As mentioned before one of the joys of working on the Exeter City A to Z of Players book is that from time to time you get to speak to former players.
This evening it was the turn of former City goalkeeper John Lobbett who lvies in Mid-devon and played for the Grecians in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
The now 71 year-old Exeter-born player appeare din a total of 44 league matches for City, having signed professional forms in March 1956. This followed a couple of appearances for the first team in floodlit friendlies and several reserve team outings, during which time he had impressed.
He had quite a wait for his league debut for the Grecians though, getting his chance after regular keeper George Hunter had sustained a broken leg.
Lobbett took over between the posts for a 3-1 home win over Millwall in March 1959 and played in the final ten matches of the season.
He started off as first choice keeper the following season, but then lost his place to Alan Jones and as a result only played in 14 league games.
He added another 20 appearances in 1960-61, before being released on a free transfer and signing for Bath City, where he remained for two seasons, before linking up with Barnstaple Town
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
Ales Of The Unexpected
In a quiet and chilly Lancaster this morning (thankfully no rain), time was somehow found to pay two visits to Wetherspoons to ensure that thes festival was being run in the correct manner!
In the 'Richard Owen' I sampled 'Liberation Ale' (4.5%) from Thwaites Brewery, Blackburn. Nice fruity drink. Enjoyed it very much.
Later on I called in to the 'Green Ayre' where I tried 'Supernova' (3.5%) from J.W. Lees of Manchester. I wasn't impressed - very thin and apart from a slight chocolate after taste, it was like drinking coloured water. Very poor.
In the 'Richard Owen' I sampled 'Liberation Ale' (4.5%) from Thwaites Brewery, Blackburn. Nice fruity drink. Enjoyed it very much.
Later on I called in to the 'Green Ayre' where I tried 'Supernova' (3.5%) from J.W. Lees of Manchester. I wasn't impressed - very thin and apart from a slight chocolate after taste, it was like drinking coloured water. Very poor.
Monday, 9 November 2009
Exeter City A To Z Of Players
With only one home game this month - Exeter City versus Millwall - it has enabled me to really crack on with the ‘Exeter City A to Z of Players’ volume one project.
I have now completed biographies for all players A to L who have appeared in league matches (including when the first team were in the Southern League and the Conference)
For the past couple of days I have been working through my own records and adding various anecdotes and additional information.
This is quite time consuming, but nonetheless fascinating to look back at past players and adds a great deal to what otherwise would simply be a playing record for each individual.
Once I have completed that, I’ll be sourcing photographs for the book. Obviously we won’t have room or indeed have a photo of every player, but nonetheless the volume will be well illustrated.
The publishing date is October 2010, which may seem a long way off, but there is still a lot of work to be undertaken before it hits the shelves, not least of which is proof reading and typesetting.
I hope to start volume two sometime next year, with a target date of publishing in October 2012, but earlier if possible.
I have now completed biographies for all players A to L who have appeared in league matches (including when the first team were in the Southern League and the Conference)
For the past couple of days I have been working through my own records and adding various anecdotes and additional information.
This is quite time consuming, but nonetheless fascinating to look back at past players and adds a great deal to what otherwise would simply be a playing record for each individual.
Once I have completed that, I’ll be sourcing photographs for the book. Obviously we won’t have room or indeed have a photo of every player, but nonetheless the volume will be well illustrated.
The publishing date is October 2010, which may seem a long way off, but there is still a lot of work to be undertaken before it hits the shelves, not least of which is proof reading and typesetting.
I hope to start volume two sometime next year, with a target date of publishing in October 2012, but earlier if possible.
Sunday, 8 November 2009
That Is it!
I reckon that is it as far as attending FA Cup matches this season are concerned. Nowt of interest for me. No matches involving non-league I can get to. Roll on the extra preliminary round in August 2010!
Not only is it a disappointing FA Cup second round draw for yours truly, but also for Exeter City. I cannot imagine they would have chosen to travel to Milton Keynes Dons?
I was hoping that Barrow would get another home tie - but they didn’t - away to Oxford United.
My other hope was that the winners of the Morecambe versus Carlisle United first round replay would get drawn at home to a non-league side - but they didn’t - Norwich City at home.
So there is absolutely nothing here in the North West that involves a non-league team for me to get along to. Northwich Vics at home to Lincoln City is very difficult for me to reach, assuming it played at 3pm on a saturday afternoon. Very, very disappointing.
Oh well, there is still the FA Vase next Saturday. Hoping to get along to Penrith of the Skilltraining Northern League, versus Hallam of the North East Counties League.
Not only is it a disappointing FA Cup second round draw for yours truly, but also for Exeter City. I cannot imagine they would have chosen to travel to Milton Keynes Dons?
I was hoping that Barrow would get another home tie - but they didn’t - away to Oxford United.
My other hope was that the winners of the Morecambe versus Carlisle United first round replay would get drawn at home to a non-league side - but they didn’t - Norwich City at home.
So there is absolutely nothing here in the North West that involves a non-league team for me to get along to. Northwich Vics at home to Lincoln City is very difficult for me to reach, assuming it played at 3pm on a saturday afternoon. Very, very disappointing.
Oh well, there is still the FA Vase next Saturday. Hoping to get along to Penrith of the Skilltraining Northern League, versus Hallam of the North East Counties League.
Saturday, 7 November 2009
Ales Of The Unexpected
With rain bouncing off flags in Morecambe this morning, I sought somewhere where I could keep dry, and where better than Wetherspoons ‘Eric Bartholomew.’
Now I not really into foreign beers, but there are two that I make an exception for, and both are brewed in Belgium.
Chimay is a superb beer and I have been known to have the very occasional bottle.
But my favourite has to be ‘Carolus’ which Wetherspoons seem to like to sell on draught during their beer festivals.
Lo and behold, they had ‘Carolus’ on sale this morning. On asking for it, the barmaid (yes, the same one I previously mentioned on the Blog, with the rather nice superstructure and low cut top - It’s worth calling in just to see her), pointed out that it was 8% just in case I didn’t know.
I replied that I did know and that the brew was an exceptionally nice one which I had drunk many times before.
Not surprisingly the ‘Carolus’ was well up to standard and I took my time savouring it whilst the rain continued to fall outside.
Now I not really into foreign beers, but there are two that I make an exception for, and both are brewed in Belgium.
Chimay is a superb beer and I have been known to have the very occasional bottle.
But my favourite has to be ‘Carolus’ which Wetherspoons seem to like to sell on draught during their beer festivals.
Lo and behold, they had ‘Carolus’ on sale this morning. On asking for it, the barmaid (yes, the same one I previously mentioned on the Blog, with the rather nice superstructure and low cut top - It’s worth calling in just to see her), pointed out that it was 8% just in case I didn’t know.
I replied that I did know and that the brew was an exceptionally nice one which I had drunk many times before.
Not surprisingly the ‘Carolus’ was well up to standard and I took my time savouring it whilst the rain continued to fall outside.
Friday, 6 November 2009
David Pleat, Nuneaton and Exeter City
There is sure to be shiver down your back every time Exeter City get drawn against, and indeed, away to a non-league team in the FA Cup.
Only 12 months ago the Grecians were humiliated by Unibond league side, Curzon Ashton, but that is just one of several Cup nightmares that City have suffered over the years, from Alvechurch to Bedford Town and Gravesend and Northfleet to Bognor Regis Town.
Surprisingly there are several playing links between Exeter City and tomorrow afternoon’s opponents, Nuneaton Town (previously known as Nuneaton Borough).
None more so than David Pleat who played for the Grecians for a couple of seasons in the late 1960s, making 68 league outings and netting 13 goals.
Pleat, better known for his career as a manager and television pundit, started his managerial learning curve at Nuneaton Borough, before going on to the likes of Luton Town, and Tottenham Hotspur.
He commenced his playing career as a winger with Nottingham Forest, winning England schools and youth international honours whilst at the City Ground.
Pleat was then transferred to Luton Town for a fee of £8,000 but sadly sustained a broken leg during training in his first season with the club.
He then moved on to play for Shrewsbury Town in July 1967, before arriving at Exeter City 12 months later.
After leaving St James’ Park, Pleat linked up with Peterborough United, but only stayed one season and at the age of 26, moved to Nuneaton Borough as their player-manager.
This stood in him good stead when the opportunity to become manager of Luton Town in December 1978 presented itself, having until then been on the coaching staff.
Pleat was offered the manager’s job at Tottenham Hotspur which he accepted in May 1986, however he lost his job at White Hart Lane in October 1987 following disclosures about his private life.
He made a quick return to football though, for two months later he had become the manager at Leicester City, a position he held until January 1991.
In June 1991, Pleat returned to Luton Town as manager for a second spell at the club.
He went on to take charge at Sheffield Wednesday and stayed there until November 1997.
He returned to Tottenham Hotspur as Director of Football in 1998 and in September 2003, after the sacking of Glenn Hoddle, he took over as caretaker manager for Tottenham Hotspur, a position that he held until the end of the season.
In August 2006, Pleat returned to his first and home club, Nottingham Forest, this time as a football consultant.
Only 12 months ago the Grecians were humiliated by Unibond league side, Curzon Ashton, but that is just one of several Cup nightmares that City have suffered over the years, from Alvechurch to Bedford Town and Gravesend and Northfleet to Bognor Regis Town.
Surprisingly there are several playing links between Exeter City and tomorrow afternoon’s opponents, Nuneaton Town (previously known as Nuneaton Borough).
None more so than David Pleat who played for the Grecians for a couple of seasons in the late 1960s, making 68 league outings and netting 13 goals.
Pleat, better known for his career as a manager and television pundit, started his managerial learning curve at Nuneaton Borough, before going on to the likes of Luton Town, and Tottenham Hotspur.
He commenced his playing career as a winger with Nottingham Forest, winning England schools and youth international honours whilst at the City Ground.
Pleat was then transferred to Luton Town for a fee of £8,000 but sadly sustained a broken leg during training in his first season with the club.
He then moved on to play for Shrewsbury Town in July 1967, before arriving at Exeter City 12 months later.
After leaving St James’ Park, Pleat linked up with Peterborough United, but only stayed one season and at the age of 26, moved to Nuneaton Borough as their player-manager.
This stood in him good stead when the opportunity to become manager of Luton Town in December 1978 presented itself, having until then been on the coaching staff.
Pleat was offered the manager’s job at Tottenham Hotspur which he accepted in May 1986, however he lost his job at White Hart Lane in October 1987 following disclosures about his private life.
He made a quick return to football though, for two months later he had become the manager at Leicester City, a position he held until January 1991.
In June 1991, Pleat returned to Luton Town as manager for a second spell at the club.
He went on to take charge at Sheffield Wednesday and stayed there until November 1997.
He returned to Tottenham Hotspur as Director of Football in 1998 and in September 2003, after the sacking of Glenn Hoddle, he took over as caretaker manager for Tottenham Hotspur, a position that he held until the end of the season.
In August 2006, Pleat returned to his first and home club, Nottingham Forest, this time as a football consultant.
Thursday, 5 November 2009
Ales Of The Unexpected
Despite being in some pain on and off throughout the day with a trapped nerve in my upper right arm, which prevented me bending it without muttering an obscenity, I did manage to sample three beers today.
In order to do so, I had to resort to bending my left arm and using my left hand to hold beer glass. This was of coruse a tremendous hardship to overcome, but thankfully all three brews proved to be excellent, although not 'new.'
Calling into our regualr haunt of the Watermill at Ings, we were greeted by the sight of four collies and a labrador. So a good dog count to start with. They were later joined by another three canines to make eight in total.
The first beer today was 'Ruskin' from the Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery. An Ok ish brew just bordering on the bitter side. I don't like overly bitter beers, but this was alright.
Second up was Theakston's 'Old Peculiar' which I haven't sampled for quite some while. Well up to standrad. Excellent and the best beer of the three.
Had it not been for 'Old Peculiar', then the Watermill's own 'Dog'th Vader' would have been the best of the day. A really good dark, fruity drink as always.
Meanwhile I'll keep taking the Hypericum pills every two hours in the hope that my usual drinking arm will be functioning again very shortly.
In order to do so, I had to resort to bending my left arm and using my left hand to hold beer glass. This was of coruse a tremendous hardship to overcome, but thankfully all three brews proved to be excellent, although not 'new.'
Calling into our regualr haunt of the Watermill at Ings, we were greeted by the sight of four collies and a labrador. So a good dog count to start with. They were later joined by another three canines to make eight in total.
The first beer today was 'Ruskin' from the Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery. An Ok ish brew just bordering on the bitter side. I don't like overly bitter beers, but this was alright.
Second up was Theakston's 'Old Peculiar' which I haven't sampled for quite some while. Well up to standrad. Excellent and the best beer of the three.
Had it not been for 'Old Peculiar', then the Watermill's own 'Dog'th Vader' would have been the best of the day. A really good dark, fruity drink as always.
Meanwhile I'll keep taking the Hypericum pills every two hours in the hope that my usual drinking arm will be functioning again very shortly.
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
City Player Loaned To Exmouth Town
Exeter City’s young striker, James Berry, has apparently joined South West Peninsula League side Exmouth Town on loan.
I only picked this up this evening whilst reading through a copy of the Exmouth Journal newspaper which had been sent to me, dated Thursday 22nd October 2009.
I don’t recall seeing this reported anywhere else, or by City themselves, so it needs checking out.
However, as Berry is too old to play for the Grecians Under 18 team that play on a Saturday morning, he has been loaned to Town in a deal that will suit both parties.
Town boss, Jody Bolt said: “Having seen James Berry play in the City game against the University at St James’ Park, I was dead chuffed that he said he would like to play for us.
“Hopefully he will benefit from his stint with us and perhaps City will repeat the process with other players.”
I only picked this up this evening whilst reading through a copy of the Exmouth Journal newspaper which had been sent to me, dated Thursday 22nd October 2009.
I don’t recall seeing this reported anywhere else, or by City themselves, so it needs checking out.
However, as Berry is too old to play for the Grecians Under 18 team that play on a Saturday morning, he has been loaned to Town in a deal that will suit both parties.
Town boss, Jody Bolt said: “Having seen James Berry play in the City game against the University at St James’ Park, I was dead chuffed that he said he would like to play for us.
“Hopefully he will benefit from his stint with us and perhaps City will repeat the process with other players.”
All About Wingers
The return to Plymouth Argyle of winger Craig Noone was disappointing, if not unexpected, such has been his form since linking up with the Grecians on loan, and as a result it was perhaps inevitable that he would be recalled to Home Park.
As someone who has always taken an interest in wingers and cannot understand any team not playing them, this goes back to the days when I first watched Exeter City.
Nelson Stiffle on one wing, Gordon Dale on the other, surely the finest ‘pair’ of wingers to play in the same City team?
Another City winger I greatly enjoyed watching play was Tony Scott. Unfortunately defenders didn’t like being ‘skinned’ by him and as a result Scott used to be on the receiving end of some meaty challenges.
As a failed winger myself - highlight, playing on the hallowed turf of St James’ Park - I could always appreciate the excitement that can be created by a wide player, taking on players, running at them and getting in the all important telling cross for the striker to get on the end of.
Without a supply of crosses, then surely the strikers will always struggle to score goals? So why do some teams not include them in their starting line up?
Now that Noone has left the club, Exeter City don’t have natural winger in their first team squad, although I understand that young Elliott Frear currently on loan at Tiverton Town shows immense promise.
It will be interesting to see if manager Paul Tisdale makes do without a winger, or perhaps dips into the loan market once more.
Or maybe Noone will come back to St James’ Park at some stage, for he is quoted in the Press as saying he would love to if things do not work out at Argyle.
As someone who has always taken an interest in wingers and cannot understand any team not playing them, this goes back to the days when I first watched Exeter City.
Nelson Stiffle on one wing, Gordon Dale on the other, surely the finest ‘pair’ of wingers to play in the same City team?
Another City winger I greatly enjoyed watching play was Tony Scott. Unfortunately defenders didn’t like being ‘skinned’ by him and as a result Scott used to be on the receiving end of some meaty challenges.
As a failed winger myself - highlight, playing on the hallowed turf of St James’ Park - I could always appreciate the excitement that can be created by a wide player, taking on players, running at them and getting in the all important telling cross for the striker to get on the end of.
Without a supply of crosses, then surely the strikers will always struggle to score goals? So why do some teams not include them in their starting line up?
Now that Noone has left the club, Exeter City don’t have natural winger in their first team squad, although I understand that young Elliott Frear currently on loan at Tiverton Town shows immense promise.
It will be interesting to see if manager Paul Tisdale makes do without a winger, or perhaps dips into the loan market once more.
Or maybe Noone will come back to St James’ Park at some stage, for he is quoted in the Press as saying he would love to if things do not work out at Argyle.
Tuesday, 3 November 2009
Ales Of The Unexpected
Whilst in Morecambe this morning - a mixture of heavy showers and sunshine - I decided that I should really call into the 'Eric Bartholomew' just to check that the high standards of the Wetherspoon festival were being maintained. Someone has to do it.
I am pleased to say that they were and not only did I try an excellent beer, but I was 'greeted' by an equally excellent barmaid. When she bent forward, my blood pressure rose somewhat.
However, maintaining a beer tasting professionalism, I had to try 'Dragons Hall' from the Woodforde Brewery in Norfolk, and I have to say I really enjoyed this one. Fruity after taste. And I am talking bout the beer.
One I will definitely go for again and if the barmiad is there as well and just happens to serve me, then all the better.
I am pleased to say that they were and not only did I try an excellent beer, but I was 'greeted' by an equally excellent barmaid. When she bent forward, my blood pressure rose somewhat.
However, maintaining a beer tasting professionalism, I had to try 'Dragons Hall' from the Woodforde Brewery in Norfolk, and I have to say I really enjoyed this one. Fruity after taste. And I am talking bout the beer.
One I will definitely go for again and if the barmiad is there as well and just happens to serve me, then all the better.
Ebbsfleet United: Where Are They All
I felt the following was worth posting. My thanks to Tom Dunmore, from the Pitch Invasion blog
EBBSFLEET UNITED: MEMBERS DISAPPEAR, CLUB FAILING, NO-ONE SHOCKED
Well, no-one saw this coming: Ebbsfleet United, the "world's first web community-owned club", has lost most of its community in its second year of operation and the club is spiralling towards disaster on and off the field.
It's hard to say just how unsurprising this is. Eighteen months ago, we noted that the bubble had burst, with interest from members on being involved with the MyFootballClub website declining dramatically.
The loss in membership was clear by February this year, as 23,000 members did not renew from their initial investment (a puppy isn't just for Christmas, chaps), leaving just 9000 paying their dues of GBP35 annually.
The club's budget was slashed, and Ebbsfleet now sit second from bottom in the Blue Square Premier, with just nine points from eighteen games. Still, the venture has substantially boosted the profile of the football journalist Will Brooks who
started the whole thing.
Now Brooks, as he told the Independent's Steve Tongue, has come up with a new plan to save the club: asking people to pay more.
"We are working on a new model where fewer members pay more. For example, 3000 members paying GBP10 a month
could sustain the club," he said.
So, the club only has 9000 increasingly-frustrated folks left as members, yet Brooks thinks a third of them will be willing to almost triple their investment and keep doing so to save the club, which was flawed from the start?
One hopes that in looking at this experiment, observers are able to distinguish it from anything to do with real community-owned clubs who have actual sustainable business plans involving supporters who have a long-lasting connection to their team.
EBBSFLEET UNITED: MEMBERS DISAPPEAR, CLUB FAILING, NO-ONE SHOCKED
Well, no-one saw this coming: Ebbsfleet United, the "world's first web community-owned club", has lost most of its community in its second year of operation and the club is spiralling towards disaster on and off the field.
It's hard to say just how unsurprising this is. Eighteen months ago, we noted that the bubble had burst, with interest from members on being involved with the MyFootballClub website declining dramatically.
The loss in membership was clear by February this year, as 23,000 members did not renew from their initial investment (a puppy isn't just for Christmas, chaps), leaving just 9000 paying their dues of GBP35 annually.
The club's budget was slashed, and Ebbsfleet now sit second from bottom in the Blue Square Premier, with just nine points from eighteen games. Still, the venture has substantially boosted the profile of the football journalist Will Brooks who
started the whole thing.
Now Brooks, as he told the Independent's Steve Tongue, has come up with a new plan to save the club: asking people to pay more.
"We are working on a new model where fewer members pay more. For example, 3000 members paying GBP10 a month
could sustain the club," he said.
So, the club only has 9000 increasingly-frustrated folks left as members, yet Brooks thinks a third of them will be willing to almost triple their investment and keep doing so to save the club, which was flawed from the start?
One hopes that in looking at this experiment, observers are able to distinguish it from anything to do with real community-owned clubs who have actual sustainable business plans involving supporters who have a long-lasting connection to their team.
Monday, 2 November 2009
Noone Back To Argyle
Impressive loanee winger, Craig Noone, has been recalled by his parent club, Plymouth Argyle, which is a bit of blow to exeter City., who released the following statement:-
'Noone, who scored in Saturday's 3-0 victory over Brentford, has returned to Home Park after making seven appearances for the Grecians, scoring twice.
Manager Paul Tisdale said: "Craig has been terrific for us and we are disappointed he has been recalled.
"I would like to thank him for all his efforts and if the opportunity arises in the future we would be delighted to bring him back to St James Park."
I personally never doubted his ability, having been impressed from the moment I first saw him playing for Burscough two seasons ago, hence me recommending him to Exeter City at that stage, but he was to go on to play for Southport, then Plymouth Argyle.
'Noone, who scored in Saturday's 3-0 victory over Brentford, has returned to Home Park after making seven appearances for the Grecians, scoring twice.
Manager Paul Tisdale said: "Craig has been terrific for us and we are disappointed he has been recalled.
"I would like to thank him for all his efforts and if the opportunity arises in the future we would be delighted to bring him back to St James Park."
I personally never doubted his ability, having been impressed from the moment I first saw him playing for Burscough two seasons ago, hence me recommending him to Exeter City at that stage, but he was to go on to play for Southport, then Plymouth Argyle.
Ales Of The Unexpected
Well what a welcome different it made with the kids having gone back to school. No one getting the way, a lot less noise, and a quieter all round in Lancaster this morning.
An early call was made to the 'Richard Owen' (Wetherspoon), wher enot only did we enjoy a traditional breakfast,complete with superb black pudding, but also a 'new' brew from the Cotleigh Brewery in Somerset.
Cotleigh are another brewer you can always rely on for a good pint and os it proved as I supped 'Cotleigh Long-Eared Owl' (4.9%), which had quite a smooth finish.
Later in the morning called into the other Wetherspoon pub in the city, 'Green Ayre' where I tried 'Adnams Pale Champion Ale' (3.4%) from Adnams Brewery in Suffolk. A very low strength beer which proved to be pretty average I have to say.
An early call was made to the 'Richard Owen' (Wetherspoon), wher enot only did we enjoy a traditional breakfast,complete with superb black pudding, but also a 'new' brew from the Cotleigh Brewery in Somerset.
Cotleigh are another brewer you can always rely on for a good pint and os it proved as I supped 'Cotleigh Long-Eared Owl' (4.9%), which had quite a smooth finish.
Later in the morning called into the other Wetherspoon pub in the city, 'Green Ayre' where I tried 'Adnams Pale Champion Ale' (3.4%) from Adnams Brewery in Suffolk. A very low strength beer which proved to be pretty average I have to say.
Sunday, 1 November 2009
Two Weeks A Manager!
Former Exeter City defender Lee Roberts has left UniBond League Division One South club Market Drayton Town after just two weeks as manager.
It is understood Roberts’ second spell in charge was brought to an abrupt halt following a disagreement with coach Mick Murphy during last Tuesday’s UniBond League Challenge Cup home defeat to Mickleover Sports.
It is thought it was Murphy who had initially elected to leave the club. But a dramatic 24 hours ended with Roberts, who only returned from holiday on Tuesday, stepping aside after being asked to attend an emergency management committee meeting, with Murphy remaining on the coaching staff.
Roberts refused to divulge details of the incident, but said: “I can’t believe what has gone on. I’m gutted because I know I would have done a good job.”
Chairman Alex Mutch, who was also coy over the events of the last two days, added: “It was Lee’s own choice to go. There is no animosity in any direction and we all move on.”
It is understood Roberts’ second spell in charge was brought to an abrupt halt following a disagreement with coach Mick Murphy during last Tuesday’s UniBond League Challenge Cup home defeat to Mickleover Sports.
It is thought it was Murphy who had initially elected to leave the club. But a dramatic 24 hours ended with Roberts, who only returned from holiday on Tuesday, stepping aside after being asked to attend an emergency management committee meeting, with Murphy remaining on the coaching staff.
Roberts refused to divulge details of the incident, but said: “I can’t believe what has gone on. I’m gutted because I know I would have done a good job.”
Chairman Alex Mutch, who was also coy over the events of the last two days, added: “It was Lee’s own choice to go. There is no animosity in any direction and we all move on.”
Saturday, 31 October 2009
Ales Of The Unexpected
On the way back to the bus station following the FA Trophy tie between Lancaster City and FC United of Manchester, I called into an extremely busy 'Green Ayre', Wetherspoons.
I sampled 'Iron Lady' (4.1%) from Batemans Brewery, Linconshire. Now I have yet to come across a bad brew from Bateman's and this was absolutely excellent.
I sampled 'Iron Lady' (4.1%) from Batemans Brewery, Linconshire. Now I have yet to come across a bad brew from Bateman's and this was absolutely excellent.
Six Goal Thriller At The Axe
Lancaster City 3 FC United of Manchester 3
F.A. Trophy 2nd Qualifying Round
Attendance: 743
Admission: £7
Programme: £1.50p (48 pages)
Cheeseburger: £2
There will be those today who have paid £20 or more to watch a game, but I doubt if only but a handful could have seen such an entertaining match as I did for the princely sum of £7.
It was a joy to see two teams looking to score goals, with Lancaster City playing three, yes three wingers, as they have done in recent games.
With Mike Rushton on the right and Roger Sharrock on the left, they also play Paul Jarvis, who has a roaming role and he pops up on either side.
With around 500 or so FC United fans at the Giant Axe, singing almost constantly throughout the match, there was quite an atmosphere.
There were three goals in the first half, all being gifts, either a defensive or a goalkeeping error.
The first came in the 15th minute when Andrew Teague stretched for the ball, missed, and this allowed Joseph Yoffe to nip in, draw keeper Martin Fearon, and place his shot into the net via the foot of the post. 1-0 United.
It was almost 2-0 three minutes later when a vicious and well hit swerving shot cannoned back off the Lancaster crossbar.
United were well on top at this point and they scored again courtesy of a horrendous howler from keeper Fearon, who allowed the ball to slip from his grasp into the patch of Yoffe. 2-0 United.
Lancaster were far from down however, and Rushton forced an excellent save from United keeper Sam Ashton who tipped his shot onto the top of the bar for a corner.
On the stroke of half-time City’s leading scorer, Jordan Connerton fired in a shot from just outside the area which bounced in front of the keeper, hit him in the chest and fell kindly for Sharrock. 2-1 United.
It was all to play for the second half and both teams seemed capable of scoring what would have been possibly a vital goal to decide this tie.
It wasn’t until the 75th minute though that United made it 3-1 when hugely impressive Carlos Rocca curled a glorious shot into the far corner of the net from his right wing position.
Within a minute Lancaster had stormed up to the other end and were unlucky to see a shot rebound off the post.
With time running out, Connerton, who will surely play at a higher level than this before too long, netted his 18th goal of the season in the 83rd minute, making no mistake from ten yards with a shot into the roof of the net.
And Lancaster’s terrific comeback was complete in the 87th minute when Sharrock fired home.
It was fitting end to an absorbing game of football, and the best match I have seen for quite some time.
The replay is at FC United’s ground at Gigg Lane, Bury, this coming Wednesday.
F.A. Trophy 2nd Qualifying Round
Attendance: 743
Admission: £7
Programme: £1.50p (48 pages)
Cheeseburger: £2
There will be those today who have paid £20 or more to watch a game, but I doubt if only but a handful could have seen such an entertaining match as I did for the princely sum of £7.
It was a joy to see two teams looking to score goals, with Lancaster City playing three, yes three wingers, as they have done in recent games.
With Mike Rushton on the right and Roger Sharrock on the left, they also play Paul Jarvis, who has a roaming role and he pops up on either side.
With around 500 or so FC United fans at the Giant Axe, singing almost constantly throughout the match, there was quite an atmosphere.
There were three goals in the first half, all being gifts, either a defensive or a goalkeeping error.
The first came in the 15th minute when Andrew Teague stretched for the ball, missed, and this allowed Joseph Yoffe to nip in, draw keeper Martin Fearon, and place his shot into the net via the foot of the post. 1-0 United.
It was almost 2-0 three minutes later when a vicious and well hit swerving shot cannoned back off the Lancaster crossbar.
United were well on top at this point and they scored again courtesy of a horrendous howler from keeper Fearon, who allowed the ball to slip from his grasp into the patch of Yoffe. 2-0 United.
Lancaster were far from down however, and Rushton forced an excellent save from United keeper Sam Ashton who tipped his shot onto the top of the bar for a corner.
On the stroke of half-time City’s leading scorer, Jordan Connerton fired in a shot from just outside the area which bounced in front of the keeper, hit him in the chest and fell kindly for Sharrock. 2-1 United.
It was all to play for the second half and both teams seemed capable of scoring what would have been possibly a vital goal to decide this tie.
It wasn’t until the 75th minute though that United made it 3-1 when hugely impressive Carlos Rocca curled a glorious shot into the far corner of the net from his right wing position.
Within a minute Lancaster had stormed up to the other end and were unlucky to see a shot rebound off the post.
With time running out, Connerton, who will surely play at a higher level than this before too long, netted his 18th goal of the season in the 83rd minute, making no mistake from ten yards with a shot into the roof of the net.
And Lancaster’s terrific comeback was complete in the 87th minute when Sharrock fired home.
It was fitting end to an absorbing game of football, and the best match I have seen for quite some time.
The replay is at FC United’s ground at Gigg Lane, Bury, this coming Wednesday.
Friday, 30 October 2009
Points Deduction & Fine
At a Football Association Regulatory Commission hearing this week, Curzon Ashton FC were deducted five points and fined £1,350. A further five point deduction and £1,350 fine were suspended.
The club admitted 27 breaches of FA Rules relating to financial irregularities.
The club admitted that certain payments to players between 2005 and 2008 were made with money provided by a third party benefactor without the club declaring those payments in its financial records or making them subject to PAYE or NI.
The FA is concerned that illicit payments of this kind not only place clubs at risk of financial hardship but also distort competition between clubs.
The five point deduction will be imposed with immediate effect and will be deducted from the club’s points total in the Northern Premier League First Division North for the 2009-10 season.
The remaining five point deduction will be suspended until the end of the 2010-11 season and will be invoked if the club is found guilty of similar offences.
The remaining part of the fine will be suspended for a period of five years.
Curzon Ashton Chief Executive Harry Twamley admitted nine breaches of FA Rules relating to financial irregularities.
Twamley admitted knowingly having made false declarations regarding the payments to players.
Twamley was fined £270 and warned as to his future conduct. He was also given a suspended 12 month ban from all football and football management and administration.
This sanction will be suspended for a period of five years.
The club admitted 27 breaches of FA Rules relating to financial irregularities.
The club admitted that certain payments to players between 2005 and 2008 were made with money provided by a third party benefactor without the club declaring those payments in its financial records or making them subject to PAYE or NI.
The FA is concerned that illicit payments of this kind not only place clubs at risk of financial hardship but also distort competition between clubs.
The five point deduction will be imposed with immediate effect and will be deducted from the club’s points total in the Northern Premier League First Division North for the 2009-10 season.
The remaining five point deduction will be suspended until the end of the 2010-11 season and will be invoked if the club is found guilty of similar offences.
The remaining part of the fine will be suspended for a period of five years.
Curzon Ashton Chief Executive Harry Twamley admitted nine breaches of FA Rules relating to financial irregularities.
Twamley admitted knowingly having made false declarations regarding the payments to players.
Twamley was fined £270 and warned as to his future conduct. He was also given a suspended 12 month ban from all football and football management and administration.
This sanction will be suspended for a period of five years.
Lee Roberts
For the second time, former Exeter City defender Lee Roberts is now manager of his home town club, of of Market Drayton Town.
The Shropshire club, who play in the Unibond League, Division One South, appointed Roberts after Simon Lane left the club to become boss at Hednesford Town.
Roberts, who first signed for Exeter City on loan during the 1976-77 season, went on to feature in 142 league matches for the Grecians, netting 12 goals.
Roberts, who later returned to live in Market Drayton, helped launch the club from the ashes of the old Little Drayton Rangers seven years ago.
He brought Line as his assistant manager and handed over the reins to him completely two years later.
The club are currently lying in sixth place in the Unibond League Division One South, however Roberts has not made the best of starts during his second stint in charge, having lost the first two matches, both by 4-0.
The Shropshire club, who play in the Unibond League, Division One South, appointed Roberts after Simon Lane left the club to become boss at Hednesford Town.
Roberts, who first signed for Exeter City on loan during the 1976-77 season, went on to feature in 142 league matches for the Grecians, netting 12 goals.
Roberts, who later returned to live in Market Drayton, helped launch the club from the ashes of the old Little Drayton Rangers seven years ago.
He brought Line as his assistant manager and handed over the reins to him completely two years later.
The club are currently lying in sixth place in the Unibond League Division One South, however Roberts has not made the best of starts during his second stint in charge, having lost the first two matches, both by 4-0.
Ales Of The Unexpected
After two days galavanting around the countryside, I thought it was about time I posted an update of the latest ales that have been tried.
On Wednesday it was off to Watermill at Ings where there were no fewer than five dogs present of various shapes and sizes, all enjoying their free biscuits and bowl of water.
‘Us’ humans went for the beer and first up was ‘Corby’ (3.8%) from the Cumberland brewery. A new brewery and a very nice beer as well.
That was followed by a brew from the Cumbrian Legendary Ales of Hawkshead, now owned by the Loweswater Brewery. I went for ‘Langdale’ (4%).
The third and final brew in the Watermill was from the Hesket Newmarket Brewery, Cumbria and the superb ‘Doris’ 90th Birthday Ale’ (4.3%)
Onto Thursday and a day trip to Edinburgh. First port of call was the city’s ‘Pub Of The year’, the “Halfway House’ in Fleshmarket Close, a short walk from Waverley Station.
If you ever get a chance to visit, then this is must! It is like going back to a pub like they used to be, and it is a very small pub!
I plumped for ‘Scarecrow’(4.4%) from Williams of Alloa. very refreshing with a light fruity after taste. I was impressed with this one!
Moving on and later visiting the refurbished ‘Southsider’ (it needed it, as it was so tatty last time we were there), which is now owned by the Brewer, MacLays, again based in Alloa.
I tried the ever excellent ‘Dark Island’ (4.6%) from the Orkney Brewery. A nice smooth beer.
Returning to the ‘Halfway House’ later in the day, I sampled ‘Red Squirrel’ (3.9%) from the Arran brewery. Quite a thin beer, but pleasant all the same, with a sort of toffee like after taste.
The last port of call in Edinburgh, mainly because we could have a curry (!) was the ‘Standing Orders’, a Wetherspoon pub.
Packed! But we did manage to find a table, enjoy a superb curry and I had ‘Red Ale’ (4.5%) from O’Hanlon’s Brewery, Whimple, Devon.
So endeth a great day in Scotland’s capital city. Look forward to returning some time next year.
On Wednesday it was off to Watermill at Ings where there were no fewer than five dogs present of various shapes and sizes, all enjoying their free biscuits and bowl of water.
‘Us’ humans went for the beer and first up was ‘Corby’ (3.8%) from the Cumberland brewery. A new brewery and a very nice beer as well.
That was followed by a brew from the Cumbrian Legendary Ales of Hawkshead, now owned by the Loweswater Brewery. I went for ‘Langdale’ (4%).
The third and final brew in the Watermill was from the Hesket Newmarket Brewery, Cumbria and the superb ‘Doris’ 90th Birthday Ale’ (4.3%)
Onto Thursday and a day trip to Edinburgh. First port of call was the city’s ‘Pub Of The year’, the “Halfway House’ in Fleshmarket Close, a short walk from Waverley Station.
If you ever get a chance to visit, then this is must! It is like going back to a pub like they used to be, and it is a very small pub!
I plumped for ‘Scarecrow’(4.4%) from Williams of Alloa. very refreshing with a light fruity after taste. I was impressed with this one!
Moving on and later visiting the refurbished ‘Southsider’ (it needed it, as it was so tatty last time we were there), which is now owned by the Brewer, MacLays, again based in Alloa.
I tried the ever excellent ‘Dark Island’ (4.6%) from the Orkney Brewery. A nice smooth beer.
Returning to the ‘Halfway House’ later in the day, I sampled ‘Red Squirrel’ (3.9%) from the Arran brewery. Quite a thin beer, but pleasant all the same, with a sort of toffee like after taste.
The last port of call in Edinburgh, mainly because we could have a curry (!) was the ‘Standing Orders’, a Wetherspoon pub.
Packed! But we did manage to find a table, enjoy a superb curry and I had ‘Red Ale’ (4.5%) from O’Hanlon’s Brewery, Whimple, Devon.
So endeth a great day in Scotland’s capital city. Look forward to returning some time next year.
Wednesday, 28 October 2009
Trip To Barrow
What a great result by Barrow in last night's FA Cup fourth qualifying round replay, as they won 4-0 at Chester City. The result means that I do now have a game I can go to the first round proper, for Barrow are at home to Eastleigh.
I cannot imagine Eastleigh are exactly looking forward to the mammoth trip to deepest Cumbria, but it is clash that certainly appeals to the neutral such myself.
Barrow didn't net their first goal until the 75th minute, but after that ran out quite easy winners to earn themselves £12,500 in prize money.
I cannot imagine Eastleigh are exactly looking forward to the mammoth trip to deepest Cumbria, but it is clash that certainly appeals to the neutral such myself.
Barrow didn't net their first goal until the 75th minute, but after that ran out quite easy winners to earn themselves £12,500 in prize money.
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