Monday 29 September 2008
DAISY HILL v FC UNITED FRIENDLY
Daisy Hill FC will entertain UniBond Premier side FC United of Manchester in a friendly at Daisy's New Sirs ground this Wednesday 1st October, kick off will be 7.45pm and admission will be FREE although a donation on entrance would be greatly appreciated by the home club.
FC United will be using their first team squad as they had no fixture over the last weekend, Daisy Hill boss Ian Street who took over during pre-season said...
'we really appreciate Karl and Phil bringing their team across to play us, it will be a good test and a great help in the development of our players, hopefully an ex Daisy Hill player in Danny Williams will be turning out for them too, and if we can get a few through the turnstiles it will create an atmosphere and make it more enjoyable on the night for everyone concerned'.

Sunday 28 September 2008
CUP CRACKER IN PROSPECT AT NEW MILLS
New Mills are hoping that supporters will turn up in force at Church Lane this Saturday to see a mouth-watering High Peak derby between the Millers and Glossop North End in the First Round Proper of the Carlsberg sponsored FA Vase, kick off 3pm.
It is the first competitive fixture between the two sides to take place at Church Lane for over thirty years and an exciting game is anticipated. After last weekend's fixtures, both sides sit in the top four of the Vodkat League Premier Division and have scored nine goals in the previous two rounds of the competition. 
Admission to the ground will be £5 for adults and £2.50 for concessions and turnstiles will open from 1pm. As a large crowd is anticipated, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible and enjoy the comforts of the newly refurbished Clubhouse, where the televised fixtures including Blackburn Rovers v Manchester United which kicks off at 5.30 pm can be watched in comfort.
For those people unable to attend on the day, match sponsors High Peak Radio will be providing live commentary from the ground.  The station broadcasts locally on on 106.4 & 103.3 FM and online at www.highpeakradio.com.
FA CUP INTEREST ENDS FOR ANOTHER SEASON
The Vodkat League’s interest in the FA Cup this season ended with Bacup Borough’s defeat in the Second Qualifying Round at the hands of Sheffield of the UniBond League Division One South.
The Yorkshiremen had previously seen off AFC Fylde and Colne in previous rounds, and they made it a Vodkat League hat trick with a comfortable win over an under strength Bacup side.
Bacup were under pressure from the start, losing a goal within nine minutes, and fell further behind shortly after half time. 
Two more goals in the final quarter ended the game as a contest before Warren Collier grabbed a late consolation.
Conditions were perfect for football on a bright sunny afternoon, and the home side took the lead from the first clear cut chance of the game in the 9th minute.
Bacup keeper Phil Melville did well to get his hand to a cracking Matt Outram shot from 25 yards, but the ball fell to Sheffield striker Mick Goddard who had the simple task of firing home from close range.
Two minutes later Goddard had another chance, but his header was safely gathered by Melville.
The home side continued to dominate the first half and Scott Partridge came close with a glancing header that hit the post with Melville beaten.
Bacup’s first shot on target arrived on 35 minutes when Lee Ellis picked up a loose ball and tried his luck with a 30 yard shot that the keeper gathered comfortably.
Four minutes in the second half Bacup fell further behind when Sheffield’s Paul Smith curled a free kick into the far corner of the net from the edge of the penalty area.
On the hour Bacup made a rare foray into the visiting penalty area, and Lee Ellis just failed to connect with a cutback from Martin Cosgrave.
But two more Sheffield goals in the space of four minutes put the game beyond Bacup’s reach.
On 71 minutes Daz Winter fired a low shot into the net from Steve Woolley’s cross, and then Mick Goddard grabbed his second of the game with a shot on the turn from the edge of the box.
Bacup kept going and pulled a goal back in the 77th minute, when Warren Collier beat the offside trap to race through unchallenged and beat Sheffield keeper Leigh Walker with a delicate chip from 20 yards.
Six minutes from the end Bacup’s Matt Hampson came close when his volley from 25 yards was pushed away by Walker.
Afterwards Bacup manager Brent Peters explained that his preparations for the game had been less than ideal.
“The problems started in the morning when we lost goalkeeper Paul Horridge when he couldn’t get a change of shift at work.  My assistant Phil Melville had to go in goal, and he hasn’t trained or played this season.  We had problems with travelling here, some players didn’t arrive until 2.15 and one didn’t get to the ground almost until kick off, and that’s not ideal preparation.
“On top of that, our leading scorer Tommy Turner and captain Davey Luker were unavailable and that forced us into changes, especially at the back, although to be fair the lads who came into defence did well as we were under pressure for long spells of the game.
“I don’t want to use all those issues as excuses, but because the preparations were all wrong we never really got going.  We were guilty of giving the ball away too many times, or players taking the wrong option and putting us under pressure.  One of the things I’ve said about our play after some games this season was that our ball retention was different class, but today it wasn’t.
“We only started playing late on, I think it was the 75th minute before we forced their keeper into making a save.  I have to give credit to Sheffield, they were on us constantly, worked hard as a team and as a unit and complemented each other well.  Some of our young lads need to take heed and learn from playing a side like them.  They were well organised, well drilled and knew exactly what they were doing.
“There’s good money to be made from a cup run, and as I deal with the club’s finances I am very aware of the boost that a win could have brought us financially, so it’s very disappointing from that point of view.
“But looking ahead to the rest of the season, I’m optimistic that we’ll do well.  I’ve got a young group of players with good technical ability, and this last fortnight will have been a massive learning curve for them.”

Saturday 27 September 2008
FA VASE FIRST ROUND PROPER
At least five of our clubs will progress into the Second Round of the FA Vase after the First Round draw threw up five all-Vodkat League pairings.
By far the most eye catching of the ties that paired our clubs together is the High Peak derby clash between New Mills and Glossop North End at Church Lane.  Both teams have scored nine goals in their previous two games in the competition so far, and New Mills’ Gary Kharas became the first Millers player ever to score a hat trick in the competition with his treble in the 6-0 thrashing of Wolverhampton Casuals in the Extra Preliminary Qualifying Round.  The three goals also put him at the top of the club’s all time scorers list for the competition.
A good crowd is assured for the game, which will continue the trend of previous Vase games at Church Road this season.  The attendance of 204 for the Millers’ 6-0 win over Wolverhampton Casuals in the First Qualifying Round was the biggest out of all the Vase games across the country that day, and the 170 against Ellistown in the last round was the largest out of all the games involving Vodkat League clubs.
Elsewhere, Squires Gate have a chance to avenge an FA Cup defeat at the hands of Penrith early last season when they travel up to the Cumbrian town for a rematch, and Ashton Athletic and Alsager Town both host opposition from the Northern Counties East League in Nostell MW and Hallam respectively. 
The clubs in the southern half of our area all face opposition from the Midlands.  Some of the opposition names may not be immediately familiar to anyone based in the North West, so here’s a brief update. 
Stone Dominoes make a trip to face Castle Vale, who hail from the area of the same name in Birmingham.  The club was previously known as King's Heath, as they were originally founded in 1964 as the pub team of the Horseshoe Pub in the King's Heath area of Birmingham.  They changed their name to Castle Vale King's Heath before moving into Vale Stadium, the former home of the defunct Paget Rangers in Castle Vale, and adopted the present name in 2005. The club are nicknamed the Spitfires and are members of the Midland Combination Premier Division.   
Eccleshall travel a few junctions down the M6 to visit Darlaston Town , members of the West Midlands (Regional) League Premier Division, who are based in the Metropolitan Borough of Walsall.  Formed in 1874, Darlaston are the oldest West Midlands League club and one of the oldest non league clubs in the country. They have played at the “City Ground” since 1890 when it was known as the Wakes Ground.  Darlaston is less than 30 miles from Eccleshall's ground at Pershall Park, so the trip to Walsall represents one of Eccleshall's shortest away trips all season.
Newcastle Town host Highgate United of the Midland Combination who are originally from the Highgate area of Birmingham but are currently playing in Solihull. They joined the Worcestershire Combination Division Two in 1964 and are currently members of the Midland Football Alliance.
Finally, Leek CSOB entertain Boldmere St Michaels, from the Boldmere area of Sutton Coldfield.  They have played in the Midland Football Alliance since its foundation in 1994.  Their home ground was originally named Church Road, but was re-named in 2004 after former chairman Trevor Brown, and is now known as the Trevor Brown Memorial Ground.  
The ties involving all our clubs are as follows:
Oldham Town v Congleton Town
Colne v Abbey Hey
Maine Road v Runcorn Linnets
Bootle v Ramsbottom United
New Mills v Glossop North End
Ashton Ath. v Nostell MW (Northern Counties East League)
Alsager Town v Hallam (Northern Counties East League)
Penrith AFC (Northern League) v Squires Gate
Castle Vale (Midland Combination) v Stone Dominoes
Darlaston Town (West Midlands League) v Eccleshall
Newcastle Town v Highgate United (Midland Combination)
Leek CSOB v Boldmere St Michaels (Midland Alliance)  
OUT WITH THE OLD AND IN WITH THE NEW?
Over the years, the League website and newsletter has carried many a tale about Newcastle Town stalwart John Cotton, and the energy and enthusiasm he has for his beloved club.
With the old boy knocking on a bit now, and taking on a “minister without portfolio” ambassadorial role within the club, many could have been forgiven for thinking that he would be gradually fading into the background, before stepping aside to let the next generation take over.
However, just when we thought we might see the back of the Cotton clan, Cotto has ensured his legacy will live on at the Lyme Valley Stadium – by getting his nine year old grandson Mitchell involved at the club.
“He began asking when he could come to a game, so I brought him down a few weeks back and he was hooked straight away”, said Cotto.  “After that he went to his first away game at Glossop and he’s now the team’s biggest supporter.  He’s got a few favourite players, he likes Jordan Johnson and Richard Minor, and keeper Danny Read looked out for him when he first came down.  But when he found out Andy Bourne was a fireman, like my dad was, he became the top man.”

However, in true Cotton style, Mitchell isn’t allowed to stand aside and let others do all the work on matchdays at the Lyme Valley Stadium.  “As I have an “access all areas” role, Mitchell comes with me and gets involved in helping out”, explained Cotto.  “He’s been putting the corner flags out, gathering the balls up before the game, and has been picking up the dirty kit in the dressing room after the game.  I’ve always said I’d write a book about my experiences in Non-League football – maybe this will be a good subject for the final chapter!”
NEWS FROM ROCHDALE TOWN
Rochdale Town manager Mark Canning has stepped down from the job after being in charge of team affairs for almost five years.  He will continue to be available for selection as a player, and will also stay on as club Chairman.
As many around the League will be aware, Mark, along with Jim and Linda Picken, have carried out an unbelievable amount of work in recent years to keep the club going.  But, as Jim explained, Mark had to find others to help him out with some of the many jobs he has been taking on.
“Mark’s decision was a surprise to many at the club, but he couldn’t continue to do all the work he does as manager, chairman, kit-man etc.  He will now concentrate all his energies on playing (if selected) and, as chairman will be able to drive the club forward as we strive to make Rochdale Town a success. 
“Our new manager is the very experienced former Abbey Hey manager Mike Lester, who will assisted by Darren Ford.  The new management team began work on Thursday 25^th September with their first training session, and took charge of the team for the first time at Norton United two days later.
From mine and Linda’s point of view, we fully appreciate the fantastic job Mark has done at the club.  It is fair to say that without his tremendous efforts the club would simply not exist today.  We are now looking forward to a new stage in the club’s development, and we will all get behind the new guys and hope the club can move forward to some success.”
Off the field, the club’s change of name over the summer means that Rochdale Town also now have a new range of merchandise to tempt collectors of Non-League football memorabilia.
The club’s name change was also accompanied by the designing of a new club crest, and local non-league enthusiast Tony Sheldon has taken charge of organising some badges bearing the new crest, which are on sale on matchdays at the club. 

A lapel badge like the one pictured is available at £2.50, and commemorative badges were produced for the Rochdale Town v AFC Liverpool game on the 16^th August.  The game was the first home game for Rochdale Town and the first away game for AFC Liverpool, and a badge bearing both club crests is available for £3.50.  There are also still some match programmes from the game available at 50 pence each.
Tony also tells us that there are also a very limited number of matchday badges still available from the Castleton Gabriels v FC United of Manchester game in September 2005, priced at £4.50.  Finally, the club has also produced some black baseball caps with the club’s name in white lettering, priced at £6.  All the above items can also be ordered by post from Tony at the prices quoted, with a stamped addressed envelope also required for the badges, and an additional 50p for postage and packing required on the baseball caps. 
All orders should be sent to Tony at the following address:  29 Highclere Road, Crumpsall, Manchester M8 4WH.  

LR FACE CHARNOCK RICHARD IN GOLDLINE SEMI
Atherton LR are the one remaining Vodkat League club left in this season’s Goldline Trophy, and Bolton cycling star Jason Kenny handed them a semi final tie against last season’s beaten finalists Charnock Richard at the draw made on Sunday.  In the other semi final, Stoneclough will play holders Euxton Villa.  Dates for the ties, which will be played at neutral venues will be announced soon.

AFC FYLDE CALL IN THE ARCHITECTS
AFC Fylde has enlisted the services of Lancashire-based architecture practice Croft Goode Ltd as it looks to improve its facilities at Kellamergh Park.
Croft Goode has carried out detailed surveys of the existing facilities and is currently preparing designs for a new directors’ box, sponsors’ box, spectator refreshment cabins, a new car park and improved signage at the Warton-based ground.
Martin Booker, business development manager at AFC Fylde, said: “We have already invested £150,000 in improving our Kellamergh Park home and these further improvements we are proposing will significantly improve the facilities we offer to our fans, both in terms of our on-the-ground spectators and corporate hospitality guests.
“The sponsors’ box in particular will provide us with an extra source of vital income, allowing us to continue investing in the ground and the club.
“The proposed development is still at an early stage, but we hope to have our plans submitted within the next couple of months and aim to start work on the improvements before the end of the year.”
Michael Goode, a director with Kirkham-based Croft Goode Ltd, added: “We are very proud to be working alongside our local football club on these exciting plans to upgrade the facilities at Kellamergh Park.
“AFC Fylde has ambitious plans, both on and off the pitch, and we believe our designs will enable the club to transform its matchday offering as it looks to move up the football pyramid.”

THE VODKAT LEAGUE SUPPORTS CRY
The Vodkat League is throwing its support behind a charity’s campaign to raise awareness of cardiac problems in young people.
CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) is a charity founded in May 1995 to raise awareness of Cardiac Risk among young people.  CRY offers help, support and counselling to families where there has been a sudden cardiac death of an apparently fit and healthy young person.
CRY also promotes heart screening, ECG Testing Programmes and contributes to medical research and funds the CRY Centre for Sports Cardiology at the Olympic Medical Institute, which is based at Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow.
A host of well known sporting names are patrons of the charity, headed by Honorary President Sir Ian Botham.  Other patrons include Rob Andrew, Gregor Townsend, Jeremy Bates, Nick Gillingham, Sir Steve Redgrave, Sir Clive Woodward, Ray Wilkins and Pat Jennings. 
CRY's stated vision is “to work with cardiologists and family doctors to promote and protect the cardiac health of our young by establishing good practice and screening facilities devoted to significantly reduce the frequency of young sudden cardiac death throughout the UK.”
It’s a cause that has particular relevance to our league, as a young Atherton LR player died suddenly a couple of years ago from a heart related problem.  16 year old Danny Young turned out for LR up at Colne on a Saturday afternoon, but collapsed and died the following day while playing in a rugby match at Tyldesley Rugby Club.
Atherton Collieries Chairman Ian Williams, a club representative on the League Management Committee, lives in Tyldesley and first heard about the charity when he found out that Danny Young’s mother Dionne had become involved.
“I saw a notice that Dionne was asking for people to help raise awareness of the charity and its work, so I got in touch with her to see if our League could help in any way”, he explained.  “As we have hundreds of young players playing in our competitions every week, it is only right that we as a League do what we can to make them aware of the cardiac problems that can exist in young people.
“I was then put in contact with CRY’s Founder and Chief Executive Alison Cox MBE, and assured her that as a sports organisation in the North West, we would be very pleased to assist CRY in helping to raise awareness of the work they do.  Hopefully by highlighting their work on our League website and in the newsletter, we can make our own small contribution to what is a very worthy cause.”
CRY’s 4^th annual Raising Awareness Week will run from Friday 10^th October to Saturday 18^th October, and will incorporate a Parliamentary reception in Westminster on October 15^th.  Key speaker at the event will be Andy Burnham MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, and the Labour Member of Parliament for the constituency of Leigh.
Plans are also at an advanced stage to launch a CRY clinic in the North West, and further details on the launch will be published in the next few weeks.  In the meantime, for more information on the work that CRY undertakes, visit their website at www.c-r-y.org.uk.
OUR CLUBS MAKE PROGRESS IN THE FA YOUTH CUP
The FA Youth Cup is now entering the Second Round Qualifying stage, and there is still a good representation of our clubs involved in the competition.
There are still some First Round ties to be completed, but the draw for the Second Round has been made and ties involving our clubs are as follows:
Daisy Hill v Formby/Vauxhall Motors   
Ashton Town v Fleetwood Town   
Colne/Bootle v Cammell Laird/Southport   
Glossop North End/Hinckley United v Staveley MW
Coventry Sphinx/Norton United v Stafford Rangers/Ellesmere Rangers  
Dates for the Second Round ties have yet to be confirmed.
DAVID GREAVES LEAVES CHADDERTON
Chadderton Chairman David Greaves has announced he is leaving the club with immediate effect, after nearly 30 years of involvement.
David issued a statement explaining the reasons for his departure.  He said:
“It has come to a stage in my life when I have had to think long and hard about the future.  I have come to the sorry conclusion that Chadderton Football Club has no more place in my future.
“After more than 28 years with the club, 3 as Chairman and 20 odd years on the committee I felt I had come to the end of the road.  I thought I was the right person to carry the club forward, but, with being taken over once and now in the process of doing it all again, I felt I was now surplus to requirements.
“It was not an easy decision, but when I look back I can feel proud of what I have done for the club.  If you cut me in half I will have Chadderton FC running through my body.  I still hold great affection for the club and everyone associated with it, but it's time to move on.”
PLAYER MOVEMENTS THIS WEEK
Transfers
Nathan Finnigan               Rochdale Town to Flixton  
Mark Fitton                        Newcastle Town to Congleton Town 
Barrie George    New Mills to Bacup Borough  
Simon Howard Atherton LR to Atherton Collieries  
Michael Langley                Winsford United to Alsager Town 
Andy Paxton                      Ashton Athletic to Flixton 
James Rothel                     Glossop North End to Maine Road 
Ben Wharton                     Padiham to Atherton Collieries
Registrations
AFC Liverpool                    Kangana Ndiwa, River Humphries, Paul Moore
Ashton Athletic Paul Rogers, Phillip Pantlin, Will Ryder
Ashton Town                     Stephen Sweeney, Martyn Biddulph, Adam Leadbetter, James Liptrot,
Joe Zeverona
Atherton Colls                   Mark Fitton, Robert Parsonage, Anthony Smith, Jamie Pates, Andrew Simm, Frantijek Halfar
Atherton LR                        Paul Jones, Richard Jones, Neil  Lancaster, Ryan Chaisty,
Andrew Hewitt
Bootle                                   Johnathon Martin
Chadderton                        Ricky Wilde, Liam Boden, Daniel, Shaw, Arren Sutcliffe
Daisy Hill                              Craig Coote
Eccleshall                             Michael Gunn
Flixton                                  Kayde Coppin
Glossop North End         Stephen Bates, Daniel Jones, Thomas Bailey, Thomas Nadin
Holker Old Boys                Glyn Dixon, Glen Warburton
Irlam                                      Stephen Bates, Ryan Worsley
Leek CSOB                          Martin Firth
Maine Road                        Mark Shields, Dylan Robinson, James Rothel
Nelson                                  Andrew Foster
New Mills                            Daniel Allen, Peter Mellor
Newcastle Town              Thomas Fogg
Rochdale Town Brad Barrington, Craig Doyle
Runcorn Linnets               Andrew Leigh
Silsden                  Daniel Thorpe
Squires Gate                      Ryan Broomhead
Wigan Robin Park                     Ahmed Hasan, Lee Moss, Timothy Davies
Winsford United              Joseph Gibiliru, Ian Lowe
TOP ATTENDANCES
Sunday 21^st September 2008
Runcorn Linnets v Bacup Borough 134 FA Vase
Monday 22^nd September 2008
New Mills v Maine Road 152
Wednesday 24^th September 2008
Glossop North End v Flixton 137
Irlam v Bootle 180
Saturday 27^th September 2008
AFC Fylde v Runcorn Linnets 351
Sheffield v Bacup Borough 221 FA Cup
New Mills v Nelson 185
AFC Blackpool v AFC Liverpool 182
Silsden AFC v Squires Gate 133
Ramsbottom United v Newcastle Town 130
Padiham v Leek CSOB 105
Congleton Town v St Helens Town 103
Winsford United v Maine Road 100
VODKAT LEAGUE LANDMARKS
Monday 22^nd September 2008
St Helens Town’s 3-0 victory at Atherton Collieries was their 200^th away league victory.
Saturday 27^th September 2008
Formby earned their 300^th league victory with a 3-1 away win at Atherton LR.
Newcastle Town’s 1-1 draw at Ramsbottom United earned them their 1500^th league point, which is the highest points total ever in the league.
Rochdale Town’s 3-2 victory at Norton United earned them their 752^nd league point.
Padiham’s 4-0 victory over Leek CSOB earned them their 701^st league point.

Sunday 21 September 2008
AFC LIVERPOOL FACE CUP DERBY THRILLER
AFC Liverpool face their first ever competitive derby match on Wednesday in a cup tie against top Liverpool side Waterloo Dock.
The 1^st round Senior Cup tie takes place at Valerie Park, the home of Prescot Cables, who AFC Liverpool are groundsharing with this season and kicks off at 7.30pm.
It is the first time that the fledgling non league club has every faced another Merseyside team in a competitive match, and the fact that they do so in a knockout cup tie adds extra spice to the occasion.
AFC Liverpool are currently top of the Vodkat League Division 1 after a blistering start that has seen them score 22 goals in just 6 matches.
Waterloo Dock are the Champions of the Liverpool County Premier League and so are certainly of Vodkat League standard. Top of the league so far again this term, they are also renowned for having unearthed popular former Liverpool striker, and current Legends star, John Durnin.
Seasoned observers of the non league football scene believe this will be a mouth-watering clash between two genuine footballing sides each topping their respective leagues.
The cup draw will be particularly enticing for AFC Liverpool vice captain Jay Chandler who now marshalls the Reds’ back four, but who last season played for Waterloo Dock.
The winners will face either East Villa or St Helens in the 2^nd Round of the Cup. Tranmere Rovers await the winner of that tie in the Quarter Finals, a suitable incentive for all clubs involved to fight hard for the win.
The Liverpool Senior Cup is a Liverpool County FA run competition which features Liverpool, Everton, Tranmere Rovers and all of the major Merseyside non league clubs. It will be AFC Liverpool’s first appearance in the competition.
AFC Liverpool v Waterloo Dock, Wed 24^th September, Valerie Park, Hope Street, Prescot. Kick off 7.30pm

Saturday 20 September 2008
BACUP BOROUGH FLY THE FLAG IN THE FA CUP
Bacup Borough are the Vodkat League’s sole representatives remaining in the FA Cup after an impressive 3-0 over Cammell Laird in the First Qualifying Round on the 13^th September.
Borough now face a trip across the Pennines to face Sheffield on 27^th September, in the knowledge that the Yorkshire side have already seen off two of our sides – AFC Fylde and Colne – in the last two rounds.
Cammell Laird fielded a centre back pairing of Graham Branch (ex-Tranmere, Burnley and Accrington Stanley) and Dave Challinor (ex-Tranmere and Bury), but against a side from two divisions above, Bacup produced a performance full of slick passing and clinical finishing, and their UniBond League opponents could have no complaints about the final result.
The visitors began well and dominated the opening period of the game, but found Bacup goalkeeper Paul Horridge in inspired form.  However, the best chance of the first half fell to Bacup in stoppage time, when Tommy Turner headed a Dominic Slavin cross over the bar from 10 yards.
Turner came close with a header ten minutes after the restart, before putting Bacup ahead in the 67^th minute.  A long clearance from deep in the Bacup half was headed back towards his own goal by Lairds centre half Dave Challinor.  But the ball looped over the head of advancing keeper Richard Whiteside, and Turner had the simple task of collecting the loose ball and tapping into the empty net.
Within five minutes, Lairds were awarded a penalty when Danny Desmereaux was tripped in the box by Bacup’s Kyle Harrop.  But Neil Black spurned the opportunity to bring his side back in the game when he fired the spot kick wide of the post.
With nine minutes remaining, Bacup doubled their advantage when Martin Cosgrave swept home Warren Collier’s cross from ten yards.  The game was wrapped up two minutes from time, when Tommy Turner grabbed his second goal of the game, rounding Lairds keeper Whiteside to roll the ball into the empty net after collecting a mishit clearance.
After the game, Bacup manager Brent Peters was delighted with his side’s performance.
“We absorbed some pressure early on and they caused us a few problems, but fortunately our goalkeeper Paul Horridge was on top form.  He was superb, his handling and concentration was first class, and he pulled saves off at vital times. 
“We addressed the situation and changed our formation at half time, and once we did that I felt there was no way back for Cammell Laird.
“Overall it was a fine team effort.  We defended well to keep a clean sheet, the midfield players worked hard as a unit, and some of our passing and overall play was of the highest standard.”
Brent also believes that the result shows that the standard of football in the Vodkat League Premier Division is better than many people give it credit for.
“I’ve always said that people underestimate our Premier Division, not just this season but in previous seasons.  The level is as good as if not better than the UniBond First Division.  OK, the UniBond Premier has some good sides in there, but  I believe that anyone who gets promoted from this league and thinks they are going up in to a higher league when they go up into the UniBond First Division from our Premier League is wrong. 
“Just look at the clubs who have worked hard to get out of our League in recent years - Cammell Laird, FC United, Nantwich Town who went straight up again in their first season and then you’ve got Curzon Ashton and Skelmersdale United who nearly made it.  That shows you that they are geared to play at this level of football, and when they go up to the next level it’s not as tough as they expected and they sail through it.
“You have to remember the Cammell Laird team we beat are no mugs, they had two former Football League players in Graham Branch and Dave Challinor at the centre of their defence, some good young players too and they are two leagues above us.  I did some interviews earlier in the week and said then that people shouldn’t be surprised if Bacup go through.  My lads are very fit and aren’t fazed by anything.  They play good football, and I think we are a match for anyone.”
A HAPPY RETURN TO THE ARBORIES FOR GRAHAM
A few weeks into the season, Padiham manager Graham Howarth is enjoying life back in the familiar surroundings of the Arbories.
Graham returned to take over the manager’s seat in the summer for a second spell in charge, and says he didn’t have to think twice about going back.
“I couldn’t resist the challenge of managing the club again.  I got into management originally when Padiham were languishing at the bottom of the Second Division of the West Lancashire League, and I took over then for my first managerial job. 
“I played for Padiham in the early 1980’s when they had their first spell in the North West Counties League, and it’s always been the team I’ve watched as well as played for and managed, and I’ve got a great feeling for the club.  So it wasn’t a difficult decision to come back, as I knew everyone at the club, from committee to backroom staff.”
Graham’s first spell in charge at Padiham ended in 2004, after he had decided to seek pastures new.  “When I left the club before, I felt I had gone a bit stale and needed a fresh challenge.  I also felt I had got to the stage where I couldn’t see where the club was going, so I think it was the right time to step down. 
“I then went to Nelson, and had some good times there.  We got promoted and that was a great feeling, and that season we put in some fantastic performances.  One of the highlights was when we beat FC United at Gigg Lane in front of a big crowd.  Those were great moments and I hope I can repeat that sort of success again at Padiham.”
One of the first jobs Graham undertook in the summer on his return was to ensure he retained the services of Anthony McCluskey, who was caretaker manager for the second half of last season.
“Anthony was one of the best players we had when I was here before.  He’s got his coaching badges and he likes to take his ideas on to the training pitch and work on different aspects of the game.  It was something I discussed with the committee when I agreed to come back, that it was important Anthony continued to be involved to keep the continuity going from last season.” 
Looking ahead, Graham’s target is to build a locally based squad that can challenge for promotion.
“Last season was a disappointing one for the club, and we have to rebuild again and push on this season.  Since we came back into the League in 2000 the aim has always been to get promoted and although we’ve got a lot of young lads in our squad, hopefully we’ll be good enough to do that this season.
“Promotion is what everyone at the club wants, and that’s the brief I’ve had from the committee.  We also want a team of locally based players, and we’ve made some big steps towards that by bringing in the players we have done over the summer.   
“We want to make Padiham the biggest and most popular club in the area, and we want all the young lads playing football in the area to come to us.  The committee was concerned that in recent years there had been a gradual decline in the number of locally based players in the squad, and that is something we are looking to correct.
“We’ve got a lot of young lads now, and a lot of players left over the summer, and that means we have to expect it will take time for the team to gel.  But we’ve got a terrific youth team and already some of those players have played in the reserve team that has made a great start to the season.  That bodes well for the future.
“We are improving all the time, and while sometimes we can be a bit naïve, it’s a learning process for us and hopefully we’ll continue getting better.  I’m encouraged by the performances the young lads have put in so far, and I’ll be disappointed if we are not in the mix for promotion at the end of the season.”
NEWS FROM RUNCORN LINNETS
Runcorn Linnets manager Steve Wilkes is optimistic about his side’s prospects of success in his first full season in charge at Wincham Park.
Steve left the manager’s job at Padiham to head south halfway through last season, and says that his first few months in charge of a mid table side provided a new and difficult challenge for him.
“I’d never experienced going into a club when there was nothing to play for, and it was a tricky situation to come into.  We were in the last 16 of the Challenge Cup but lost to Cheadle in my first game in charge, although I didn’t actually pick the team for that game and didn’t know the players as I’d only taken charge a couple of days earlier.
“From the moment I took full charge, I tried to have a look at all the players at the club and between then and the end of the season I came to the conclusion that some of them weren’t good enough.  So in the summer, we went out and looked for better quality and hopefully we achieved that.
“Alan Glover came in as first team coach from Bamber Bridge in the UniBond League and we signed several players with experience at that level, Ged Courtney has played in the UniBond League, and Robbie Moore has played in the UniBond and Conference North. 
“Steve Cunningham has come in as captain, and he was part of Salford City’s promotion squad last season and added to that I’ve brought in Michael Morrison, Stuart Telfer and Damien Morrison who I had at Padiham.  If you look at these players we’ve brought in they’ve all got bags of experience in higher leagues, but I’m still not happy and I’m looking at building the squad up more.” 
With the club being followed by a sizable support that remembers following Runcorn in higher leagues, Steve is aware that expectations of his side may be higher than at many other clubs in the league.
“One of the reasons I left Padiham was to test myself at a higher level, and put myself under a bit of pressure”, he said.  “I read a comment the other day that Runcorn have got the biggest budget in the league, which I thought was amazing, when you look at some of the other clubs in this league. 
“I know for a fact I don’t have a budget of half what some teams in this league have, but people put two and two together and get five, and all of a sudden we’re being talked about as promotion favourites.  So there is a bit of pressure from the fans, and as well as wanting promotion they want to see good football too.”  
As far as this season is concerned, Steve is cautious about making predictions about his side’s chances.
“I don’t set targets because if you don’t hit targets you can sometimes think you’ve failed when that isn’t always the case.  But we need to improve on last season, and I’ll be judged at the end of the season on where we finish up in the league.
“I’m looking to improve on where we finished last year in mid table, and maybe have one or two cup runs too.  It would be great to have something for the fans to cheer, they are fantastic and never stop singing and supporting.  They have been brilliant since I came here, especially at away games at places like Abbey Hey and New Mills, and at Curzon Ashton in the FA Cup when we were losing 4-0.  So we want to give them something to cheer about at the end of the season.
“I think many people will be looking for a top three finish from us.  Maybe that will happen and maybe it won’t, you can’t take anything for granted in this league.  Hopefully, though, we will be in the mix at the end of the season.” 
Meanwhile, off the field Linnets have been casting their net far and wide to attract support, and interest from fans is not just confined to Cheshire.
Since the club’s formation in 2006, after the demise of the old club, the Linnets have looked to foster international links right across the world. This started with an appeal to “Distant Linnets” to contact the club, which resulted in e-mails from Neil Hamilton, in Perth in Australia, Stuart Rigby out in New South Wales, Matt Reid in Lusk in Ireland, Andy Towell down in Guernsey and Kim Brierley in New Zealand.
The contact with Kim has been a regular one, and has now resulted in the Linnets forming a link of friendship with Te Awamutu FC.  The New Zealand club was kind enough to sponsor a match ball last season for the Linnets, as a sign of the growing links between the two organisations. 
Linnets were also able to welcome a supporter from slightly nearer home at their FA Vase tie against Padiham.  Amongst the fans was Drew Gray, who lives in Carluke in South Lanarkshire in Scotland.  Drew is actually a fan of Grays Athletic, but was unable to travel down to Grays for their 3—2 home win on Sunday against Kidderminster Harriers, as he had been on a night shift on Saturday.
Instead, he decided to travel to watch the Linnets. Drew was already known to some Linnets fans, as they had met him in a local pub, when Grays visited Northwich Vics last season.  At that time, Drew had made the very generous gesture of donating £50 to the Linnets Ground Fund to purchase a brick.  At the Padiham match, he added a Linnets shirt to his collection, and saw an action packed match with seven goals, extra time and two players sent off!  It shouldn’t be hard to attract him back to Wincham Park again in the future.
VACANCY AT NEW MILLS
New Mills AFC have asked us to advertise that they are still looking for a permanent replacement as Reserve Team Manager, and that the deadline for applications has now been extended to Wednesday 24th September.  Anyone wishing to apply for the position should in the first instance contact Duncan Hibbert, Club Secretary, New Mills AFC, Church Lane, New Mills, High Peak, SK22 4NP or e-mail duncanhibbert@newmillsafc.co.uk
CLUB BADGES – LEEK CSOB
Leek CSOB have lapel badges bearing the club crest on sale on matchdays at Harrison Park, priced at £2.50.

FA VASE PRIZE FUND
With many of our clubs in FA Vase action at the weekend, it’s worth remembering that progress in the competition can lead to a healthy boost in funds for successful clubs.  The prize money available from the competition at each round is as follows.
First Round Qualifying winners - £800
Second Round Qualifying winners - £900
First Round Proper winners - £1,000
Second Round Proper winners - £1,200
Third Round Proper winners - £1,300
Fourth Round Proper winners - £1,500
Fifth Round Proper winners - £2,000
Sixth Round Proper winners - £5,000
Semi Final winners - £7,000
Final runners-up - £10,000
Final winners - £20,000
The next round of games will be in the First Round Proper, and ties will be played on Saturday 4th October.
AFC LIVERPOOL SPORTSMANS DINNER
AFC Liverpool are delighted to be able to confirm the first AFC Sportsmans Dinner, which will take place on Friday 14th November at 7.30 pm. The venue is the LFC Supporters Club at the junction of Priory Road and Breck Road, Anfield, Liverpool. Tickets are priced at £25 and details of their availability will be released soon.
The guest speakers will be European Cup Winner and new AFC Liverpool patron David Johnson, and the "Voice of Anfield" George Sephton. George’s voice is familiar to all Reds fans and he is also a backer of AFC.
The comedian on the bill will be highly rated local comic Mark Langley, who has recently been seen at "Spirit of Shankly" events. There will be a Golden Envelope draw for signed Liverpool FC and AFC Liverpool items, and all profits from the evening will go directly to helping AFC Liverpool.
PLAYER MOVEMENTS THIS WEEK
No transfers completed.
Registrations
AFC Fylde      Ross Ainsworth, Michael Churchman, Danny Fuller, Louis Lambeth, Sam Yates
Ashton Town  Philip Gahgan, Ian Wood
Atherton LR    Michael Phenix, Stephen Taylor, Piers Ockleford
Bacup Borough         Lee Bracey, Barrie George, Lee Oldham
Chadderton    Lee Hibbert, David Lewis, Paul Buckley, Steven Patterson, Cisco Daka, Laripa David, Joe Jacombs
Congleton Town        Stuart Heeps, Matthew Quinn
Daisy Hill       Daniel Hartfield, Craig Thompson
Irlam            Adam Booth, David Ingle
Leek CSOB     Matthew Bradbury
Wigan Robin Park      Scott Callaghan, Karel Kula, Jamie Mullen
TOP ATTENDANCES
Tuesday 16^th September 2008
Alsager Town v Congleton Town 123
Runcorn Linnets v Atherton Collieries 111
Ramsbottom United v Maine Road 103
Saturday 20^th September 2008
New Mills v Ellis Town 170 FA Vase
AFC Emley v Oldham Town 123 FA Vase
Newcastle Town v AFC Fylde 106
Congleton town v Maltby Main 102
AFC Blackpool v Squires Gate 101 FA Vase

Monday 15 September 2008
BACUP BOROUGH FLY THE FLAG IN THE FA CUP
Bacup Borough are the Vodkat League’s sole representatives remaining in the FA Cup, after an impressive 3-0 over Cammell Laird in the First Qualifying Round on the 13^th September.
Borough now face a trip across the Pennines to face Sheffield in the Second Qualifying Round on 27^th September, with the knowledge that the Yorkshire side have already seen off two of our sides – AFC Fylde and Colne – in the last two rounds.
Cammell Laird fielded a centre back pairing of Graham Branch (ex-Tranmere, Burnley and Accrington Stanley) and Dave Challinor (ex-Tranmere and Bury), but against a side from two divisions above, Bacup produced a performance full of slick passing and clinical finishing, and their UniBond League opponents could have no complaints about the final result.
The visitors began well and dominated the opening period of the game, but found Bacup goalkeeper Paul Horridge in inspired form.  However, the best chance of the first half fell to Bacup in stoppage time, when Tommy Turner headed a Dominic Slavin cross over the bar from 10 yards.
Turner came close with a header ten minutes after the restart, before putting Bacup ahead in the 67^th minute.  A long clearance from deep in the Bacup half was headed back towards his own goal by Lairds centre half Dave Challinor.  But the ball looped over the head of advancing keeper Richard Whiteside, and Turner had the simple task of collecting the loose ball and tapping into the empty net.
Within five minutes, Lairds were awarded a penalty when Danny Desmereaux was tripped in the box by Bacup’s Kyle Harrop.  But Neil Black spurned the opportunity to bring his side back in the game when he fired the spot kick wide of the post.
With nine minutes remaining, Bacup doubled their advantage when Martin Cosgrave swept home Warren Collier’s cross from ten yards.  The game was wrapped up two minutes from time, when Tommy Turner grabbed his second goal of the game, rounding Lairds keeper Whiteside to roll the ball into the empty net after collecting a mishit clearance.
After the game, Bacup manager Brent Peters was delighted with his side’s performance.
“We absorbed some pressure early on and they caused us a few problems, but fortunately our goalkeeper Paul Horridge was on top form.  He was superb, his handling and concentration was first class, and he pulled saves off at vital times. 
“We addressed the situation and changed our formation at half time, and once we did that I felt there was no way back for Cammell Laird.
“Overall it was a fine team effort.  We defended well to keep a clean sheet, the midfield players worked hard as a unit, and some of our passing and overall play was of the highest standard.”
Brent also believes that the result shows that the standard of football in the Vodkat League Premier Division is better than many people give it credit for.
“I’ve always said that people underestimate our Premier Division, not just this season but in previous seasons.  The level is as good as if not better than the UniBond First Division.  OK, the UniBond Premier has some good sides in there, but  I believe that anyone who gets promoted from this league and thinks they are going up in to a higher league when they go up into the UniBond First Division from our Premier League is wrong. 
“Just look at the clubs who have worked hard to get out of our League in recent years - Cammell Laird, FC United, Nantwich Town who went straight up again in their first season and then you’ve got Curzon Ashton and Skelmersdale United who nearly made it.  That shows you that they are geared to play at this level of football, and when they go up to the next level it’s not as tough as they expected and they sail through it.
“You have to remember the Cammell Laird team we beat are no mugs, they had two former Football League players in Graham Branch and Dave Challinor at the centre of their defence, some good young players too and they are two leagues above us.  I did some interviews earlier in the week and said then that people shouldn’t be surprised if Bacup go through.  My lads are very fit and aren’t fazed by anything.  They play good football, and I think we are a match for anyone.”
VACANCY AT NEW MILLS
New Mills AFC have asked us to advertise that they are still looking for a permanent replacement as Reserve Team Manager, and that the deadline for applications has now been extended to Wednesday 24th September.  Anyone wishing to apply for the position should in the first instance contact Duncan Hibbert, Club Secretary, New Mills AFC, Church Lane, New Mills , High Peak, SK22 4NP or e mail duncanhibbert@newmillsafc.co.uk

Saturday 13 September 2008
SHARON HOLLINSHEAD
The League Management Committee was shocked to hear of the death of Sharon Hollinshead, wife of the Stone Dominoes manager Shaun.
Whilst most of us in the League had never met the lady, it really puts the game into perspective to hear of the death of one so young.  Our deepest sympathy goes out to Shaun and the family.
Alan Farnworth, Vice Chairman, The Vodkat League
TRIBUTES POUR IN FOR PETER HALLETT
The Non-League footballing world is also mourning the death of Peter Hallett, who suffered a heart attack at his home in Congleton, on Friday 5th September.  He was 76.
Peter was a well known figure in Non-League football throughout Cheshire and Staffordshire, and had reported on clubs in the area for The Sentinel newspaper in Stoke-on-Trent since 1989. 
Born in Wolverhampton, he became the managing director of a chemical company but spent recent years as a senior lecturer in marketing at Staffordshire University.  Aside of his football interests, he was also involved in athletics as a coach, and became manager of the Staffordshire cross country team.  He is survived by his wife Pat.
In a tribute published in The Sentinel, the paper’s sports editor Keith Wales said a little bit of what made the newspaper’s local coverage so special had been lost.
"Come rain, shine or snow, Peter would be there at some game or other. His dedication to the non-league cause was remarkable.
"I think many local clubs will realise the great debt they owe Peter Hallett for the promotion of the non-league game in South Cheshire and North Staffordshire. He will be sorely missed, and a very hard act to follow.”
Those thoughts have been echoed by our clubs in The Sentinel’s circulation area and beyond, and many have paid their own tributes.
Peter had a special place in his heart for Congleton Town, as he served as a member of its committee during the 1980s and always retained a link by frequent visits to the ground.
The club’s Secretary and Programme Editor Ken Mead has sent us the following article, which was published in the match programme for Town’s FA Cup tie against Prescot Cables, before which a minute’s silence was held in memory of Peter.
Although he was a reporter for the Sentinel newspaper, and as such was sent to all the local non-league grounds in the area, Peter lived in Congleton and seemed to find his way to the Booth Street ground whenever the Bears were at home, wherever he had been sent for the day for match reporting.
Peter Evans, Chairman at Congleton Town said of Peter: “Peter was in the past a committee member here at Booth Street and remained a good friend to the Club and all its members.  To me personally, he was always keen to support the Club in any way without jeopardising his professional status.
 “I cannot begin to recollect the amount of interviews that took place between Peter and myself, whether by phone or in person at the football club.  He was always very polite and professional and my memory of Peter will always be that no matter what was discussed he only ever printed what was within the interest of Congleton Town Football Club - a rare quality in journalism today.”
He was well known amongst footballing circles for his knowledge of players and was always ready to mention a promising player to the Bears’ manager at the time. Some were followed up, some were not, but it was no surprise when players he had ‘spotted’ were next heard of at a good level of football.
Bears current manager Anthony Buckle says “I have known Peter a long time, both through being a player and now a manager. Peter always had time to chat to everyone about matches and players. When I decided to move from being a player to a manager, Peter was on the phone offering words of advice (he was also the best person to get phone numbers from).
I know that Peter held Congleton Town F.C dear to him. After poor performances Peter would ring me at home to try and lighten my mood and to remind me that a week in football can change things. He would always visit the clubhouse on his way home from whatever match he had been reporting on. I know that he will be missed from the local football scene, and I and the players send his wife and family our condolences.”
Other club and league representatives also have their own special memories of Peter.
Ray Tatton, Newcastle Town:  “Peter was respected throughout the local non-league scene and will be greatly missed by everyone.  Many clubs owe Peter a great debt, because without his reporting the local scene would not be as well known as it is, and would be much worse off.
“He showed a remarkable dedication to the non-league scene and will be a very hard act to follow.  Peter had a great knowledge of the game and many clubs will no doubt have benefited from conversations with him, as they picked up on different players that he had come across during his travels.
 “There is no doubt that every club with which Peter has come into contact with will have their own memories, but what will unite every one of these clubs will be their respect, thanks and fondness of a great guy.  He will be sorely missed by everyone and there will be a great deal of sadness throughout the area at the passing of such a fine servant, not only to the local non-league scene but to the people of the area. 
“Peter – you will not be forgotten. Thanks for everything you have done for all of us.”
Stan Lockett, Leek CSOB:  “All at Leek CSOB were shocked and saddened to learn of Peter’s sudden passing.
“Peter was the “John Motson” of Non-League football in the Cheshire and North Staffordshire area.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and all who are concerned with Non-League football in the area.
“He was truly a nice gentleman, well respected and always pleasant.  He was in his element when he was reporting at local matches throughout the region.  He only had good things to say about all our local clubs, and was a friend to all of us.
“The game, The Sentinel newspaper, and everyone connected with the Non-League game will miss him greatly.  He will, one fears, not be replaced.
“We offer sincere condolences to his wife Pat.”
Dennis Vickers, Norton United:  “Locally, Peter Hallett was a legend.  He knew everyone and everyone knew him.  He had covered hundreds of non-league games and seemed to remember them all.
“He never had a bad word for any individual or club and gave fantastic newspaper coverage to us all in this area.  His thirst for the game was only matched by his knowledge of the non league game.  I have dozens of reports that he wrote from Norton United games and they are amazingly brilliant in detail and accuracy.
“The whole non-league community is poorer for his passing, but richer for him having been amongst us.  We will all miss him very much.”
John Reid, Fixtures Secretary, The Vodkat League:  “NWCFL Football has lost a great friend in Peter, he had the league and clubs in his heart, even clubs from outside the district.
“I have known him since the days he started covering local football for the Sentinel when I was at Eastwood Hanley, and was always pleased to get a call from him on Friday nights saying I am covering your game tomorrow.  He developed a great knowledge of non league football and was always keen to pass on the latest news (never distorted) to the footballing public.  He was polite, friendly and a person you were always pleased to meet at a football match.
“Clubs in North Staffordshire and South Cheshire are going to miss him a great deal and he is going to be very hard to replace with someone who will show the same level of interest and dedication that Peter has shown. 
“Clubs from outside the area may not have known Peter, but when they arrive at grounds in this area and find that the tall gentleman with a smile and a clipboard is not around, they will remember him.
“Peter, we will all miss you.”
Alan Farnworth, Vice-Chairman, The Vodkat League:
“Anyone who had the pleasure of Peter’s company would know that he was without a doubt a true friend of the non league game and in particular, his beloved Cheshire and Staffordshire clubs. 
“Whenever I read any of his reports, be they in the Sentinel or any other paper, clubs would all be given a fair appraisal wherever they came from.  Unibond, Conference, North West Counties, Staffordshire Senior League, they were all the same to Peter, although we in the Vodkat League like to think he had a soft spot for us.
“Our game has lost a true friend.  Peter had many many friends, and we in our league should consider ourselves lucky that he was one of ours.  Our sincere condolences go to his family and he will be sadly missed.
 “See you on the far post mate.”
TECHNICAL AREA MANAGEMENT
The following document has been issued by the NWCFL Match Officials Sub Committee to Match Officials operating on the NWCFL, and club Secretaries.  It is endorsed by the League Management Committee, who have asked that the document is also published on the website and in the League Newsletter, to ensure that everyone involved in watching or participating in games in our league is aware of the standards that should be adhered to.            
The document is entitled: Technical Area Management (including dug-outs and trainers benches)
PURPOSE
To clarify matters concerning the control and occupancy of technical areas at NWCFL grounds. Information given here is based upon law and the guidance contained within The Laws of the Game and as covered by specific NWCFL rules.
Club secretaries and chairmen are requested to bring this directive to the attention of all potential occupants. Also to help control technical areas by using their influence to ensure that behaviour within is always reasonable and respectful.
MANAGEMENT OF TECHNICAL AREAS
Referee
Each match is controlled by the appointed referee who has full authority to enforce the Laws of the Game in connection with the match. This includes taking action against team officials who fail to conduct themselves in a responsible manner and may, at his discretion, expel them from the field of play and its immediate surrounds.
Assistant Referees
Assistant Referees (including 4^th officials where appointed) are expected to “control” the technical areas using common sense in a preventative rather than confrontational manner. How this is done is down to the match officials – but it must be done! They have the authority to inform the referee of irresponsible behaviour by any occupant of the technical area. However, if occupants of the technical area indulge in serious misconduct, they must inform the referee immediately.
RULES AND GENERAL GUIDANCE CONCERNING TECHNICAL AREAS
The number of persons permitted to occupy the technical area is defined by the competition rules.
[NWCFL rule 8.22.1 also refers to – Seated on the bench and not exceeding 11.] Children are not allowed within.
The occupants of the technical area are to be identified before the beginning of the match.
[NWCFL rule 8.22.3 also refers to – Only people listed on the official team sheet shall be in the technical area.]
Only one person at a time is authorised to convey tactical instructions and he must return to his position after giving these instructions.
[NWCFL rule 8.22.2 also refers to – This person must be the team manager or team coach and they must return to the bench immediately after giving instructions.]
The coach and other officials must remain within the confines of the technical area except in special circumstances, for example, a physiotherapist or doctor entering the field of play, to assess an injured player.
[NWCFL rule 8.22.5 also refers to – Normally must be seated on the bench.]
The coach and other occupants of the technical area must behave in a responsible manner.
[NWCFL rule 8.22.4 also refers to – Misconduct by occupants will be reported by the Referee to the FA and League.]
Note: In the NWCFL where no technical area is marked out, through choice or lack of space, occupants must remain seated in the designated seating area, be it on a trainers bench or in a dug-out.
PENALTIES AND FINES FOR BREACHES OF TECHNICAL AREA RULES
Under rule 8.22.4 The FA and/or County FA have the power to impose sanctions as deemed fit following misconduct reports submitted by match officials. Clubs committing other breaches of rule 8.22 are liable for a penalty fine of £50.00.
MEETING WITH NEALE BARRY AND JOHN JONES
On Monday 8^th September, a meeting took place between members of the League Management Committee and Neale Barry and John Jones of the FA.
The meeting was arranged to discuss issues raised in an article which was published in the newsletter and website earlier this year, relating to refereeing appointments and expenses.
It was agreed by both parties that a report on the points discussed at the meeting will be prepared and published on the website and in the newsletter.  It is hoped this exercise will be completed within the next couple of weeks.
JOHN LOOKS TO THE TOP TEN FOR SAINTS
St Helens Town manager John Fletcher has his sight set on a top ten finish for his side, in his first full season in charge at Knowsley Road.
Having been assistant manager for two seasons, John took over the managerial reins early last season following the departure of Alex Wright.  After a tricky spell, the team had a great run at the end of last season, going seven games unbeaten and John says the intention in the summer was to build on the mixture of experienced players and youngsters that comprised the squad last season.
 “In the close season we managed to strengthen the squad by bringing a number of quality players in who just want to play for their local club.  They’ve played at a higher level but they are not motivated by money, they just want to play for the jersey.
 “We brought in the Mitchell brothers, Gary and Phil, who came from Warrington Town in the UniBond League.  Chris Bermingham has many years experience in non league football and he came down at the end of last season and is a regular now, and we’ve also got Michael Scully who played semi-pro football in Sweden for a couple of seasons.
 “I used to be the youth team manager at Burscough so I’ve got a good relationship with the people there too.  Whenever they have youth team players they want to put out on loan we take them on, which helps us and them.” 
Although the squad has been boosted in numbers, John emphasised that he has had no problems in keeping everyone happy.
“The atmosphere is great, we’ve got a tremendous dressing room.  After a defeat, we have a conversation about it and then move on to the next game, and the lads are all the same.  They are just interested in playing for the shirt and the love of their home town club, they are not playing for the money.  There are no prima donnas in our team, everyone has a great relationship. 
“I try to work with a squad of about 18-20 players, and the squad for Saturday is usually named on a Thursday.  When lads aren’t involved in a game, we try to get them a game somewhere else, and will usually go and play for a Liverpool County Combination side to keep them match fit.”
The problems that the club has had with its landlords - St Helens Rugby League Club – have been well documented and John is appreciative of the efforts that the club committee has to put in to keep the club afloat.
“The committee work very hard behind the scenes to try bring money in as best they can.  They are constantly looking to generate new funds from new sources to get us through another season, while having to deal with managing the relationship with the rugby league club at the same time.
“On the playing side things look bright for the future.  We are a chartered standard club recognised by the FA, and we have a junior set up going from under 5’s right up to under 16s.  From there we are looking to the older age groups to become an under 18 youth team or even a very young reserve team in a couple of years time.  It will all help to build the club up further and make it stronger, especially if these lads progress and eventually make it through to playing in the first team.”
Turning attention back to first team matters, John is realistic about his targets for the season. 
“It’s good to get cup runs from a revenue point of view, and I’d like to think we might do something in the League Challenge Cup, but from a footballing perspective I personally always target the league as our priority.  As we’ve no playing budget as such, our first aim is not to be relegated.   We finished 14^th last season, and as I feel we have strengthened the squad with higher quality players over the summer you would like to think that we will improve on that. 
“The start we’ve made make me feel sure we have a squad capable of achieving our aim at the start of the season, which was to finish in the top ten.  The higher you go after that, the better the quality of teams are up there, and realistically we know we can’t match the top teams in this league.
We made a great start by playing two difficult opening league games against Maine Road and Alsager Town and winning them both, and I think results like that gives us cause for optimism for the rest of the season.”
BBC RADIO LANCASHIRE NON LEAGUE HOUR
Following on from the piece in last week’s news, the list of invited guests is being finalised for the Vodkat League special being broadcast on BBC Radio Lancashire on Friday 19^th September.  The show will be broadcast live between 7 and 8 pm from the station’s Radio Theatre, and the guest list so far includes Brent Peters (Bacup Borough Manager), Alan Smith (Padiham Secretary), Martin Booker (AFC Fylde Business Development Manager), Geoff Mackay (Squires Gate Treasurer) and Dave Tomlinson, Geoff Wilkinson and Ian Templeman from the Vodkat League.  The job of keeping the assembled gathering under control will fall to regular presenter Gary Hickson and the station’s resident non-league “guru” Ian McGarry.
The programme can be heard on 95.5, 103.9 or 104.5 FM, or on line at www.bbc.co.uk/lancashire.
FA CUP ACTION ON LINE
As many will be aware, ITV are covering games in the early rounds of the FA Cup, and edited highlights are shown on line the following week.  The latest of our clubs to be featured is Bootle, whose FA Cup tie at Buxton on Saturday was selected by ITV Granada for coverage.  An edited highlights package will go onto the channel on Monday, and the link to follow is: http://www.itvlocal.com/granada/facup 
NEW MASCOT SCHEME AT IRLAM
Irlam are hoping to forge closer links with future local supporters through the launch of a team mascot scheme for home games.
The scheme was launched at the home game against Darwen at the end of August and Secretary Warren Dodd says that the club see it as an important way of connecting with young football fans in the area.
 “The scheme has been well received, and we hope it will provide us with a bit more exposure in the community as well as providing a special day out for a young boy or girl”, he said.  “They get a photo to remember the day, a letter from the club afterwards plus a beanie hat - useful as winter approaches!”
MILLERS ONLINE SHOP COMING SOON
New Mills have announced they will be opening an online shop soon, giving supporters the opportunity to buy club merchandise such as replica shirts and sports tops as worn by the players.  Also available soon will be new club pennants.  More details will be published in the match programme and on the club website.
VODKAT LEAGUE PLAYER OF THE MONTH AWARDS FOR AUGUST
PREMIER DIVISION – NEVILLE THOMPSON OF NEWCASTLE TOWN
Neville has made a tremendous start to the season, playing a major part in Town’s early success.  He scored four goals in the opening four games in August, becoming the first Newcastle Town player to achieve this feat.  As well as his goals, Neville has played a major role in linking many of the moves that have led to many of Castle’s other goals.  His first touch and movement have provided great entertainment for fans of all teams – not bad for a player who had not played for two years due to injury.
FIRST DIVISION – DEAN THURSTON OF AFC LIVERPOOL
Dean has worked hard since joining the club, never missing a training session and is very committed to AFC Liverpool.  His work rate is second to non and always gives 100%, either when training or in matches.  He scored five goals in the four games he played during August and although it is early days, he is turning out to be a key player for AFC Liverpool.
SAFE HANDS GOALKEEPER OF THE MONTH AWARDS FOR AUGUST - SPONSORED BY SAMEDAY
PREMIER DIVISION – DANNY READ OF NEWCASTLE TOWN
Danny has made a tremendous start to the season, only conceding two goals during August and giving great confidence to his defence.  He has made important saves at crucial times in games, and his handling at this level has been outstanding.  He has set up many of Town’s attacks with his long kicks and quick throw outs, and his quickness off his line has been a major part of Castle’s defence.
FIRST DIVISION – MARK MAWDSLEY OF BOOTLE 
Mark kept clean sheets in three of the four games played in August, making some outstanding saves against Padiham, Eccleshall and Wigan Robin Park.  His displays have meant that Bootle have started well and as well as being in a promising league position, have progressed to the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup for the first time in 10 years.
Congratulations to all on their awards.
PLAYER MOVEMENTS THIS WEEK
Registrations:
Alsager Town                     David Roberts
Ashton Town                     Christopher Hudson
Atherton LR                        Gareth Hall
Chadderton                        John Cregan
Cheadle Town                   Peter Wild
Darwen                                Christopher Nuttall
Flixton                                  Robert Howarth, Colin McAllister
Glossop North End          James Rothel
Holker Old Boys                Mark Daly
Irlam                                      Darren Andrews, Thomas Maloney
Leek CSOB                          William Bown, Luke Robinson
Maine Road                        Neil Chappell, Gareth Richards, Lewis Schofield
Nelson                                  Chris Clarkson, Stephen Gaughan
New Mills                            George Arnold, Michael Flynn, Dominic Ingram-Hughes
Newcastle Town              Ben Mills
Norton United                  Adam Dawson
Silsden                  Daniel Toronczak
Stone Dominoes              Stuart Scheuber
TOP ATTENDANCES
Sunday 7^th September 2008
Runcorn Linnets v Padiham 191 FA Vase
Tuesday 9^th September 2008
Newcastle Town v Runcorn Linnets 156
Congleton Town v Maine Road 106
St Helens Town v New Mills 103
Saturday 13^th September 2008
Buxton v Bootle 412 FA Cup
AFC Liverpool v Oldham Town 326
Sheffield v Colne 224 FA Cup
Glossop North End v Newcastle Town 203
Congleton Town v Prescot Cables 169 FA Cup
AFC Fylde v Abbey Hey 165
Padiham v Eccleshall 138
Runcorn Linnets v Ramsbottom United 126
Salford city v Atherton LR 118 FA Cup
VODKAT LEAGUE LANDMARKS
Tuesday 9^th September 2008
Stone Dominoes goal in their 2-1 defeat at Norton United was their 500^th league goal and their 200 away league goal and was score by Chris Rowley.
Congleton Town’s three points gained in their 5-2 victory over Maine Road earned them their 600^th league point.
Saturday 13^th September 2008
AFC Fylde’s fifth goal in their 6-1 home victory over Abbey Hey was their 100^th league goal and was scored by Richie Allen.
Newcastle Town’s only goal in their 1-1 draw at Glossop North End was their 750^th away league goal and was scored by Andy Kinsey.

Thursday 11 September 2008
CLEAN SWEEP FOR NEWCASTLE TOWN
It was a a clean sweep for Newcastle Town in the August Manager and Player of the Month awards for the Vodkat League Premier Division.
Manager Greg Clowes was the Vodkat Manager Of The Month, Neville Thompson was voted Vodkat Player Of The Month, and Danny Read was voted The Sameday Safe Hands Goalkeeper of the Month.
The trio were presented with their awards on behalf of The Vodkat League by John Reid and John Cotton.

The picture shows the three lads together with John Reid and John Cotton.

Wednesday 10 September 2008
BOOTLE LOOK FORWARD TO FA CUP ACTION
Bootle travel to Buxton on 13 Sept 08 in the FA Cup First Qualifying Round. It will be the first time the Bootle bucks have played in at this stage of the competition for ten years, and to mark the occasion the match has been selected for coverage from ITV.
ITV have partnered with the FA to film selected matches in the qualifying rounds of this year's FA Cup involving non-league clubs to show on ITV Local.  
A 3-5 minute edited highlights package will go onto the channel on Monday. The previous day Granada News will feature short match clips on their evening programme with a back reference to the channel.  
The link to the channel is http://www.itvlocal.com/granada/facup/ 
The FA Cup will also be in attendance giving fans and players an opportunity to have the photo taken with the most famous cup in the world - an experience they will never forget.
Bootle FC are really looking forward to the day and hope everyone enjoys the occasion.

Saturday 6 September 2008
NEWS FROM BACUP BOROUGH
After spending most of last season down in the relegation zone, Bacup Borough manager Brent Peters is looking forward to a more successful season this time around.
A succession of injuries to a small squad meant from an early stage that survival was the name of the game, and even after all Brent’s years in the game, he says that the whole experience was one he won’t forget in a hurry.
“In hindsight I didn’t think for one minute we would have as many problems as we had at the time”, he recalled.   “I didn’t really have a big squad to start with, and we had no reserve side as back up, but I felt that if we lost one or two players, we could bring in one or two young lads who would learn their trade alongside the better more experienced players. 
“But when you lose half a team, and half the team is made up of young untried players, you’ve got problems, and the league table didn’t lie.  It’s not that the players that came in weren’t good enough, they just weren’t ready.  They were players that were on the fringe of the first team squad and I hadn’t planned on playing them all, but they ended up playing as we had so many injuries.
“I’ve been in football a long time but I’ve never known anything like last season.  I’ve always been at clubs and managed teams that have been successful, even at Bacup we’ve been successful while I’ve been here, gaining promotion and getting to the Division Two Trophy final. 
“If you look at a manager’s CV you look for success, but you haven’t been a successful manager until you’ve tasted fighting a relegation battle.  It was the first time in 30 years that I’ve had to face anything like that, and to face as many sleepless nights that I had.  The last thing I wanted on my CV was that I had taken a football club down a division, and the worry that created for me taught me a lot.  It taught me a lot about the character of Brent Peters, what I’m about. 
“In this game you hear managers talking about how they’ve done this and done that.  Well, I say let them taste a relegation battle like we did last season.  In a funny sort of a way though, at the end of the season, I looked at our campaign and in a way rated it a success because the players I had to play weren’t really ready and up to the job for the reasons I explained earlier.
“Really, we should have been relegated, but we weren’t, and I think that my coaching team and myself deserve some credit for that, as we coached and nurtured those players through the season and ensured we stayed outside of the relegation places.”
Having put the chastening experience behind him, Brent spent the close season planning to make sure that he avoided a repeat performance. 
“I’ve reorganised the backroom staff, appointing Phil Melville as my assistant and brought Loz Greenhalgh in as head coach, who has come from FC United. 
“The three of us have all been involved in winning teams and have a winning mentality.  I go back a long way with Loz, he was a player at Bury when I was youth team coach, and played for me at Rossendale United.  He’s had a good playing career at the higher end of non-league football and now has taken up coaching.
“Loz was in charge of the reserves at FC United, and has brought a lot of the players from that side with him.  They are good, athletic, quality footballers and it’s credit to Loz that so many of them followed him here, because they didn’t know me.  Their attitude is terrific and it has actually forced me to take decisions at this football club I didn’t expect to have to make. 
“I have had to protect the quality of the players Loz has brought in, by releasing players that didn’t have the attitude that these young lads have.  The last thing I wanted was so called senior players upsetting the attitude of the younger lads, so I took the necessary steps to protect them.  Young lads can get their heads turned and I didn’t want that to happen to the new lads.
“The only thing that they have to get used to is the system I want play here.  I’m not a 4-4-2 man, I don’t like it in non-league football as I think people can hide in that formation.  If you are not working with players constantly in a 4-4-2 you can have problems, and I like to adopt a system where there is no hiding place.
“That means that we need good athletes who all work hard for each other, and although that suits the lads who have come in, they have been used to playing 4-4-2 at FC United.  So it’s great credit to them that they have come here, picked up on the way I want to play and adapted to it very well.
“It’s a young side full of endeavour, we play a rigid man marking system, and we are scoring goals and creating chances which is good.  The problem is we’ve been conceding, but we are addressing that.”
Another addition to the squad is Tommy Turner, a regular goalscorer at Salford City last year, who has caught the eye with his form in the white shirt of Bacup so far this season.
“Tommy signed at the start of the season, and is the type of forward I like”, said Brent.  “He’s a striker who puts the ball in the net but puts in loads of work too.  One of his great attributes is he can carve goals out of nothing, and we’ve seen him do that a number of times already for us.  He’s doing really well, his work rate is good, he’s leading the line well and is scoring goals, and I can’t ask for any more than that.”
After a good start to the season, Brent is cautious about making predictions about how his new charges will fare in this campaign.
“After last season, a good season would be anything better than that!  Looking at what happened then, and where I’m used to being, simply a top half of the table of finish would be progress.  I’ve not set any targets for now, just the usual approach of taking each game as it comes.  We’ll set out to play good football, take on whoever is before us, and with our winning mentality that will hopefully take us up the league table.”
As well as making a promising start to their league campaign this season, Bacup’s 3-1 win over St Helens Town in the Preliminary Round of the FA Cup sees them looking forward to meeting Cammell Laird in the First Qualifying Round on 13^th September.
In his programme notes for the St Helens game, Brent made some interesting observations about the structure of the early rounds of the FA Cup, which are worth reproducing here.  He wrote:
“I must say I am not happy with the way the FA structures the draw which makes it very difficult for teams at our level to come up against the Football League teams.  Don’t get me wrong, it can happen and it does happen, but the amount of games we have to play to get that chance is at least four, based on where we have come in this year.
First of all, let us take a look at the situation from a Football League club’s point of view.  A club like Accrington Stanley, Bury, Stockport, Rochdale etc. would always look to be drawn against the likes of a Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers or Sheffield United. 
By the same token a Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Sheffield United as well as your Accrington Stanley, Bury, Rochdale and Stockport would love to be placed against a Manchester United, Aston Villa, Liverpool or Chelsea.  “Why is this?” someone with a brain the size of a pea may ask.  The answer is financial.  The clubs in the Second Division would like a well supported Championship club, whilst the Championship clubs will want one of your top supported Premiership clubs all for the same reason; that being money. 
Now then, let us put that philosophy into all the non league clubs competing in the competition.  Just like our Football League clubs that want fashionable clubs for financial reasons, we Non League clubs would love a Bury, an Accrington Stanley, a Stockport County or a Rochdale. 
Take a Rochdale versus Bacup FA Cup fixture, that would net us some money and on the day we are capable of beating Rochdale or Bury or Accrington or Stockport County and when we have, then this will earn us the right to go in with your big boys like Manchester United, Liverpool or Chelsea.
The point I am making is that the League Two clubs should be in the draw from the beginning which would make the magic of the FA Cup even more magic if one gets drawn against one of those teams.  Of course there are going to be a lot of teams in the hat at the beginning, but one can still introduce byes.  Again this is the luck of the draw; you may get a bye which gives you a chance to meet a League One as well as a League Two club.  If you don’t get a bye you have the chance to meet a League Two club.
I really believe the whole structure of the FA Cup should be looked at.  Whilst I think the Premiership clubs should not enter until the rounds they enter now, I don’t think the clubs below the Championship should.  They should enter when we do to make it very much as we say THE MAGIC OF THE FA CUP.
We are in times now where football clubs at all levels are suffering financially; clubs going into administration.  Non league Clubs are no different, so if clubs outside the Premiership or even the Championship go into the hat, the chances are that a Non League team will meet a Football League Team which will help swell the coffers for the non league team. 
Being realistic the Football League team should progress, giving them also the opportunity of further progressing into the competition and the chance to meet a Premiership or Championship Team.  This will give them also a valuable pay day. 
From a draw situation and with numbers entering in the early rounds there could be a logistical problem, but a problem which could be solved with byes”. 
Do you agree or disagree with what Brent Peters is suggesting?  Why not share your view on the subject?  E-mail responses to ian@nwsidestories.co.uk and we’ll publish a selection of the responses received.
A COLOURFUL CHARACTER VISITS BACUP
The spectators at the FA Cup tie between Bacup Borough and St Helens Town got the opportunity to meet a colourful character whose mission is to visit every football ground in the country.
72 year old John Quest from Barrow-in-Furness sets off regularly to visit venues many miles from his Cumbrian base, with the aim of raising money for his two favourite charities, Cumbrian Mountain Rescue and Children in Need.
After persuading Bacup boss Brent Peters to take his picture at the entrance to the Brian Boys Stadium, John set about publicising his mission to the assembled spectators in the ground and said his aim in life was to spread the word about his pet charities.
“I don’t ask people for money”, he said.  “I just try and get publicity for the causes, and that way people will give money to the organisations I support.”

John is pictured at Bacup prior to Borough's FA Cup tie with St Helens.
The challenge he faces on his trips is accentuated by the fact he gets to his chosen venue through a mixture of public transport, hitch hiking and walking.  A trip to Bacup from Barrow isn’t the most straightforward of journeys, but that held no fears for John.
“I left Barrow at 3.30 in the morning and walked to Milnthorpe which is about 35 miles, and then hitchhiked, getting lifts down the M6 and along the M65.
“I’ll probably get home in the early hours of the morning but I don’t mind.  My wife thinks I’m mad but I enjoy doing it.”
40 YEARS NOT OUT FOR BRIAN
Alsager Town is 40 years old this season and club stalwart Brian Berrington has been with the club every step of the way.
Brian Berrington has been a supporter and helper of Alsager Town Football Club for all of its forty year history, His involvement began in 1968, when the joining of Alsager Institute and Alsager United formed Alsager Town, who had been given the Wood Park facility to play in the Crewe League.
Brian has been a major force in developing the ground over the years, and has played a vital role in many different areas.  He has laid drains, helped build the clubhouse, changing rooms and numerous stands around the ground.  He helped erect the perimeter fencing as well as overseeing the installation of the new first aid room, and hopefully a new hospitality portakabin will also soon be up and running, after it unfortunately suffered a major leak last summer and is currently awaiting repair.

Brian was very disappointed with the problems at the club last year when local businessman Chris Ansell took over, but departed in the summer leaving the club with no manager, players or money.  He has always tried to remain positive and while others have left the club to pastures new, Brian’s heart is still at Wood Park, and he will do all he can to put the club back on an even keel and progress again.
Brian’s will probably be the first face visitors to Wood Park will see on a match day this season, as he is now the "gateman".
The committee at Alsager Town are planning to formally acknowledge Brian’s help later in the season at a game, where all his achievements will be recognised.
David Armstrong, Press Officer, Alsager Town FC
VACANCY FOR SECRETARY AT CHADDERTON FC
Louise Robson at Chadderton has sent us the following statement:
Many people will be aware that Chadderton Football Club was recently put up for sale by its owners.  Despite much interest it remains unsold.  The committee have been running the club with no financial assistance from its owners and in some cases using their own money to pay bills, since March and have to keep quiet regarding the situation for fear that the sale will in someway be affected.  It is a credit to the hard work of the committee and managers that the Club is still able to complete in the Vodkat League this season.
It is this, coupled with the arrival of my daughter Ellie, which has forced me to consider my position and it is with real sadness that I have decided to resign as secretary of Chadderton Football Club.
Anyone who has ever been a secretary of a Club will know what a demanding position it is, and almost a full time job.  Since the arrival of my daughter I have been finding it increasingly difficult to juggle the demands of being a secretary and being a new mum, and my family have to come first. 
In any paid job I would now be taking maternity leave, but 4 weeks after giving birth I was back doing the team sheets because I didn’t want to let down the already over stretched committee.  But I cannot justify spending time away from my 7 week old baby to help run someone else’s business; people who are providing no finances, no support and have not communicated anything to the committee other than threats in over four months.
I have spent 20 years of my life involved with Chadderton Football Club so will not be able to walk away totally, but from now on I will be enjoying turning up to a match just before kick off and watching without having to worry about recording goal times and cautions!
If anyone is interested in taking on the position of secretary for Chadderton Football Club, please contact the Chairman, Dave Greaves dave.greaves@chadderton-fc.co.uk.  All correspondence should also be sent to Dave until further notice.
Louise Robson 
FAR TRAVELLED OFFICIALS ON THE LINE AT OLDHAM
Non-league football follower Tony Sheldon sent in the following article to us after attending the Oldham Town v Rossendale United FA Cup on Saturday 30^th August.
Football is always full of surprises, and Rossendale United’s visit to Oldham Town saw the UniBond side scramble an undeserved draw in the final minutes of the game as Town were beginning to tire.
But it was not the footballers who attracted my attention, but the assistant referees, who had been flown over for the game by the Isle of Man Football Association!
Kevin Giles and Alan Cowin are both qualified to referee at Step 5, and after being nominated by their FA, they got the surprise of their lives when letters arrived appointing them to officiate on the UK mainland in an FA Cup tie.
Normally the two men ply their trade in the Isle of Man Leagues, and while Kevin had previously refereed in the Nottingham area during a short residence some years ago, Alan was making his first refereeing visit to the UK.
Kevin has been refereeing since 1987 and has officiated in past Isle of Man Football Festivals in which teams such as Stoke City, Bury and Stockport used to compete for the pre-season trophy.  He spends his working week with the IOM Forestry Commission, looking forward to the weekend sport.
Alan, on the other hand, refused to give up playing his football for the Douglas Royal Club until he had surpassed the magical 40 year old mark, and has only been a referee for four years, progressing swiftly up the ladder.  His working day is spent as an Internet Service Provider, and he likes to spend his spare time with his wife and three children.
The two “men in black” had flown into Liverpool’s John Lennon Airport where they were met by match referee Joe Johnson, and they were heading back on Saturday evening to the island on the 7.30 flight.  They told me how impressed they had been with the standard of football on display and that they had had a great day.  They both hoped they would have another opportunity to officiate again in the not too distant future.
For my part, I was impressed with the manner in which the game was handled by all three officials.
Thanks to Tony for his contribution and for alerting us to the  story.  To follow it up I contacted Tommy Crowe, the Head of Referees Development at the Isle of Man FA, who explained that the appointment of officials at our games was not an isolated instance.
“Our officials are sent normally one fixture per season, sometimes two, and are appointed by the FA from Soho Square.
“The appointments are always as assistants because of the restraints on what level we can attain on the Island, i.e. only as high as level 5 because of travelling and availability at short notice.  Myself and a colleague did a game at Nelson last season.”
AN HOUR OF THE VODKAT LEAGUE ON THE BBC
On Friday 19^th September, the Vodkat League will be featured exclusively on the BBC Radio Lancashire Non-League Hour between 7 and 8 pm.
At the moment, the station’s Friday evening Non-League output is limited to about 25 minutes due to coverage of local cricket leagues.  However, the Non-League Hour will return in its usual full length format on the 19^th, and will begin its run for this season with a host of well known names from around our League.
The programme will be broadcast live from the BBC Radio Theatre in Blackburn, and will feature a cross-section of League Management Committee representatives, club officials, managers, players and fans. 
More details will be announced shortly, but in the meantime, get the date in your diaries.  BBC Radio Lancashire broadcasts on 95.5, 103.9 and 104.5 FM, and online at www.bbc.co.uk/lancashire.  Incidentally, the programme will now permanently be broadcast from 7 – 8 pm, moving forward from its traditional slot of an hour later.
CLUB MERCHANDISE – ATHERTON COLLIERIES
Throughout the season, we will feature various items of merchandise available from clubs in our league, with particular emphasis on lapel badges.  First up, we turn the spotlight on Atherton Collieries.

Club badges like the one pictured here are available for £2.20, and there are various items of merchandise available for sale both at the ground on match days and through the club website at www.athertoncollieries.co.uk. 
HELP A PHOTOGRAPHER
We’ve been contacted by Andy Stunell, who has just started working as sports photographer and wants to work mainly in football.  To do this he needs accreditation from the Football League, and to achieve that he needs to sell 15 images from football matches to be published in the regional press.
If any club or individual is interested in helping Andy work towards this target, contact him on 07843 416262 or by e-mail at andystunell@hotmail.com.
MANAGER OF THE MONTH AWARDS
Managers of the month for August 2008 are:
PREMIER DIVISION:
GREG CLOWES OF NEWCASTLE TOWN
Results:
09.08 - Atherton Collieries (home) won 5 - 0
12.08 - Maine Road (away) won 0 - 2
16.08 - Cheadle Town (away) won 1 - 4 (FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round)
23.08 - Abbey Hey (away) won 1 - 4
30.08 - Skelmersdale United (home) lost 0 - 1 (FA Cup Preliminary Round)
DIVISION ONE:
DEREK GOULDING OF AFC LIVERPOOL
Results:
09.08 - Darwen (home) won 5 - 0
16.08 - Rochdale Town (away) won 4 - 5
23.08 - Chadderton (away) won 1 - 3
30.08 - Ashton Town (away) won 0 - 3
Congratulations to both men on their awards.
PLAYER MOVEMENTS THIS WEEK
Transfers
Nathan Eastmond                 Rochdale Town to Oldham Town 
Registrations
Abbey Hey            Alex Leke, Mark Kerr
AFC Fylde              Christopher Meredith
Ashton Town         Daniel Burns, Gareth Cook, Kevin Fitzsimmons, Stephen Kenny
Atherton Collieries              Daniel Browne, Craig Tebay, Wale Ajet
Atherton LR          Christopher Colgan, Scott Mather, Ryan Alessandra, Daniel Clarke
Bacup Borough     Steven Nichols, Malcolm Vernon
Chadderton           Steven Barrow, Anthony O'Neill, Nicholas Fraine
Colne                      Richard Johnson, Ronald Wright
Daisy Hill                Steven    Whittle
Formby                  Nicholas Barnbrock, Lee Jones, Jack Mano, David Mather-Baines, Craig Taylor, Ian McCauley, Chris Pauls
Glossop North End               Robert    Ashcroft, Jake Fallows, Matthew Murray
Irlam                       Jamie Brewer
Maine Road           Imran Arain, Joe Armstrong
Padiham Jason Tansey
Ramsbottom United             Matthew Edgington
Wigan Robin Park                Craig Ogden
TOP ATTENDANCES
Monday 1^st September 2008
Atherton Collieries v Atherton LR 147 Goldline Trophy
Tuesday 2^nd September 2008
Sheffield v AFC Fylde 285 FA Cup Replay
Rossendale United v Oldham Town 126 FA Cup Replay
Wigan Robin Park v Ashton Town 101
Wednesday 3^rd September 2008
Silsden AFC v FC Halifax Town 442 FA Cup Replay
Saturday 6^th September 2008
AFC Liverpool v Wigan Robin Park 603
New Mills v Wolverhampton Casuals 204 FA Vase
Glossop North End v Sporting Khalsa 202 FA Vase

Wednesday 3 September 2008
ASHTON ATHLETIC PRESS RELEASE
Ashton Athletic’s Brocstedes Park ground will, on Friday 5^th September host the third annual match between Ashton’s former players and the Past Players of Wigan Athletic FC. The match will kick off at 7.30pm and once again the teams will compete for the Peter Catterall Memorial Trophy, a much valued prize which was introduced last season following the sad loss of Peter “the Cat” Catterall earlier that year. Peter had been a major driving force behind the Past Players Association, and was catalyst to starting off the sequence of matches 3 years ago.
In the first match, initially a  'one off' challenge match to celebrate Ashton Athletic's return to the North West Counties League after a twenty year absence, it was Peter's great pleasure at that time to organise a motley crew of Latics old boys to face Ashton’s first team. However the young legs of Ashton saw off the old heads and even the late introduction of a few of Ashton’s own “old boys” could not prevent Ashton running out comfortable 6-2 winners.
A change of format last year saw Ashton’s veterans take up the challenge for the return encounter and Wigan’s Latics managed a highly competitive 2-1 win to fittingly take the inaugural Peter Catterall Trophy . Goals from Tony Kelly and Stuart Barlow sealed the win, either side of a superb 25 yard equalising strike by Jimmy Whyte, rolling back the years for Ashton.
Friday’s match also hold significance as it coincides with the 40^th Anniversary of the Formation of our own Club, and also Wigan’s entry into the old fourth Division of the Football League 30 years ago. There will no doubt be a wide variety of former Latics players on show, including several who have contributed to the Clubs meteoric rise in recent years, and also some going back to their non league and the early football league days at Springfield Park.
Admission to the game will be pay on the gate at £3 for adults, £1 for concessions with proceeds