Match Reports - Season 2007/2008

	DIVISION ONE	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Failsworth Dynamoes	26	19	3	4	68	22	46	60
2	Old Blackburnians Res	26	16	4	6	75	30	45	52
3	Bolton Wyresdale	26	14	9	3	73	51	22	51
4	Castle Hill	26	16	3	7	56	38	18	51
5	Tyldesley United	26	15	3	8	58	47	11	48
6	Prairie United	26	11	5	10	62	59	3	38
7	Spotland Methodists	26	10	3	13	50	60	-10	33
8	Little Lever SC Res	26	10	2	14	50	52	-2	32
9	Thornleigh	26	9	4	13	47	53	-6	31
10	Chaddertonians Res	26	8	7	11	40	56	-16	31
11	Hindley Juniors	26	8	4	14	52	62	-10	28
12	Broughton Amateurs	26	7	4	15	44	67	-23	25
13	Bolton Ambassadors	26	5	6	15	42	74	-32	21
14	Hesketh Casuals	26	4	3	19	34	80	-46	15

Sat. 25th Aug 2007	V	Little Lever SC Res (h) 0 - 2 (ht.0-1) scorers : -
		With a new manager and new players it took sometime before the team settled down and just when it looked like we were going to get to half time goalless Little lever scored. A change to the formation and a couple of substitutions in the second half settled the team down. Chances were made but none were converted. Then against the run of play Little Lever increased their lead. We continued to press but Little Lever's defence held out.
Sat. 1st Sept 2007	V	Failsworth Dynamos (a) 3 - 2 (ht.3-1) scorers : I.Latham 2, B.Stuart
		We travelled to play this newly promoted team but were aware they were a team that had not lost a league match for over a year. We got off to a bad start as a mix up in defence gifted Failsworth a goal after 2 minutes. A long goalkeepers kick was converted by Latham after 6 minutes to put us back on even terms. This settled us down and we began to play some nice football and after 26 mins. a Latham cross was converted by Stuart. Another mistake by the Failsworth defence gave Latham the chance to round the goalkeeper and put us 3 - 1 up just before half time. The second half began with both sides evenly matched but as the half progressed we began to tire. After 76 mins. Failsworth scored from a free kick. This meant that our defence had to absorb the pressure from a determined Failsworth side, with us launching the occasional break away. Although we hit the bar from one of these it was a dogged performance from the defence that meant we went home with all the points. - SS
Sat. 8th Sept 2007 LAL Cup Rd 1	V	Rochdale St. Clements (a) 2 - 3 (ht.2-2) scorer : T.Martin, L.Plaskett
		We went to Rochdale, last years premier division champions knowing that to get a result we would need to play very well. We began lively and the the match was evenly balanced when in the 15th min a clever run and through ball from Taylor was finished by Martin. Two minutes later Taylor repeated the move but this time Plaskett scored. This stunned Rochdale who replied two minutes later with a tremendous volley. In the 25th min Rochdale scored again and Broughton had to steady the ship and get back into the game. Broughton got back in the game and although making a number of chances the score remained 2-2 at half time. The second half was evenly matched with both teams not converting their chances. With five minutes to go we missed the opportunity to win the match when with only the goalkeeper to beat the shot was saved. With 30 seconds remaining and extra time looming Rochdale scored. An excellent performance but with a dissapointing outcome. - SS
Sat. 15th Sept 2007 LFA Cup Rd 1	V	Morecambe Royals FC KO.2.00pm (NORTH LANCASHIRE LEAGUE) (a) 2 - 1 (ht.0-0) scorers : L.Plaskett, M.Elgee
		Traffic hold ups meant we arrived late for Lancashire Amateur Cup match, not the best preparation and this showed in the early stages of the match. As mentioned we got away to a slow start and this together with the wind meant we under-performed in the first half and were lucky to go in at half time on equal terms. An injury to Monks meant we had to reshuffle the team but now with the wind behind us we started to play better and get on top. However sloppy defended meant we conceded a goal after 60 mins, but quickly responded from Plaskett to draw equal. After another period of pressure Elgee charged down a clearance and the ball ended in the net (not a bullet header as a dazed Elgee claimed). We continued to dominate although did not add to the score. A resolute performance but we will need to play better if we are going to progress further in the cup. - SS
Sat. 22nd Sept 2007	V	Tyldesley United (h) 1 - 4 (ht.-) scorers : S.Mitchell
		After the Cup matches it was back to a league match against unbeaten Tydesley United. We began the match brightly but appeared hesitant in front of goals and therefore failed to convert any of the chances we created. After 25 mins Tydesley's centre forward walked through our defence to open the scoring. Although we settled down again another defensive mistake meant we went into the second half two down. Tyldesley were now confident and dominating the match and it was not surprising that they increased their lead by adding goals in the 60th and 75th minutes. Mitchell got a consolation goal from a Stuart lay off after 75 mins but the match was over by then. A disappointing performance made worse when we realised that Tydesley had been playing with ten men. - SS
Sat. 29th Sept 2007	V	Chadderton Res (a) 2 - 4 (ht.1-3) scorer : I.Latham, P.Monks
		After only 4 mins a bizarre referrees decision led to a goal for Chads. After this the match was evenly balanced with us unable to convert any chances and Chads keeping our defence at full stretch. Chads went two ahead after 21 mins through a converted penalty and scored another 4 mins later. We quickly pulled one back through a good strike by Latham and pressed hard for another. In the second half We kept up the pressure but Chads were next to score from a quick break away. This now meant Broughton needed three goals to share the points which proved too much against a resolute Chads defence. Broughton did however get a penalty in the 80th min which was converted by Monks. In all a below par performance which we will need to improve on if we are going to progress in the LFA Cup next week. - SS
Sat. 6th Oct 2007 LFA Cup Rd 2	V	Baxters FC (PRESTON & DISTRICT LEAGUE) (a) 4 - 2 (aet: ht.1-0. ft.2-2) scorers : P.Monks, T.Martin, S.Cummins, L.Plaskett
		An excellent match played in great spirit by both teams saw us take a first half lead with a penalty from Monks. Baxters then had the better of the exchanges during the early part of the 2nd half and took a 2-1 lead going into the last 15 mins. We launched several attacks in the the last quarter of an hour and were rewarded when Tony Martin crashed home a great shot from outside the box to equalise and send the match into extra time. During the extra period we took our chances with goals from Cummins and Plaskett to take us into the next round. - DW
Sat. 13th Oct 2007	V	Bolton Ambassadors (a) 6 - 2 (ht.-) scorer : I. Latham 2, Stuart, M.Harrington, T.Martin 2
		After last weeks cup success we went to Bolton Ambassadors in a confident mood. Broughton weathered early pressure from Ambassadors and and after 19 mins a through ball from Elgee was converted by Latham. This settled any nerves and 11 mins later Stuart scored after some excellent work from Cummins. Two up at half time and now playing down hill. After 63 mins a smart one two between Taylor and Harrington resulted in Harrington making it three. On came supersub Martin who quicly scored twice and another from Latham after a storming run by Seddon completed the afternoons scoring. A good performance from all concerned. - SS
Sat. 20th Oct 2007	V	Thornleigh (h) 0 - 5 (ht.0-3) scorers : -
		After last weeks victory the team began brightly against lowly Thornleigh. However after 10 mins the defence failed to deal with a long throw in which ended up in the net. Things then got worse as Thornleigh beat the offside trap twice in two minutes to go 3 up at half time. The team never recovered from this and although in spells played some attractive football they never really threaten the Thornleigh goal whilst Thornleigh scored another two goals. A much better performance will be required next week if we are going to keep the Cup run going. - SS
Sat. 27th Oct 2007 LFA Cup Rd 3	V	Horwich RMI (LANCS AMATEUR LEAGUE) (a) 1 - 1 won 4-2 on pens (ht.0-1) scorers : B.Stuart
		Last minute no shows meant we made our way to play Horwich RMI with a bare minimum of 11 players. As expected from a team who play in the division above us Horwich had most of the possession in the first half but could only break down our defence once, whilst our break aways were proving dangerous. The pattern was much similar at the beginning of the second half but the match changed when the Horwich centre half was sent off for a deliberate hand ball. This meant that the match became much more even and great individual play from Stuart who then finished with a tremendous shot drew us level. The remainder of normal time was a tense and even game as both sides tried to get the winner. Extra time and with no subs a great effort was required to hold out as legs were beginning to tire. At the penalty shoot out Martin, Seddon, Elgee and Morgan converted with Horwich missing the first and Stone saving the fourth to put us through to the last sixteen. A great effort. - SS.
Sat. 3rd Nov 2007	V	Hindley Juniors (h) 3 - 5 (ht.0-1) scorer : J.Seddon 2, I.Latham
		Our inconsistent form continued when we failed to beat the bottom of the league at Myerscough. For half an hour Broughton played well with no real threats upon their goal. Then our defence failed to deal with a kick from Hindley's goalkeeper and went a goal down. Immediately after half time Hindley scored again but this appeared to jolt Broughton and within 5 minutes we were equal through a brace of goals from Seddon. A doubtful penalty then put Hindley back in front and they went on to score two more goals. Latham got a consolation for Broughton to complete the days scoring. - SS.
Sat. 10th Nov 2007	V	Chadderton Res (h) 1 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorer : S.Cummins
		Another home match this time against lowly Chadderton. We were very sluggish from the start and after 11 mins. Chads went one up, although not playing well no further goals were conceded in the first half. In the second half we played a lot better but could not finish off a number of promising moves, and to make matters worse with 20 minutes to go we were reduced to 10 men due to a sending off. Just when defeat was looming large Cummins managed to get to a through ball first and grab a welcome equaliser for our hard battling 10 men. For some reason our home form is poor with this being the first point at home this season!! - SS
Sat. 17th Nov 2007 LFA Cup Rd 4	V	Burscough Bridge (PRESTON & DISTRICT LEAGUE) (a) 4 - 5 aet (ft.3-3) scorers : B.Stuart, L.Plaskett, I.Latham
		The fourth round saw Broughton go to Burscough Bridge with a place in the quarter finals at stake. Broughton started brightly and calmer finishing could have seen them going three up, however this was not to be and a defensive mix up saw Burscough take the lead after 10 mins. This shook Broughton and it took some time before they regained their composure and in the 40th minute Stuart deflected a shot from Bardsley into the net. Soon after half time Broughton failed to cope with a long throw in and went behind again. It took until the 80th minute before Latham equalised but this only lasted 2 minutes before Burscough scrambled another goal but again Broughton came back and Latham again scored from a free kick. Broughton quickly pressed on and Latham gained a penalty which caused a diabolical reaction from Burscough and it was 10 minutes before the ref restored order and it was no surprise that the penalty was saved. More drama as Latham was sent off before the final whistle which meant that we went into extra time for the third time in the competition with ten men. After 9 minutes in extra time good work from Plaskett resulted in him putting Broughton into the lead for the first time in the match. But disappointment was to follow as Broughton again failed to cope well against a series of long throws and Burscough somehow managed to force another two goals. A disappointing result against a side we should have beaten. - SS
Sat. 24th Nov 2007	V	Prairie United (h) 1 - 2 (ht.0-0) scorers : I.Latham
		Middle of the table Prairie United were the visitors to Myerscough where Broughton fielded, yet again, a side changed through injuries and player unavailability. Broughton started brightly but as the half continued it was Prairie who were playing the better football without really threatening to score. After half time Broughton came back into the game but as so often happens went behind in the 61 min as Prairie were quickest to react to a loose ball in the penalty area. This scenario was repeated 10 mins. later when a miss-kick from a Prairie player wrong footed the Broughton defence and a Prairie forward took advantage to score their second. Broughton then pressed hard for goals and on 85 min won a penalty which Latham converted. The last five minutes were hectic as Broughton fought hard for an equaliser which was only prevented by some last ditch tackles and excellent goalkeeping. - SS
Sat. 1st Dec 2007	V	Castle Hill (a) 0 - 1 (ht.0-0) scorers : -
		Broughton went to high flying Castle Hill with a number of players back and confident that they could give anyone a good game. Castle Hill's confidence showed in the early stages of the game as they pressed for an early goal. However as the half progressed Broughton came back into the game and both sides had chances to score. The 0-0 at half time quickly turned into one down as the defence lost concentration for a moment. However Broughton recovered and competed well throughout the second half but could not get an equaliser. This was a much better performance and they were unlucky not to get a draw. Lets hope this is the start of a run of better performances and they will begin to climb the league. - SS
Sat. 5th Jan 2008	V	Tyldesley United (a) 1 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : S.Cummins
		After the long break for the weather, Christmas and the New Year we went to league leaders Tyldesley. Confidence was high after the narrow defeat by second place Castle Hill and this proved justified as we competed well during the first half. Although Tyldesley saw more of the ball the quick passing of Broughton troubled the Tyldesley defence and after 23 mins. we went ahead after Cummins followed up a shot from Lathom to score. After 38 mins. the Broughton defence failed to deal with a Tyldesley corner and they equalised. The second half saw us getting more of the ball and having a number of chances which we failed to convert. As is often the case in the 78th minute we failed to deal with a Tyldesley corner and went behind - against the run of play. A great performance from Broughton but a bad result. - SS
Sat. 26th Jan 2008	V	Hesketh Casuals (h) 2 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : Kelly, S.Cummins
		Broughton entertained Hesketh Casuals on Saturday another team at the lower end of the league. Could the recent good form continue? Straight from the whistle Broughton attacked and dominated the early exchanges and it was no surprise when Kelly deftly finished a good move after 7 mins. Although Broughton continued with some excellent attacking football poor finishing prevented them going in at half time with a greater lead. The match continued in the same way in the second half and after 73 mins a great strike from Cummins calmed the nerves. Everybody played well with the defence having the first clean sheet of the season and with more positive finishing the team can only climb the league. - SS
Sat. 2nd Feb 2008	V	Hindley Juniors (a) 0 - 4 (ht.0-1) scorers : -
		We were again in action against a lowly Hindley Juniors hoping to continue in the form of the last few games. However this was not to be and although we dominated the possession during the first half the football was not flowing and we missed all of the half chances that came our way. After 31 mins Hindley broke quickly and opened the scoring. This gave confidence to Hindley who came more into the game and started looking dangerous. After half time we regained their composure but two quick goals after 65 mins knocked the stuffing out of us and we never recovered from these goals. Hindley increased the lead after 77 mins as we offered little resistence. - SS
Sat. 9th Feb 2008	V	Old Blacks Res (h) 0 - 3 (ht.0-0) scorers : -
		We entertained Old Blackburnians Res at Myerscough on a bright sunny day. The match was a closely contested affair which was goalless in the first half. Broughton had the best of the play but as has happened over the last few matches could not convert this into goals. The second half continued in the same way until the 65min when we failed to pick up a player at a corner who hit a great volley into the net. Broughton then went after the equaliser and although we pressed hard could not score and as we threw everyone forward we conceded two breakaway goals in the last five minutes to give Old Blacks a flattering 3 nil victory. - SS
Sat. 16th Feb 2008	V	Prairie United (a) 4 - 3 (ht.1-2) scorers : I.Latham 2, J.Seddon, N.Eccles
		We went to fourth place Prairie United with a number of key players missing on a day where the wind and ground made it difficult to play a passing game. Within the first minute we conceded a penalty and were fortunate that this was missed. For the next 15 mins our defence was all over the place a nd conceded two goals. They then started to settle and after 35 mins got a goal back through a Latham free kick. The second half saw a more positive Broughton and they started to control the game. However it was not until the 73rd min that we broke down the Prairie defence with Seddon finishing a neat move. Four minutes later Eccles added another and then with Prairie claiming offside Latham coolly finished for his second. In the dieing minutes Prairie scored a third goal but by them the game was already won. - SS
Sat. 23rd Feb 2008	V	Castle Hill (h) 2 - 3 (ht.1-0) scorers : N.Eccles, D.Morgan
		We entertained Castle Hill a leading team in the division. We started well for once and dominated the first half. After 17 mins a flowing move saw Cummins cross the ball for Eccles to score. This goal should have been followed by others but for all our domination this was not converted into goals and a commanding lead. After half time we quickly conceded a corner, defended poorly and Castle Hill were level. This changed the balance of the game and Castle hill scored two quick goals in the 59th and 60th mins. This brought a spirited response from the us but although we pressed hard the Castle Hill defence held out until the dying minutes when Morgan got a consolation goal. - SS
Sat. 15th Mar 2008	V	Bolton Wyresdale (h) 5 - 5 (ht.2-1) scorers : I.Latham 2, S.Cummins, S.Richards, J.Seddon
		High flying Wyresdale travelled to play us only to find out the game was to be played on the 3rd & 4th team pitch at Broughton and not at Myerscough. Minutes into the match you just knew it was going to be hard work for both team with the pitch cutting up really bad. Wyresdale took a very early lead but this was the kick start we needed as soon after we were 2-1 in front, Latham scoring a tidy free kick and a 30 yard screamer from right back Ricky. We came to the interval in the lead but straight after the restart we all fell asleep and conceded 3 sloppy goals (the story of our season). Changes were made and things started to look up when Cummins mazy run got him through on goal to pull one back, Latham then got his second of the game as he connected with a low cross from the left. With the game back on level terms there was still time for Wyresdale to break away and take the lead again but lucky for us we had the right boot of J.Seddon jnr to thank as he neatly curled home from 25 yards to seal what might be a very valuable point. - NE
Sat. 22nd Mar 2008	V	Hesketh Casuals (a) 1 - 3 (ht.0-2) scorers : N.Eccles
		We visited Hesketh for a bottom of the table clash. In the first half we played with a strong wind and failed to adapt as our direct approach down the centre of the pitch made it difficult for the forwards. After seven minutes a free kick from Hesketh took a deflection and our goalkeeper was unable to keep the ball out of the net. After 25 minutes a piece of poor defending let a ball, directly from a corner, bounce across the goal and into the far corner. Other than the above both sides created few chances. In the second half we played much better and with a bit more luck would have been level as we began to create chances. We had a ball cleared off the line? and missed a penalty. As we pressed for goals in the 83 minute Hesketh scored a third and Eccles got a consolation goal for us just before the final whistle. This result means we are now bottom and need to get points if we are not to drop another division. - SS
Sat. 29th Mar 2008	V	Spotland Methodists (h) 3 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : J.Seddon 2, N.Eccles
		After last weeks defeat left us bottom of the table we knew that standing any chance of survival winning as many as possible of our remaining 8 matches was essential. In the pouring rain we started very brightly getting an early lead, Seddon connecting with a parried effort to smash home from 12 yards. The lead was short lived though as Spotland won a corner which resulted in their equaliser. Even in the awful playing conditions Broughton started to play the better football causing their defence all sorts of problems. This frustrated the opposition who could only lash out ending in a red card for one of their midfielders. After the break we used the extra man advantage to our benefit and completely controlled the game, it was only a matter of time before we took the lead again and when Eccles neatly fired home under pressure the result was inevitable. The game was sealed 10 mins before the end when a superb cross from the right was met by Seddon for his second. The extra man played some part in the result but with the weather conditions as bad as they were we adapted well and totally dominated from start to finish, I have no doubt that more team performances like this and we’ll avoid the drop no problem (famous last words). - NE
Sat. 5th Apr 2008	V	Failsworth Dynamos (h) 0 - 1 (ht.0-0) scorers : -
		Title chasing Failsworth were next to travel to Myerscough with both teams looking for victory for different reasons. Broughton started brightly maintaining possession well but no clear chances were created, 20 mins in and Failsworth started to pick up, their wide players were very fast and caused us a lot of problems but our defence held together and kept it level until the break. After HT interval we started on the back foot and Failsworth got the break through, this sparked us into life and we pushed on for an equaliser, many chances were created but to their keepers credit he prevented us from getting level on numerous occasions. Overall not a bad performance and maybe we deserved more. - NE
Thu. 10th Apr 2008	V	O.Blacks Res (a) 0 - 4 (ht.0-3) scorers : -
		With 6 games remaining and at least 3 victories needed for survival any sort of result against a strong Old Blacks side would have been a great result. The only problem was that the match was over at half time. 3 well worked goals from them saw us fall to pieces for our worst team performance of the season. There wasn’t much improvement in the second half when a bad defensive clearance handed Old Blacks there fourth. A big job now needed from management to motivate the team for a must win match on Saturday. - NE
Sat. 12th Apr 2008	V	Spotland Methodists (a > h) 2 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : N.Eccles, C.Duffy
		The fight was on as Spotland returned to Myerscough for the second time in 2 weeks, their pitch unplayable due to the heavy rain fall. We started very brightly and created a number of chances in the opening 15 minutes, we bossed in midfield and our break through came when a through ball was headed over the advancing keeper by Eccles to claim his 5th goal in as many starts. The lead should have been increased before the break but at least we kept the 1 nil lead until half time. In the second half Spotland came back into the game but our defence held firm and with Stone back in between the sticks they never looked like scoring. With 5 minutes remaining second half substitute Barry found himself lost in the Spotland penalty area only to be up ended for a Broughton spot kick. Duffy, another Substitute wrapped up the 3 points with a neat finish from the spot. A massive improvement from 2 days ago leaves us in a good position going into the final 4 fixtures. - NE
Wed. 16th Apr 2008	V	Thornleigh (a) 2 - 1 (ht.2-1) scorers : I.Latham 2
		After a crucial 3 points on Saturday another win here would see us well on the way to safety, with the game cut short by 10 minutes each half we started well and used a strong breeze to our advantaged catching their defence out on numerous occasions. But as usual an error cost us dearly when we let them in to snatch a 1-0 lead. Anyway it was extremely short lived as from the kick off Latham spotted the keeper day dreaming and lobbed him from 50 yards, a fantastic strike to bring the game level and settle some unneeded nerves. Thornleigh were shocked as we continued pressing forward, we were eventually rewarded when Latham claimed his second with an accurate chip over the advancing keeper. After the break both teams defenses held firm with few chances created. Not a brilliant performance for the spectators but it’s a massive 3 points which sees us move to ninth in the league the highest for a very very long time. - NE
Sat. 19th Apr 2008	V	Bolton Ambassadors (h) 3 - 3 (ht.-) scorers : N.Eccles, I.Latham 2
		Confidence was high with two straight victories behind us and things couldn’t have started much better for us as we went one nil up in the opening 10 minutes, a great through ball from Seddon was met by Eccles who coolly slotted home from 8 yards. But after this great opening 15 minutes we stepped of the gas and conceded a sloppy equaliser and minutes later we found ourselves behind when another mix up at the back let them in for their second. After some strong words from Barry and Latham at the interval we started the second half flat footed and conceded again, things didn’t look good at that point. But our spirits weren’t deflated and 20 minutes before the end we pulled a goal back when Latham took the initiative from a quick free kick. This sparked us back to life and we had many chances to equalise before we eventually did, the goal coming via a good cross from the left collected by Monks who neatly played in Latham to claim his second of the game. A great comeback from the lads and we were unlucky not to get all 3 points in the end. The point keeps us above the drop zone but with 3 teams below us with a number of games in hand we still need another victory from either of the remaining fixtures to be totally confident of staying up. - NE
Wed. 23rd Apr 2008	V	Little Lever SC Res (a) 0 - 4 (ht.0-1) scorers : ?
		A much depleted 1st team managed to field a side against fellow strugglers Little Lever, we never really got out of first gear in any part of this match and we struggled to create any sort of openings. Little Lever took the lead mid way through the first half and we never looked like recovering. With no subs available and one player injured there was not a lot stand in manager D. Barry could have done to change things. The opposition continued to dominate and scored 3 more just to rub things in. Well done to the lads who bothered to show up from the firsts and thanks for the support from the second team players. - NE
1st Team Table Sat. 26th Apr 2008	V	Bolton Wyresdale (a) 2 - 2 (ht.0-1) scorers : N.Eccles, L.McGladrigan
		A win in this final game of the season would quite possibly have meant survival, with Wyresdale still in with a chance of promotion both teams were fighting for the 3 points. Things didn't start well at all for us as within opening minute we were a goal down. A harsh decision as it looked like a foul on a Broughton man during the build up to the goal. We settled down and got to grips with the game, although not many chances were created we held firm and defensively looked strong. After the break we started to take control, we were first to every loose ball and the attempts on goal we getting closer. Our pressure eventually paid off when a long ball wasn't dealt with properly by their defence and Eccles pounced to finish superbly on the half volley. Looking to build on this Wyresdale scored a completely freak goal from 30 yards, nothing anybody could have done about it. At this point changes were made and we continued to push for another equaliser, we had a strong claim for a penalty turned down before McGladrigan headed home minutes later from a great corner kick. With the draw looking immanent Broughton did have the ball in the net only for it to be ruled out for off side. Don't like admitting it but it is definitely 2 points lost over one point gained, we all have to now just sit tight and hope others slip-up, or else its division 2 football next season. - NE

	DIVISION THREE	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Hesketh Casuals Res	26	16	7	3	75	35	40	55
2	Ainsworth	26	15	4	7	62	38	24	49
3	Bury GSOB Res	26	14	6	6	67	43	24	48
4	Ashtonians	26	11	9	6	58	40	18	42
5	Rochdale St. Clements 'A'	26	12	3	11	50	47	3	39
6	Little Lever SC 'A'	26	12	3	11	69	72	-3	39
7	Bury Amateurs Res	26	11	5	10	66	46	20	38
8	Bolton Wyresdale Res	26	10	8	8	43	44	-1	38
9	Tottington United	26	10	6	10	55	73	-18	36
10	Old Mancunians Res	26	9	5	12	47	51	-4	32
11	Broughton Amateurs Res	26	9	5	12	45	49	-4	32
12	Accrington Loyal Amateurs Res	26	6	6	14	38	76	-38	24
13	Lymm Res	26	6	4	16	44	73	-29	22
14	Radcliffe Town Res	26	4	3	19	44	79	-35	15

Back row: Richard Whitaker, Dave Wilson, Simon Hirst, Rick Simpson, Rob Lever, Paul Coulton, Ade Owens (Capt),
Carl Duffy, Frazer Farrington, Dennis Myerscough.
Front row: Anthony Chattle, Jason Forbes, Scott Mitchell, Mark Birkett, Danny Barry (player manger), Jamie O'Hanlon.

Sat. 1st Sept 2007	V	Old Mancunians Res (h) 1 - 2 (ht.0-1) scorer : T.Martin
		New manager (Danny Barry) and a new look team for the first game of the season, things looked promising. First half was dominated by us, with good opportunities coming and going but unfortunately chances not being taken. Then a speculative shot from them found the net and we went in at half time 0-1 down. Second half was more of the same, with our chances coming and going (Deja-Vu) and not being taken. Another goal gifted to them saw us go 0-2 down. Danny instantly made substitutions and juggled the team which resulted is sub James Motley showing his pace down the wing then crossed the ball to Tony Martin who slotted home what should have been his third. A game thrown away by our finishing, which unfortunately highlights any goalkeeping or defensive mistakes but the plusses are we should have won against a good team, on another day we will. MOM: AIDE. - ME
Sat. 8th Sept 2007 Cup Rd 1	V	Ainsworth Res (h) 4 - 3 (ht.4-1) scorers : A.Chattle, J.Mottley, R.Whitaker, M.Elgee
		Danny B. (manager) was let down by a couple of no-shows which meant a re-shuffle of the starting eleven and chances for the players to stake a place in the tram on a regular basis. First half was completely dominated by us. Goals from Chattle, Mottley, Young Rick and 'Old' Elgee meant a 4-1 scoreline at half time, but truthfully 10-1 should have been the score. Team talk was carry on where we left off but we just managed to hang on and win 4-3. Overall a good result and some of the new players and young ones have learnt a valuable lesson, this league is full of teams who never give and we must play every game for 90 minutes. MOM: Scott Mitchell. - ME
Sat. 15th Sept 2007	V	Tottington Utd (a) 4 - 5 (ht.2-1) scorers : J.Mottley 3, A.Owens
		We dominated first half but only went in 2-1 up then in second half despite scroing 2 more we managed to have a defensive nightmare and concede 4 to lose a game that was ours for the taking. MOM: James M - hat-trick hero!
Sat. 22nd Sept 2007	V	Ainsworth (a) 2 - 1 (ht.2-0) scorers : C.Duffy, S.Iddon
		An even longer journey than last week to the middle of nowhere to play football on the side of a hill, but its all good fun. Danny Barry was drafted into the first team so yours truly (M.E) took the helm. Played the same system as last week but Pete Monks filled the sweeper hole vacated by Danny. The game for 30 minutes was a stagnant affair until Carl Duffy scored another contender for goal of the season, soon after Scott Iddon then scored another contender for goal of the season (but he didn't mean it!). Half time team talk was not to let the lead slip and go out and play as we had the first half which may not have been the most fantastic of football we've ever played but it was a good solid performance, with Graham Smith upfront possibly could have made it 5-0. Second half came and went as much as the first but this time we have learned how to defend a lead and but for a dubious penalty awarded to them by the ref, 2-1 was the final score. Great performances all round including Paul in nets making up for last weeks mistakes, Pete Monks running the game from sweeper, Pidge and Chattle working hard in mid-field. Bamber, Birket, Smithy and Carl Duffy playing well and Scott Iddon having a stormer. The two centre halves Rick and Rob solid, but young Rick behind the front two having never played there before was tremendous. MOM: young Rick. - ME
Sat. 29th Sept 2007	V	Radcliffe Town Res (h) 1 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorer : N.Eccles
		With manager back after tour in 1st team it was back to the 2nds with a usual story of unavailable players and several missed chances. However all this pressure finally paid off with a well worked move finished off by Eccles. Radcliffe then had a brief spell of play and undeservedly equalised with a freak own goal from the boot of Iddon. We totally commanded the second half to no avail until 5 minutes from time when Eccles squared the ball to super sub Hurst who slid in and missed a great opportunity. Honours even - but can’t fault effort of lads two games unbeaten now is this the start of our season? MOM: Eccles - DB.
Sat. 6th Oct 2007	V	Bolton Wyresdale Res (a) 2 - 3 (ht.0-2) scorers : J.Seddon 2
		With the return of missing players we started brightly until they scored from a very dubious off-side decision which opened the flood gates for constant Bolton pressure leading to the scoring a second from a corner. Thankfully half time came and gave us time to settle down however this proved to have fallen on deaf ears as a mistake at the back led to us conceding again 3 nil down. At this rate we where on to a hiding until DB made a few tactical changes and we got back into the game with two Seddon strikes one a pen. This led to us totally out playing the opposition in the last 10 minutes and like last week a great chance was missed. Again points dropped due to our composure in front of goal. We can’t wait until next week. MOM: Ade - DB.
Sat. 13th Oct 2007 Cup Rd 2	V	Bolton Wyresdale Res (h) 4 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : C.Duffy, F.Farrington, J.Mottley, J.O’Hanlon
		After last week's performance things could only get better. We started brightly and had most of the early exchanges and what a surprise we missed chance after chance even hitting the bar from 6 yards out. However we found ourselves 1 up with a well worked move on the right from Mottley who squared the ball for Duffy to finish. No sooner had we kicked off and Barry gave away a silly foul resulting in a quickly taken free kick catching us unaware 1-1. After the break we totally dominated again and finally took the lead with a neat finish from sub Farrington. This then gave us a chance to bring on our two latest signings who made an immediate impact causing havoc in the opposition's half resulting in a penalty coolly converted by Mottley. Then with minutes to go new signing O’Hanlon produced a contender for goal of the season with an overhead kick taking us through to the last 8 of the cup. This was our best performance by far this season and doesn’t reflect our current league position. MOM: Farrington. - DB.
Sat. 20th Oct 2007	V	Hesketh Casuals (a) 1 - 4 (ht.0-2) scorers : A.Chattell
		We went to Hesketh with anticipation after great performance the previous week. However Hesketh started the brighter scoring 2 goals in quick succession. Broughton unable to get into the half of the home team seemed to be under the cosh from all angles. Even though the home sides centre halves couldn’t cope with the speed of our forwards they kept us at bay with a good keeper. Our only consolation was when new signing Miller broke down the left and into the box, only to be brought down and the penalty awarded. Chattell stepped up to get a late consolation. 4-1 was the final score and the home team deserved the win. Broughton only came to life after 80 mins passing the ball round but too late. MOM: Chattell - DB
Sat. 27th Oct 2007	V	Little Lever SC 'A' (h) 1 - 2 (ht.0-2) scorers : J.O'Hanlon
		Once again we started too slowly as Little Lever kept monopolizing our flanks. Little Lever's 1st goal came from our left hand side, a cross played into the danger area saw the forward shimmy around the defence 0-1. The 2nd, a corner saw the ball come into the box and the defence didn't deal with it and the visitors slotted in their 2nd. However the we were convinced that a handball took place. Formation changed from a 3-5-2 to a 4-4-2 began to see a difference with our performance as Little Lever couldn't use the flanks as frequently and we had chances with Plaskett and O'Hanlon going close. The 2nd half saw us come out strong with good passing football but still couldn't break down the visitors defence. A strong centre half saw to that. Substitution saw debutant O'Neil come on. Broughton began to apply the pressure using the wings effectively with crosses coming into danger area but the visitors big centre half seemed to deal with anything we put across. Our Midfield also began to dominate providing to quality balls through but still their defence held. Substitute saw Whittaker come on for Walker and a formation change to 3-4-3, (well what had we to lose?) This made an immediate impact as O'Neil played an angled ball to O'Hanlon whose turn saw him with time and space and a cleanly struck shot from 25 yards left the keeper no chance as ball went into the left hand corner to make it 1-2. We tried in vain to break down their defence with breaks coming from all angles to try and get something from the game. Plaskett coming close but the equaliser eluded us. A good performance from the team, when they got started, but good performances don't always win games. Consistency in a team wins games and team changes weekly doesn't help. Lads you've got to start from the off and not leave it too late. MOM: O'Hanlon - DB
Sat. 3rd Nov 2007	V	Lymm Res (a) 1 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorer : C.Duffy
		With the manager back after 2 weeks absence and some mediocre performances things needed to pick up in the league as the table never lies. We started shockingly and were 1 down with in the 1st minute with a football comedy moment from our ever reliable keeper that gifted their surprised forward. After this we had most of the early exchanges and finally found ourselves back in the game with a well worked move started from the back, through midfield for Duffy to neatly finish. After the break we totally dominated but couldn't find the all important second goal that would've won us the match. Two points dropped rather than one gained. This was another solid performance by the lads who need to build on this for next weeks quarter final. MOM: Farrington. - DB.
Sat. 10th Nov 2007. Cup	V	Bury GS (a) 4 - 2 (ht.2-1) scorers : R.Whittaker 2, N.Eccles, C.Duffy
Quarter Final		After a positive result last week we found ourselves with a sterner test in the Cup Quarter Final against 2nd placed team in our league. We started lively and went one up with a good move neatly finished into the bottom corner by Whittaker. However we found ourselves in a usual position giving away a lead within minutes. This then led to Bury having the majority of the play but they couldn’t break our defence’s resilience. Just before half time Eccles went on a mazy run that finished with him firing a shot under the keeper to put us 2-1 up. After the break Bury kept pressing with a lot of possession but found our defence too much to break down. Until 20 minutes from time when Bury equalized 2-2 which brought out the fighting spirit in our whole team who reacted magnificently resulting in us scoring straight from the kick off with a cool finish from Duffy. This then led to more Bury pressure until we caught them on the counter with a cross shot from Whittaker. This is now a great platform for the lads to build on but as I say the league table doesn’t lie. Let’s start climbing the league? MOM - Entire Team. - DB.
Sat. 17th Nov 2007	V	Bury GS Res (h) 0 - 3 (ht.0-1) scorers : -
		What a difference a week makes in football. After last weeks heroics we were given a lesson on how to take chances and kill a game off. We started the stronger until a defensive mix up resulted in a dubious first goal to the opposition 0-1 (goal line technology would have been useful). Again we started the second half lively but couldn’t release the ball quickly enough from our midfield or support our forwards. Even when we changed to a 3-4-3 formation there wasn’t enough belief in the team that we could get anything from this game and when Bury caught us on the break our heads went down which resulted in a third goal minutes from time. We are now in danger of becoming adrift at the bottom if we don’t start putting points on the board. It now time for some of the squad to stand up and be counted if we are to change this situation. I have every faith in my player’s ability but we also need that fighting spirit week in week out to achieve anything in this division. MOM Ade Owens. DB.
Sat. 24th Nov 2007	V	Bury Ams Res (a) 2 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorers : R.Pomfret, S.Rawsthorn
		After last weeks disappointment and failure to score for the first time this season we started brightly for the first ten minutes then after a spell of Bury pressure we conceded a sloppy goal again which seemed to deflate our players and their level of passion. With this in mind Barry changed the formation to 4-4-2 to try and get us through to half time without conceding again. The manager's half time team talk or rollicking was about players overall passion and commitment to the club. This led to the manger bringing on Rawsthorn who had an immediate effect on the game as we equalized ten minutes into the second half with a quality centre from Bamber headed home by Pomfret. From then on we looked the better side and five minutes later we got the winner after a long pass from Coulton causing a mix up in their defence presenting Rawsthorn with a tap in. We hung on as the pitch cut up with our back five keeping their attacks at bay. This result showed that the boys do have character but need to take this into next week’s game at home. MOM Ade Owens. - DB.
Sat. 15th Dec 2007	V	Ashtonians (h) 1 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorer : C.Duffy
		After a two week break and several changes to playing personnel it was time to carry on where we left off at Bury by conceding another early soft goal due to a mix up between keeper and two defenders presenting Ashtononians forward with a gift. This then gave us the scare we always need but needless panicking when in possession and making the wrong choices led to us not really creating much in front of goal. After a few more choice words from the gaffer (which is becoming a bit of a habit) and a few tactical substitutions the lads absolutely out played the opposition in every department and finally got their reward when debutant Slater was upended in the box. The resulting penalty was coolly converted by Duffy to make it 1-1. This then set up a frantic finale where we did everything but score with good chances for Slater and Bamber. Then with minutes to go Ashton had a dubious penalty awarded after a challenge by Barry but after consultation with his linesman he changed his mind causing a mass protest from their players. With seconds to go Broughton had wave after wave of attacks but couldn’t breach the Ashton defence. How we didn’t win this game I will never know but hopefully this kind of performance will take us off the bottom of the table in the next couple of weeks. MOM Dave Bamber. - DB.
Sat. 5th Jan 2008	V	Ainsworth Res (h) 1 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : D.Bamber
		There was nothing between the teams, after being level at half time, thanks to a Bamber strike we were disappointed to lose in a game that could've gone either way, but it went their way - such is our luck at the moment. MOM Dave Bamber. - DB
Sat. 26th Jan 2008	V	Little Lever SC 'A' (a) 2 - 4 (ht.2-0) scorers : F.Farrington, C.Duffy
		After one final goodbye with a fitting tribute to Mick from both teams at Little Lever SC it was time for us to resume footballing. On a very heavy pitch we started at a frantic pace and totally dominated the opening 45 minutes with some of the best football I have ever seen by a Broughton team and two quick goals by Farrington and Duffy and a penalty save by Coulton Little Lever posed no threat whatsoever. My half time team talk was to expect a battle as the pitch would become a mud bath and despite starting the half positively we gradually let Little Lever into the game until they finally converted a well worked free kick that no keeper would have stopped. This opened the flood gates resulting in us conceding three more times in the last 20 minutes which simply was shocking to watch and without the efforts of Coulton in nets it could have been more. On an emotional day for a lot of people we seriously have to look at ourselves as individuals and as a team if we are to remain and compete in this division. MOM Paul Coulton. - DB.
Sat. 2nd Feb 2008	V	Lymm Res (h) 5 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : F.Farrington, C.Duffy, N.Eccles, S.Walsh, J.O'Hanlon
		Despite last weeks disaster we lined up with a 4-4-2 formation which took us time to settle down resulting in a mix up at the back letting them in and their forward lobbed Coulton from 20 yards. This seemed to inspire us and we totally dominated the opposition with some positive play resulting in a well deserved equalizer from Farrington. With the disappointment of only being level at half time we started the second half lively and after 90% of the play Duffy was upended by their keeper resulting in a Broughton penalty which was coolly converted by Duffy. This saw Lymm collapse and give an easy opportunity to Eccles to slot home or was it an own goal? The game was finally killed off when Walsh coolly placed his shot from 25 yards into the bottom corner and O’Hanlon added the fifth to confirm our biggest win of the season so far. A fantastic team performance by the lads for nearly 90 minutes well done. MOM Seb Walsh. - DB.
Sat. 9th Feb 2008	V	Bury GS Res (a) 1 - 1 (ht.0-0) scorers : J.O'Hanlon
		After last weeks performance we travelled to the league leaders Bury GSOB with confidence that we could takes points home. We lined up with a 3-5-2 formation which took Bury by surprise for the first 10 minutes with us creating many goal scoring opportunities. However Bury slowly took control of the game creating chances of their own to no avail. Then just before half time Duffy was fouled in the box resulting in a penalty. Up stepped Duffy only to have his effort saved by their keeper. After half time we made some tactical changes which produced some fantastic end to end football by both teams. With a draw looking likely O’Hanlon turned in the box and smashed the ball past the keeper with what we thought was the winner until after wave on wave of Bury pressure they finally found the net with a scrappy tap in minutes from time. On reflection a draw was a fair result and both teams provided a real competitive match. MOM Frazer Farrington. - DB
Sat. 16th Feb 2008	V	Bury Ams Res (h) 1 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : C.Duffy
		After last weeks performance we were full of confidence and fancied our chances against mid table Bury Amateurs. We started with the usual 3-5-2 formation which again looked very solid. During a very competitive first half Duffy scored a contender for goal of the season with a strike from 25 yards which caught their keeper by surprise and sent us in at the break one up for a change. The second half was completely different with wave after wave of Bury attacks our defence stood strong with yours truly even clearing one of the line. With last weeks breach right at the death still in our minds, it was complete backs to the wall for the final 10 minutes but tremendous defending by all kept them at bay and we secured a fine victory. That’s now three unbeaten. Well done lads. MOM - Everyone a Total Team effort. - DB
Sat. 23rd Feb 2008	V	Accrington Ams Res (a) 1 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorers : Harrington
		We arrived at Accrington full of confidence and started brightly with Jones and Duffy causing havoc up front, but to no avail. As the half progressed Accrington slowly started to overrun us with some good forward play which, lucky for us, resulted in us both cancelling each other out. After half time Accrington had the better of the play until 20 minutes from the end when Jones caused disruption in their defence with the ball falling to Harrington who smartly fired the ball into the empty net. We hung on for the last 15 minutes with Accrington throwing everything at us, but our defence held out for the second week in a row. That’s now four games unbeaten which has taken some relegation pressure off us and inspired some belief in the entire squad. MOM Mick Jones. - DB.
Sat. 1st Mar 2008	V	Rochdale St. Clements 'A' (h) 1 - 2 (ht.1-0) scorers : C.Duffy
		On a very cold and windy day and with four of the back six missing we were still full of confidence that we could get a result against last years league winners. We started the stronger and had several chances in front of goal but couldn’t break the deadlock until minutes before half time when Rochdale’s keeper made a poor clearance into the path of Duffy who accurately fired it in from 25 yards. After half time Rochdale totally dominated us scoring from a defensive mix up which seemed to knock our confidence. This was evident when we failed to react to a loose ball on the edge of our box gifting their forward the chance to smash the ball home. For the last 20 minutes it was end to end stuff with a great chance falling to Slater who headed over which just summed up our afternoon. On reflection a draw would have been a fair result but we have to pick ourselves up if we are to climb the table. MOM Paddy Slater. - DB.
Sat. 8th Mar 2008	V	Tottington Utd (h) 2 a 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : F.Farrington, M.Whitehouse
		Match Abandoned when pitch became waterlogged - BUT RESULT STANDS.
Sat. 22nd Mar 2008	V	O.Mancunians Res (a) 0 - 2 AFTER EXTRA TIME (ft.0-0) scorers : -
Cup Semi-Final		Finally the semi-final had arrived and on a cold and windy day we knew this would be a very tight game. The first half was even with both keepers having little to do and most of the play absorbed by both defences. After the break the game started to open up with us begining to win the battles in midfield. Both teams tried to break the deadlock and with minutes to go Bamber centred to O’Hanlon who put over from 6 yards out. This was a golden chance and the prospect of extra time and penalties was looming. At full-time we looked the fitter and created more only to be stopped by their defence, then with 4 minutes to go in extra time a deflected cross from the right found its way into the path of their player who slotted home. We then threw caution to the wind and sent everyone forward only to be caught on the break 2 nil game over. I feel that we gave our all and with more composure in front of goal we would be in the final but football can be a cruel game. MOM Paddy Slater. - DB.
Tue. 1st Apr 2008	V	Hesketh Casuals Res (h) 2 - 3 (ht.0-1) scorers : J.O'Hanlon, D.Bamber
		With the semi final hangover cleared it was back to the relegation battle as recent results had sent us back into the bottom two. The first half was something that I’d rather forget with Hesketh creating the better chances resulting in a deflected shot leaving Coulton stranded. The second half was much of the same and we soon found ourselves two down and chasing the game. We pulled one back with a nice finish from O’Hanlon but Hesketh went down the other end to restore their two goal advantage. Then with a moment of brilliance Bamber lobbed the keeper from all of 35 yards with a contender for goal of the season. This then opened the flood gates for us as we mounted wave after wave of attacks but we couldn’t find the equalizer. A positive finish to a game that we weren’t in for long periods, this must change if we are to beat the drop? MOM Rick Simpson. - DB.
Sat. 5th Apr 2008	V	O.Mancunians Res (a) 2 - 4 (ht.1-2) scorers : S.Iddon, J.O’Hanlon
		After Tuesday night I expected a big response from the lads and what I got is one of the worst performances of the season so far with no real team ethic. The first half saw us defending against the wind a trailing by 2 until a moment of brilliance by Forbes who crossed for Iddon to bravely head home. This then gave us the platform to use the weather in our favour and get a result but we didn’t do the basics and we found ourselves 4-1 down and being totally out played. Barry went up front to try and hold the ball up and from his layoff O’Hanlon lobbed the keeper, but it was only to be a consolation. MOM S. Iddon. - DB.
2nd Team Table Tue. 8th Apr 2008	V	Radcliffe Town Res (a) 4 - 1 (ht.2-0) scorers : M.Jones, J.O'Hanlon 3
		After Saturday’s performance we at last had a full strength squad to travel to the league's bottom club. We reverted back to the reliable 3-5-2 formation and we dominated Radcliffe and found ourselves 2-0 up in the first half hour with goals from our form players Jones and O’Hanlon. The second half was much of the same until Radcliffe pulled a goal back causing the entire team to have an uneasy period for about ten minutes until Jones set up O’Hanlon game over. Then in the dying minutes O’Hanlon completed his hat-trick when he went clean through and rounded the keeper to slot into an empty net. A scrappy performance but job well done. 3 more points will ensure our safety in this division for next season. MOM O’Hanlon. - DB.
Thu. 24th Apr 2008	V	Bolton Wyresdale Res (h) 0 - 3 (ht.0-1) scorers : -
		With key squad members recovering after being drafted into 1st team last night, fatigue was always going to be a factor and with 20mins played our ever reliable skipper Owens headed into his own net. This tiredness continued and in the first minute of the second half with we failed to clear our lines presenting their forward with a gift 0-2 and game over as this just deflated the entire team and when Bolton scored their 3rd we were just playing out time. Well beaten on the night by a very average team not for the first time this season. MOM S.Iddon. - DB.
Sat. 26th Apr 2008	V	Accrington Ams Res (h) P - P (ht.-) scorers : -
		We were awarded 3pts, their fault for MNP.
Thu 1st May 2008	V	Ashtonians (a) 4 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : P.Monks, Taylor, D.Bamber, Forbes
		Without 100% confirmation that we had the points from the postponed Accrington game we knew that one more point would keep us safe due to our superior goal difference. So when we went one down we needed a quick response and we got it when Taylor was upended in the box and Monks stepped up to convert from the spot. After the interval Ashton threw everything they had at us but resilient defending kept them at bay and from the moment Taylor caught their defence on the break to make it 2-1 we never looked like losing. The final 10 minutes saw us increase our lead to 4-1 with well taken goals from Bamber and Forbes. A good solid performance from the lads to ensure our safety in this division. Well done. MOM- M.Birkett - DB
Sat. 3rd May 2008	V	Rochdale St. Clems 'A' (a) 3 - 1 (ht.2-1) scorers : N.Eccles 3
		With safety now guaranteed the pressure was off and it clearly showed in the way the game started. We dominated possession and were 1 nil up when Owens flicked on a near post corner for Eccles to head in from 6 yards. We continued passing the ball well but after a dubious refereeing decision Rochdale equalised from the spot. The scores were only level for a minute though when Eccles capitalised on a mix up in the Rochdale defence to tap into an empty net. After the break a few changes were made and we maintained control of the game scoring a 3rd goal with an excellent finish by Eccles from 18 yards to claim his hat trick. Chances came and went after this with us hitting the post but the result was never in doubt. A fantastic result to end the season, so let’s hope we can all stick together and push both the 1st team and the 2nd team in the right direction for next season. MOM: N Eccles.

	DIVISION SIX	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Rossendale Amateurs 'B'	20	14	3	3	64	16	48	45
2	Bury GS 'A'	20	14	3	3	61	23	38	45
3	Oldham Hulmeians 'A'	20	13	2	5	82	50	32	41
4	Broughton Amateurs 'A'	20	13	2	5	59	37	22	41
5	Hesketh Casuals 'B'	20	10	2	8	57	45	12	32
6	Old Mancunians 'B'	20	10	2	8	49	55	-6	32
7	Lymm 'A'	20	5	4	11	37	60	-23	19
8	Radcliffe Town 'A'	20	5	3	12	59	95	-36	18
9	Horwich RMI 'A'	20	5	1	14	47	66	-19	16
10	Thornleigh 'B'	20	5	1	14	40	76	-36	16
11	Bolton Wyresdale 'A'	20	4	1	15	29	61	-32	13

3rd Team Results, Scorers and Match Reports

Sat. 1st Sept 2007	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'A' (a) 4 - 2 (ht.0-1) scorers : M.Owen 2, S.Rawsthorn, M.Shirley
		Ultimately a comfortable win, but this masked a game of 2 contrasting halves. We went in 1-0 down after a very poor 1st 45mins. The Oldham goal was clearly a travesty of justice, but nor did we deserve a lead after a half in which we dominated, but operated at a sharpness level of nil. Swan went close but that was it. Second half was much improved. Within 30 secs Shirley had cleared the defence and rounded the keeper and Rawsthorn repeated the trick 5 minutes later. Huddleston made a critical penalty save then when Pomfret, McHugh and Halse finally came on song the match could have ended a cricket score. As it was Mike Owen marked his debut with 2 well taken goals, Halse went close and Pomfret was clearly fouled (clear to all but the ref) in following up for what would've been a tap in. - DB
Sat. 8th Sept 2007 Cup Rd 1	V	Hesketh Casuals 'A' (a) 0 - 4 (ht.0-3) scorers : -
		Despite the score line the 3rds put in a respectable performance against a good team from 2 divisions higher. The passing and movement from Hesketh was the clear difference between the 2 sides however for most of the half the team played to a clear formation and with Winn and Major strong in defence the game remained a good contest. Hesketh opened the scoring after 30 mins after a good movement, but then poor defending of a free kick followed by a penalty awarded against a well timed tackle left the score looking disappointingly one sided. Broughton stepped up a gear in the second half and more than matched Hesketh in commitment and joined up football. McHugh and Pomphret provided the hub, but all the team should take credit for the pass and move performance. Halse, Rawsthorne and Owen went very close with good chances and Swan did well in providing a focal point for the attack. Injuries forced 2 subs but Porter came on and looked particularly solid as full back. Those not mentioned take heart everybody played well. - DB
Sat. 15th Sept 2007	V	Thornleigh 'B' (h) 8 - 0 (ht.3-0) scorers : S.Rawsthorn 5, R.Grundy, R.Pomfret, R.Swan
		A remarkable scoreline and a remarkable personal triumph for Simon Rawsthorne. The first goal after 20 minutes was a significant pointer to how the game would unfold. The ball was moved from the back through midfield to Harrison who was supporting the attack from full back. A wall pass with Shirley fixed a defence trying to play an offside trap and a great ball released Simon to beat the keeper. Good midfield play continued to release the forward players, but it was Rawsthorn who went on to score the first 5 goals - all of them cool finishes from one on one situations against the keeper. Infrequent Thornleigh attacks were competently dealt with by the back 4 of Rose, Fenton, Major and Harrison, but the second half brought increased domination. Rich Grundy made his mark shortly after joining the fray and scored with just his second touch. With 20 minutes to go Rob Pomfret got the goal his play so far this year has deserved - a 30 yard thunderbolt. Finally, Rick Swan got a reward for a fine performance leading the line, knocking in the final goal with neat footwork and a casual flick past a shell shocked keeper. Its nice to get so many goals, but my favorite bit is the nil conceded. - DB
Sat. 22nd Sept 2007	V	Bolton Wyres 'A' (h) 4 - 2 (ht.1-2) scorers : S.Rawsthorn 2, R.Grundy, J.McHugh
		Following last weeks jamboree, the team took the field confident, probably overconfident, because despite being largely in charge of the game for the first 30 mins we contrived to go 2-0 down. Bolton looked dangerous going forward and despite looking sound(ish) at the back, 2 poor defensive efforts let Bolton take an undeserved lead. A couple of positional changes seemed to work however, and the standard of soccer improved and continued to improve over the rest of the game. Simon Rawsthorn continued his rich vein of form to burst through to pull one goal back and despite good efforts from Rick Swan and Rick Grundy, excellent keeping from the Bolton Keeper kept the score 2-1 at half time. The improvement continued in the second half. Ian Winn and McHugh had midfield buttoned up and as the back four mopped up any attacks, the team was able to push forward with confidence. Jim McHugh brought the scores level with a well taken penalty, Rick Grundy scored from a great move with a cool finish and Rawsthorn finished things off with another lightening strike. The crowd, consisting of Mark Shirley's dad and shep the passing sheepdog looked on agog and the standard of football so well done to all. - DB
Sat. 29th Sept 2007	V	Hesketh Casuals 'B' (a) 1 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorer : S.Fenton
		This is always a tough away game, and that's how it proved to be. The first 20mins saw Hesketh dominate the middle of the park and feeding both flanks they got numerous crosses into the box causing our defence problems. This was how their first goal came a move ending with a cross from the left to the back post and free header gave them the lead. We then came into the game and for the remainder of the half completely dominated, creating a number of chances, the first a left foot shot from Rawsthorn beating the keeper only to come back off the post. Rawsthorn then won a penalty when the (sub ref) deemed a challenge on him to be unfair, FENTON stepped up to slot nicely into the bottom left corner. How we didn't add to the tally, I couldn't answer, Swanny hitting the bar twice and couple of other goalmouth scrambles with both Pomfret and Grundy having chances, at least one of all these should've been taken. The 2nd half saw Hesketh have lots of possession without threatening our goal. Shirley blasted over late on and that proved to be our last chance as Hesketh snatched the points with seconds remaining when a cross was fumbled on the line and their striker was on hand to tap in from fully 6 inches out. We need to get this result out of our minds with a win next week against fellow title chasers Rossendale at home. - SR
Sat. 6th Oct 2007	V	Rossendale Ams 'B' (h) 0 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorer : -
		Rossendale started the brighter of the 2 teams with a lively forward line showing well and testing the Broughton defence with good movement. Broughton’s defence led by an outstanding display by Fenton coped well, so that the majority of the play was in front of our defence so giving the midfield the opportunity to make ground and tackle back. With time Broughton began to find their rhythm and the chances started to come. Rick Grundy, Rick Swan and Rob Pomfret all had good efforts well saved, and by the close of the first half the game was well balanced. This pattern continued for the whole of the second half. Rossendale’s attacks were largely blocked without an attempt of goal, and an increasingly confident Adam Huddleston in goal competently dealt with the crosses and shots that got through. Chances continued to come and fail to register at the other end. Mark Shirley and Rawsthorn found good efforts somehow blocked by the keeper and Rick Grundy twice broke away to be denied by post and keeper again. Doug Birch showed some good touches at the end, but then snatched at what was the final good chance to seal the points. - DB
Sat. 13th Oct 2007	V	Lymm 'A' (a) 2 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : M.Shirley, R.Swan
		We made hard work of winning this game. Playing with a 5 man midfield on a small pitch, Lymm had the better of the possession in the first 30 minutes. Broughton made a number of half chances but first Swan then Rawsthorn found themselves closed down quickly when brief chances appeared. Broughton took the lead after one of our few good passing moves freed up McHugh to burst through from midfield. Jim’s shot was well stopped but Shirley followed up well to notch another good goal. This was quickly cancelled out as slack marking at a corner presented Lymm with an easy chance from a corner. Lymm were having the best of the possession, but were usually easily stopped by the Broughton defence in which Rose, Harrison and Fenton excelled. A change in formation gave Broughton 5 in midfield and whilst this reduced the pressure on the defence, it also made for a very congested game. Second half saw much of the same. Broughton looked most likely to score, but some very dubious offside decisions coupled with off-colour finishing saw the score remain equal. The game was settled by the one quality act of finishing in the half as Richard Swan burst through with 20 mins to go before coolly drawing then beating the keeper. - DB
Sat. 20th Oct 2007	V	Old Mancunians 'B' (h) 6 - 0 (ht.2-0) scorers : S.Rawsthorn 2, J.McHugh, M.Howarth 3
		Broughton started the game on the back foot and looking out of sorts and Mancunians forced 2 good chances before we started to get the passing game together. Chris Harrison joined Steve Fenton in the back four and looked solid in this initial period, and indeed throughout the game. As McHugh and Pomphret got a grip on midfield the chances started to come. Jim McHugh opened the scoring but then failed to convert a penalty to extend the lead after increasing pressure forced a handball. It mattered little however as within a few minutes a great break from front to back, starting with sharp work from Huddleston who freed Mark Shirley with an early ball. This compliment was passed on to Simon Rawsthorn who hit the ball first time from 30 yards over a stranded keeper. The second half was dominated by Broughton. After 10 minutes Rawsthorn converted a Shirley cross for his second - at which point Debutant Mick Howarth joined the game. 35 minutes later he had helped himself to 3 goals plus hit the post and missed an open chance. His second was especially of note having driven in a powerful shot from a difficult angle. - DB
Sat. 27th Oct 2007	V	Radcliffe Town 'A' (a) 4 - 3 (ht.1-0) scorers : J.McHugh, A.Huddleston, M.Bowerman, R.Pomfret
		It's results that count most, so if you can win when playing poorly that's a good sign. Having been under the cosh for most of the first half with our defence's saviour being a couple of fine saves by Huddleston and also the bar we could have been behind before we started to play. A firm pitch with a high bounce so our strikers were by passed by high long hard hit balls. Eventually we got a break and a corner was firmly headed in by McHugh to give us an undeserved lead at half time. They equalised within minutes of the re-start with sloppy marking costing us dear. We regained our lead soon though when keeper Huddleston pumped a long hopeful ball and to our amazement it flew other the top of their keeper into the top corner. Again we gifted them an equaliser from another corner, before we gained a bit of control with Bowerman heading in from another corner and Pomfret striking home from 20 yards. Shirley, Pomfret and Swan all had clear chances late on which would have put the game out of reach, and they did manage to pull another goal back late on from yet another corner, but we stay top and know that we can play better than today. - SR
Sat. 3rd Nov 2007	V	Bury GS 'A' (a) 1 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorer : M.Jacques
		Too many players were off colour for this to be a great game, but the side showed character to battle back and secure a good point. Broughton went one down to a good Bury goal - but bad for us as weak attacking play, poor tracking back and slack marking allowed the Bury to break from back to front then for the forward to turn and shoot inside the box. This was probably the only poor piece of defending however and with Fenton Major and Huddleston looking strong, we at least had a solid base on which to build. Bury had had the best of the first half and except for a 10 min spell we showed no threat to their goal. Following a full and frank exchange of views at half time things did improve . Midfield woke up and managed a few passes, though attack remained largely asleep during the game. The introduction of Michael Jacques provided one bright attacking spark and he drew the Bury defence into some desperate measures to stop his progress. It was no surprise therefore when Jacques rattled a good shot into the bottom corner to bring Broughton level. The game could have gone either way in the last 20mins- but the final result was the correct one. - DB
Sat. 10th Nov 2007	V	Horwich RMI 'A' (a) 3 - 1 (ht.2-0) scorer : R.Swan, S.Fenton, M.Shirley
		A strong downfield wind made a significant impact on the game. Playing with the wind, the ball tended to fly away making control more difficult. Dave Bamber made his debut in midfield and forceful running and good link play created a number of goal attempts that came close to opening the score, however in actual fact Rick Swan opened the scoring, meeting Jacques corner at the near post to steer the ball home. A classic strikers goal. Five minutes later Fenton extended the lead (just) by converting a well won penalty. Against the wind the team played better as the conditions forced us to keep the ball under tighter control, however the final pass was consistently of poor quality and so whilst not under any danger of conceding, nor did we seem likely to extend our lead. Birch came on with 10 min to go and following link play with Rawsthorn released Shirley to finish well. That should have been that, but a clean sheet was disappointingly lost as a defensive mix up left us exposed and the ball was forced home. B*gger it , I like clean sheets !! - DB
Sat. 17th Nov 2007	V	Horwich RMI 'A' (h) 3 - 4 (ht.1-3) scorers : S.Rawsthorn, R.Swan 2
		Broughton again started slowly against a team that seemed to have changed significantly from the previous week. Horwich threatened continually from the flanks and in truth we never really looked comfortable defensively throughout the game. Despite this however we did take the lead as Rawsthorn raced onto a flicked header from Swan and coolly finished from 15 yards. A period of consolidation was called for – but not found - as 5 minutes later we had a number of possible options to clear a long cross ball game – but chose to lash it into the bottom corner of our own goal instead. The clearly dented our equilibrium and the half ended with Horwich on top and and a penalty plus another goal saw 3-1 to the good at half time. The second half was much improved as we slowly clawed our way back into the game. Major sent in pinpoint accurate free kick and Swan reacted first to knock the ball in. 15 minutes later Jacques beat a couple of men to break through and release Shirley. His cross was met by Swan again to bring us level. We pushed on strongly for a winner but were hit by a quick breakaway to once again fall behind and try as we might we could not recover again. - DB
Sat. 26th Jan 2008	V	Radcliffe Town 'A' (h) 7 - 3 (ht.4-1) scorers : S.Rawsthorn 3, R.Pomfret 2, R.Swan, R.Grundy
		A welcome return to action after a 2 month lay off started as an even contest as both teams tried to recall how to play the game, but then swung dramatically in Broughton’s favour as we hit a purple patch and scored 3 goals in 10 mins. Rawsthorn looked a constant danger and opened the scoring by converting a good cross from Swan. Pomfret then rattled home a 20 yard volley. Pomfretfollowed this up with a headed goal from a planned move after a corner. Before half time, Grundy managed to bag a good goal and went close with 2 more good breaks. The half time team talk about maintaining possession and concentration was duly ignored as Radcliffe started the stronger and pulled a goal back after appalling marking left Radcliffe free to score. Radcliffe also hit the bar before Rawsthorn broke away and finished well to restore the adavantage. The rest of the half was fairly shambolic, the highlights being the return of Gavin Halse after a bad knee injury in the first game of the season and a diving header from Swan to round off the scoring. Exciting, but boy scout football for most of the game. - DB
Sat. 16th Feb 2008	V	Lymm 'A' (h) 3 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : S.Rawsthorn 2, M.Shirley
		We struggled against Lymm last time we met, but dominated this encounter and won comfortably. Halse, Pomfret and Grundy held a vice like grip on midfield and Major and McHugh competently mopped up anything that got through. This gave debutant Mark Berkett and Bowerman room and confidence to push on from fullback and as a result the outcome never looked in doubt. Rawsthorn opened the scoring after 25mins, beating a hesitant defence to round the keeper. Soon into the second half his rich vein of scoring form continued as he met a great turn and cross from Swan to double the tally. It probably should have been more, but the scoring was completed as Mark Shirley collected a pinpoint pass to burst into the box and slot into the bottom corner. - DB
Sat. 23rd Feb 2008	V	Thornleigh 'B' (a) 2 - 1 (ht.1-0) scorers : R.Grundy, R.Swan
		When the season ends results gained in an ugly fashion are as valuable as any others, and so this result may prove priceless. We battled the wind and a rough pitch in the first half and though the back 4 of Major, McHugh, Birkett and Bowerman were basically sound, the team did little to threaten and the only bright spot came from a quick breakaway by Grundy down the left side. With little help available he used the wind to perfection and from 35 yards bent the ball over and round the keeper to send us in 1-0 up. The 2nd half had a good deal more incident. Winn replaced Lowe at right midfield but soon found himself at left back following a reshuffle caused by a head injury to McHugh. Following a couple of moments of madness, we then quickly found ourselves down to 10 men and on the defensive, and coped well for 15 minutes until a quick break saw Thornleigh draw level. There passed a remarkable passage of play in which Adam Huddleston saved 3 penalties, all in the space of 15 minutes. One of these was a retake, but it still counts. Buoyed by this outstanding performance, Broughton pushed forward. In his captains role John Major decided to push Halse pushed forward to join Swan in attack. Birch rolled back a few of the years (and he has plenty to roll back) to play centre of a 3 man midfield and this endeavour was rewarded as with 5 mins to go, Halse and Rawsthorn combined to release Swan and from 10 yards he finished coolly to secure the points. - DB
Sat. 1st Mar 2008	V	O.Mancunians 'B' (a) 1 - 3 (ht.0-0) scorers : S.Rawsthorn
		A strong cross field wind made play difficult, but we failed to help ourselves with a lacklustre performance. Guest appearances from Rick Fenton and Charlie from the 4ths in no way weakened the team, but overall we lost most important challenges and failed to combine well enough through midfield and attack to create any threat. Sound defending kept us in the game and 0-0 at halftime, but we conceded 2 poor goals early in the 2nd half and with Mancs dominating midfield were 3 down by the hour mark. A belated change to 3-5-1 improved things, Major giving some oomph to the middle and with 15 mins to go he forced the Mancs keeper into an error and Rawsthorn picked up the loose ball to give some respectability to the score. - DB
Sat. 8th Mar 2008	V	Bury GS 'A' (h) 3 - 2 (ht.2-0) scorers : R.Grundy, R.Swan, Birkett
		In the first of a run of games that will define our season Broughton deservedly, but narrowly, beat the current league leaders. Both sides started well and the game was tight until on 30 mins Grundy broke away down the left and his shot cum cross evaded the keeper and found the top corner. Monks and Birkett stepped up the pace in midfield and Broughton began to dominate. Halse created havoc down the right flank and with Rawsthorn and Swan were on top of their game up front we looked likely to add to our score. Just before half time the goal came as Swan collected a pass 30 yards out turned and shot home brilliantly. The weather deteriorated in the second half but both teams kept the football level high. Bury pushed forward but were stung by another great move down the left, Grundy providing the cross and Birkett the headed finish. For 30 minutes Broughton had to dig in as Bury clawed their way back to 3-2. A formation change helped us but in the last 10 mins either side could have stolen a goal. - DB
Sat. 15th Mar 2008	V	Rossendale Ams 'B' (a) 0 - 6 (ht.0-3) scorers : -
		Having drawn 0-0 earlier in the season, we knew that it would be vital to remain alert and play as a tight unit. For 25 minutes we succeeded and slightly shaded this passage of play, Rawsthorn coming close with the only chance at either end. There then followed a disastrous 15 minutes in which all concept of marking went AWOL to leave us 3-0 down and compounded by an injury to Steve Fenton. Needing a win we changed to a more adventurous formation and for 15 minutes into to 2nd half we looked competitive, but Rossendale’s midfield began to overrun our midfield 5 and from that point the game was a procession. John Major, Danny Barry and Mick Bowerman battled hard to repel the hoards of midfield runners, but essentially it was a day when effort was overcome by greater ability. Bloody grim ! - DB
Sat. 5th Apr 2008	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'A' (h) 1 - 3 (ht.0-2) scorers : T. Bowerman
		Our disappointing end to the season continues as we lost to a close rival at Broughton. Considerably re-organised due to injury and absence we were on the back foot almost from the start, Simon Hurst making a great stop after only the first couple of minutes, and indeed for the first half hour the pressure on the Broughton goal was almost incessant, broken only by the occasional foray forward. Oldham had a deserved 2-0 lead by the break, the first from a good move that split Broughton defence and the second from a harsh penalty award. The second half was much more even as the midfield and attack began to gain composure and link well. John Major, who had been outstanding throughout pushed forward and Rawsthorn and Halse looked threatening. This did leave us a little exposed at the back , but Hurst dealt well with Oldham's threats on goal and the next goal could have gone either way. Sadly it went to Oldham , but the game ended on a more positive note with Halse breaking forward to set up a chance for Tim Bowerman to finish well. - DB
Sat. 19th Apr 2008	V	Bolton Wyresdale 'A' (a) 2 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorers : R.Grundy, M.Rose
		With Pomfret and Wharton back in the team after long term injuries and against wind and slope, Broughton started slowly and really did not achieve any sort of momentum for the whole of the first half. Fenton and McHugh were a solid crew at the back, so at least we went into the break without having to rescue any deficit. Much of the half time team discussion centred on playing more joined up football and indeed the 2nd half was a significant improvement. The introduction of Doug Low and Tim Bowerman seemed to add extra impetus and we took a deserved lead when Grundy side-footed in from close range after confusion from a set piece. As the football started to flow, Rawsthorn, Swan and Pomfret all went close before the unlikely, but welcome, sight of Matt Rose scoring from a diving header brought the score-line to something more reflective of the balance of play. - DB
3rd Team Table Sat. 26th Apr 2008	V	Hesketh Casuals 'B' (h) 4 - 3 (ht.1-2) scorers : S.Rawsthorn, D.Low, T.Bowerman 2
		We made a great start to this game, taking the lead after only 5 minutes as Rawsthorn harried the Hesketh defence into a mistake, then was on hand to finish the job. This was the highlight of the first half however as first an injury to Keeper Huddleston prevented him from reaching a through ball in time gifting Hesketh an equalizer then a fine finish saw us fall behind. A further goal early in the 2nd half meant things looked bleak, but changes were made and for the last 30 minutes we played some of our best football of the season. John Major gave the tireless Rob Pomfret some support and passing options in midfield. Doug Low and Simon Rawsthorn introduced some dynamism to wide midfield, people pushed forward from defense and all in all it was enough to gladden an old managers heart. Tim Bowerman (twice) and Doug Low took their chances well to complete an upbeat end to the season, but the win was down a full team effort. - DB

Final League Table, Fixtures, Results and Match Reports
DIVISION SEVEN - 2007/2007 season

	DIVISION SEVEN	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Lymm 'B'	20	17	2	1	81	24	57	53
2	Radcliffe Town 'B'	20	15	2	3	87	38	49	47
3	Bury Amateurs 'B'	20	10	4	6	59	39	20	34
4	Old Blackburnians 'C'	20	10	3	7	50	39	11	33
5	Rossendale Amateurs 'C'	20	8	6	6	61	61	0	30
6	Broughton Amateurs 'B'	20	8	3	9	58	57	1	27
7	Chaddertonians 'B'	20	8	2	10	50	51	-1	26
8	Bolton Wyresdale 'B'	20	5	4	11	40	59	-19	19
9	Bury GSOB 'B'	20	4	5	11	22	51	-29	17
10	Oldham Hulmeians 'B'	20	4	2	14	32	81	-49	14
11	Spotland Methodists 'A'	20	3	3	14	32	72	-40	12

Sat. 1st Sept 2007	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'B' (h) 6 - 1 (ht.3-0) scorers : J.Clark, J.Wilson, A.Robinson, S.Connolly, C.Cornwell, S.Corrigan
		First game of the season is always difficult for a manager selection wise. With the break over summer, everyone wants to be involved and are desperate to play. Unfortunately there is only 11 starters and 3 subs so someone will be disappointed understandably. I had spoke with Tom and he was happy to ref (£25 pound had nothing to do with it). Unfortunately the other team had hit traffic and were late, this meant we only played 40 mins each half. We won the kick off and proceeded to take the game to a poor side. The summer had seen us lose some players and gain some players. A new defensive line saw John move to center-half with Keeno. Shane moved to left back with the returning Ricky at right back with the new captain Rick in goal. Up front Des had his new forward partner ME! The football was fast and controlled. The back four were happy playing the ball about short as well as long. Midfield got forward with the ball been held up by yours truly. A good move down the left from the impressive Chris McCrudden saw Des get the ball who then squared it to me for an easy finish. We then hit them down the right with the fantastic Daz putting the ball into the corner with me chasing it looking up before arriving at the ball i had noticed the ever ready Charlie entering the box, a neat ball and a great finish under pressure seen us go 2-0 up. Shane added another just before half time and we were cruising. Second half continued in the same way. First to every thing. Quick 2 touch football combined with the willingness to work for the result. Des got his deserved goal after working hard all game and Steph made it 5 with a brilliant run from midfield (I then subbed him). Then a mis-timed crunch from the old boy gifted them a penalty which Rick almost saved. John made it 6 after i had blasted it against the post. To put the result into perspective it was against a poor side and we should have finishd off with more goals. This week we have Blackburn which will be a totally different ball game. - JC
Sat. 8th Sept 2007 Cup Rd 1	V	Old Blacks 'C' (h) 4 - 4 (ht.3-1 : won 4-2 on pens) scorers : A.Robinson 3, J.Clark
		What a game, what a performance! It was flattering for them to have got 4 but this was due to some individual errors at the back. Apart from 10 mins in the second half we were awesome. Des was on fire and with me and him constantly switching combined with Charlie bursting through the middle we were too hot. A great corner from Chris resulted in a headed goal from yours truly. Des then got the first of his 3 with a neat finish in the corner. 2-0 and cruising until we failed to clear our lines and it resulted in a goal. Just before half time Des scored a cracker to make it 3-1. Second half saw us take our foot off the pedal and despite another from Des they brought it level before full-time. Extra time saw us go close through an excellent run from Charlie and a header from steph. Penalties was the outcome great saves from Rick (and a good one from Bully). Des scored the winner and we were through. - JC
Sat. 15th Sept 2007	V	Old Blacks 'C' (a) 4 - 3 (ht.-) scorers : C.Cornwell 3, A.Robinson
		After last week's battle with them in the cup it was another tight game that we deservedly came out on top with a great performance, particularly from Charlie in netting a hat-trick but not forgetting Des's contribution of a goal as well.
Sat. 29th Sept 2007	V	Bolton Wyres 'B' (h) 5 - 2 (ht.-) scorer : J.Clark, A.Robinson, D.Sanders, C.Cornwell, S.Connolly
		A dominant performance that epitomised our team ethic with 5 different players contributing to the goals tally giving us an emphatic victory.
Sat. 6th Oct 2007	V	Rossendale Ams 'C' (a) 5 - 5 (ht.-) scorer : A.Robinson 3, M.Bulman, D.Bingham
		A see-saw battle that ended all square it's not often you score 5 (specially away from home) and don't win. Still it's a point and one less long journey to make!!
Sat. 13th Oct 2007 Cup Rd 2	V	Lymm 'B' (h) 1 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : D.Sanders
		We Knew this would be a difficult game against the 100% record of the top side. With injuries to 2 key defenders i had to change things around. Dan got another start up front with me moving to right back the returning Ricky (not for long) moved across to left back. We started off working hard and trying to play some football. A few half chances saw us go close until Dazza broke the deadlock with a HEADER. We were in control and created another 3 clear chances which unfortunately fell to STEPH whose party piece at the minute is to miss from 6 yards ha ha. Keeno then decided to play for the opposition and play a lovely through ball for their striker to run on to. He missed the opportunity and we went in deservedly 1-0 up. Second half was a different story, with Lymm showing their experience and forcing us further back. A cracking save from Chud and a last ditch header from Tom kept us in front. Missed opportunities up front meant we were hanging on a bit but we saw it through for our first clean sheet of the campaign. - JC
Sat. 27th Oct 2007	V	Bury Ams 'B' (h) 2 - 3 (ht.1-2) scorers : A.Robinson, T.Greenhalgh
		This game was our first real test in the league and unfortunately it did not go our way. First 5 mins was ok with Des scoring the opener. After that a combination of poor defending, poor distribution and an inability to hold the ball up cost us big time. We were 2-1 down at half time and we had it all to do. Second half was much improved. Faster to the ball and a desire to win meant we were the better team. Unfortunately we couldn't bring it back and drew the second half 1-1, Tom scoring a cracker. Complacency starting to creep into the side means there will be changes this week!! - JC
Sat. 3rd Nov 2007	V	Chaddertonians 'B' (h) 4 - 2 (ht.2-1) scorers : P.Keane, D.Sanders 2, A.Robinson
		With the disappointment of last week, we had to get back to the level of football we can play. We saw a much improved 2nd half last week and I hoped we could carry that into this weeks game. With this in mind I decided to go with experience at the back with Shane moving to right wing and Tom starting on the left. I left Chris and Dazza on the bench knowing they are good impact players. The game started with both teams looking for a foothold. Movement was good from both teams but it was us who took the lead through a cracking cross and a chest from Keeno. We rode our luck a bit with Chadds going close on a couple of occasions until they finally broke through with an unfortunate bounce off Ricks chest into the path of their striker. Rick then saved the first of three great 1-on-1's to keep it level. We again took the lead with the in form Des netting just before half time. Second half began with us looking to kill off the opposition. Dazza had started the second half and was on fire! He made it 3-1 with a lovely finish. We were coping well at the back until a lofted ball floated over our centre halves was met by their striker to make it 3-2. Not deserved! So we threw everything at them again with Chris causing problems we hit the post twice. A corner saw us kill them off with a HEADER from Daz. All in all a very good performance and something we can take into next weeks cup match. - JC
Sat. 10th Nov 2007 Cup Rd 3	V	Rochdale St. Clements 'B' (h) 2 - 4 (ht.1-1) scorers : A.Robinson, D.Bingham
		With a depleted side due to injuries, I resigned myself to having to play in goal - yes in goal !! We began well and passed the ball around well. Solid in midfield and we were creating chances up front. The opposision had underestimated us and knew they had a game on their hands. We went behind to a free kick after 20 mins but levelled before half time with yet another goal from Des. Second half we continued to press the opponents and created a few openings. Unfortunately poor keeping on my behalf meant we were soon 4-1 down. We pulled a goal back through a Dan Bingham penalty. It wont be a final this year and I apologise to the lads. - JC
Sat. 17th Nov 2007	V	Bury GS 'B' (a) 3 - 4 (ht.3-1) scorers : A.Robinson, C.Cornwell, S.Robinson
		With last weeks defeat we needed to get back to winning ways. Baldy coming in at left back and Tom starting on the left wing meant we were in-experienced on the left. That said we began well with us using the flanks to full affect. Charlie won then converted a penalty and we were playing the best football of the season. The first of many poor decisions from the ref cost us a penalty. We regrouped and got another 2 great goals from Des and Shane both created down the right hand side. On top and cruising. Second half the ref kept his poor decisions up when their number 10 got a 10 for diving. They scored from this and we were on the back foot. Two more goals from them and I had to change it. Defence were winning the heads but it was going straight to the other side our midfield was too far up the pitch. We had lost our shape before I had moved into midfield and a couple of the lads need to concentrate on what task is given to them. If I say you play somewhere then you must stick to it. It was no coincidence we did not concede once JC moved into midfield, EXPERIENCE!! - JC
Sat. 15th Dec 2007	V	Old Blacks 'C' (h) 1 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorer : D.Bingham
		With the loss of Charlie and with me, Chris and Ricky all out it was always going to be difficult as Old Blacks are an excellent side with a couple of outstanding players. We set about them very well with the added encouragement of myself on the side lines. We were first to the ball and playing some good footie. They took the lead though when their best player found a yard of space in the box and finished well. Half time and the lads were not too down hearted. I told them more of the same and we would eventually get our reward. It came through Dan and after his up and down game it was bound to be him. We could have got a winner but it was a fair result. Well done lads and lets keep that level up. - JC
Sat. 26th Jan 2008	V	Bury Ams 'B' (a) 2 - 2 (ht.0-1) scorers : C.McCrudden, A.Robinson
		We started the game well but let in a silly goal on the half hour mark. After that we began to press but just could not make it count. No changes were made at half time due to having no subs. Bury then scored a second which was a mile off-side but we accepted the call and showed great attitude. In the 60th minute they had a man sent off. We carried on playing great football which finally paid off when McCrudden scored a well worked goal to make it 2-1. After that we had continuous pressure and several efforts but just could not score, until Des pops up to make it 2-2 with ten minutes to go. Although we couldn't get the winner overall I was very pleased with the performance by the lads. - RF
Sat. 9th Feb 2008	V	Bury GS 'B' (h) 4 - 1 (ht.2-1) scorers : R.Fenton, D.Sanders, C.McCrudden, D.Bingham
		This week having a few players missing some changes were made. I'd finally been able to come out of goal to my preferred role as centre half, and having Baldy missing Tommy G pushed into the left back position. We also welcomed back Tom Strangeway back in the sticks, and John Clark. We started the game brightly but conceded an early goal, after that we carried on pushing and finally got our goal coming from, well Me!! Then within 5 minutes we were 2-1 up with a quality goal by Dazza. After the break we carried on playing like we had in the first half which was class. Then McCrudden scored an absolute screamer with his left peg which surprised us all - ha-ha!! It ended up 4-1 with Danny B scoring our 4th which was well set up by Des. Overall I thought it was the best i've seen us play in a long time. - RF
Sat. 16th Feb 2008	V	Lymm 'B' (a) 3 - 5 (ht.2-1) scorers : D.Bingham, D.Sanders, M.Bulman
		We started this game as the underdogs, but we ended up getting the first goal through a great solo effort from Danny B. We then continued to push forward and grabbed another with a great run from Dazza which he topped off with a screamer. It looked like we were going in 2 up at half time until we let in a shabby goal. We were playing well and these things happen. Then we started 2nd half very poorly and in the matter of no time we were 3-2 down. Then on came Mike for Baldly around the 60min mark. Within minutes Mike had drawn us level, it stayed that way for a while, until in the last 10 minutes were we conceded 2 in 2 minutes which was a proper blow. The game ended 5-3. We all new the second half performance let us down, lets just hope we bounce back to winnings ways next week. - RF
Sat. 23rd Feb 2008	V	Spotland Meths 'A' (h) 6 - 0 (ht.2-0) scorers : D.Bingham, D.Sanders 2, A.Robinson, C.Bradshaw, G.Porter
		This week we started with 2 of our back four missing, I had food poisoning, and John was injured. We welcomed back John Clark and Chris Bradshaw. We started the game a bit slow and missed a few one on one's no names mentioned DES!!! haha.. We took the lead after around 15 mins through Danny B, set up by Des. We carried on playing well and yet again up pops Dazza on another mazy run and finishes it nicely. Half time we went in 2 up. Second half began it was quite tight both teams pushing forward, we then got the third scored by Des, finally after a 2 game drought. I then made a double substitution bringing on Mike for Shane and Chris for Danny B. Then within minutes Dazza calmly struck home the 4th. We then made are 3rd substitution bringing off Keeno for Grant. The game got a bit scrappy for a while which wasn't helped by the pith conditions, but then on his return Chris rounded the keeper to slot home the 5th of the game. The last 5 minutes seemed to drag out, but then Grant typically let rip from the edge of the box to make it six and round off a great team performance. - RF
Sat. 22nd Mar 2008	V	Radcliffe Town 'B' (a) 0 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorers : -
		Started the game very well with the whole team looking solid. We had a few early chances with Daz and Des but just could not break the deadlock. As the half progressed the ref was looking more and more dodgy. We then fell behind to a goal that was offside, but these things always happen to us. In the second half again we started well but just could not break the deadlock. We then made a change bringing Des and Daz off for Chris Brad and Baldy in the end that did not really make the impact we'd of hoped it would. 5 minutes later Rick F got a dead leg and had to come off, Dave replaced him. The game ended in a 1-0 defeat, we were pleased with the teams performance just not the result. - RF
Sat. 5th Apr 2008	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'B' (a) 2 - 1 (ht.1-0) scorers : S.Corrigan, A.Robinson
		We came to this game knowing we need to win against teams below us. We started porly but got the early break through, which for once was scored by Ste (haha) oh and i must say it was a quality finish. The game stayed at 1-0 till half time. We made a change bringing Tommy G off for Baldy. The second half got underway but again we started poorly, but then from nowhere they equalised making it 1 all. After that we finally upped are game and started to have a few good chances. The game was now nearly at the death when Des hit an awesome strike from the edge of the box and made it 2-1, it was a big let off. - RF
4th Team Table Tue. 15th Apr 2008	V	Bolton Wyresdale 'B' (a) 2 - 4 (ht.1-2) scorers : A.Robinson, Hoban
		Another day of promised words, promised enthusiasm, promised effort, promised togetherness, and promised points. Words are one thing, actions are another. We came into this match on the back of a well-ground out win, which showed that maybe when the rub of the green is not with them, possibly they have something in their locker that a lot of other teams haven't - grit determination. So when the teams embarked on their travels missing some faces that included star defender Shane Connolly, forward Danny Bingham and defender-turned-striker Dave Downham, it was evident that a big team effort was needed for the massive 3 points to be following the team back down the M61 for Preston. The game started brightly, a new front-line of Robinson and Sanders looked energetic, getting involved in the play and ultimately getting the midfield involved with the play - holding the ball up and allowing the wingers - Chris Hoban and Danny McCarthy to have an influence. Robinson however seemed to be a little to eager to beat his defenders and was caught offside a number of times. Persistence was the key and at last a through ball was met with a shake of the head by the referee as Des raced onto a through ball by Sanders. The ball was calmly hammered home by Robinson - 1.0 Broughton. A crazy 5 minutes occurred for Broughton. Mayhem in the box after a Bolton corner and despite a heroic piece of defending by Baldwin, the ball was belted in for the equaliser. Minutes later, a cross came in and a certain shove on Fenton was not seen by the referee, but what was seen was Fenton's handball due to him being impeded. Penalty. 2-1 down. Broughton were now under the cosh, and a third followed for Bolton. Tension in the ranks was rife and this was seen by Bolton who calmly stroked the ball round, reminiscent of a vintage Wenger - Arsenal side. Half Time. Second half began with Broughton quickly out of the blocks. Corners by Hoban were causing problems, and but for a mis-hit shot from Corrigan when clean through, and great keeping, Broughton would be level at least. An in-swinging corner from Hoban was whipped in and looped over the goal-keeper to make it 3.2. Game on! At least, that's what we thought. Seconds later an off-side appeal was waved away by the referee and with all the defenders stopped, the ball was in the back of the net with a flash. 4.2. Game over. - RF
Sat. 19th Apr 2008	V	Lymm 'B' (h) 0 - 4 (ht.0-2) scorers : -
		We went into the game hoping to start well like we did in the previous game against them. This never happened we went 1-0 down after around 20mins through a lucky goal. It stayed this way till the end of the first half when we gifted them a second. In the second half we got worse and leaked in another 2 goals. To be honest it was an awful performance which we ended up getting beat 4-0. - RF
Sat. 26th Apr 2008	V	Rossendale Amateurs 'C' (h>a) 3 - 5 (ht.0-2) scorers : A.Robinson, R.Fenton, D.Bingham
		We started the game knowing we didn't want a third defeat on the trot, but again within the space of 10mins we were trailing by 2. It stayed that way until the second half when we pulled a goal back to make it 2-1 through Des. We then started to play proper football but then Baldy gave away a silly pen, 3-1. 5 minutes later Fenton made it 3-2, and at this moment we thought we might go on and win this game. But again another horrible goal given away by people not marking their men. We battled back again making it 4-3 through a nice solo effort from Danny B. Near the end they scored again 5-3 sealing our third defeat on the trot. - RF
Mon. 28th Apr 2008	V	Spotland Methodists 'A' (a) 1 - 5 (ht.-) scorer : D.Sanders
		Match report will appear here if submitted.
Sat. 3rd May 2008	V	Chaddertonians 'B' (a) 3 - 0 (ht.-) scorers : C.McCrudden, D.Bingham, G.Porter
		Match report will appear here if submitted.
Sat. 10th May 2008	V	Radcliffe Town 'B' (h) 2 - 8 (ht.-) scorers : D.Sanders, M.Bulman
		Match report will appear here if submitted.

2nd Team PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY Sat. 18th Aug. 2007	V	2nd Team v Oswaldtwistle St. Marys (h) 1 - 3 (ht.1-1) @ Broughton
		A good run out and a competitive match for those that played, obviously all were a bit rusty and this showed as the more organised team ran out worthy winners.
	Note: This Pre-Season friendly has been played between our two clubs since 1993. So far playing record is: P.15 - W.9 - D.1 - L.5 - F.48 - A.30 Check out the Ossie St Marys website for more info on our long term friends and opponents.