket county championship a tactical operation of intrigue.

GREAT SAVE FROM CARDIFF MET KEEPER WILL FULLER

The visitors were desperate to secure the equaliser and as they sprayed the ball around the park they looked superb up to the edge of the box where the hardworking Cefn team intervened to repel their attacks.  As Druids got deeper and deeper it looked to be a dangerous game but their tireless running would see them to the final whistle and as Nick Pratt blew signalled the end of proceedings their were scenes of joy for Huw Griffiths and his team following a tremendous achievement of not only securing their Premier League status comfortably this season but this wonderful gift of a trip to Europe. 
Scattered around the 3g surface at various points now were devastated Met players on their knees, flat out, head in hands you name it all the positions of desperation you can think of and it would be remiss to not mention their fantastic efforts in going so close they just could not find the finish they so desired.

DRUIDS MANAGER HUW GRIFFITHS PRAISES METS EDWARDS

Noteworthy though amidst the celebrations was the reception they received from the crowd of appreciation too and after the game Druids manager praised the generosity in congratulations received from Cardiff manager Edwards after what must have been such a hard result for all from the South to take.
Having gained a front of stand position for the presentation attaching myself like glue to the TV cameraman, they always get the shot, it was then that I noticed the two boxes of Cava four rows to the front of me.  Having managed to avoid the normal two bottles popping at various presentations this season I now feared for my swimming proficiency badge, needless to say I wasn't wrong mind you neither was most of the stand who got drenched as Huw Griffiths and Neil Ashton lifted the trophy in scenes that were a pleasure to witness.
A wonderful afternoon at The Rock and a delight to see what this meant to Cefn Druids I hope they have a great time and go far enjoying every minute of their European experience. 
In the mean time you know that £200,000 do you think I can put in a claim for dry cleaning?
If you get the chance this visit is another to be well recommended a thoroughly enjoyable final and re visit to Cefn Druids.  the return was punctuated with a stop in the lovely market town of Uttoxeter for Sunday tea at Spoons.

CHAMPIONS KNUTSFORD KEEP ON WINNING

KNUTSFORD 3 BILLINGE 1
CHESHIRE LEAGUE PREMIER @ MANCHESTER RD
19 MAY 2018 --- 2PM

KNUTSFORD FC

Knutsford have already secured the league title but you might as well just keep on winning when you can and so it proved against a well organised Billinge side.  The champions fell behind early on to a wonderful strike but as the game went on it became clearer that the quality in finishing that Knutsford had would win the day for the Manchester Rd side and having equalised in the first half the two second half goals allowed them to wrap three points up again.
As the end of season tour goes on and indeed for many clubs at step 7 the season is rattling away with many games a week when other leagues have completed there was chance to take a look at what would be the blogs first Cheshire League game, although of course 2 clubs have been covered in cup games this season [Congleton VR and Whaley Bridge Ath].

ITS ALL LOOKING SMART AT MANCHESTER RD

That phrase 'had been on the cards for a while' has sprung up a few times and is non more applicable than to todays hosts Knutsford who from all my fellow footy fans I had not heard nothing but praise about the club, indeed ace photographer Barry Dyke had called in one summers day a few years ago and waxed lyrically about his visit.  On a non match day he met the grounds man Brian Deeley who of course with a pitch like Knutsford possess was down at the ground and after being invited to take a look around their facilities they had a lengthy conversation about the club and even exchanged scarves from one of Barry's clubs at the time Clay Cross Town.  Pleased to say the Millers scarf still adorns the bar and of course from this friendships are made and while recounting this story to Brian today I have to say we received a superb welcome from him and all at the club.

TODAYS PROGRAMME V BILLINGE

While we are in an out of sync story telling mode it was also good to by greeted by Knutsford secretary Nev Pearson who as we got into conversation it became clear was the former Gamesley manager who brought his side to Clay Cross Town for a Derbyshire Senior Cup game about 4 seasons ago.  It appears Nev is a former Glossop lad but now finds himself in nearby Northwich and is a great addition to the club offering a warm welcome to the array of hoppers in attendance today.  It always amazes me how some clubs are so aware of hoppers/visitors and go out of their way to offer a warm welcome and others just don't seem interested well here at Knutsford I don't think you will be disappointed. 
On the hopper front it was superb to catch up with Sean Blaney who we first met a few years ago at Main Rd Fc and who is a font of all knowledge for footy especially around this area with many a possible ground visit tip picked up for next year.  Fellow traveller Mick had got in touch with a fellow hopper from Daisy Hill, sorry didn't pick get your name, but it was really one of those afternoons were football and grounds were discussed on a warm summers day, what could be better?
So with the needle back to the start of the record travel from base station at just before 1030 saw a swift change in Stockport and arrival at todays destination around mid day.

KNUTSFORD AND KING ST WITH ROYAL WEDDING BUNTING

Knutsford.................................probably the most difficult town to describe but here goes.  Its wealthy exterior pervades all who have read about the area and if you take a walk along the narrow King St you will feel it with boutique shops, restaurants of an exquisite type and a whole range of high end small businesses.  Many of these appeared to have little custom and I guess one sale a day may have made the necessary margins.  The town moves very slightly into a more 'normal town feel' on its adjacent Princess St but even this is topped off with the street running across it has a large shop window front, not a garage, offering the latest Tesla a car for the Knutsford area, indeed around the corner was the former McLaren showroom. 
Surprisingly enough having failed to secure a fish in chip shop it was Princess St that, good grief, offered up a Coop Cheese sandwich and rather appropriately millionaires shortbread was purchased and it was back onto the streets of Knutsford.  Having cracked open the cheese sandwich I began to eat it along the streets only then did I realise I could have made a big social etiquette error, I was lowering the tone of the area significantly and it was time to move away quickly along the Manchester Rd before the lowering the tone police arrested me.

FOOTY PICTURE WHILE THE WAFFLING CONTINUES

In all seriousness though conversations during the afternoon showed Knutsford to have a couple of large social housing estates and it would appear that the centre has just developed into the feel of a wealthy place but some of the surrounding areas are batting along like the rest of us.  As a further note I never saw a bus all afternoon the main Manchester Rd has just four a day on a Monday to Friday and there are no Sunday and Bank Holiday services in the town at all, look like getting the Range Rover out again.
Early arrival was looking on the cards so we walked past the ground a little way and when we came back a selection of large cars were leaving the ground initially thinking little of this as every other car is a Mercedes or BMW it was then a question of is the game off?  Needless to say it wasn't we had just missed Arsenal and England international Danny Welbeck who had called in to the club for a bit of training!

BEN BROOKS ABOUT TO EQUALISE FOR KNUTSFORD

Along the wide driveway to the club we paid our admission and gained the colourful 4 page programme that offered up information on Knutsford Fc.  First building is the bar area which doubles up as the food bar serving up I'm assured quality pies, through the double doors was a further hospitality area with a wide selection of comfortable seats throughout both buildings it was quite possible to find one that suited you.  Beyond this building are the changing rooms and to the side a smart toilet block.  From behind this entry point goal to the left is a stand that covers a good proportion of the pitch side and once again offers a selection of seats including high bar stools!  The rest of the ground is uncovered and of grass standing with the dug outs uniquely on opposite sides of the pitch.  While talking of the pitch Brian and the club are noted for it and it was of course in excellent condition again today.  As with Whitchurch last week this ground has smartness and cared for screaming out from all corners of it and with the people I encountered today a real warm about the whole set up.

HANDBALL.....NEVER REF ITS ONLY ONE HAND ANYWAY

Now to the main event and with Billinge needing to win their final two games to finish second it would be a good challenge I was sure and non more so than when the visitors took the lead after just 14 minutes a superb strike from the edge of the box courtesy of Liam Platt.
Shortly after though Knutsford found the equaliser a cross off the right saw Liam Crellin Myers set up Ben Brooks for the finish to make it 1-1.  That's how it remained at the half time break but it has to be said Billinge were making this hard for Knutsford with some lovely passing football although at times it may have been a little too much and the Champions were struggling to get a dominant foothold in the game.

GOAL LINE CLEARANCE FROM THE EARLIER HANDBALL

The second half saw Dean Warburton test visiting keeper Tom Darbyshire with a 20 yard effort before taking the lead with seventeen minutes remaining.  A sharp move down the left saw the previous saw the same partnership as Knutsford's first goal team up to allow Brooks to get his second with a curling shot that flew in off the post.

KNUTSFORD KEEPER CRAIG ELLISON RISES SUPERBLY TO CLAIM THE CROSS

Within two minutes it was game over when Knutsford made it 3-1 Darbyshire saved well from Aaron Dwyer and with too little time to recover the number 1 was beaten by Crellin-Myer whose close range effort nestled in the back of the Billinge goal.  Knutsford were looking irresistible now and Dwyer struck a post before in the closing minute Crellin-Myers hit a crisp 20 yard effort that Darybshire rose superbly to push over the bar to cap off a good performance rom the visiting keeper this afternoon.

A FINAL LOOK AT THAT BILLINGE KIT

Round about trip back via the Coop, again, for some provisions for the journey back although this time I waited until I was at the station before opening up any food stuffs.  With a comfortable change at Stockport and a cheerio to Sean it was an arrival back at base station just after 7pm from what had been a highly recommended visit to a wonderful little club.

SELSTON AND RAVENSHEAD IN GOAL FEST

SELSTON RES 3 RAVENSHEAD 4
NOTTS SENIOR LEAGUE 1 @ PALMERSTON ST WESTWOOD
17 MAY 2018 6PM [6.33PM]
This final game of a long season for both sides served up a veritable feast of goals specifically in the final 17 minutes with four hitting the back of the net.  Selston had taken an early lead but they were never to do so again as Ravenshead constantly took the adavatage again soon after the home sides levellers.

WESTWOOD THIS WAY

As the season draws to a close an opportunity to cross the border into Nottinghamshire arose for this fixture played at Westwood Rec away from The Parish Ground in Selston who now have cricket considerations and with their postponements due to waterlogging the club had sent a nice selection of their 2nd string fixtures on the road to Westwood which appropriately remains in the Selston Parish area.
With an early start this became a viable option on public transport with a small amount of time built in it became slightly later than planned when Ravenshead only arrived on kick off time and with many coming in twenty minutes later the start went further back.  It did seem an early start time and there must be a need for leagues to be more realistic with kick offs especially for fixtures in mid May.  The down time allowed for me to follow, like the Pied Piper, the chimed bells of the local ice cream van, sod the fish and chips today it was time to welcome in summer.

FISH AND CHIPS NO MORE

Westwood is the smaller of two villages, its neighbour being Jacksdale, that I'm fairly familiar with and having not been through the area for a while it was interesting to see the changes.  Jacksdale has lost a few shops sadly like many villages but there is still a great community feel with many groups and even a community magazine produced which is of the interesting variety unlike many others it remains a local feel.  The area has a fantastic industrial history with its pits, railway and canals alongside the former Butterley Works famous for many buildings including structures at St Pancras station.  While on a history diversion there was time to learn something new tonight about the Portland Tramaway that ran from the Portland Pits near Selston through Westwood and down the incline to Jacksdale and the wharf for the canal and railways.  The horse drawn transportation had a break house situated in Westwood to hold back the coal waggons from their steep drop to their ultimate destination.  Numerous information boards have been lovingly researched and can be seen along the route of the tramway with a leaflet available for anybody interested in tracking the route.  Before I sound like the tourist information office for the area back to the footy.
Westwood Rec is just what it says a park pitch with a large green metal cabin for changing rooms and it does everything it needs to do for what is effectively step 8 football.  The ground offers on this glorious evening some nice views over rolling fields back towards Selston and behind our backs the houses of Westwood look on to proceedings.

OPENING GOAL FOR SELSTON JORDAN BLACK

Having secured the teams from referee Craig Frisk who it should be noted had a good game and despite his early arrival at 5pm he performed well.  It should be noted this is Ravenshead first game since April 21st so credit to them for fulfilling this fixture.  An early lead for Selston saw Jordan Black nip in to slot past the visiting keeper Ross Hardwick and as it looked like the home side would go on to score more the chances went begging though and Ravenshead gathered themselves from their late arrival and equalised when Adam Martin converted at the back post.  On the half hour mark the same player put the visitors in front when he fired home from a goal line clearance and that's how we went into the break.
The second half saw Selston determined to get back into the game but the goal would not come that was until 73 minutes when Klarke Greenham converted a sharp cross goal finish.  More or less immediately the visitors re-took the lead when the unmarked Tyler Lambert headed home.  The goal flurry continued with Selston equalising again a long throw created doubt in the Ravenshead defence and as the ball was cleared from the goal line it struck the in running Reagan Marriott to go over the line.
We now had a game on our hands as play swung from end to end it was winner takes all and that fell to Lambert who cut in off the left and coolly fired past Jack Mills in the Selston goal with two minutes remaining.
An entertaining final game from both sides and a convoluted return journey via a walk to the Coop for hoppers provisions and bus change in Leabrooks and Alfreton saw arrival back at base far later than anticipated.

WHITCHURCH ALPORT ONE STEP AWAY FROM PROMOTION

WHITCHURCH ALPORT V SANDBACH UTD
NWCFL PLAY OFF SEMI FINAL @YOCKINGS PARK
12 MAY 2018 --- 3PM

WHITCHURCH ALPORT PLAY OFF FINAL APPEARANCE BECKONS

Alport secured a play off final berth with a strike 14 minutes from time thanks to a Joe Cuff strike and will match up against the bottom placed play off side Cammell Laird.  Sadly for Sandbach the effort took a deflection that gave the visiting keeper no chance at all however United had been denied earlier by a super save from the home custodian and missed a golden opportunity with the goal wide open.
The end of season tour continues and like any old rock band in the last week or so we have taken in gigs in Cheshire, Powys, Northamptonshire, Derbyshire and today Shropshire or to give it that horrible name of a few decades ago Salop. Whitchurch Alport as with most of the last few new grounds had been on the radar before but due to the inclement weather of recent seasons had always looked an on its own risk but with the weather now showing signs of summer this fixture was a great option to visit.

EARLY CHANGE AT DERBY ALLOWED A SHOT OF THE NEW PLATFORMS BEING BUILT

Departure from base station twenty before ten saw changes in Derby and a fast one in Crewe onto the lengthy, in mileage, Manchester to Carmarthen train a packed of course Arriva Wales train but it was 20 minutes of standing so acceptable. 
Arriving in Whitchurch just at half past midday there was time for a gentle wander into town and first spot was the Turret clock manufacturers building a skill that the town is noted for but now operated by auctioneers.  Mind you not any old auctioneers but partner Christina Trevanion the popular BBC personality from shows of the ilk of Bargain Hunt, as we moved into the town the most notable attraction was the collection and variety of wonderful buildings and the architecture of them.  The town itself other than this is unremarkable and very much gives the feel of the border town that it is situated by the Welsh border.

A SMART WELCOME TO WHITCHURCH ALPORT FC

Having admired the buildings and resisted Watergate Bakery which had the biggest 'PIES' sign you could imagine in the shops window they either like pies around here or have poor eyesight.  You see temptation was resisted because on the way in we spotted Chesters fish shop so drifted back their to sample the goods.

ITS NOT ALL ABOUT THE LIGHTS THIS IS A SMART SET UP

On the way to Yockings Park we discussed the Alport part of the clubs name so given from Alport Farm in the town where local footballer Coley Maddocks, who had been killed in World War 2, lived.  Struggling to find the reason why its called Yockings Park I will leave that for another day but there is a further nice touch in the ground which after some excellent developments and new pitch side fencing the club left in one of the concrete posts that supported the former railing.  This bares a memorial plaque to Bert Nelson and with further class there is now an added floor encased light that shines onto the post.

THE FAR SIDE AND IT ALL SAYS SMART

The tight lane that gives up the approach road to the ground allows a first sight that says straight away smart set up, a warm welcome at the turnstiles just before 2pm allows us to pay in and collect the creditable programme.  With a crowd of around 500 expected and achieved the clubs toilet facilities were probably a worry and they had invested in three Portaloos the one I sampled worried me slightly as soon as I closed the door it wobbled around and I feared being transported to a football league ground!  Safely extricated from the plastic time machine and the ground descriptor the first most notable things are the floodlights four poles with a mass of floodlights on them its almost like being in one of those old school eastern European stadia.

NO WORDS NEEDED

To the right is the new hospitality/bar area with large fridges keeping drinks cool, nestled in between here and the small clubhouse are today a food van and ice cream van which on todays hot day was a further good move.  The bar is cosy but very smart and also offers the clubs on snack bar once again a smart impression with many of the volunteers kitted out in club polo shirts.  The main stand cuts off the terracing and to get to the far side you need to walk round but back to the stand a smart affair with new seats in small blocks give an executive box feel with large backs and seats and with the front sloping roof it looks loved.  Around the ground then to the left hand side an open terrace and onto the opposite touchline two separate pitch length covers split by the dug outs and within the far one a single row of the executive seats appear.  Behind the far goal its open but once again with the new meshed fencing you see at 3g facilities and new concrete hard standing continuing right round to the opposite end of the stand the overall feel is off a superb facility.  Behind this far goals the rolling fields of Whitchurch gives way to its farming and agricultural home. Club officials had been hard at work preparing for the game with balloons attached to the fence at regular intervals and before kick off a drone flew around with a Whitchurch flag wafting away.  We were not finished though as the teams came out externally to the ground a selection of corporate red coloured flares were displayed to add to the experience.

WARNING ALPORT CAPTAIN SIMON EVERALL WILL FEATURE HEAVILY ON HERE IS SOME OF HIS TATTOOS

As a neutral you couldn't but help like this clubs set up and admire the work that had clearly gone into the ground and was further promoted in advancing this club as a community based side, indeed the average crowds of 228 are astonishing and they are being appreciated and hopefully will continue to add to these numbers from the impression I gained today, superb effort everybody!

THE ICE CREAM VAN IS OVER THERE

To the game well play offs are often tense nervous dour affairs with moments of heartbreak for one side and complete joy for the other well that probably sums this encounter up.  Sandbach had won both previous league meetings and although Alport had finished higher the winner would have to be resolute.  Both sides were the latter word in the former sentence and also their work rate was unquestionable but the nerves and tension got them I guess in a dour first half  there really was little of note except for a substitution of the injured Nicky Porter by the in the end match winner Joe Cuff after 29 minutes.

I KNOW HE IS IN THE PICTURE AGAIN AS WELL AS THE ACTION

The second period continued in much the same game and the dreaded penalties were starting to warm themselves up but as time drifted it was Sandbach who had the chance to gain the advantage a tremendous 25 yard shot from Adam Clayton saw home keeper Adam Clayton fly to his left to push the ball effort around at full stretch for a corner.  Then on 63 minutes the one chance you ned in a game like this looked to be Sandbach's option Jordan Davies broke through rounded the keeper and from a tight, but achievable, angle with the goal open he found the side netting.

OK ITS £10 TO JOIN THE SIMON EVERALL FAN CLUB

Big let off for Whitchurch who within ten minutes had snatched their chance as home captain Simon Everall completely missed his kick on an edge of the penalty box cross the ball drifted through to Cuff who fired the ball towards the bottom left hand side of the visitors goal cue massive deflection and said corner was avoided and the ball nestled in the opposite corner to spark off wild scenes of delight.
Could Alport hand on......... you bet!  There was really on a melee on the stroke of time to note following a late challenge form a Sandbach player which I guess the referee and his assistants lost because how it wasn't a red card I'm not sure but following the calming down of reactions the ten minutes of stoppage time added were not too nervous and the red army can look forward to a Thursday night final.
Lets put on record here the blog enjoys the neutrality its given with not following one club or the other but I hope Whitchurch Alport go on to win the play off final and take their place in step 5 you just couldn't help but love the club on this visit today, I hope to return here soon.
An about turn to the edge of the town for hopper provision saw once again a busy service back to Crewe before changing to the one carriage bus on rails to Derby and a swift change to arrive back at base station just before 8pm.