BEAR FACTS 2010 - 2011
SUPER STRIKE SETS BEARS ON THE WAY : 9 August 2010
The reserves start their season this
Saturday, 14th
August KO 3pm at home to Rudheath and are at home again on Wednesday 18th
August KO 7.30pm with
BEARS SEASON READY TO KICK OFF : 3 August 2010
The reserves season starts on August 14th
with a h
BEARS REMAIN UNBEATEN : 26 July 2010
The Bears faced Evo-Stick South
side
BEARS PRE-SEASON RUNNING SMOOTHLY : 17 July 2010
After the good 4-1 win away at Shildon last Saturday, the Bears faced a sterner test with Blue Square North side Stalybridge Celtic the visitors to Booth Street last Saturday. After going a goal behind very early on, the Bears responded with an equaliser from Andy Hurst and a winner from Matt Haddrell. That gave the home supporters a lot of satisfaction as the Bears more than matched their rivals from 3 leagues higher, watched by 135 spectators. Next Saturday 24th July, Leek Town are at Booth Street for a 3pm K.O.
The first team travel to Kidsgrove Athletic on Monday 26th July K.O. 7.45 pm and are at home on Wednesday 28th K.O. 7.30 pm against Macclesfield Town. They finish the friendlies with a trip to Norton on Saturday 31st July K.O. 3pm.
The Bears opening league fixtures are away at Barnoldswick Town on Sat 7th Aug K.O. 3pm, home to Stone Dominoes on Tuesday 10th Aug K.O. 7.45pm and away at Daisy Hill in the FA Cup extra preliminary round on Sat 14th Aug K.O. 3pm.
BEARS PRE-SEASON OFF TO A GOOD START: 11 July 2010
The Bears made the long trip to Shildon, near Newcastle upon Tyne, to play their first pre-season friendly. The trip to the side that knocked the Bears out of last season’s FA Vase proved successful. It gave the chance for some of the new signings (and re-signings) a chance to begin to blend together. Inside 2 minutes, Andy Hurst touched on a pass for Shane Reaney to open the scoring. Shildon levelled soon after but Matt Haddrell’s header on to Hurst saw the lead restored. Into the second half and within 15 minutes, the Bears had established the 4-1 lead that was to prove the final score. Matt Haddrell rattled in a 20-yard thunderbolt and Scott Dundas laid on a perfect cross for Danny Beigus to head the fourth.
The youth team started their pre-season friendlies with a 1-1 draw away at Altrincham.
The first home friendly is this Saturday 17th July KO 3pm when the visitors to Booth Street will be Blue Square North side Stalybridge Celtic – managed by ex-Silkman Steve Burr. The other home fixtures are Saturday 24th July KO 3pm against Leek Town and on Wednesday 28th July KO 7.30pm against Macclesfield Town.
This Sunday 18th July sees a six-a-side tournament at Booth Street starting at 10am.. Any side wishing to enter should contact Nick Shatwell on 01625 502420 or 07764 574090.
BEARS PREPARE FOR NEW SEASON : 6 July 210
The Bears preparations for the new season got underway recently with a return to pre-season training for the first team and the build up for the start of pre-season friendlies.
This Saturday, 10th July, the Bears travel to Shildon for the opening friendly. It was Shildon who knocked the Bears out of last season’s FA Vase. The match kicks off at 3pm and there is a coach leaving Booth Street at 10.30 am. There are limited spaces available should any supporter wish to travel.
The first home friendly is on Saturday 17th July KO 3pm when the visitors to Booth Street will be Stalybridge Celtic. The other home fixtures are Saturday 24th July KO 3pm against Leek Town and on Wednesday 28th July KO 7.30pm against Macclesfield Town.
Good news for the Bears includes the return of fans favourite Matt Haddrell. Other signings will be announced later.
There is a six-a-side tournament taking place at Booth Street on Sunday 18th July. Any side wishing to enter should contact Nick Shatwell on 01625 502420 or 07764 574090.
BEARS LOSE : 19 April 2010
Following on from the 2-2 midweek draw at home to Formby, with no game last weekend for the first team or reserves, the Bears travelled to Bootle on Monday and in a close game over the 90 minutes, went down 1-0 to a first half penalty. The closest they came to scoring was when Rubin Kennerley hit the bar with a 25-yard volley and Scott Dundas following up headed the rebound against a post.
The first team travel to Ramsbottom United on Saturday 24th April KO 3pm for their final away game this season. They end with their final two home fixtures on Thursday 29th April KO 7.45 pm against Bootle and then on Saturday 1st may KO 3pm against Glossop North End.
The reserves have their final league match on Wednesday 5th May KO 7.30 pm at Booth Street against Daten.
The youth side lost last Sunday 3-2 against Nantwich Town Youth in the Divisional Cup semi-final. They away at Brocton next Sunday 25th April KO 2.30pm.
The Macclesfield & District FA Cup second semi finals take place at Booth Street on Saturday 24th April KO 2pm and on Sunday 25th KO 11am.
BEARS HIT SIX AGAIN : 12 April 2010
For the third time in four games, the Bears hit six goals. The victims this time were Bacup, on their own turf, and they gave the Bears a boost with an early own goal. Beeston added a second with a classy volley before Bacup pulled on back from a free kick. Rhead then added two more, one from the penalty spot before half time. Watson added a fifth before Bacup were gifted a second goal. Ritchie Booth scored his first goal for the first team before Bacup scored their third to leave a final score of 6-3 to the Bears.
The reserves had a fortunate afternoon. Hit by player shortage, including two regulars who accompanied the first team, they struggled against Poynton at home. Squandered chances cost the visitors dear as a late penalty gave the Bears a 1-0 victory
The youth side won last Sunday 4-1 against Stone Dominoes with goals from Dodd (2), Whelan and Noon. They travel to Nantwich Youth next Sunday 18th April KO 1.15 pm in the Divisional Cup semi-final. They play at home on Tuesday 20th KO 6.15pm. That game may take place at Booth Street, otherwise at Back Lane as usual.
New Mills defeat
at
There is no game for either the first
team or reserves on Saturday 17th
April. Instead, a Macclesfield & District FA Cup semi final take place at Booth
Street KO 2pm. On Sunday 18th
KO 11am, a Sunday Cup semi final is at
The Bears travel to Bootle on Tuesday 20th
April KO 7.45pm and then to Ramsbottom on Saturday 24th
April KO 3pm. Saturday 1st
May sees the Bears at home to Glossop North End KO 3pm. The outstanding match v
On Wednesday 21st
April KO 7.30pm the reserves are at home against Tarporley
BEARS LATE LATE SHOW STUNS ‘CASTLE : 6 April 2010
After the six goal defeat of Ashton
Athletic at home, the Bears travelled to Formby last Saturday and blasted
another six goal salvo, winning 6-2. Goals from Mark Beeston, Lewis Short and
Rubin Kennerley accompanied a hat trick from Matt Rhead. That set the Bears up
for the eagerly awaited Easter Monday clash with league leaders
The first team
are away on Saturday 10th
April KO 3pm at Bacup Borough. The
on Tuesday 13th
April KO 7.45pm, they are at home against Formby. There is no scheduled match
for the first team on Saturday 17th
April. The reserves next match at
BEARS HIT ASHTON FOR SIX : 29 March 2010
The Bears resumed the winning habit with the sound thrashing of Ashton Athletic. Six goals, a missed penalty and three strikes of the woodwork give some indication of the Bears authority. Matt Conkie had to produce just one first class save and goals came from Rob Heath, two from Matt Rhead, two from Danny Beigus and a final one from Mark Fitton. It was sad to see ex-Bear Steve Rothwell sent off for blocking a Matt Rhead shot on the goal line with his hands.
The first team away on Easter Saturday 3rd April at Formby KO 3pm before the Easter Monday game, 5th April KO 3pm at home against Newcastle Town. On Saturday 10th April KO 3pm, the Bears travel to Bacup Borough KO 3pm.
The reserves next match is at Booth Street on Wednesday 7th April KO 7.30pm against New Mills Reserves. On 10th April KO 3pm they play Poynton at Booth Street.
The youth team won 2-1 away at Longton on Sunday with 2 goals from Whelan. Next Sunday the youth team face Blythe Bridge at Back Lane KO 2.30pm.
There is a race night being planned for Monday 5th April doors open at 7pm and entry is free. Races start at 8pm.
SIX WINS – FIVE CLEAN SHEETS FOR BEARS : 15 March 2010
The Bears registered their sixth successive win with a 2-0 victory over Silsden at Booth Street last Saturday. The clean sheet also marked their fifth in that six match spell. Matt Conkie resumed his position in goal and had little to do apart from one outstanding reaction save near to the end. A second minute goal from Scott Dundas settled the Bears and the second from Lewis Short 10 minutes from time eased any worries about Silsden getting something from the game. Both goals came from following up goal bound efforts from Matt Rhead that the ‘keeper could only parry aside.
The reserves travelled to Crewe FC and lost 2-1 and were due to meet the same side at Booth Street on Wed 17th in a cup semi final. The youth side won 2-1 at Booth Street against Longton.
The first team are at home on Tuesday 23rd March KO 7.45pm against Bootle and at home again on Saturday 27th March KO 3pm against Ashton Athletic. The reserves have now played all their away league games so need the first team away to play their home games. Thus this Saturday they have no match. They are next scheduled at Booth Street on Wednesday 31st March v Warrington Town Reserves KO 7.30pm.The youth team have no game this weekend.
Stuart Tulloch has gone to play for Salford and three ex-Bears, Andy Kinsey, Phil Parkinson and Steve Jardine are now at Winsford.
There is a race night being planned for Monday 5th April following on from the match that afternoon against Newcastle Town.
FIVE IN A ROW FOR BEARS : 09 March 2010
A solid 3-0 win away at Winsford with two goals from Matthew Rhead and one from Mark Fitton made it 4 successive clean sheets for Lloyd Parry. That run ended last Saturday as he conceded 3 against Maine Road at Booth Street. Fortunately, the forwards scored five with Matthew Rhead again scoring twice and Stuart Tulloch doing likewise. Scott Dundas rounded off the scoring. The Bears led after 3 minutes, went 2-1 behind, led by 3-2 at half time and led 4-2, 4-3 and 5-3 to complete the scoring sequence.
The reserves showed good character after their defeat two weeks ago, to win 3-2 away at Lostock Gralam. The youth side lost 3-1
The Bears are at home this Saturday 13th March KO 3pm against Silsden. Adam Vickers is suspended for this match. Then it’s home again on 20th March KO 3pm against Flixton. The reserves are away Crewe FC on Saturday 13th March KO 3pm. Then four days later they meet the same opponents at Booth Street on Wednesday 17th March KO 7.30 pm in the Second Division Cup semi-final. On Saturday 20th March they are without a fixture.
ANOTHER CLEAN SHEET FOR BEARS : 02 March 2010
A third successive 2-0 victory for the Bears was racked up last Saturday as Abbey Hey tried in vain to maintain their recent improvement. A brace of goals from Lewis Short secured the points with ‘keeper Lloyd Parry keeping his goal intact thanks to the good work of those in front of him and the odd sound save when called upon. The first goal was a real screaming shot into the top left hand corner. The second, after the interval, was slotted past the ‘keeper from an angle.
The reserves enjoyed their day trip to Warrington, running out 4-1 winners but on Sunday, the youth team lost 4-0 against Hanley Town. Last Saturday saw Newcastle Town’s 100% record fall to a 1-1 draw at home to Colne.
The Bears are at home this Saturday 6th March KO 3pm against Maine Road. A week later they are at home again KO 3pm with Silsden the visitors. The reserves are away at Lostock Gralam on Saturday 6th KO 3pm. A week later on 13th March they are away at Crewe FC KO 3pm. The youth team area way at Audley on Sunday 7th March KO 2pm in the League Cup.
Manager Anthony Buckle was without the services of the suspended Mark Beeston for the midweek match at Winsford and had signed three reserve players for cover, Richard Booth, James Gregory and Rubin Kennerley. He has also signed ex Stoke City player Rob Heath. Ryan Baker should be back in action by this weekend and last weekend’s return of Mark Fitton was a boost for the side. Richard Smith was recovering from illness last Saturday but had to come on when Adam Vickers was injured.
BETTER FOR THE BEARS : 15 February 2010
With the 2-0 midweek defeat at Newcastle Town behind them, the Bears were looking to second placed Ramsbottom United’s visit to Booth Street to further test their capability. With Matt Conkie unable to finish the first half at Newcastle and reserve ‘keeper Adam Little taking over, Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg looked for goalkeeper cover. They managed that by re-signing Lloyd Parry from Leek CSOB. Lloyd had been signed as cover while the Bears were involved in important cup competitions in the early part of the season and upon exiting those, allowed him to sign for Leek CSOB as cover for Rob Hackney. They also signed Ashley Miller from Leek Town to add strength to the striker options available. Both made their debut against Ramsbottom. Miller made an early impact as he opened the scoring with a well taken goal and a second from Tulloch gave the bears some breathing space at half time. Parry still managed to pull off a couple of excellent saves to earn the 2-0 win.
The reserves also got back to winning ways with a fine 3-2 win away at New Mills on Saturday and on Sunday the youth team drew 3-3 with Blythe Bridge.
This Saturday, 20th February KO 3pm, the first team are away at Atherton LR. A week later 27th Feb KO 3pm they are at home to Abbey Hey. The reserves are at home on Saturday 20th KO 2.15pm with Monk FC the visitors. A week later, 27th Feb KO 2.15pm they travel to Warrington Town. The youth team are away at Audley on Sunday 21st KO 1.30pm.
NOT THE BEST WEEKEND FOR THE BEARS : 08 February 2010
The Bears bright start to 2010 came to a halt last Saturday away at Padiham who are rapidly becoming the Bear’s bogey side. Under Kevin Langley’s stewardship, the Bears travelled to Padiham in the league cup and after leading 1-0 with three minutes to go, ended up defeated 2-1. Earlier this season at Booth Street, a freak 50 yard goal after Conkie’s miscued clearance, and a string of inspired saves from their ‘keeper, sent Padiham home 1-0 victors. So it was perhaps no surprise that the Bears had the overwhelming majority of play on Saturday, missing good chances and then allowing only Padiham’s second meaningful effort on goal give them a 93rd minute win. Matt Rhead was unable to play through the same illness that hit Ryan Baker, Lewis Short and Carl Nesbitt the previous week. With Matt Conkie picking up an injury on Sunday, Ant and Twiggy were left needing to have goalkeeper cove for the important match at Newcastle Town on Tuesday 9th.
The reserves were equally unlucky, playing really well but going down 3-2 at Booth Street to the league leaders Maine Road Reserves. The youth team then completed a miserable weekend for the Bears going down 5-0 to Hanley Town in the Sentinel Cup on Sunday.
This Saturday, 13th Feb KO 3pm, the Bears are at home to Ramsbottom United and a week later, Saturday 20th KO 3pm, they are away at Atherton LR. The reserves are away at New Mills on Saturday 13th Feb KO 2.15pm. The youth team were due to play Blythe Bridge at home on Sunday 14th KO 2pm but have been asked to switch the fixture to play away.
Matt Conkie picked up an injury last Sunday and Reserve ‘keeper Adam Little has been signed on forms for the first team as additional cover.
FROSTY ATMOSPHERE AT BOOTH STREET : 01 February 2010
Before last weekend, the Bears had followed up their fine start to 2010, the 4-1 home win against Colne, with another solid performance at Maine Road where goals from Griggs, Vickers and Rhead gave them a 3-1 victory. So last Saturday’s visit of Flixton was keenly awaited but things were not going to run the Bears way.
The overnight frost was heavy, forcing a pitch inspection around 11am. The inspecting official held nearly 2 hours before deciding the improving conditions would leave the match playable by kick off time. The arrival of the match referee ended hopes as he declared the pitch only 98% fit and the frosted area close to the goal line from the corner flag to the goal area unsafe. That opinion was not shared by some experienced personnel on hand but that was never sought, nor did it matter once he had declared the match off. Taking the half fee and expenses, it was a trip to Newcastle for him to watch them play Padiham.
The reserves were not scheduled to play and the youth team game against Hanley Town was also postponed, leaving a completely blank weekend and some significant expenses to boot.
This Saturday, 6th February KO 3pm the Bears travel to Padiham before the eagerly awaited trip to Lyme Valley to play Newcastle Town scheduled for Tuesday 9th February KO 7.45 pm. Saturday 13th February sees the Bears at home against Ramsbottom United KO 3pm.
BEARS START THE YEAR ON THE RIGHT NOTE : 24 January
2010
After the prolonged lay off, the Bears resumed Vodkat Premier Division fixtures with a home game against Colne. Colne traditionally have made life hard for the Bears and it seemed that this match would be no exception as their ‘keeper, and man of the match for Colne, pulled of several fine saves. Trailing 1-0 at half time the Bears stepped up their game in the second half and two goals from Matt Rhead and two from Scott Dundas gave the score line a healthy 4-1 look. The Bears were clearly fit as three of those goals came in the last quarter hour. Omar Mahmoud made his debut in the half and showed promising signs with his pace and control. Matt Rhead has now signed for the remainder of the season and has scored three times in his first two games. More good news came with the impending return of Wayne Brotherton who went to play for Leek CSOB to get match fitness and confidence after his bad injury at the end of lat season.
The reserves also hit the ground running with a convincing 4-0 win away at Malpas. The youth side, which had seen their fixtures more disrupted than the two senior sides, struggled in their first game for some time and lost 3-1 against Norton United on Sunday.
This Saturday, 30th January the Bears are at home against Flixton, KO 3.00pm. On Saturday February 6th KO 3pm the Bears travel to Padiham before the eagerly awaited trip to Lyme Valley to play Newcastle Town scheduled fro Tuesday 9th February KO 7.45 pm.
The reserves are
without a game next Saturday but face league leaders
BEARS HOPEFUL FOR THE WEEKEND : 18 January 2010
The fifth successive weekend saw all the Bears fixtures wiped out yet again by bad weather but the coming weekend looks likely to see matches resume.
This Saturday, 23rd January KO 3pm, the Bears are at home against Colne. They follow this with a trip to Maine Road on Tuesday 26th January KO 7.45pm and then return to Booth Street action on Saturday 30th January with the visit of Flixton, KO 3pm. On Saturday February 6th KO 3pm the Bears travel to Padiham before the eagerly awaited trip to Lyme Valley to play Newcastle Town scheduled for Tuesday 9th February KO 7.45 pm.
The extended lay off has allowed all players to get over any niggling injuries and Manager Anthony Buckle was boosted by the signing of Matthew Rhead after Nantwich Town agreed to cancel his contract by mutual consent. Matt had been signed on loan for a month but the continued bad weather had restricted his appearances to just the one before the period ended. Also signed from Nantwich Town is Omar Mahmoud, who is a forward.
The reserves hope to resume playing with a trip to Malpas on Saturday 23red KO 2.15pm. A week later they are without a game as yet.
GROUNDHOG DAY FOR THE BEARS :11 January 2010
A record breaking fourth consecutive week of Vodkat League fixtures, all games were lost to the continued freeze. The reserves and youth team matches also had no chance of taking place. It presents a difficult task for Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg to keep the side in any form of match sharpness as they strive to find suitable locations for training.
If there is any easing in conditions that would allow matches to resume, the match on Saturday 16th January is away at Atherton LR KO 3pm and a week later, Saturday 23rd January KO 3 pm the Bears are at home against Colne. A re-arranged date of 26th January KO 7.45 has been set for the match away at Maine Road.
The reserves are at home for the first time in 2010 on Saturday 16th January KO 2:15 pm against New Mills Reserves. If the youth team play next week it will be on Sunday 17th away at Hanley in the Sentinel Cup K:O 1.30pm.
The club has received confirmation that its application for the ground to be graded for promotion has been received by the FA and they now await notification of when the FA will come to assess the facilities.
WEATHER TAKES IT ALL AGAIN : 4 January 2010
2010 stuttered last weekend with third successive Saturday of a 100% wipe out of Vodkat league fixtures. The reserves and youth team matches were also postponed. So this Saturday 9th January KO 3pm the Bears hope to be facing Formby at Booth Street. Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg have found the three successive weeks of postponements a completely frustrating as the loan period of Matt Rhead is due to end after next Saturday and he has so far only been able to make one appearance. The match on Saturday 16th January is away at Atherton LR KO 3pm and a week later, Saturday 23rd January KO 3 pm the Bears are at home again, with Colne the visitors.
The reserves are away at Lostock Gralam on Saturday 9th January KO 2:15 pm. They are at home for the first time in 2010 on Saturday 16th January KO 2:15 pm against New Mills Reserves.
The club has sent its application for the ground to be graded for promotion to reach the FA by 31st December. The club are looking to get the grading required to permit them to progress to UniBond football by the March 31st deadline. Even if promotion is not achieved this year, a successful grading will be valid for three years without the need to pay for grading. The application for promotion does not involve payment. It is the grading which costs, currently, £150 + VAT.
BEARS LOOK TO GET BACK TO FORM IN 2010 : 28 December
2009
2009 ended with two away games
postponed including the Boxing Day match away at
BEARS STILL SEARCH FOR A WIN: 14 December 2009
The Bears fought out a 1-1 draw at home against Squires gate last Saturday. The side featured the first appearance of Matthew Rhead signed on loan from Nantwich Town. It was he who opened the scoring on 20 minutes turning in a cross from Ryan Baker. Two goal line clearances kept Squires Gate in the game and their equaliser 6 minutes from time meant the points would be shared. That left them 12 games without a win.
The reserves went down 4-3 away at Malpas. Having gone in at half time 2-2, the game was in the balance but the home side edged to victory in the second half. The youth side were without a game over the weekend.
This Saturday, 19th December, sees the first team in action at Maine Road K:O 3pm and the reserves at Booth Street against Daten K:O 2pm. The Youth Team are at Back Lane on Sunday 20th K:O 2pm against Longton Harriers.
On Saturday 26th December K:O 3pm the Bears travel to Lyme Valley to take on Newcastle Town who as of 12th December had a 100% league record over the 23 games they have played so far.
BEARS CHANGES INEVITABLE : 7 December 2009
The Bears fortunes changed little during the past week. Defeat at St Helens by 2-1 at least saw them end their miserable run of games without scoring. Scott Dundas gave the Bears the lead before a deflected shot left Matt Conkie flat footed for an equaliser. A somewhat dubious second gave St Helens the points. The Bears at least showed signs of regaining the form of early season. Andy Kinsey has left for Nantwich Town and Andy Hurst has moved to Glossop North End. Stuart Tulloch has returned after a short spell with Alsager Town.
The reserves moved into the semi-final of the Division Tow Challenge Cup after beating table toppers Maine Road 2-1 at Booth Street last Saturday. The youth team game in the Sentinel Cup once again fell to the weather.
This Saturday 12th December, the Bears play their last home game this year when Squires Gate come to Booth Street for a 3pm kick off. Then its away at Maine Road on Saturday 19th December K:O 3pm and away at Newcastle Town on Saturday 26th December K:O 3pm. The first home game of 2010 will be on Saturday 2nd K:O 3pm when Abbey Hey are the visitors.
The reserves are away on Saturday 12th November K:O 2pm at Barnton. A week later, Saturday 19th K:O 2pm they are at home against Daten.
BEARS TROUBLES CONTINUE : 30 November 2009
The Bears struggles continued last weekend. Playing better than in recent weeks they found an inspired Padiham goalkeeper between them and a goal whilst they conceded a freak 55 yard shot after Conkie had miscued a clearance and failed to get back to protect his goal. That 1-0 defeat was the sixth successive match in which the Bears failed to score.
The reserves fared little better going down away at Grappenhall Sports 3-0. The youth team’s 2-0 defeat completed a miserable weekend for the three sides without a goal between them.
The first team are away at St Helens Town on Saturday 5th December K:O 3pm while the reserves are at home to Maine Road Reserves in the Second Division Cup K:O 1.30 pm. The first team are away again on Tuesday 8th December K:O 7.45 pm at Runcorn Linnets who play at Witton Albion’s ground. The next home game is on Saturday 12th December K:O 3pm when Squires Gate are the visitors to Booth Street.
The club have put in seven days notice of approach to Winsford United for Josh Hancock and seven days notice for Stuart Tulloch at Alsager Town.
It was great to see the heroes of the FA Cup First Round against Crewe in 1989 at the ground last Saturday. Many memories were shared and only the result on the day was a disappointment. As a fitting touch, the FA Cup tie had been transferred to DVD for people to enjoy as a build up to the Padiham match.
BEARS SHOW IMPROVEMENT : 23 November 2009
The Bears turned in an improved performance last Saturday at Nelson. Although they failed to score for the fifth successive match, they did play a better passing game and dominated possession. The conditions, however, made life difficult for both sides as the driving rain and very soft pitch tested every player’s stamina and endurance. Both sides deserve credit for their part in an entertaining game although it ended 0-0.
The reserves fared a lot better, racing into a 4-0 lead at home to Malpas and then easing off to allow their opponents a consolation goal. That ended 4-1 and the Bears moved up to 7th in the table. The youth side were without a game on Sunday as the weather ended hopes of their Sentinel Cup tie going ahead.
This Saturday, 28th November K:O 3pm the Bears are at home against Padiham K:O while the reserves are away at Grappenhall Sports K:O 2.15pm. Then on Satrday 5th December, the first team travel to St Helens K:O 3pm.
Glossop North End have put in 7 days notice of approach for Andy Hurst.
Please note that at the Padiham game on 28th November, the Supporters Trust are sponsoring the match and have organised the members of the side that played in the FA Cup First Round against Crewe in 1989 on the 20th anniversary to be present at the game as their guests. This would be a great opportunity for the town to remember the heroes of that day and it I hoped that they will all be there to be presented to the spectators prior to kick off.
BEARS EXIT FROM LAST CUP COMPETITION : 16 November 2009
The Bears recent poor form continued last week with two performances that belied their early season success. Two cup ties in four days saw them exit from the Cheshire Senior Cup and the FA Vase without scoring a single goal. At Runcorn Linnets, they went out tamely 4-0 and last Saturday went out of the FA Vase at home to Shildon 2-0. Their major problem over the past few games has been their inability to score. That was reinforced last Monday evening when they travelled to New Mills and went down 3-0. The Bears at least showed an improvement in the second half and had some positives to take from the game but the real problem currently lies with their lack of goals.
The reserves fared no better on Saturday after leading 2-0 away at high flying Maine Road, they went down 3-2.
This Saturday, 21st November K:O 3pm the Bears are away at Nelson while the reserves are at home against Malpas K:O 2.15pm. On Tuesday 24th, the first team are at Formby K:O 7.45 pm and then on Saturday 28th they are at home against Padiham K:O 3.0pm while the reserves are away at Grappenhall Sports K:O 2.15pm.
The youth team are away on Sunday 22nd November against Hanley in the Sentinel Cup.
Please note that at the Padiham game on 28th November, the Supporters Trust are sponsoring the match and have organised the members of the side that played in the FA Cup First Round against Crewe in 1989 on the 20th anniversary to be present at the game as their guests. This would be a great opportunity for the town to remember the heroes of that day and it I hoped that they will all be there to be presented to the spectators prior to kick off.
BEARS STILL STRUGGLE : 8 November 2009
The Bears continued to struggle to regain the confident mood they were in a few weeks ago. Against Runcorn Linnets they played in patches. Going 1-0 up early on through Andy Kinsey’s angled shot, they fell behind conceding two goals in two minutes. They allowed Runcorn a 3rd before the last half hour saw the kind of play that promised so much early on. In a terrific finale they grabbed two goals through Mark Fitton and Andy Kinsey and had they just a little longer available to them, looked as though they would get the win.
Last Saturday, it was back to the puzzling struggle away at Silsden. A goal after 11 minutes proved the home side’s winner. Matt Conkie was the man of the match with four outstanding saves and despite having the majority of possession in a better second half, they failed to test the home ‘keeper. So that left the Bears without a win in the past 4 games and their unbeaten league record went.
The reserves also came to grief at home in the Macclesfield and District Cup losing 4-0 against Wilmslow Sports. The youth team exited from the FA Youth Cup against League Two side Rochdale, going down 3-0 at home. The side can rightly be proud of their efforts in the competition, reaching the 1st Round Proper and setting a club record with that achievement. Last Sunday they fell 4-2 in their league game.
This Saturday 14th November K:O 3pm is the important FA Vase 2nd Round match at home against Shildon. Barring the need for a replay in either their game or that between New Mills and Tividale, the Bears will travel to New Mills on Monday 16th November K:O 7.45pm. Then on Saturday 21st November K:O 3pm, the Bears are on the road again, travelling to Nelson.
The reserves are away at Maine Road next Saturday, 14th, K:O 2.15pm and home against Malpas on Saturday 21st K:O 2.15pm . The Youth team have no game over the weekend.
The club would like to thank everyone who supported their fireworks display. In only its second year, the turn out was up on that a year ago and the addition of a mini funfair for toddlers and the improved facilities went down well with those attending.
WORST WEEK THIS SEASON FOR THE BEARS: 1 November 2009
The Bears stumbled to two cup defeats last week to mark their worst results so far this season. In the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup at Winsford, there was a little experimenting as the management wanted to give those who had been spending some time on the bench, a starting opportunity. With Baker and Kinsey rested in order to give their niggling injuries some extra recovery time, the Bears took an early lead through Scott Dundas clever finish. Two goals from a lively Winsford was a set back until Mark Fitton’s fine header from a corner levelled. All that happened in the first 22 minutes. No further score, including extra time, sent the game into penalties and defeat came 5-4.
The Vodkat League cup tie away at Ramsbottom United offered a stiffer challenge but with the Bears cruising 3-1 at half time with goals from Steve Tobin and a brace from Andy Kinsey, it looked as though recent difficulties getting a result there were to be put behind them. However, it seemed the Bears mixed a Halloween nightmare with Christmas as a poor second half in which very little was created by the Bears, allowed Ramsbottom to score three times to win 4-3. Two goals were gifted by weak back passes to Matt Conkie, intercepted and converted.
The reserves could offer little in the way of comfort as they too lapsed to defeat against lowly Grappenhall Sports by 3-1 at Booth Street. The Youth side were prevented from playing on Sunday by the adverse weather.
The first team are away at Silsden on Saturday 7th November K:O 3pm. The reserves are at home on the same day in the Macclesfield & District FA Cup K:O 1.30 pm against Wilmslow Sports. On Tuesday 10th November K:O 7.45 pm, the Bears first team travel to Wincham Park to play Runcorn Linnets in the Cheshire Senior Cup before the home FA Vase 2nd Round tie against Shildon on Saturday 14th K:O 3pm.
Following last year’s successful fireworks display at the ground, there is to be another held at Booth Street on Friday 6th November. Gates open at 6pm with the kiddies display (no loud bangs) at 7pm and the adult display approx 8pm. As usual there will be burgers, hot dogs, hot and cold drinks and the clubhouse will be open. There is covered seating for over 200 and covered standing areas too. There will be a toddlers mini fun fair as well.
Tickets bought before the night (available at the Church House Inn, the clubhouse on match days and the Tourist Information Bureau) are £3 and on the night £4. Children under 8 are admitted free. ie a family of four, with two children under 8 can therefore gain entry for just £6 if bought in advance and represents great value for money in difficult times.
The facilities at the ground have been improved after the car park had the tarmac laid last week, making spectator access safer and more convenient for those with pushchairs and wheelchairs.
BEARS SEE FIREWORKS AHEAD : 26/10/09
The Bears continued their league
success on last Saturday with a 2-0 home defeat of Bacup Borough. A goal in each
half proved enough. Carl Nesbitt grabbed the first finishing off a fine move and
Scott Dundas the second. That followed a narrow1-0 home victory over
The reserves drew 1-1 last Saturday, away at Daten and the youth team were soundly beaten 4-0 away at Audley.
BEARS STUTTER : 18/10/09
The Bears
continued their league success on Tuesday 13th
with a 2-0 win over close rivals
Andy Kinsey converted from 6 yards after Twigg had headed back a cross. That was in the second minute of stoppage time. A total of nine additional minutes were played but neither side looked likely to score the winner.
The reserves also had a bad day, slipping to a 3-2 home defeat against Moore United.
This Saturday, 24th
October K:O 3.00 pm the Bears are at home to Bacup Borough. They will be without
Stuart Tulloch who has decided to join
The youth side were looking to defeat
Dunston UTS in the FA Youth Cup last Wednesday evening (21st
October) to earn a home tie against
BEARS HAVE ANOTHER GOOD WEEK : 11/10/09
The Bears did in the FA Vase what they did a few weeks back in the FA Cup. Having come through an away tie without playing well, they hit their opponents for 5 in the replay at Booth Street. This time it was Cheadle Town on the receiving end, being beaten 5-2 thanks to goals from Fitton, Vickers, Robinson, Kinsey and Dundas. That set up a home tie in the 2nd Round Proper against Shildon on Saturday 14th November K:O 3pm.
Last Saturday the Bears resources were stretched with Tulloch and Robinson suspended, Beeston delayed on his return from holiday, Hurst injured and Baker protecting a calf strain. With a lively young side from Winsford as opponents it looked to be a tricky match. So it proved for an hour before goals from Nesbitt and Dundas in a three minute spell was followed by a third from Short near the end to complete a 3-0 victory.
The reserves continued their improved results with a 3-2 win away at Denton, coming back from a 2-0 deficit at half time. They now move up to 7th in the league. The youth team also continued a fine run of results with a 1-0 win in midweek against Workington to earn a home tie in the 3rd Qualifying Round on Wednesday 21st October K:O 7.30 pm against Dunston UTS (from Gateshead area). Prices again at £3 adults £2 concessions represent excellent value. Last Sunday the Youth side beat Nantwich Town 2-0 in a league game.
This Saturday, 17th October K:O 3.45 pm the Bears are away at Colne. On Tuesday 20th October they are at home against Alsager Town K:O 7.30 pm and on Saturday 24th October are again at home against Bacup Borough K:O 3 pm.
The reserves are
at home on Saturday 17th October K:O 3pm against Moore United K:O 3pm. Andy
Hurst is hoping to be fit enough to get a run out for some part of the match
as he works to overcome the injury he sustained at Ashton Athletic. On Saturday
24th October they are away at Daten, K:O 2.15pm. The youth side have no fixture
this Sunday 18th October.
BEARS STILL IN FA VASE – BUT ONLY JUST : 05/10/09
The Bears nearly exited two FA competitions in successive games as they struggled to impose themselves against First Division side Cheadle Town in the FA Vase. Needing extra time and leading 1-0 with 15 minutes to go through Andy Kinsey’s goal, the Bears were rocked when the home side scored twice in two minutes and it needed a late equaliser from Darren Twigg to earn the replay. This Saturday 10th October K:O 3pm, it’s a return to league action with the visit of Winsford United to Booth Street. Then on Tuesday 13th October K:O 7.45 pm its another home league game with St Helens Town the visitors.
The reserves maintained their improved form with another win last Saturday. Their 2-1 defeat of Barnton at Booth Street moved them to 9th in the table. This coming Saturday 10th October they are away at Denton Town K:O 3pm.
The youth side
prepared for the midweek visit (7th October) of Workington in the FA Youth Cup
with a 2-1 victory over Stone Dominoes last Sunday.
BEARS FINE RUN COMES TO AN END : 28/09/09
The Bears exited the FA Cup last Saturday at the hands of UniBond Premier Division side Frickley Athletic. The 1-0 defeat marked the Bears first loss in this season’s campaign and the first time they have failed to score in a match. They now turn their attention to the FA Vase this Saturday, 3rd October, K:O 3pm at Cheadle Town in the First Round Proper having gained exemption to this stage for their 4th place league finish last season.
Then on Tuesday 6th October the Bears are due to play Runcorn Linnets subject to the Bears not being in an FA Vase replay. On Saturday 10th October the Bears resume home league fixtures with the visit of Winsford United to Booth Street.
The reserves had a fine 3-1 win at Whichurch Alport last Saturday and hope to make it three successive wins with the visit of Barnton to Booth Street on 3rd October K:O 3pm.
The youth side’s
reward for their fine win at Burscough is a home tie in the 2nd Qualifying Round
of the FA Youth Cup against Workington on Wednesday 7th October K:O 7.45pm.
AUGUST SUCCESS FOR BEARS MANAGERS : 06/09/09
Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg were awarded the Vodkat Premier Division Manager of the Month for August after winning 5 and drawing 2 of the 7 games played. That included an impressive win away against UniBond side Witton Albion on the FA Cup.
Whereas the winning of the award normally means an upset follows, this time the Bears made no such mistake winning comfortably away at Abbey Hey 5-1 with goals from Lewis Short (2), Ryan Baker (2) and Scott Dundas. They followed that with a 3-0 win at home against Nelson last Saturday with Baker, Dundas and Kinsey on the score sheet. With Newcastle Town’s match postponed, the Bears went top of the table for the first time in over 15 years.
The Nelson match marked Kinsey’s return from injury but Hurst and Griggs were still not fully fit. Robinson and Tulloch were suspended so the depth of the quality in the squad was evident to see.
On Saturday 12th September K:O 3pm, the Bears travel to Atherton LR in the FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round with a valuable £3000 prize money waiting for the winners of the tie. If a replay is necessary, it will take place on Tuesday 15th September at Booth Street K:O 7.45pm. If not, and if Maine Road are not involved in a replay, the Bears are at home to Maine Road on Tuesday 15th Sept K:O 7.45pm. Saturday 19th September sees the Bears travel to Glossop North End K:O 3pm.
The reserves had their game at Denton Town postponed last Saturday and they are away again on Saturday 12th September K:O 3pm at Poynton. On Saturday 19th September, the reserves are at home to Denton FC in the Second Division Cup K:O 2.30pm.
The Youth Team
are in the FA Youth Cup on Wednesday 23rd September K.O 7.30pm away at Burscough.
There will be a coach for this trip leaving the Church House at 4.15pm. Spectators
wishing to travel on the team coach should see Ken Mead or Graham Booth. Fare
will be £5.
LATEST
Bucka Wins
Manager of the Month for August: 5 wins, 2 draws and 0 defeats
Congratulations
FA CUP WIN ENDS A FINE AUGUST FOR THE BEARS : 01/09/09
The Bears ended August on a real high with a well deserved 1-0 win in the FA Cup away at UniBond side Witton Albion. Mark Beeston’s 56th minute strike settled the match. That result meant the Bears had played seven matches, winning 5 and drawing 2.
Earlier in the week, the Bears were far from their best but battled for a 1-0 win away at Ashton Athletic. Beeston was again the match winner, although the defence took much of the credit for their second half display after injury left them with just 10 men for the last quarter hour. Beeston was sent off in the final minute of the match to add to the Bears woes with Hurst picking up an injury and Kinsey aggravating the injury that saw him miss the last couple of starts.
The cup win means that they travel to Atherton LR on Saturday 12th September K:O 3pm for the 1st Qualifying Round tie instead of playing at home to Formby. The Formby game will be re-arranged. Before that, the Bears are at home this Saturday 5th September K:O 3pm when Nelson are the visitors and then travel to Flixton on Wednesday 9th September K:O 7.45pm.
The reserves continue to struggle finding the goals their play warrants and they lost 1-0 at home to Crewe FC before travelling to Tarporley Vics last Saturday and were beaten 3-0. They are away on Saturday 5th September K:O 3pm at Denton Town and away again on Saturday 12th September K:O 3pm at Poynton.
The Youth Team
are in the FA Youth Cup on Wednesday 23rd September K.O 7.30pm away at Burscough.
There will be a coach for this trip. Details of departure time will appear here
next week. Spectators wishing to travel on the team coach should see Ken Mead
or Graham Booth. Fare will be £5.
BEARS CONTINUE PROMISING START : 23/08/09
The Bears first team had another good week with a home draw and an away win.
The challenge of meeting a strong New Mills side early in the season (as it was last season) was a good guide as to the strength of the current squad. A 2-2 draw seems a good result but leading 2-0, through 2 Scott Dundas goals, with six minutes left meant the result felt more like a defeat. They soon put that behind them with a 3-0 win away at Squires Gate last Saturday. The win, courtesy of a Scott Dundas penalty and a brace from Andy Hurst was a comfortable as the score line suggests.
Wayne Brotherton and Danny Griggs were missing through injury and it is hoped they will both be available for the FA Cup tie at Witton Albion on Saturday 29th August at Wincham park, K.O 3pm. If a replay is required, it will be at Booth Street on Tuesday 1st September K:O 7.45pm. If not, the Bears will be away at Abbey Hey on Tuesday 1st September K.O 7.45pm. The Bears are at home on Saturday 5th September K.O 3pm when Nelson are the visitors.
The reserves lost 2-0 at Moore United and then in their first home game last Saturday, lost 2-1 to Whitchurch Alport. They are away on Saturday 29th August to Tarporley Vics K.O 3pm and on Saturday 5th September K.O 3pm, they are away at Denton Town.
The Youth Team are in the FA Youth Cup on Wednesday 23rd September K.O 7.30pm away at Burscough. There will be a coach for this trip. Details of departure time will appear here in a couple of weeks. Spectators wishing to travel on the tam coach should see Ken Mead or Graham Booth. Fare will be £5.
This Friday, 28th
August 7pm – 11pm and Saturday 5pm – 11pm, there is a Beer Festival
at the ground in the Bears Den. Entry is £2 with a free Beer Glass (while
stocks last). 12 cask ales (while stocks last) along with normal bar service
will be available.
BEARS DOUBLE SUCCESS : 16/08/09
The Bears had a good week with the first team recording two victories and the reserves getting off to a winning start.
At Alsager Town, the home side took a first half lead but goals from Griggs and Kinsey took the 3 points. The downside was an injury picked up by Griggs late on that would see him miss the FA Cup tie on 15th Aug. Dinnington Town were the visitors to Booth Street then and an Andy Hurst goal within 40 seconds should have settled any nerves. Lewis Short doubled the score on 54 minutes but Simon Robinson was dismissed and a penalty converted to bring the visitors back into the game and five minutes later, on 76 minutes they equalised. Stuart Tulloch was harshly cautioned a second time and dismissed leaving the Bears to face a final 12 minutes 2 men short but a minute later Dinnington also had a player sent off. The game was won in the very last minute when Andy Kinsey fired home a low shot to leave the final score 3-2.
The Bears now face Witton Albion in the next round of the FA Cup scheduled to take place on Sat 29th Aug K:O 3pm at Wincham Park. Before that they travel to Squires Gate on Sat 22nd Aug K:O 3pm and then to Ashton Athletic on Tues 25th Aug K:O 7.45pm.
The reserves made
a wining start under new manager Andy Ratcliffe with a fine 2-1 win away at
Monk FC. They face Whitchurch Alport at home on Sat 22nd Aug K:O 3pm and on
Wed 26th Aug face Crewe FC K:O 6.30pm.
BEARS UP AND RUNNING : 09/08/09
The opening game of the Vodkat Premier League was a little disappointing for the Bears ending 2-2. Spurred on by an excellent attendance of 164, they fell behind after a defensive error and had to wait until a minute from half time before Andy Hurst’s equaliser, following the Atherton ‘keeper’s error when he fumbled a shot from Ryan Baker. The match was lit up in the 54th minute by a stunning 25-yard free kick from Simon Robinson but ex-Bear Phil Howard levelled 12 minutes from time.
This Saturday August 15th, the FA Cup begins and Dinnington Town, from Rotherham, are the visitors. K:O 3pm and should a replay prove necessary, this will be on Tuesday 18th Aug K:O 7.45pm. If neither the Bears nor New Mills are involved in an FA Cup replay, they meet in the Vodkat League at Booth Street on Tuesday 18th K:O 7.45 pm. On Saturday 22nd August, the Bears travel to Squires Gate K:O 3pm.
The Reserves get underway in the Cheshire League this Saturday, 15th August with their opening game away at Monk FC K:O 3pm. On Tuesday 18th Aug K:O 6.30pm the Bears are away at Moore United. Their first home match is on Saturday 22nd Aug K:O 3pm at Booth Street when Whitchurch Alport are the visitors.
The fun competition ‘Guess
the Score’ is running again this season. To enter, bring £5 to the
Saturday’s FA Cup tie and get an entry form from behind the bar, or from
the Secretary’s Office both situated in the club house.
NEW SEASON – NEW HOPE FOR THE BEARS
Following their 4th placed finish in the Vodkat Premier Division last season, the Bears are looking forward to 2009/10 with some justified optimism.
Some key strengthening
has taken place during the close season as Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg continue
to seek to bring major success to Booth Street. A 5-0 defeat of Welsh Premier
League side Connah’s Quay helped support that optimism. With a final friendly
away at Eccleshall on Sat 1st Aug K:O 3pm (at the request of Vodkat First Division
side) the Bears begin the 2009/10 campaign on Sat 8th August.
Season 2009-10 Admission Prices : 01/07/09
Congleton Town F.C. has announced its admission pricing for the forthcoming 2009-10 season where they will once again compete in the Vodkat North West Counties Premier Division. Gate prices are £6.00 for adults; £3.00 for concessions (OAP’s/U18’s) and Under 12’s are FREE. Season Tickets are also available, which covers all 21 home league fixtures, but excludes cup games, and these are priced at £100.00 for adults and £50.00 for OAP’s/U18’s. The club also has a limited number of Vice-President’s places available for the season, which gives free admission to all home league and cup games, a complimentary match-day programme, and complimentary light refreshments at half-time. The price for the season is £175.00 and VP’s are recognised on a scroll of honour in the match-day programme.
Club Press Officer Colin Whitehurst explained the reasoning behind the pricing structure. “Overall the admission prices for the forthcoming season represent great value for money. Having finished in fourth place in the table last season, where we lost just one of the last twenty-one games, the club has set a target of promotion to the Unibond league this season.
Everyone associated with the football club is delighted to have both joint-managers Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg remain at the helm of the team, and they are working very hard during the close season to supplement the playing squad. The club believes that, having set a target of promotion, it is important to continue to back the managers’ efforts and the Board of Directors has agreed to a significant increase in the playing budget.
Already the services of former Nantwich Town striker Andy Kinsey and defender Richard Smith have been secured, which demonstrates the quality of players that the managers are looking to bring in. Unfortunately though it appears that we have lost Matt Haddrell to Kidsgrove Athletic, but on the positive side it looks as though Leek Town have now failed in their approach to take Andy Hurst.
The club has set its’ admission prices in line with several of the other top clubs vying for promotion in the division this season. Unfortunately, this has meant an increase in the full adult entry price, but we hope that this is tempered by the decision to allow free entry to children under twelve years of age, which could mean an overall reduction in price for families and ‘dads and lads.’ This is part of the clubs’ continuing strategy to attract more families to support the club and free entry for the Town’s youngsters is a hugely worthwhile investment in the future support of the club.”
Anyone wishing to take advantage of the season ticket or Vice-Presidents offer can contact the club by post at Congleton Town F.C., Booth Street Ground, Off Crescent Road, Congleton, Cheshire, CW12 4DG or can obtain the details from any club official, either at the club on a Saturday morning or during any pre-season game, full details of which will be confirmed and published shortly.
BEARS LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT SEASON : 17/05/09
Following their 4th placed finish in the Vodkat Premier Division this season, the Bears are looking forward to 2009/10 with some justified optimism.
Building on their moderate success from two seasons ago, managers Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg brought some new faces in for this season and they reinforced the squad. As a result, the Bears ended in their highest league position since rejoining the Vodkat league in 2001. The fourth place was so nearly third as they were pipped by Newcastle Town by one point. In the final run in the Bears lost just one league game in the last 20.
The reserve side improved their finishing position in the Cheshire League division two and the youth team consolidated their league status after promotion last season.
So, on all fronts
the teams have improved and the recognition of all the achievements will be
summarised at the clubs presentation event which takes place at the ground on
Saturday 23rd May. Gates open at 1.30 pm with the (now) traditional barbecue
and the main presentations will begin at 3pm. Everyone is welcome to come along
and show their appreciation to the players and management for the season’s
endeavours.
BEARS TURN ON THE STYLE AND KEEP WINNING : 27/04/09
The Bears continued their impressive run in to the end of the season with two away victories. The trip to Wincham Park again proved a happy hunting ground as the Bears put on a great all round display to win 5-1 against Runcorn Linnets. Andy Hurst helped himself to 4 goals and Steve Millington popped in the other. They followed that up with a win in the final away game at Silsden last Saturday. Matt Haddrell scored the only goal. Like Andy Hurst four days earlier, Matt also scored his 50th goal for the club. Both have an excellent strike rate. The two wins meant the Bears have lost just once in the last 18 league games and that was against Silden at home, so Saturday’s win was some form of revenge for that reversal.
The reserves ended their campaign on Saturday 25th at home to Tarporley Vics. A 4-2 defeat was a little harsh but there were a good number of spectators to cheer them on.
The final game this season for the first team is at home on Saturday 2nd May K:O 3pm against Colne.
The Youth side had are at Booth Street in a cup semi-final against Norton United Red on Sunday 3rd may K:O 2.30 pm.
The club’s presentation event has been fixed for Saturday 23rd May. With a barbecue laid on for 1.30 pm, the main presentation will begin at 3pm. Everyone is welcome and the lads deserve a good turn out to celebrate what has been the most successful season for many years.
We are sorry to
hear that Wayne Brotherton fractured his tibia playing on Sunday and will be
out of action until June. We wish him a full and speedy recovery.
BEARS UNDER PERFORM BUT STILL WIN : 20/04/09
The Bears fine run of results continued with a home win last Saturday against bottom side Atherton Collieries. The visitors put up a spirited display, especially after being reduced to 10 men 20 minutes into the game. It took a deflection from a Scott Dundas free kick to finally find the net in a game where few chances were created by either side. So 1 defeat in 16 league games represents a fine set of results as the Bears continue to rattle up the points hoping for Glossop NE and Newcastle Town to slip and allow them the chance to claim third spot.
The reserves had a fine 5-0 home win against bottom side Broadheath Central over a week ago and now have just the one remaining fixture, at home to Tarporley Vics on Saturday 25th April K:O 3pm.
The first team have their final away game at Silsden on Saturday 25th K:O 3pm. The final two games are at home. The first on Tuesday 28th April K:O 7.45pm against Bacup Borough and finally the last game at Booth Street on Saturday 2nd May K:O 3pm against Colne.
The Youth side
had no game last Sunday and as a result of County Cup commitments, have no opponents
this Sunday.
BEARS STILL ENJOYING FGOOD RUN : 13/04/09
The Bears fine league form continued with a 4-1 home defeat of Winsford United last Saturday with Ryan Stewart, James Marrow (2) and Matt Haddrell on the score sheet. On Easter Monday the Bears faced third placed Newcastle Town and despite having Matt Haddrell sent off in the first half, fought back from 1-0 down with a fine goal from Scott Dundas levelling the scores. That meant just one league defeat in the last 15 league matches and managers Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg still eyeing the possibility of a third place finish.
This Saturday, 18th April K:O 3pm they are at home to Atherton Collieries and on Tuesday 21st April K:O 7.45 pm its back to Wincham Park to face Runcorn Linnets. On Saturday 25th April K:O 3pm, the Bears have their final away game at Silsden K:O 3pm. The final two games are at home. The first on Tuesday 28th April K:O 7.45pm against Bacup Borough and finally the last game at Booth Street on Saturday 2nd May K:O 3pm against Colne.
The reserves crashed to a 6-0 home defeat at the hands of Moore United over a week ago and face their last match of the season on Saturday 25th April K:O 3pm at home to Tarporley Vics K:O 3pm
The Youth side
ran out 5-2 winners last Sunday against Meir KA but have no game this weekend.
LEAGUE WINS – CUP DEFEAT FOR BEARS : 06/04/09
The Bears fine league form continued with a 2-0 midweek win at Atherton LR with Matt Haddrell and Mark Fitton scoring. Then last Saturday it was the local derby against Alsager Town at Booth Street. Having gone one down after nine minutes, Andy Hurst equalised a minute later and Steve Millington netted a second half winner. The fine run of results ended on Monday at Wincham Park with a 2-0 Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup Final defeat at the hands of Witton Albion.
The first team are at home on Saturday 11th April against Winsford United K:O 3pm and away at Newcastle Town on Easter Monday, 13th April, K:O 3pm. On Saturday 18th April K:O 3pm the Bears are at home to Atherton Collieries.
The reserves are at home on Wednesday 15th April K:O 7.45 pm against Broadheath Central and end their season at home to Tarporley Vics on Saturday 25th April K:O 3pm.
The youth side
drew 1-1 on Sunday 5th April at Back Lane against Leek CSOB.
ANOTHER WIN AND DRAW FOR BEARS : 30/03/09
The past week followed a similar pattern to those recently. A mid week win, this time at home against Atherton LR and then a Saturday afternoon draw away, at Bacup Borough. Matt Haddrell’s double strike and an own goal gave the Bears a 3-0 win and then at Bacup an own goal gave the Bears the lead but they allowed a soft equaliser to rob them of a deserved win.
The Bears are at home on Saturday 4th April K:O 3pm v Alsager Town and then travel to Wincham Park on Monday 6th April K:O 7.45 pm to contest the Mid-Cheshire Cup Final against Witton Albion. Then Saturday 11th April its home against Winsford United K:O 3pm. Manager Anthony Buckle was signjng a couple of players to provide cover through the final five weeks of the season as the signing-on deadline was 5pm on 31st march.
The reserves were hit by a 6-2 home defeat at the hands of table toppers Golborne Sports last Saturday. They are at home for the final 3 league games: on Wednesday 8th April K:O 7.45 pm v Moore United, on Wednesday 15th April K:O 7.45 pm v Broadheath Central and finally on Saturday 25th April K:O 3pm v Tarporley Vics.
The youth side had a terrific result away at Stafford Rangers, holding them to a 1-1 draw. They are at home next Sunday, 5th April at Back Lane K:O 2.30 pm against Leek CSOB.
The open meeting held at the club contained a number of positives that augured well for the club’s determined efforts in the coming months to try and build on and off the field to support a determined promotion push.
BEARS DRAW AGAIN : 23/03/09
The Bears travelled to St Helens on 17th March and won 2-1 thanks to Stuart Tulloch’s double strike. Then last Saturday they failed to see off a spirited Abbey Hey side despite leading 1-0 and 2-1 with a Matt Haddrell double but had to settle for an away point in a 2-2 draw. A worrying feature was the loss of Wayne Brotherton mid way through the second half through injury. It is hoped that he will make a speedy recovery. The reserves were without a game but the youth side ran out comfortable 5-1 winners against Alsager Town.
This Saturday, 28th March K:O 3pm, the first team are away at Bacup Borough and the reserves are at home to Golborne Sports. The youth team play on Sunday 29th, K.O 2.30 pm either away at Stafford Rangers, but if they are involved in a county cup tie, the youth team will travel to Hanley Town instead.
On Tuesday 31st March K:O 7.45 pm the Bears travel to Atherton LR. The next home game for the first team is on Saturday 4th April K:O 3pm when Alsager Town are the visitors. Then it’s cup final time as the Bears travel to Witton Albion in the final of the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup on Monday 6th April K:O 7.45 pm. The reserves are at home on Wednesday 8th April K:O 7.45 pm to Moore Utd.
CURSE CONTINUES FOR BEARS : 16/03/09
The manager of the month ‘curse’ continued last week as the Bears again failed to win either of their 2 away games. The first, though, was at first glance a good result against high flying AFC Fylde. As only one of 3 teams to beat the FA Vase holders in the league, they became one of only 3 teams to draw with them too after a 3-3 draw. Playing well the Bears led 2-0 at half time and 3-2 with over 3 minutes of added time played but allowed the home side to salvage a point. Haddrell scored twice, including 1 penalty, and Hurst added the other. It was a different story at Ramsbottom United when restricting the home side to barley a decent chance but themselves failing to stretch the home ‘keeper and 0-0 was a tame result.
The reserves did well against 4th placed Moore Utd last Saturday but came away beaten 1-0. The youth side were without a game last Sunday.
This Saturday 21st March, the first team are away at Abbey Hey K:O 3.00 pm and at home on Tuesday 24th K:O 7.45 against Atherton LR. This match has special admission prices with adults entry just £3, OAPs £2 and Children (U/16) FREE. On Saturday 28th March, the Bears are away at Bacup Borough K:O 3pm.
The reserves have no game on Saturday 21st and are at home on Saturday 28th against Golborne Sports K:O 3pm.
The youth side return to action this Sunday at Back Lane against Alsager Town K:O 2.30 pm.
BEARS TRY TO EASE EFFECTS OF CREDIT CRUNCH
Earlier in the season, Congleton Town tried to experiment with a reduced price admission policy for the home game against Bacup Borough. That effort failed as the match fell to the adverse weather.
The club are trying again, this time with the home fixture against Atherton LR on Tuesday 24th March with a kick off time of 7.45 pm. Admission prices will be £3.00 for adults (normally £5.00), £2.00 OAPs (normally £3.00) and Children under 16 free (normally £3.00).
Chairman Pete Evans
says “We hope that our regular supporters will appreciate the gesture
and encourage as many friends and colleagues to take advantage of the special
offer.
“We hope too that advertising these special prices may encourage some
who have not been to the ground, either in recent times or at all, to give it
a try and see what a good standard of football is on show at our level. We will
review the success or otherwise of the venture and if it proves popular, we
may well try another before the end of this season.”
BEARS WEEKEND REVERSALS : 09/03/09
Just as the previous weekend was successful on all fronts for the Bears, the last weekend saw the complete opposite. Everything looked good after the Bears progressed through to the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup Final to take place against Witton Albion at Wincham Park on Monday 6th April, K:O 7.45 pm. That came as a result of the Bears 6-3 midweek win over Barnton. Matt Haddrell scored 3 (including a penalty) and Stuart Tulloch, Mark Fitton and Ryan Stewart were the other scorers.
With Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg being presented with the joint Manager of the Month award for February’s 100% record, and with Matt Conkie receiving the Safe Hands award before the Silsden game, it was a case of the dreaded jinx striking as the Bears went down 1-0 at home. The reserves had a 2-0 lead frittered away and two late goals left them beaten 3-2 at Malpas. The Youth side also suffered defeat, 4-1 away in the Sentinel Cup against Leek CSOB.
This Saturday 14th
March K.O 3pm, the first team are at away at Ramsbottom United then on Tuesday
17th March K:O 7.45 pm they are away at St Helens Town. The reserves are away
at Moore United on Saturday 14th K:O 3pm and at home on Tuesday 17th March K:O
7.45 pm against Whitchurch Alport.
BEARS VICTORIOUS WEEKEND : 02/03/09
After the first team’s midweek win against high flying AFC Fylde on Tuesday, thanks to Andy Hurst’s goal close to half time, the reserves continued to show improvement with a 3-3 draw against table toppers Warrington Town Reserves on Wednesday.
So on to the weekend where the first team completed a 100% record for February with their fifth win, 3-0 at Flixton thanks to goals from Hurst (2) and Millington. Matt Conkie also made it three successive clean sheets. At Booth Street, the reserves were winning 2-0 against bottom side Monk FC. The Youth team completed a trio of success with a 2-1 win away at Hanley Town on Sunday.
This Saturday 7th March, the first team are at home against Silsden K:O 3pm. The reserves are away at Malpas K:O 3pm and the Youth Team are away on Sunday 8th March at Leek CSOB in the Sentinel Cup K:O 2pm.
On Wednesday 11th
March, the first team travel to AFC Fylde K:O 7.45pm and on Saturday 14th March
K:O 3pm they are away at Ramsbottom Utd.
BEARS AWAY DAY SUCCESSES : 16/02/09
The past week saw the Bears travel twice. Last Saturday, they were at Nelson and came away with a 3-1 win thanks to goals from Tulloch, Haddrell and Hurst. Those present will confirm that the score could have been bigger with Haddrell twice hitting the post and a clear handling on the line being dismissed. Nelson could also have added to their score but for a woeful miss when clean through but the final score line was a fair reflection of the Bears supremacy.
That followed a convincing 4-1 win the previous Wednesday against Runcorn Linnets in the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup. Goals from Hurst, Baker, Dundas and Brotherton could easily have been doubled. Dundas scored with his very first touch and Brotherton hit a scorching low volley for a corner to give the Bears fans present a pleasant evening.
That match was put out as a semi-final but in fact was a quarter final. The Bears were drawn to meet either Barnton or Northwich Vics in the semi-final. With no ground of their own, the Vics will not be playing in the competition this year and Barnton provide the semi-final opponents at Booth Street.
Last Saturday, the reserves played in the Macclesfield & District Cup at home to Club AZ and went out after extra time and penalties. The youth team were without a fixture.
This Saturday 21st February K:O 3pm, Squires Gate are the visitors to Booth Street. Then on Tuesday 24th February (currently with 7.45 pm K:O) the Bears are at home in what should be the game of the season at Booth Street against League leaders AFC Fylde. On Saturday28th February, the Bears travel to Flixton K:O 3pm.
The reserves are away on Saturday 21st February K:O 2.15 pm at Broadheath Central and are at home on Wednesday 25th February K:O 7.45 against Warrington Town. On Saturday 21st they are at home to Moore Utd K:O 2.15pm.
The youth side
are away at Meir KA on Sunday 22nd K:O 2pm.
BEARS
SIT IT OUT AGAIN : 07/02/09
Another week of frustration with the weather meant the Bears lost 2 home games in the Vodkat Premier Division. Firstly the mid-week game against Atherton LR was off after snow covered the pitch. Then last Saturday, the attractive game v AFC Fylde was lost to a frozen pitch. Strangely, by 3pm it was quite possible that conditions would have allowed the game to proceed but with Fylde requiring a decision by 10.15 am to avoid incurring unnecessary travelling costs, the inspecting referee had little option as the pitch was rutted and frozen hard with no sun having come out.
The reserves did get a game in away at Tarporley Vics and they did well to come away with a 0-0 draw. Tarporley would have gone second in the table with a win. The Youth Team game at home to Nantwich Town in the Sentinel Cup also fell to the weather.
This Saturday 14th February K:O 3pm the bears are away at Nelson. A week later, 21st February K:O 3pm, Squires Gate are the visitors to Booth Street. Scott Dundas has signed from Norton to help with coaching and playing. Seven days notice of approach for Tim Sanders at Kidsgrove will have expired in time for him to be registered to play at Nelson if he decides to sign for the Bears.
The reserves are
at home on Saturday 14th February K:O 2pm in the Macclesfield & District
Saturday Cup against Club AZ. A week later, 21st February K:O 2.15 pm they are
away at Broadheath Central. The youth side have no scheduled game this coming
weekend.
BEARS LOSE TO CLOSE RIVALS : 02/02/09
Defeat at Glossop on Saturday allowed their close rivals to move 4 points ahead of them in the table. Going ahead with a dubious penalty scored by Matt Haddrell, the Bears were hit by an equally dubious penalty at the start of the second half to see the scores levelled. A last minute winner robbed the Bears of a deserved point and the two red cards for Vickers and Bostock after the final whistle added to the day’s frustration.
The reserves gained revenge for their 8-4 defeat at Denton Town earlier this season with a 2-1 win at Booth Street on Saturday. The youth team lost 3-0 against Nantwich Town at Back Lane on Sunday.
The club have put in two 7 days notice of approach. One is for Tim Sanders at Kidsgrove Athletic and the other is for Scott Dundas at Norton.
The weather put off the home game against Atherton LR on Tuesday 3rd Feb. This Saturday 7th February K:O 3pm take on league pace setters and last years FA Vase winners, AFC Fylde. On Tuesday 10th February K:O 7.45 the Bears travel to Wincham Park to take on Runcorn Linnets in the Mid-Cheshire Cup Semi-Final. Then on Saturday 14th K:O 3pm its an away trip to Nelson.
The reserves are
away at Tarporley Victoria on Saturday 7th February K:O 3pm and then are at
home on Wednesday 11th February against Poynton K:O 7.45pm. On Sunday 8th February,
the Youth team take on Nantwich Town at Booth Street in the Sentinel Cup K:O
1:00 pm
FIRST GAME OF 2009 AND THE BEARS HIT FORM
The long awaited first match of 2009 finally took place last Saturday as the Bears entertained Ashton Athletic. For most of the spectators, the main interest was to see what impact the return of Matt Haddrell and Andy Hurst would have on the side’s finishing. A 5-0 win said it all. The Bears were as dominant as the score line suggests and first half goals from Vickers and Tulloch were followed up with ones from Hurst, Stewart and Millington. The pick of the five was a tremendous shot from the other debutant, Ryan Stewart as his left foot angled shot flew like an arrow past a despairing dive by the visitor’s ‘keeper and into the top right hand corner of the net.
The reserves had a poor day, losing 4-1 away at Whitchurch Alport. The youth side were without a game as a number of them featured in the 4-3 win by Macclesfield & District Youth against Stockport Youth at Booth Street on Sunday.
This weekend sees the first team away at on Saturday 31st January K:O 3pm at Glossop North End. The reserves are at home the same day K:O 2:15 against Denton Town. The youth team play against Nantwich Town u/17s at Back Lane on Sunday, 1st February K:O 2.00pm.
On Tuesday 3rd
February the first team are at home against Atherton LR K:O 7.45 pm and then
on Saturday 7th February K:O 3pm take on league pace setters and last years
FA Vase winners, AFC Fylde. The reserves are away at Tarporley Victoria K:O
3pm. On Sunday 8th February, the Youth team take on Nantwich Town at Booth Street
in the Sentinel Cup K:O 1:00 pm
MORE WAITING FOR THE BEARS : 13/01/09
The frozen conditions again ruled out any football for the Bears last weekend with all games postponed. Matt Haddrell has been waiting to make his debut since 3rd Jan and in similar fashion, Ryan Stewart, signed from Woodley Sports has also had to be patient while awaiting his opportunity to make his debut.
One benefit from the postponed games is that skipper Carl Nesbitt has continued his recovery from a broken ankle and will not have missed as many games as he first feared before regaining his fitness.
This weekend sees the first team without a match as St Helens Rugby League side have claimed the use of the Knowsley Road pitch. The Bears scheduled football match there has moved to Tuesday 20th January K:O 7.45 pm. Then on Saturday 14th January K:O 3pm, the Bears are at home to Ashton Athletic.
The reserves are
without a game this weekend and resume on Saturday 24th Jan with a trip to Whitchurch
K:O 2.15 pm.
‘GRUESOME’ TIMES TO RETURN FOR THE BEARS : 27/12/08
Last season, Matt Haddrell and Andy Hurst were in the top three of the leagues leading scorers with Matt Haddrell heading the table for the combined list of goal scorers in league and cups. After leaving for Spain in the Summer, ‘Gruesome’ as he is affectionately known by the players, has returned and his international clearance will leave him eligible to play on Saturday 3rd Jan 2009 in the home match against Colne, K:O 3pm. His scoring talents are needed after a second successive 1-0 defeat, this time at home against second placed Newcastle Town on Boxing Day. The only consolation for the Bears was their biggest home attendance this season of 237.
Also likely to be among the squad is Ryan Stewart, who should have completed all registration requirements to be able to play on Saturday. Ryan is a left back and has played for Woodley Sports in the UniBond league.
The reserves disappointed too, losing 2-1 at bottom placed Monk FC. They face a tough test next weekend when they travel to Garswood FC, a division above them, in the League Cup. The youth side were without a game over the weekend.
Everyone at the
club wishes their supporters a Happy New Year. They thank everyone who has supported
them throughout 2008 and look forward to a year when work on the ground and
progress with the team promises some exciting times.
BEARS HARD DONE BY AT NEW MILLS : 21/12/08
The Bears last away game before the New Year took them to third placed New Mills. On a wet and soft pitch, both sides gave a good afternoon’s entertainment but weak refereeing saw the Bears lose out in a match they deserved to share the points. After Baker was brought down from behind, just the really biased home fans and the referee were the only ones not to think the unfair challenge warranted a penalty. Then a suspiciously looking goal (offside?) robbed the Bears in the 90th minute. There was much to be pleased with on the day, including a starring performance by Matt Conkie in goal having been signed from Middlewich Town after Rob Hackney’s unavailability through his application to join the Fire Service.
The reserves and Youth team were both without games over the weekend.
The first team play their final home game of 2008 against Newcastle Town on Boxing Day, 26th December K:O 3pm. They begin 2009 with a home game on Saturday 3rd January K:O 3pm. Matt Haddrell will be eligible to play in that game. He may be able to play against Newcastle Town if the Spanish FA co-operates with International clearance but they are continuing to play politics and are unlikely to do so in time.
This Saturday, 27th December, the reserves travel to Monk FC K:O 2pm.
Everyone at the
club wishes their supporters a happy Christmas and prosperous New Year. They
thank everyone who has supported them throughout 2008 and look forward to a
year when work on the ground and progress with the team promises some exciting
times.
BEARS EXTEND WINNING RUN : 8/12/08
The Bears fourth successive victory came at Booth Street last Saturday when mid-table Nelson put up a spirited performance before going down 3-2. Robinson opened the scoring with a terrific 25 yard drive that rose and curled into the top corner. Molloy added a second heading in from close range after Brotherton again put in a header from a corner. Nelson pulled one back in the second half before Robinson converted a penalty after a handling offence to restore the Bears two-goal lead. Nelson replied with a second five minutes from time to complete the scoring and strengthen the Bears fourth place spot.
The reserves had a tough match away at Grappenhall Sports last Saturday and were beaten 2-0. The youth side were due to play some part in the match against the visiting Western Australian side but the heavy frost put paid to any chance of that game being played on Sunday morning.
The first team are at home again on Saturday 13th December K:O 3pm in their final home game before Christmas. The club want to show their appreciation to its loyal supporters and do their small bit in these difficult times to attract new supporters to Booth Street by offering special prices for the Bacup match. Adults at £3 and Concessions at just £1 are complimented by offering free admission to children under 16 if accompanied by a full paying (£3) adult. Additional children will be charged at just £1. A week later, 20th December K:O 3pm they travel to New Mills.
The reserves are away on Saturday 13th December K:O 2pm at Malpas and at home on Saturday 20th December K:O 2pm to Maine Road Reserves. On Thursday 18th December K:O 7pm, Cheshire Schools are playing Greater Manchester Schools at Booth Street. Admission is £1 adults 50p concessions.
The Bears have
organised a Christmas raffle. Tickets are now on sale. After costs, the proceeds
will be shared with Alder Hey Children’s hospital. First prize is a romantic
weekend break in Paris travelling there by Eurostar for a 2 night stay in a
hotel. With the value of that prize in the region of £500, plus a £100
voucher for beauty treatment and meals at local venues amongst the other prizes,
it offers some rewards for the winners to be enjoyed over the festive period,
while helping the club and the work of the hospital.
BEARS MAKE IT THREE IN A ROW : 01/12/08
The Bears began rebuilding their season with their 3rd successive win to make it 10 points from a possible 12. Playing amongst their best football for a while, they demolished Winsford last week with a 4-1 win at Barton Stadium in a match where they could have doubled their score quite easily. James Marrow netted twice with Ryan Baker and Graham Molloy also on the score sheet. They then travelled to Altcar Road last Saturday and in murky conditions ran out 3-2 winners against Formby. Graham Molloy scored twice in the first half but a battling Formby pulled it back to 2 apiece before Wayne Brotherton scored with a header to take all 3 points and make it 3 wind and a draw in the past fortnight.
The reserves lost 4-1 at home to Grappenhall Sports and face the same opponents next Saturday, 6th December away, K:O 2.15 pm. The youth team won 3-0 against Longton Harriers U’18s on Sunday.
On Saturday 6th December K:O 3pm, the first team have a re-arranged fixture, at home against Nelson as their original opponents – AFC Fylde – are involved in the FA Vase. The first team are at home again on Saturday 13th December K:O 3pm in their final home game before Christmas. The club want to show their appreciation to its loyal supporters and do their small bit in these difficult times to attract new supporters to Booth Street by offering special prices for the Bacup match. Adults at £3 and Concessions at just £1 are complimented by offering free admission to children under 16 if accompanied by a full paying (£3) adult. Additional children will be charged at just £1.
On Wednesday 10th
December K:O 7pm, Cheshire Schools are playing Lancashire Schools at Booth Street.
Admission is £1 adults 50p concessions. On Sunday 7th December K:O 11
am at Booth Street, there is a truly international flavour as the Macclesfield
& District Youth Side take on a Western Australia Youth side.
BEARS STILL STRUGGLING : 18/11/08
The Bears still look to get back to winning ways after losing away at bottom side Atherton Collieries but ending a losing streak with a point away at Ashton Athletic. At Atherton, a match of four penalties (3 to the home side who converted two, and one to the Bears converted by Matt Woolley) saw the game end 2-1 to the home side. Remarkable, no one was cautioned or sent off in that match. Last Tuesday, the Bears travelled to Ashton Athletic and after going one behind on 6 minutes, were ell worth their point after Stuart Tulloch equalised on 50 minutes.
The side were depleted by absentees on Tuesday and were grateful to ex-Port Vale star Richard Eyre for helping them out. Unfortunately, he will not be available on a regular basis.
The reserves drew 2-2 at home last Saturday and the youth team were without a game.
This Saturday 22nd November K:O 3pm, the first team are at home to Flixton and on Tuesday 25th November K:O 7.45 they travel to Winsford United. Saturday 29th, K:O 3pm, they are away again at Formby. The reserves are away on 22nd November K:O 2:15pm at Eagle Sports.
BEARS OFF THE BOIL : 9/11/08
With no midweek game attention turned to cup affairs when the Bears entertained Colne in the Vodkat League Challenge Cup on Saturday. Another bid for silverware went begging when a lacklustre performance allowed the visitors two soft goals and a 3-1 victory. Darren Twigg got the consolation goal. That left just interest in the UniBond Cheshire Senior Cup and the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup for the remainder of this season.
The reserves did well to complete the league double over Daten with a fine 3-2 win away last Saturday. That followed a 5-2 win in the Macclesfield & District FA Cup on Nov 5th against Old Altrinchamians. The youth side were without a fixture last weekend.
This Saturday 15th K:O 3pm the Bears travel to Atherton Collieries. On Tuesday 18th K:O 7.45 pm they are away at Ashton Athletic. The next home game for the first team is on Saturday 22nd November K:O 3pm against Flixton. Both Andy Bostock and Wayne Brotherton are suspended for the Flixton match.
The reserves are at home on Saturday 15th November K:O 2:15 against Lostock Gralam. On 22nd November K:O 2:15pm they are away at Eagle Sports. The Youth side are without a game again this coming weekend.
The fireworks display at the ground on Friday 7th November was a great success. A good number turned out with a large contingent of children amongst those who were treated to a well received display. Numerous people present voiced their opinion that the evening was one of great value for money in the current difficult times. The club are already looking to repeat the exercise next year.
BEARS HAVE A MIXED WEEK : 3/11/08
Last week, the Bears managed to record a narrow 1-0 win against close rivals Runcorn Linnets. James Marrow scored what proved to be the winner in the first half and some good defending helped safeguard the 3 points in front of a good attendance of over 175. Last Saturday, they faced Glossop North End who were sitting one place ahead of the Bears and a weak first half showing saw the Bears trail 2-0 at half time. A second half rally got them back on level terms and despite seeing their opponents reduced to 10 men, they allowed the visitors to grab a late winner.
It was an equally disappointing weekend for the reserves who faced Monk FC in the league cup. Ending all square at 1-1 after 90 mins and extra time, the Bears were beaten on penalties. The youth side were without a game.
This Saturday 8th November K:O 3pm, it is another home match as Colne visit Booth Street in the Vodkat League Challenge Cup 2nd Round. Then it’s cup time again on Tuesday 8th November, but this time away at Witton Albion K:O 7.45 pm in the Cheshire Senior Cup Quarter Finals. Then Saturday 15th November K:O 3pm, the Bears travel to Atherton Collieries.
The reserves are away this Saturday 8th November at Daten K:O 2:15 pm and at home on Saturday 15th November K:O 2:45 against Lostock Gralam. The Youth side are without a game again this coming weekend.
There is a fireworks display at the ground this Friday 7th November. Gates open at 6.30 pm and the display starts at 7pm with a special Children’s event (no loud bangs) and the main display following after a short interval. Covered seating and covered standing areas are available. Tickets are £3 (available from the Information Centre in town, at the Church House Inn or pay at the gate £4 on the night. Children under 8 are admitted free. A barbecue, hot and cold soft drinks and drinks from the clubhouse will all be available on the night.
BEARS HELD UP IN BLACKPOOL : 27/10/08
The Bears efforts to push up the league table were held up by the weather at Squires Gate last Saturday. The strong gusting wind and fairly persistent rain made conditions difficult and unpleasant. The Bears had much of the play and restricted the home side to just couple of decent openings but they too found it hard to get the final telling pass and so the points were shared in a 0-0 draw.
The reserves had a very creditable win at home against ex-manager Ronnie Green’s Daten side, running out 3-1 winners after leading 2-0 at half time. The youth side were without a game last Sunday and are do not have a game this weekend.
The first team are at home this Saturday 1st November K:O 3pm against Glossop North End and again on Saturday 8th November when Colne are the opponents in the Vodkat League Cup 2nd Round K:O 3pm. Then on Tuesday 11th November K:O 7.45pm it’s another cup tie, this time away at Witton Albion in the Cheshire Senior Cup quarter final.
There is a fireworks display at the ground is on Friday 7th November. Gates open at 6.30 pm and the display starts at 7pm with a special Children’s event (no loud bangs) and the main display following after a short interval. Covered seating and covered standing areas are available. Tickets are £3 (available from the Information Centre in town, at the Church House Inn or the football ground on match days) or pay at the gate £4 on the night. Children under 8 are admitted free. A barbecue, hot and cold soft drinks and drinks from the clubhouse will all be available on the night.
BEARS RETAIN FOURTH SPOT : 20/10/08
The Bears maintained their 4th spot in the Vodkat Premier league following Saturday’s 2-1 win away at Maine Road. All the goals came in the second half with Robinson converting a penalty and Tulloch giving the Bears a two-goal cushion before they were pegged back a quarter hour from the end. Their games in hand, if won, would see them climb to second in the table.
The reserves were well beaten at home against Malpas, going down 6-1. The youth team were without a fixture at the weekend.
This Saturday 25th October K:O 3pm, the Bears travel to Blackpool again, this time in the league fixture against Squires Gate where they hope to repeat their 3-0 win in the FA Cup replay earlier this season. They then play Runcorn Linnets in a league fixture at Booth Street on Tuesday 28th October K:O 7.45pm. The reserves are at home against Broadheath Central on Saturday 25th October, please note the 2.15pm K:O time. The Youth side should be in action on Sunday 26th October K:O but their fixture had not been notified to them at the time of printing.
Preparations are
progressing for the firework display at the ground on Friday 7th November. Gates
open at 6.30 pm and the display starts at 7pm with a special Children’s
event (no bangs) and the main display following after a short interval. Covered
seating and covered standing areas are available. Tickets are £3 (available
from the Information Centre in town, at the Church House Inn or the football
ground on match days) or pay at the gate £4 on the night. Children under
8 are admitted free. A barbecue, hot and cold soft drinks and drinks from the
clubhouse will all be available on the night.
BEARS BACK TO WINNING WAYS : 14/10/08
The Bears returned to winning ways last Saturday when they beat Formby 3-1 at Booth Street. Two goals in the opening six minutes settled the nerves and another on 24 minutes meant Marrow, twice, and Brotherton had all but secured victory. A goal with a quarter hour left cut the arrears but no further scoring gave the Bears a valuable three points and moved them up to 4th in the table. Winning their games in hand would take them to 2nd place.
The Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup tie against Runcorn Linnets was again put back after attempts to get it played on Wed 15th October. No date has yet been fixed. So it’s off to Maine Road for the Bears on Saturday 18th October K:O 3pm. A week later, 25th October, it is on the road again, this time to Blackpool and Squires Gate, K:O 3pm.
The reserves lost 2-0 at Crewe FC last Saturday. The reserves at last get another home game. This Saturday, 18th Oct K:O 3pm, they entertain Malpas and on 25th Oct K:O 3pm, Broadheath Central are the visitors.
The Youth team
also lost last weekend. They were beaten 3-1 on Sunday by Leek CSOB and are
without a game this coming Sunday.
CUP DISASTER FOR BEARS : 06/10/08
The high hopes of an extended run in the FA Vase came to an abrupt end at First Division side Oldham Town last Saturday. Dominating almost throughout, it was hard to explain how so few chances were created by a Bears side that should have been full of confidence. Instead, a goal two minutes into the second half gave the home side a lead they fought tigerishly and successfully to defend. So, valuable prize money and prestige were lost.
The reserves were without a game as their cup tie at Monk FC fell to the weather and the youth side also had a bad weekend with defeat against Norton United, despite having generally the better of things.
This weekend, the Bears face Formby at Booth Street in the league on Saturday 11th October K:O 3pm. The reserves are away at Crewe FC K:O 3pm and the Youth side play on Sunday 12th October, K:O 2.30 pm away at Leek CSOB,
The Mid-Cheshire Cup tie away at Runcorn Linnets that was postponed has been re-scheduled for Wednesday 15th October K:O 7.45 pm at Witton Albion’s Wincham Park ground. Witton Albion provide the opposition in the next round of the Cheshire Senior Cup, also at Wincham Park. More details on that game will be published next week.
The Bears are putting on
a firework display at the ground on Friday 7th November. Tickets are on sale
at £3 and entry to the ground on the night will be £4. Children
under 8 will be admitted free. Again more details will be published next week.
MORE ALL ROUND SUCCESS FOR BEARS : 29/09/08
The month of September has proved to be very successful for the Bears. The 1-0 league victory at home to St Helens last Saturday, thanks to Simon Robinson’s second half penalty, left the Bears with seven wins and just one defeat (2-0 in the FA Cup at home to UniBond Premier Division Prescot Cables) during the month. Seventeen goals scored and just five conceded and good wins to keep up the interest in the FA Vase and Cheshire Senior Cup all helped to earn Anthony Buckle and Darren Twigg the ‘Manager(s) of the Month’ Award for the Vodkat Premier Division.
They hope to have progressed in the Mid-Cheshire Cup after a tricky tie away at Runcorn Linnets during the last week but will be looking at the trip to Oldham Town on Saturday 4th October K:O 3pm in the FA Vase 1st Round Proper to maintain their winning ways and earn the £1000 prize money on offer. There should be a match at Booth Street on Tuesday 7th October K:O 7.45 p. It is scheduled to be against Abbey Hey in the League but a draw at Oldham Town will see that replaced by the FA Vase replay. If there is a winner in the Bears FA Vase tie and Abbey Hey draw at Colne, then there will not be a match in midweek and the next game will be on Saturday 11th October K:O 3pm against Formby.
The reserves managed yet another away draw, 2-2 at Poynton where they allowed yet another injury time goal to deny them the three points. This Saturday, 4th October, they are away at Monk FC in the League Cup K:O 3pm.
The youth team
were without a fixture over the weekend but put up a sterling performance in
the FA Youth Cup at home to Curzon Ashton the Wednesday before. Having had the
better of exchanges over the 2 hours played, they lost out 5-4 in the penalty
shoot out after drawing 0-0 after extra time. This Sunday 5th October, they
are at Back Lane, K:O 2.30 pm against Norton.
MORE CUP SUCCESS FOR BEARS : 23/09/08
The Bears followed their 2-1 league success at Alsager Town with home victory in the FA vase against Rotherham based side Maltby Main. Their 3-0 win was as comfortable as the score line suggests and goals from Ryan Baker, Chris Smith and Andy Bostock secured the £900 FA prize money on offer.
That win was satisfying but more was to come with the trip on Monday to Blue Square North side Hyde Utd in the Cheshire Senior Cup. A superb strike from Ryan Greene gave the Bears a 33rd minute lead and solid defending helped the Bears run out 1-0 winners against a side three divisions above them. Their reward is an away tie at either Cheadle Town or Witton Albion.
This Saturday 27th September, a switch in league fixtures now has the Bears at HOME against St Helens Town K:O 3pm. Then on Wednesday 1st October K:O 7.45 the Bears are away at Runcorn Linnets in the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup. Runcorn Linnets still play at Witton Albion. On Saturday 4th October K:O 3pm, it’s more cup action as the Bears travel to Oldham Town for the FA Vase 1st Round Proper.
Anthony Buckle has added to his squad with the signings of Matt Quinn from the reserves and Mark Fitton from Newcastle Town.
The reserves drew
0-0 at Lostock Gralam last Saturday and the Youth team disappointedly went out
of the League Cup following a 2-0 defeat at Booth Street against Hanley Town.
The reserves are away this Saturday, 27th K:O 3pm at Poynton FC in the league
and a week later, Oct 4th K:O 3pm are away at Monk FC inn the cup.
CUP HOPES SHATTERED : 17/09/08
The Bears ended their interest in this season’s FA Cup after a 2-0 home defeat by Prescot Cables last Saturday. The team from 2 divisions above the Bears were given a good run for their money and but for the woodwork, would have found themselves trailing at half time rather than leading 1-0.
The Bears quickly returned to winning ways with a battling 2-1 win away at Alsager Town on Tuesday. Going behind in less than a minute was a set back but a goal on the stroke of half time by Stuart Tulloch and a winner just over the hour from Ryan Greene took the points.
Cup interest resumes this Saturday 20th September K:O 3pm with the visit of Maltby Main in the FA Vase and then on Monday 22nd, the Bears travel to Conference side Hyde United K:O 7.45 pm in the Cheshire Senior Cup – unless a replay is needed in the FA Vase. On Saturday 27th September K:O 3pm, it’s league action away at St Helens Town.
The reserves drew at league leaders Warrington Town Res last Saturday but were robbed of the three points by a goal 8 minutes into stoppage time. They are away at Lostock Gralam this Saturday, 20th Sep K:O 3pm.
The youth team continue
their winning start with a 2-0 victory over Meir KA at Back Lane. They hit the
cup trail with two matches at Booth Street. Starting on Sunday 21st K:O 2.30
pm, they play Hanley Town in the League Cup 1st Round, On Wednesday 24th September
K:O 7.45 pm, they are at hone to Curzon Ashton in the prestigious FA Youth Cup.
FA CUP HOPES STILL ALIVE : 03/09/08
Once again Booth Street proved to be a difficult place for the Bears to win as they stumbled to a 1-1 draw against Squires Gate in the FA Cup last Saturday and faced another trip to Blackpool for a replay in midweek. After falling behind at the start of the second half, they escaped further deficit when Squires Gate failed to put the ball over the line from just a few feet out, allowing Hackney to make one of several good stops. Matt Woolley converted the Bears third penalty award of the season (but only the first successful one) to grab a draw. The Bears were without the services of Baker, Robinson, Millington and Bostock who are all available for the trip to Squires Gate.
Once again an away trip proved little obstacle to the Bears as they showed they like the Blackpool air and a 3-0 away win in the replay secured the £1500 prize money and the home tie against Prescot Cables. Ian Verow’s ferocious shot on 70 seconds gave the Bears the lead and after thwarting the home side’s efforts to level in the second half, put the game beyond doubt with goals from James Marrow on 75 minutes and Chris Smith on 86 minutes.
The reserves had a tricky match at Maine Road and at half time led 2-1 but slack play at the start of the second half allowed the home side to lead 3-2, a lead they maintained.
Potentially, cup ties are playing havoc with scheduled games. This Saturday 6th September K:O 3pm the Bears are at Flixton in the FA Vase. Please note extra time will be played if drawn at 90 minutes and if still drawn a replay will be needed. Then on Tuesday 9th September the Bears are at home to either Maine Road in a league game or against Flixton if that replay is needed. On Saturday 13th September the Bears face a home tie in the FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round against Prescot Cables.
The reserves are at home this Saturday, 6th September K:O 3pm against Moore United and away at Daten on Saturday 13th September K:O 3pm.
The Youth team start their
season on Sunday 7th September K:O 2.30pm away at Alsager Town U/18s.
LATE STRIKES BRING VICTORY : 26/08/08
The visit of Ramsbottom United was seen by many as one of those games that would help gauge the Bears credentials for the season’s ambitions to end in the top four. As it turned out, the Bears needed two late strikes to secure the three points after keeping their visitors fairly quiet all game.
After missing their second penalty of the season when ‘keeper Grundy saved spectacularly from Marrow’s firmly driven kick, two goals from Stuart Tulloch on 88 and 90 minutes sent the fans home happy. In between the goals the Bears survived a hectic goalmouth scramble but that was finally cleared. The three points were well deserved.
It was a ‘goalfest’ in the Reserves game away at Denton Town, the Bears going down 8-4. That came after losing at home to Crewe 5-0 the previous Wednesday.
The Bears had secured £750 prize money by winning their FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round Replay at AFC Blackpool and this Saturday 30th August K:O 3pm they look to win £1500 prize money if they can overcome Squires Gate in the Preliminary Round tie. If the game is drawn on Saturday, the Bears travel to Squires Gate on Tuesday 2nd September K:O 7.45 pm. Otherwise, there is no midweek game and the next match is a 1st Round Qualifying tie in the FA Vase away at Flixton on Saturday 6th September K:O 3pm. Again only a replay will give the Bears a match during the following week (home on Tuesday 9th September K:O 7.45pm). Success against Squires gate will mean a home tie in the FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round against Prescott Cables.
The reserves are
away at Maine Road this Saturday 30th August K:O 3pm and play at home on Saturday
6th September K:O 3pm when Moore United are the visitors.
BEARS PROGRESS IN FA CUP : 19/08/08
The Bears progressed to the Preliminary Round of the FA Cup but not before needing a replay to dispose of AFC Blackpool. The first game at Booth Street ended 2-2 with goals from Marrow and Molloy giving the Bears a 2-0 lead. That was after a first half penalty miss by Brotherton. A dubious off side goal and an equaliser in the closing minutes took the match to a replay. This time two goals from Tulloch and one each from Marrow and Robinson saw the Bears through withy Blackpool scoring on the stroke of half time to make it 2-1, the only real blip.
The reserves went down 3-0 at Golborne in their opening fixture in the Cheshire League. After playing Crewe FC on Wednesday 20th Aug at home, they are away at Denton on Saturday 23rd K:O 3pm and are at home again on Wednesday 27th K:O 6.30 pm against Eagle Sports. Saturday 30th August sees them away at Maine Road Reserves, K:O 3pm.
The first team
entertain Ramsbottom United in a league game at home this Saturday, 23rd, K:O
3pm. With no midweek game, they prepare for the visit of Squires Gate in the
FA Cup Preliminary Round on Saturday 30th August, K:O 3pm. The following game
is a week later on Saturday 6th September K:O 3pm away at Flixton in the FA
Vase 1st Qualifying Round.
BEARS MAKE PROMISING START : 11 August 2008
The opening match of the season nearly didn’t take place as heavy rain threatened to see the game called off at Colne. This ground has not been the happiest of places for the Bears with victories a rare occurrence and even a draw hard come by. However, the new look side put all that behind them and came out deserved winners by 2-1 with goals from James Marrow and an own goal sandwiching a Colne equaliser.
The mid-week game at home to New Mills would be a much sterner test before the opening game in this season’s FA Cup with the Extra Preliminary Round on Saturday 16th August K:O 3pm at home against AFC Blackpool (better recognised as Blackpool Mechanics). The winners of that tie (after a replay on Tuesday 19th August if necessary) will have a home tie on August 30th against the winners of the Squires Gate/Biddulph Vics encounter. On Tuesday 19th August K:O 7.45 pm, the Bears travel to Ashton Athletic for a league game provided both sides avoid the need for an FA Cup replay. On Saturday 23rd August, the Bears are at home against Ramsbottom United K:O 3pm in the league.
The reserves are
away on Saturday 16th August at Golborne Sports K:O 3pm. Their first home game
is on Wednesday 20th August K:O 6.30 pm against Crewe FC. They are away again
on Saturday 23rd August K:O 3pm at Denton Town.
NOW FOR THE REAL THING : 4 August 2008
The final week of pre-season training for the Bears ends as the opening fixture of the 2008/09 season in the Vodkat premier League kicks off away at Colne on Saturday 9th August K:O 3pm. That in itself is seen as a testing fixture but that is followed on Tuesday 12th August with the first home match against New Mills, K:O 7.45 pm. New Mills have been reported as one of the league’s big spenders with some players signed from FC United. They also have had a good following during last season which ended with promotion. So that match promises to be a cracker with a good attendance. Two league games and then it’s up for the cup as the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round gives the Bears a home tie on Saturday 16th August K:O 3pm against AFC Blackpool (better recognised as Blackpool Mechanics). The winners of that tie (after a replay on Tuesday 19th August if necessary) will have a home tie on August 30th against the winners of the Squires Gate/Biddulph Vics encounter.
As usual, the pre-season friendlies have seen a number of new faces and it has been encouraging to see some of the performances against teams all from higher leagues, including Macclesfield Town first team and the likes of Cammell Laird and Witton Albion.
The reserves kick
off with two away games. The first is on Tuesday 12th August at Monk FC K:O
6.30 pm. Then on Saturday 16th August, they are at Golborne Sports K:O 3pm.
Their first home game is on Wednesday 20th August K:O 6.30 pm against Crewe
FC. Stuart Heeps is the manager and he will be looking for a positive start.
They play some tidy football and supporters are asked to go along to Booth Street
to see some promising players.
FUN AND GAMES AT BOOTH STREET : 14 July 2008
Manager Anthony Buckle was pleased after the mid week friendly against League 2 side Macclesfield Town. The Silkmen fielded their strongest side in the first half and took a second minute lead. Some other promising attacks failed to bring them any further goals and when Andy Alston equalised before half time it gave both managers something to think about. With changes on both sides for the second period, the visitors went ahead again before James Marrow equalised.
Three friendlies were planned during this past week, v Port Vale at home on Monday, at home against Leek Town on Wednesday and at home on Sat 19th against Nantwich Town K:O 3pm. On Tuesday 22nd they are away at Kidsgrove Athletic and on Saturday 26th at home against Cammell Laird.
The weekend of 26th is aiming to be a special one as on the Saturday, coinciding with the Cammell Laird game, the Bears are holding a Ladies Day in a marquee at the ground. Starting at 2pm with a Strawberries & Champagne reception, followed by the match and light refreshment at half time, the ladies get to meet the players, enter the ‘Best Dressed Lady’ competition and collect their goodie bag. There will be several stalls in the marquee and a raffle to keep up the interest. At £10 a ticket, this represents excellent value and can be paid for on th4 day or contact Michelle Buckle on 07921 075647 for further information.
The entertainment
continues on Sunday 27th from 12 noon with a family fun day. Activities include
face painting, raffles, competitions (including pool) a wine and water stall
and a tombola. So visit Booth Street for an afternoon’s fun and entertainment.
LACKLUSTRE FINISH TO SEASON CONTINUES : 21 April 2008
The last away game at Formby was played in windy conditions but that would be a poor excuse for a performance in which players looked decidedly jaded and the team disjointed. Typical of such a game, the Formby goal came in the second minute of stoppage time and was a scrambled effort at that. Even then, the Bears had time to mount another attack and a clear hand ball by the centre half to pat a high ball away went totally undetected by the officials and summed it all up.
The reserves also suffered a lapse, at home to Tarporley Vics. Leading 2-1 at half time, they allowed the visitors to score twice and take the game 3-2.
The youth side played Cheadle Town Juniors away last Sunday and they at least continued their strong form with a resounding 7-0 win.
They play their final league game on Thursday 24th April at Back Lane against Stafford Town and then look forward to the league cup semi final at Booth Street on Sunday 27th April K:O 2.30 pm when Stafford Town are again the opponents.
This Saturday 26th
April sees the final Vodkat League game this season. The Bears are at Booth
Street against Colne K:O 3pm. The reserves are away on Saturday 26th against
Whitchurch Alport and end their season with two home games, the first on Monday
28th K:O 7.45 pm when they try yet again to complete the Maine Road fixture,
then on Wednesday 30th they play Crewe FC K:O 6:30pm. At the time of going to
press, Maine Road had asked for a change of nights and this may mean the game
will take place on Saturday 3rd May with an early kick off - (possibly 1pm or
1.30)
BEARS POOR RUN CONTINUES ON THE FIELD : 14 April 2008
The first team’s poor run continued with a fifth successive defeat. This time the visitors were Glossop North End. Trailing 2-0 then 3-1 the Bears pulled it back to 3-2 but couldn’t get a third. Goals from Haddrell and Hurst presented a familiar story but the Bears have now started to slip down the table and lie 5th.
The reserves were without a game over the weekend but the youth team continued their successful season with a 3-0 win at Back Lane against Cheadle that saw them gain the points needed to assure themselves of a promotion spot as runners up. They are looking forward to a league cup semi final at Booth Street on Sunday 27th April.
This Saturday 19th April sees the first team travelling to Formby for the final away game of the season, K:O 3pm. The following week, 26th April is the final Vodkat League game this season at Booth Street against Colne K:O 3pm. This Saturday, the reserves are at home against Tarporley Vics K:O 3pm. On Wed 23rd K:O 6.30pm they are at home against Monk FC and then on Saturday 26th K:O 3pm they are at Whitchurch Alport.
Off the field it
has been a great week for the Bears with two fundraisers. The first, a Sportsman’s
dinner with guest speaker Nobby Stiles was organised by Michelle Buckle and
the evening netted over a £2000.00 donation to the club. That was followed
by an entertainment evening on Saturday at the Town Hall where Danny Toft and
Matt Shaw provided the entertainment. Ken Toft and Gary Randall organised the
event and that netted a donation of £1200.00. The club are grateful to
both sets of organisers for two very successful ventures and to all those who
supported the events by attending or donating prizes for the raffles.
BEARS STRUGGLE TO GET BACK INTO WINNING HABIT : 6 April 2008
The first team continue to get back on track after a reasonable season has seen them slip to a third successive defeat. Last week, they failed to retain the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup after leading at Winsford only to fall to a goal a minute or so from time. Matt Haddrell’s penalty was insufficient to see the Bears hold on to the cup, losing 2-1. Last Saturday, they travelled to champions elect Trafford and after going 2-0 down within the first 20 minutes, began to play themselves back into the match. Andy Hurst reduced the arrears before half time and despite having the better of the second half, they couldn’t find their way past a stubborn Trafford defence and another 2-1 defeat was the end result.
The first team were due to play at St Helens Town last Tuesday and this Saturday 12th April K:O 3pm, they play Glossop North End in their penultimate home game. On Saturday 19th April, they are away at Formby K:O 3pm.
The reserves in the meantime continue to show improvement. Despite losing 1-0 at half time at home to Maine Road Reserves lat week, the match was abandoned by the referee after a fire involving one of the floodlight pylons meant that three lamps were out of service. The Saturday afternoon home game against Golborne Sports was unaffected and the 3-2 win eased some of the worries over the possible need to apply for re-election as last season. Another home game was scheduled for last Wednesday but they have no game on 12th April.
The Youth side
won 9-0 last Sunday and are at home to Cheadle United on Sunday 13th April at
Back Lane.
BEARS QUIET WEEKEND : 1 April 2008
With St Helens Rugby League playing on Friday night, the pitch was left in no fit state for Saturday’s football match so the first team had a blank weekend. That might have been good fortune as it at least cut out the risk of injury before the Mid-Cheshire Cup final at Winsford last Tuesday 1st April. The next league fixture is another away trip, this time to champions elect Trafford who have suffered just one defeat all season. That is on Saturday 5th April K:O 3pm. Then comes the re-arranged St Helens Town game away on Tuesday 8th April K:O 7.45 pm. That is followed by the penultimate home game on Saturday 12th April K:O 3pm when Glossop North End are the visitors.
The reserves followed
up their 1-0 win against Warrington Town with a close defeat to second placed
Club AZ 1-2. This Saturday 6th April K:O 3pm, they are at home to Golborne Sports.
On Wednesday 9th, they are at home to Malpas K:O 6:15 pm and on Saturday 12h
April are without a fixture.
BEARS STRUGGLE UP FRONT : 25 March 2008
Following the two good away wins at Abbey Hey (4-2) and Atherton Collieries (3-0), the Bears found their fire power reduced with the suspension of Matt Haddrell in the 0-0 draw away at much improved Nelson and the 2-0 home defeat against Newcastle Town. That suspension is now served and the Bears face another improving side in the shape of St Helens Town this Saturday, 29th March, K:O 3pm. Please note that the rugby league side play on the Friday night and any bad weather will greatly jeopardise the staging of the game on Saturday so please check before travelling. That match is followed by another away trip on Tuesday 1st April K:O 7.45 pm when the Bears try to retain their Mid-Cheshire FA Cup in the final against Winsford at Barton Stadium. It may come as no surprise that they are away again on Saturday 5th April K:O 3pm against Trafford.
The reserves enjoyed
a 1-0 win against Warrington Town reserves last Saturday with a superb finish
from Matt Swann dividing the sides. They will find the going tougher this Saturday,
29th March K:O 3pm when Club AZ are the visitors followed by a home game against
Maine Road on Wednesday 2nd April K:O 6:15 pm.
BEARS ENJOY AWAY DAYS : 18 March 2008
The run of away games continued last week with a trip to Abbey Hey last Saturday. Jordan Johnson and Matt Haddrell gave the Bears a 2-0 half time lead and after having conceded a goal mid way through the second half, two goals in a minute from Johnson and Andy Hurst put the result beyond doubt even though Abbey Hey managed to reduce the arrears to 4-2. Two days later, the Bears were at Atherton Collieries and some good football on the night saw them run out comfortable 3-0 winners with two goals from Andy Hurst and one from Matt Haddrell.
The reserves lost 2-1 at Grappenhall Sports and the Youth side were held to a 2-2 draw last Sunday.
This Saturday 22nd March K:O 3pm, the bears travel to Nelson with Matt Woolley and Matt Haddrell suspended. Haddrell is also suspended for the Easter Monday (24th March) fixture at home against Newcastle Town K:O 3pm. On Saturday 29th March K:O 3pm, the Bears travel to St Helens Town.
This Saturday, the reserves
are at home against Warrington Town, K:O 3pm. The youth team have no game this
weekend. On Sunday 6th April, at Booth Street, the youth team play in the semi-final
of the League Cup. K:O details will be in next week’s Bear Facts.
GRIM DAY AT GLOSSOP FOR BEARS : 10 March 2008
The Bears had a poor day away at Glossop last Saturday and did nothing to further their faint promotion hopes. Without the injured Matt Haddrell, even the boost of the returning Scott Lycett was not enough to help the Bears avoid defeat. The 3-0 score line was not helped by Matt Woolley having a penalty kick saved when the score was 1-0 nor the harsh sending off of Andy Bostock for a second cautionable offence. The blank score line followed the 0-0 draw at home to Flixton a week earlier and was the first time this season that the Bears had failed to score in successive games. They travel again this Saturday, 15th March K:O 3pm at Abbey Hey and away again on Monday 17th March K:O 7.45 pm at Atherton Collieries.
The reserves drew at home last Saturday, 1-1 with Grappenhall Sports having gone down 2-0 away at Golborne Sports a week earlier. This Saturday, 15th March K:O 3pm they make the trip to Grappenhall Sports.
The Youth team
ran out 4-0 winners last Sunday against Blythe Bridge Youth and play Cheadle
Town Youth this Sunday.
SIX OF THE BEST FOR THE BEARS : 25 February 2008
A trip to Atherton LR last Saturday was clearly to the Bears liking as they inflicted the worst home defeat this season on the Manchester side. Two goals in a minute from Johnson and Hurst mid way through the first half settled the nerves and further second half strikes from Johnson twice (to make up his hat trick), Hurst and Nesbitt, included three goals in a four minute spell. That pushed the Bears back into fourth spot after the weekend’s round of matches.
The reserves went down 2-0 at home to Billinge but the youth team ran out 7-0 winners on Sunday afternoon.
This Saturday, 1st March K:O 3pm, sees the first team at home to Flixton, while the reserves travel to Golborne Sports K:O 3pm.
The club wishes
to dedicate the match against Flixton on 1st March, to Ken Barlow, who served
the club for many years, and whose death occurred last week. He will be greatly
missed and he holds a special place in the hearts of many of the older fans
at Booth Street.
BEARS ENJOY MATT FINISH : 18 February 2008
Another beautiful weekend’s weather saw the Bears have a pretty decent set of results. The first team ran out 5-2 winners at home to St Helens, with Matt Haddrell back on the ‘goal’ standard with a hat trick within the first 16 minutes, including an opening goal after just 15 seconds. The Saints equalised from the penalty spot after two minutes and that set up an attacking display from both sides with the Bears leading 3-2 at half time. Second half strikes from Paul Harris and Andy Alston wrapped up a comfortable win.
The reserves were away at Eagle Sports and had to settle for a point in a 1-1 draw. Last Sunday, the youth team progressed smoothly into the semi-finals of the League Cup with a 4-1 win at Booth Street over Blythe Bridge Youth. That win was achieved after the young Beards had gone 1-0 down early in the game.
This Saturday,
23rd Feb, the first team are away at Atherton LR K:O 3pm and then face Maine
Road at home on Tuesday 26th February K:O 7.45pm followed by another home game
on Saturday1st March K:O 3pm when Flixton provide the opposition. The reserves
are at home against Billinge on Saturday 23rd February K:O 2.15pm.
LEAGUE & CUP WOE FOR THE BEARS : 11 February 2008
One of the best weekends weather wise this season did not produce happy outcomes for the Bears. Last Saturday, the first team went down 2-1 away at high flying Salford City. Having been outplayed in the first half, the Bears were grateful to go in 2-1 down although both goals conceded were from corners. Andy Hurst pulled one back just before the interval. Total dominance in the second half belonged to the Bears as Salford managed just two worthwhile efforts in the half. Debutant Oliver Edwards, signer from Leek Town, missed a chance when clean through, hitting the crossbar, as did Haddrell from a header. Haddrell saw his penalty saved by the ‘keeper and then shot over from 6 yards when following up. Hurst, two yards out, failed to make contact with Haddrell’s cross and these misses cost the Bears dearly. Salford had a last minute penalty but wasted that too with a shot over the bar.
The reserves played Cub AZ in the semi-final of the Macclesfield & District Saturday Cup and lost 2-0. The youth side were without a game last Subday after their scheduled opponents, Newcastle Town, pulled out of the league. Further disappointment came when they learnt that they were being removed from the Sentinel Cup after a registration error in the match against Hanley Town.
This Saturday,
16th February, the Bears first team are at home against St Helens Town K:O 3pm.
The reserves are away at Eagle Sports that day, K:O 2.15 pm and the Youth side
are at Booth Street on Sunday 17th in the quarter final of the league cup against
Blythe Bridge Youth K:O 1.30pm. The following Saturday, 23rd February, the first
team are away at Atherton LR K:O 3pm and the reserves are at home to Billinge
K:O 2:15 pm.
YOUTH BRIGHTEN A DULL WEEKEND : 4 February 2008
One again the weather conspired to rob the first team of heir scheduled match away at Atherton Collieries and the Reserves their home game against Maine Road Reserves. That left just the Youth side playing at Back Lane on Sunday against Hanley Town Youth. With the score at 0-0 at half time, the youngsters raised their game in the second half to run out 6-1 winners.
This Saturday, 9th February, the first team are away at high flying Salford City K:O 3pm. The reserves are at ‘home’ against Club AZ K:O 1.30 pm in the semi-final of the Macclesfield & District FA Cup. The Youth side are at Back Lane on Sunday 10th K:O 2pm against Newcastle Town Youth.
A week later, 16th February, the Bears first team are at home against St Helens Town K:O 3pm. The reserves are away at Eagle Sports that day, K:O 3pm and the Youth side are at Booth Street on Sunday 17th in the quarter final of the league cup against Blythe Bridge Youth.
The recent dismissals
of Robinson and Biegus in the Bacup Borough match has seen the two players get
3-match bans. Steve Jardine is working to recover from a hip injury and Chasetown
FC have put in seven days notice of approach for Matt Haddrell.
BAD DAY ALL ROUND FOR THE BEARS : 28 January 2008
The weekend proved something of a disaster for the Bears as they attempted to keep up the pressure near the top of the table .An improved Bacup Borough, second from bottom were stubborn opponents. Early chances went begging as the Bears hit the post and crossbar. A goal early in the second half put the visitors in front and, try as they may, including hitting the woodwork again, the Bears could not break their opponents resistance. The late sending off of substitutes Robinson and Beigus added to their woes.
The reserves were leading at Tarporley Vics 1-0 before conceding twice to lose 2-1. The youth team were without a game as the outcome of the abandoned cup tie has not yet been decided.
Towards the end of last week the league notified the Bears of fixture changes that went a little way to easing their projected financial difficulties in February. Next Saturday, 2nd Feb K:O 3pm, they are away at Atherton Collieries, followed a week later by a trip to Salford City K:O 3pm. They then have a home game against St Helens Town on Saturday 16th Feb K:O 3pm.
The reserves are
at home on Saturday 2nd Feb K:O 3pm against Maine Road Reserves and a week later
are at home against Golborne Sports K:O 3pm.
ANOTHER BLANK WEEKEND FOR THE BEARS : 20 January 2008
A week of rain every day put paid to all games for the Bears over the weekend. There was never any real prospect of the game at Glossop going ahead and the reserves game at home to Warrington Town was off. The youth side were due to play at Newcastle but that too fell to the weather.
This Saturday 26th January K:O 3pm, the first team are away at home against Bacup Borough, the reserves are away at Tarporley Vics K:O 2.15 pm. The youth side are hoping that the abandoned match against Hanley Town in the Sentinel Cup will be resolved in their favour as the quarter finals of the competition are due this week. The Bears face as trip to Nantwich Town if they are put through. That will be next Sunday K:O 1.30 pm.
For the first team, the
Bacup game will be the last home game until the 1st March unless the league
re-arranges the Maine Road match to take place in February. The Mid-Cheshire
Senior Cup Final will be at Barton Stadium on Tuesday 1st April K:O 7.45pm.
WONDER STRIKES WIN IT FOR THE BEARS : 13 January 2008
The Bears played host to Winsford United last Saturday with the visitors lying one place below the Bears on goal difference only. The 2-1 victory moved the Bears into fourth place thanks to two superb first half strikes. With Matt Haddrell suspended for one match, the Bears needed to keep up their scoring and reduce their rate off conceding. They achieved both as Carl Nesbitt struck a 35 yard shot all along the ground inside the right hand post and after being pulled back to 1-1, Matt Woolley curled a shot from 25 yards into the top right hand corner. Terrific defending kept the visitors out with Steve Jardine and Adam Wilkes in particular showing their very best form. A good attendance of 164 was also much appreciated by the players.
The reserves lost their schedule match away at Grappenhall to the weather as did the Youth Team when Back Lane was closed over the weekend.
Scott Williams has left to join Warrington Town but Matt Haddrell once again declined overtures from Woodley Sports.
This Saturday 19th January, the first team are away at Glossop North End K:O 3pm and then on Saturday 26th K:O 3pm are at home against Bacup Borough. The Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup Final against Winsford United has been fixed for Tuesday 1st April K:O 7.45 pm at Barton Stadium.
On Sat 19th January,
K:O 2.15 pm the reserves are at home against Warrington Town and a week later,
26th Jan K:O 2.15 pm, they travel to play Tarporley Victoria.
BEARS SLIP UP IN EXTRAORDINARY MATCH : 6 January 2008
The Bears travelled to Colne last Saturday and once again found it to be a ground that they seem incapable of producing a positive result. This time both sides made errors that led to six of the nine goals as the Bears were edged out 5-4 with Colne scoring in the last minute to secure victory. Earlier, goals from Hurst, Johnson, Haddrell and an own goal had left the scores 4-4. All that came after Colne led twice by two goals and they had their ‘keeper sent off three minutes into the second half. Simon Robinson made his debut with half an hour left and made a positive start to his time with the Bears with a sound performance.
Warrington Town have put in 7 days notice for Scott Williams and Woodley Sports have put in 7 days for Matt Haddrell. Since Woodley Sports have already approached Matt earlier in the season, this approach is against FA rules and is not valid.
The reserves fared better at Booth Street winning 4-1 against bottom side Eagle Sports whilst the Youth team played at Booth Street on Sunday in the Sentinel cup and were leading Hanley Town 4-0 when the referee responded to continued abuse from the visiting spectators by abandoning the game after 83 minutes. The result is likely to stand but it needs ratification by the organising committee.
This Saturday, 12th January K:O 3pm the first team are at home to Winsford United in a dress rehearsal of the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup Final. It is a vital game for both sides and the Bears are asking for supporters to come out in force to cheer the side on. The club faces a tough time during February when they are away four times and have no home matches at all. This will cause major cash flow problems.
The reserves are
away at Grappenhall Sports K:O 2pm.
BEARS GO FOURTH : 31 December 2007
After a couple of weeks of disruption by the weather, the Bears were pleased to play their last three games of 2007. The 5-2 home win against Atherton Collieries saw Andy Hurst bag a hat-trick and Matt Haddrell get back to scoring with a brace. Their task was made a little easier with the sending off of the Atherton Colls ‘keeper after just 4 minutes for demolishing Hurst as he burst through on goal.
The 3-2 defeat at Newcastle on Boxing Day came after the Bears led twice through Matt Haddrell and the points were taken by the home side with a free kick fired home 5 minutes from time. The Bears ended the year in fine style with an easy 3-1 win against bottom placed Abbey Hey. Matt Haddrell, Andy Alston and Jordan Johnson were on the score sheet. The weather was atrocious from the 10th minute right through to the end so all involved deserved some appreciation for making a game of it. In truth, the conditions suited Abbey Hey more as they were struggling throughout the 90 minutes, getting a consolation goal 9 minutes from time from the penalty spot.
The reserves ended the year on a defeat, 3-2 at Broadheath Central, but can get back to winning ways if they can defeat Eagle Sports at home this Saturday 5th January K:O 2pm.
The first team
are away at Colne on Saturday 5th January K:O 3pm and are at home on Saturday
12th January K:O 3pm when Winsford United are the visitors. The Bears will be
looking to avenge a 3-1 defeat at Barton Stadium earlier this season and with
both sides currently level on points and in the top 5, it promises to be a cracking
match. The Bears will need all the support they can get for this vital match
as they continue to push the sides at the top and they currently lie 4th five
points behind leaders Newcastle Town.
WEATHER STRIKES AGAIN FOR BEARS : 19 December 2007
Last weekend saw the Bears lose two of their three scheduled fixtures. The first team were due to play away at Abbey Hey but that was called off around mid-day after the pitch failed to recover from the frost. The reserves were due to play at home and after some concern first thing, the pitch was fine at kick off time and with Maine Road reserves and the Bears changed and raring to go, the absence of the match official forced the game to be postponed. The youth side fared better with a fine 9-2 home win on Sunday.
This weekend see the Bears at home for the last game before Christmas on Saturday 22nd December K:O 3pm against Atherton Collieries. (This match sees the ‘Kids for a Quid’ when accompanied by an adult plus the offer of a free entry into the festive half time raffle). They then go to Newcastle Town on December 26th K:O 3pm before playing at home on Saturday 29th December K:O 3pm against Abbey Hey.
The reserves have a free weekend before travelling to Broadheath Central on December 29th K:O 2pm.
Everyone at the
club wishes all its supporters, benefactors, sponsors and advertisers a happy
Christmas and prosperous New Year
BLANK WEEKEND ALL ROUND FOR THE BEARS : 11 December 2007
The heavy rain saw the postponement of all the Bear’s scheduled games last weekend. The first team were due to play Maine Road at Home, the reserves away at Golborne Sports and the Youth team’s away game at Cheadle Town Juniors.
Manager Anthony Buckle had signed Steve Jardine from Biddulph Vics but he hads been forced to wait for his debut. The first team are away at Abbey Hey this Saturday, 15th December K:O 3pm. They are at home for the last game before Christmas on Saturday 22nd December K:O 3pm against Atherton Collieries.
The reserves have
their only home game in December on Saturday 15th K:O 2pm when Billinge are
the visitors. On Saturday 22nd they are without a game. The Youth Team should
be at back Lane this weekend.
TWO CONTRASTING WINS FOR THE BEARS : 27 November 2007
The past week saw the Bears win two home games in contrasting style. On Saturday they won 1-0 at home against Squires Gate in a match that they dominated for long periods and played throughout in an attractive and entertaining manner. Despite creating a number of good openings, some fine goalkeeping kept the Bears at bay and it seemed as though they were to be deprived of a deserved victory until Jordan Johnson stepped up to crash home a low drive six minutes from time.
On Tuesday, a place in the final of the Mid-Cheshire Senior cup was at stake as the Bears faced Middlewich Town. In contrast, to three days earlier, the Bear were lucky to go in at half time trailing 2-0 after the visitors has also struck the post once and the bar twice as well as going near on other occasions. The Bears response had been just a free kick from Haddrell that hit the bar. In the second half two goals from Andy Hurst levelled the scores but the Bears faded again and a last minute penalty put away by Matt Haddrell gave the Bears a victory they scarcely deserved other than they didn’t capitulate when playing so poorly.
On Saturday 1st
December, the Bears are away at Ramsbottom United K:O 3pm and then are at home
on Saturday 8th December K:O 3pm when Maine Road are the visitors. The reserves
match last weekend was postponed and this Saturday, 1st Dec, they are away at
Tarporley Vics in the Second Division cup K:O 1.30 pm. The youth team were also
without a game last weekend.
BEARS BACK TO WINNING WAYS : 20 November 2007
After three successive defeats, the Bears got back to winning ways with a 3-1 win at home against Nelson. Two goals from Andy Hurst plus an own goal gave the Bears the three points but they could have doubled that score with a shade more luck in front of goal. The reserves were also unlucky to go down 3-2 at Warrington Town after ending up with manager Ronnie Green in goal late on and conceding the winner three minutes from time. The youth side were without a game on Sunday but had played Blythe Bridge in midweek in a Sentinel Cup tie and ran out 2-1 winners.
This weekend, the Bears face Squires Gate at home on Saturday 24th Nov, K:O 3pm and then on Tuesday 27th K:O 7.45 pm, they are at home against Middlewich Town for a place in the final of the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup.
Scott Lycett has
left to join Halesowen Town and Manager Anthony Buckle is seeking a replacement.
He is also hoping that Scott Murcott might soon be in full training and may
rejoin the club.
BEARS DOUBLE CUP EXIT : 13 November 2007
November continued to prove hard going for the Bears as they exited from 2 cup competitions. Last Saturday Maine Road came to Booth Street and left 1-0 winners in the Vodkat League Challenge Cup despite the bears doing more than enough to have won the game had they taken their chances. That was followed by another narrow defeat at home against Cammell Laird in the UniBond Cheshire Senior Cup. The 2-1 defeat at the hands of the current cup holders was no disgrace and after enjoying the lion’s share of the first half, they were pegged back for much of the second. Jordan Johnson’s goal was some consolation.
The reserves did well with a fine 5-1 win away at Malpas last Saturday but the youth side, already reeling from a six point penalty for playing an over-age player, went down to their closest rivals Middlewich Town by 6-4 after building a two goal lead.
Scott Lycett has yet to decide if the offer from Halesowen is attractive enough to entice him there. Adam Wilkes won the Safe Hands award for October after conceding just two goals in five games.
This Saturday, 17th November, the first team are at home against Nelson, K:O 3pm. The reserves are away at Warrington Town K:O 2.15 pm. The following Saturday 24th November, the first team are again at home when Squires Gate provide the opposition.
BEARS STUMBLE AT FLIXTON : 4 November 2007
After a great October, the Bears travelled to Flixton with hopes of continuing a good run of form. That still looked likely after Flixton took a fifth minute lead. The home side then had to sustain almost continual pressure but a combination of poor finishing and a little luck denied the Bears a first half equaliser. A second conceded at the start of the second half was offset by an Andy Hurst goal a minute later. Poor defending cost the Bears a third and Matt Haddrell’s eighteenth of the season restored hope but again poor finishing ended in a 3-2 defeat.
The reserves fared a lot better winning 2-1 at home against Eagle Sports in their cup tie and a day later the youth team continued their fine run of results with a 4-3 win over joint leaders Middlewich Town. Two goals apiece from Matt Nee and Dave Short won the points.
This Saturday, 10th November, sees the first team at home to Maine Road in the Vodkat League Challenge Cup K:O 3pm. They then play at Booth Street again on Tuesday 13th November K:O 7.45 pm against Cammell Laird (holders) in the Cheshire Senior Cup. Saturday 20th November at 3pm is another home game, a re-arranged match against Nelson – Salford City are involved in the FA Vase.
The reserves are away at Malpas on Saturday 10th November K:O 2.15 pm. The Youth side play Middlewich Town for the second week running, this time away, on Sunday 11th November K:O 2.15 pm.
Manager Anthony
Buckle was awaiting news from Scott Lycett who has been the subject of a seven
days notice of approach from Halesowen Town. Scott was due to speak to Halesowen
on Tuesday. He will be missed if he chooses to accept their offer.
BEARS COMPLETE A FINE MONTH : 29 Otober 2007
The Bears won their one and only home game in October with a stunning goal from Scott Williams to end some spirited resistance from Atherton LR last Saturday. The 1-0 win meant the Bears had won three and drawn one league game plus one game won in the Senior Cup to complete a successful month. Only two goals had been conceded in the five games.
There were no games for either the reserves or youth team over the weekend. Next weekend sees the reserves at home against Eagle Sports in the cup, K:O 1.45 pm. The youth team will again be without a game as a large number will be representing Macclesfield & District FA against the Wirral at Booth Street on Sunday 4th November K:O 11 am after that fixture was postponed from last Sunday.
The first team
have a challenging match away at Flixton on Saturday 3rd November K:O 3pm and
are then at home a week later Saturday 10th November K:O 3pm against Maine Road
FC in the Vodkat League Challenge Cup as they hope to emulate last season’s
efforts in reaching the semi-final.
BEARS AIM TO END MONTH ON A HIGH : 23 October 2007
Having played four away games this month, winning three and drawing one, the Bears aim to end the month undefeated when they take on Atherton LR this Saturday 27th October at Booth Street K: 3pm. Last Saturday they ran out comfortable winners 3-0 at Bacup Borough with Matt Haddrell’s early goal added to by Jordan Johnson and Andy Hurst’s second half strikes. The following week, Saturday 3rd November, the Bears are away at Flixton K:O 3pm.
The reserves went down 3-1 at home to FC United of Manchester reserves, who had the luxury of being able to play some first team players as they were without a game. This Saturday the reserves are without a game but the following week, 3rd November they are at home to Eagle Sports in the Divisional Cup K:O 1.45 pm.
The Youth Team
maintained winning ways with a sound 5-3 win against Blythe Bridge. Their Sentinel
Cup tie against the same opponents is due to be played at Booth Street this
Sunday K:O 2.30 pm but with Macclesfield FA calling up a number of the players
for the Cheshire County Youth Competition, this may affect the game.
Youth Team News: Probable points deduction : 18 October 2007
After attending the league meeting tonight (16/10/07) it was
confirmed that
Congleton Town Youth Team are facing a points
deduction after fielding an ineligable player in two games against Abbey Hulton
Utd and Stafford Town. It was due to an administartion error when dealing with
James Wootton (a player who signed on a matchday) and his date of birth which
does not coincide with league rules.
Confirmation of this and the actual punishment details will be clarified in
a letter which will be sent to the Youth Team Secretary Graham Booth in due
course.
ANOTHER GOOD WEEK FOR THE BEARS PART 2? 16 October 2007
Following on from last weekend’s batch of good results for the Bear’s sides, the first team had just the one match last week, away at Runcorn Linnets and the league’s leading goal scorer, Matt Haddrell added another to his list as he hit the second half winner in the 1-0 victory. The solid defensive display meant the Bears had conceded just one league goal in the last three games after a worrying spell of conceding too easily. It also meant just two conceded in the last four matches.
The reserves won their Macclesfield & District Cup tie at home to Congleton Vale after a penalty shoot out. The Bears went behind, led 2-1 with minutes to go in extra time before conceding an equaliser. This time, though, they won the penalty shoot out with Kev Hammond netting the decider after having missed a penalty earlier in the match. The reserves are at home this Saturday to FC United of Manchester Reserves K:O 3pm.
The Youth Team maintained winning ways with a resounding 6-2 win at Village Town with a Dave Short hat-trick the main feature. This Sunday 21st Oct they are at home to Blythe Bridge Youth K:O 2.15 pm.
The first team are away at Bacup Borough on Sat 20th Oct K:O 3pm and a number of those involved will want to get back for the Matt Shaw evening with doors open at 7.30 pm. The next match will at last be at home on Saturday 27th October K:O 3pm when Atherton LR are the visitors.
The reward for the win against Cheadle Town in the Cheshire Senior Cup is a home draw against the current holders, Cammell Laird on Tuesday 13th November K:O 7.45 pm.
GOOD WEEK FOR THE BEARS : 9 October 2007
The midweek Cheshire Senior Cup tie at Cheadle Town saw the Bears trailing 1-0 at half time but recovering to run out 4-1 winners after a brace of goals from Matt Haddrell and one from Hurst was added to by a late own goal. Last Saturday, the Bears travelled to Silsden in a match arranged only days before and a Matt Haddrell goal cancelled out one from Silsden and the points were shared.
The reserves won their third match of the season with a repeat 4-0 win against Lostock Gralam at Booth Street. The Youth side faced Cheadle Town at Back lane and ran out comfortable 4-0 winners to maintain their 100% record.
There have been some changes to the first team fixture list. The league have suspended Flixton’s fixtures following an incident involving the security of the dressing rooms and that led to the Bears being invited to replace Flixton at Silsden last Saturday. A further repercussion from that suspension is that the scheduled home fixture against Flixton on Tuesday 16th October has been postponed. So the Bears go to Witton Albion’s ground this Saturday, 13th October to face Runcorn Linnets in a 1pm kick off (England kick off at 3pm in a Euro qualifying match). The Bears then travel to Bacup Borough on Saturday 20th October K:O 3pm. The reward for the win the Cheshire Senior Cup is a home draw against the current holders, Cammell Laird on Tuesday 13th November K:O 7.45 pm.
The reserves are at home this Saturday in their Second Division Cup against Eagle Sports, K:O 2.15 pm.
Tickets for the
Matt Shaw show at the Bears Den on Sat 20th October (doors open 7.30 pm) are
now available. A few tickets remain available so if you are thinking of attending,
please contact Ken Mead during the evening on 07710 405674.
ANOTHER CUP EXIT FOR BEARS : 30 September 2007
The Bears crashed out of the FA Vase in the replay at Ashton Town last week. Having dominated play for much of the game, the Bears had to come from behind to lead 2-1 with 20 minutes left. Then it was worryingly familiar defensive frailties that saw the home side score twice to see the goals from Haddrell and Harris count for nothing. Last Saturday, it was a different story as the defence held up well to keep a clean sheet and allow Jordan Johnson’s goal to prove the winner against Formby.
The reserves struggled at Maine Road last Saturday, eventually going down 6-2 but the Youth side kept up their 100% record with a 6-3 win at Stafford Town last Sunday.
The first team travel to Silsden this Saturday in a match brought forward from 3rd November and the reserves are at home on Saturday 6th Oct K:O 3pm against Lostock Gralam. The Youth team are at home on Sunday 7th October K:O 2.15 pm against Cheadle Town.
Please note that on Saturday 13th October, the first team match away at Runcorn Linnets (played at Witton Albion FC) will kick off at 1pm (England K:O at 3pm).
Tickets for the
Matt Shaw show at the Bears Den on Sat 20th October (doors open 7.30 pm) are
now available. A few tickets remain available so if you are thinking of attending,
please contact Ken Mead during the evening on 07710 405674.
CUP HOPES ON HOLD : 24 september 2007
The Bears found a spirited Ashton Athletic side matching them in the FA Vase tie at Booth Street and after taking the lead in extra time through a Matt Haddrell penalty, were pegged back when Ashton got a deserved equaliser to take the game to a replay on Tuesday 25th and force the postponement of the Cheshire Senior Cup Tie away at Cheadle Town scheduled for the following night. The Senior cup tie is now to be played on Wednesday 3rd October K:O 7.45 provided that Cheadle Town do not draw their FA Cup tie against Dinnington Town this Saturday 29th Sept. The Bears are at home to Formby this Saturday, 29th Sept K:O 3pm.
Manager Anthony Buckle signed Andy Bostock (left back) from Newcastle Town, Carl Nesbitt (midfield) from Vauxhall Motors and Stuart Heeps (Goalkeeper) from Biddulph Vics where he was manager. Bostock and Nesbitt made their debuts against Ashton Athletic, with Heeps on the subs bench.
The reserves recorded a sound 4-0 win away at Lostock Gralam last Saturday but face an awkward match away at Maine Road Reserves this Saturday, 29th K:O 3pm. The youth team kept up their 100% record with a home win at Back Lane last Sunday.
Tickets for the Matt Shaw show at the Bears Den on Sat 20th October (doors open 7.30 pm) are now available. A few tickets remain available so if you are thinking of attending, please contact Ken Mead during the evening on 07710 405674 to check availability.
LEAGUE FORM DIPS FOR BEARS : 16 September 2007
Defeat at Winsford 3-1 in midweek was followed last Saturday by defeat at home by 2nd placed Salford City 5-1. Hurst was the scorer in both games but there was little joy in either match. At Winsford, two major defensive errors allowed the blues a 3-1 half time lead and a dull second half was enough to see the Bears crash to their second league defeat of the season. The task on paper was more daunting on Saturday but at half time, Salford had scored through an unfortunate own goal by Scott Williams and what seemed a blatant foul on Hammond that led to Turner putting the visitors 2-1 ahead. Turner scored three more times, and even with Salford ‘keeper Moore sent off for handling outside his area, the Bears could pose no real threat to the visitors defence. The first half had seen the Bears create around six terrific openings squandered through poor judgements and some fine goalkeeping by Moore.
So it might come as a relief to go back to Cup action in the next couple of games. On Saturday 22nd September, K:O 3pm, the Bears face Ashton Athletic in the FA Vase, and subject to no replay being needed in our tie (or the tie between Cheadle Town and Ashton Town), we are away at Cheadle Town in the Cheshire Senior Cup on Wednesday 26th Sept K:O 7.45 pm.
The reserves continue to struggle and suffered another defeat, this time 2-0 at Billinge. They travel to Lostock Gralam this Saturday 22nd Sept K:O 3pm. The youth team maintained their 100% league record with a 3-0 win last Sunday to go with their 2-1 win the week before.
Tickets for the Matt Shaw show at the Bears Den on Sat 20th October (doors open
7.30 pm) are now available. Numbers are limited so buy your ticket early from
behind the bar in the Bears Den on match days or contact Ken Mead during the
evening on 07710 405674.
H-BOMBER BOYS FOR BEARS? : 9 September 2007
Putting the disappointment of the Colwyn Bay cup defeat behind them, the Bears took on Ramsbottom at Booth Street last Saturday and the league’s current leading scorer Matt Haddrell and fellow forward Andy Hurst netted two apiece with Jordan Johnson completing the scoring in a 5-2 win.
The league programme continued with a visit to Winsford United during the week and then they face a tough test with second placed Salford City the visitors to Booth Street on Saturday 15th September K:O 3pm. On Wednesday 26th September K:O 7.45 pm, the Bears travel to Cheadle Town in the Cheshire Senior Cup. Another cup tie follows on Saturday 22nd September as the Bears take on Ashton Athletic in the FA Vase 2nd Qualifying Round, K:O 3pm.
The reserves continue to find life hard losing away at Monk FC 3-0. They are on the road again on Saturday 15th Sept K:O 3pm at Billinge FC.
The Youth team began their season on Sunday 9th Sept with an away match at Cheadle and ran out 2-1 winners to get the league campaign off to a good start.
Tickets for the Matt Shaw show at the Bears Den on Sat 20th October (doors open 7.30 pm) are now available. Numbers are limited so buy your ticket early from behind the bar in the Bears Den on match days or contact Ken Mead during the evening on 07710 405674.
BLACK DAY FOR BEARS IN FA CUP : 5 September 2007
The Bears faced a tough FA Cup tie away at UniBond side Colwyn Bay last Saturday and shocked the home side with a Matt Haddrell goal within the first minute. Williams added a second before the home side pulled one back before half time. Under considerable and sustained pressure the Bears held out till late in the game when Colwyn Bay equalised.
The replay was heading to be a similarly close and exciting cup tie as Hurst gave the Bears the lead before a major error on the part of the referee turned the game in the visitors favour. Missing most of an incident between Williams and the opposing goalkeeper, he then misread the bit he did see and sent off Williams five minutes before half time. The equaliser came two minutes later and three goals in nine minutes put an end to any lingering dreams of a shock result. Colwyn Bay’s Black completed his hat trick in the final 5-1 defeat.
League matters resume this Saturday, 8th Sept K:O 3pm when Ramsbottom United come to Booth Street. On Tuesday 11th K:O 7.45 pm, the Bears are at Winsford United . The reserves lost 4-1 at Crewe FC last Saturday and are away at Monk FC this Saturday.
Tickets for the Matt Shaw show at the Bears Den on Sat 20th
October (doors open 7.30 pm) are now available. Numbers are limited so buy your
ticket early from behind the bar in the Bears Den on match days or contact Ken
Mead during the evening on 07710 405674.
BEARS SHOW STEADY IMPROVEMENT : 29 August 2007
The Bears continued to show steady improvement as they recorded their first league victory last Saturday against Silsden. Trailing 1-0 after a 21st minute goal, the Bears struck back within 2 minutes through Hurst who added a second just before half time. Hurst was brought down for Haddrell to convert from the spot and complete a 3-1 win. The match featured the Bears fielding a third goalkeeper in three games as neither Forrester nor Jowsey were available and Adam Wilkes had a sound match to stake a claim to keep the ‘keeper’s jersey.
On Tuesday it was a trip to Maine Road and again a goal conceded in the first half was followed by a strong second half display. An equaliser by Hurst was followed by a piece of Haddrell magic as he clipped the ball over the ‘keeper from 20 yards to earn the three points in a 2- victory.
The reserves also got on the winning track with a 1-0 win away at Daten to avenge the opening day 2-1 reverse at Booth Street.
This Saturday, the first team are away in the FA Cup at Colwyn Bay K:O 3pm. There will be a coach leaving Booth Street at 11.45 pm with fares at £7 adults and £5 concessions. Other than cup ties, this is likely to be the last coach supplied for away games unless the number of supporters travelling increases. Other than a cup replay, there is no midweek fixture.
The reserves are
away at Crewe FC this Saturday, 1st September K:O 3pm.
MATT FINISH FOR THE BEARS : 22 August 2007
The Bears let slip a two goal lead against a slick Trafford side in a 2-2 draw with goals from Woolley and Twigg but found the FA Cup tie away at Daisy Hill an easier prospect as a hat trick from Matt Haddrell and an own goal saw the Bears through the extra preliminary round 4-0. The reward for that victory is an away tie at Colwyn Bay on Sat 1st September. Three debutants were on display, James Jowsey in goal for the unavailable Forrester, Scott Lycett at centre back and Paul Harris midfield.
On Tuesday night it was Runcorn Linnets who provided the opposition at Booth Street and in a cracking game, the Bears ended a poor first half display trailing 2-0. They were completely transformed in the second half and three goals in 15 minutes, one from Andy Alston and two from Matt Haddrell put the Bears in front but Runcorn levelled to leave a fair result 3-3 and honours shared.
The reserves lost 2-1 at Club AZ and lost 3-1 at home to Broadheath Central last Saturday.
This Saturday,
25th Aug K:O 3pm, the first team play Silsden at Booth Street while the reserves
travel to Daten. On Tuesday 28th Aug K:O 7.45 pm, the first team are away at
Maine Road. The FA Cup tie at Colwyn Bay follows on Saturday 1st September K:O
3pm. There will be a coach leaving Booth Street at 11.45 pm.
NO JOY FOR BEARS AT THE SEASIDE : 13 August 2007
A lovely day at the seaside was spoilt by the result as the Bears lost 2-0 at Squires Gate in their opening league fixture. Failing to produce the same quality of football as shown in most of the pre-season games, the Bears fell to two ‘set pieces’. The reserves fared no better losing 2-0 at home to Daten. Both sides had an early chance to put things right with Trafford the visitors last Tuesday and the reserves away at Club AZ on the Wednesday.
This Saturday,
18th August, the Bears travel to Daisy Hill for a 3pm K:O in the FA cup. Coach
will leave Booth Street at 12.15 pm, fares £5 adults £3 children/OAPs.
The reserves are at home against Broadheath Central K:O 3pm. Next week, subject
to no replay being required in the FA Cup, the league fixtures resume with the
visit of Runcorn Linnets on Tuesday 21st August K:O 7.45pm. On the same night,
the reserves travel to Abbey Hey’s ground to take on FC United of Manchester’s
reserves, K:O 6.30 pm.
SEASON STARTS WITH A TRIP TO BLACKPOOL : 6 August 2007
Squires Gate provide the first league opponents of season 2007/08 for the Bears as they travel to Blackpool this Saturday, 11th August K:O 3pm. The club are running a coach for this trip and hope to see a good number of supporters taking advantage of the transport laid on. The coach leave Booth Street at 11.30 am and leaves Squires Gate no later than 6 pm. Fares will be £7 adults and £4 children/OAPs. If there is good following on the coach, the club are looking to provide transport for other away matches, especially for the longer trips. To ensure a place on the coach to Squires Gate, please contact Michelle on 07921 075647 or e-mail her on mbcklm@aol.com.
The final friendlies of the season again gave reason for the Bears fans to be optimistic as a 1-0 win against Kidsgrove and a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Alsager Town saw two good performances. The first home game will be on Tuesday 14th August K:O 7.45 pm when Trafford are the visitors. That night sees the club officially switch on the new floodlights with the honours performed by the Town Mayor.
The reserves begin
their league campaign with a home league match on Saturday 11th August K:O 3pm
against Daten.
BEARS NOW PREPARE FOR THE LEAGUE : 31 July 2007
The Bears move in to the final week of preparations for the coming season. The results may look worrying with a 3-1 defeat at Leek Town and a 6-1 home defeat at the hands of Witton Albion but the signs are still encouraging. At Leek the Bears led 1-0 at half time and then experiments with playing staff and positions were a contributing factor to the final score-line. Like Leek Town, Witton are two divisions above the Bears and once more, experimental formations were tried by Anthony Buckle and he at least had the comfort of knowing that four players were unavailable. Matt Haddrell scored both the Bear’s goals.
The final first team friendly will be at Booth Street on Saturday 4th August, K:O 3pm against Alsager Town. The reserves have one more and that is at Booth Street on Tuesday 7th August against local side Congleton Athletic K:O 7.30 pm.
The League seasons
get underway on Saturday 11th August with the first team away at Squires Gate
K:O 3 pm and the reserves at home against Daten, also with a 3pm K:O. The first
team have the opening home game on Tuesday 14th August K:O 7.45 pm when Trafford
are the visitors.
BEARS STILL MOVING FORWARD : 22 July 2007
On the field, the Bears put in another encouraging performance against a lively Stoke XI and a 2-2 result was probably a fair reflection of the game. A fine opening goal by Matt Woolley was cancelled out as Stoke took a 2-1 lead just before the interval. Matt Haddrell’s 25 yard effort that slid in at the foot of the post levelled the score and Leigh Skellern almost son the game with some quick thinking and a chip over the ‘keeper that fell narrowly wide.
Saturday’s game away against Norton was cancelled after the poor weather left the pitch waterlogged. The reserves had a splendid 1-0 victory against Knutsford before losing 4-1 at home to Alsager Town reserves, both games played either side of the Stoke City match.
Off the field, the Bears were de‘lighted’ to have their replacement floodlights completed last Monday and a number of people turned up to see them tested on Monday night. With the stand behind the goal having had over 50% of the re-roofing complete over the weekend and the rest being worked on midweek, all the plans for the coming season were moving ahead nicely.
This Saturday 28th July
K:O 3pm the Bears play at home against Witton Albion. On Tuesday it’s
another home friendly against Kidsgrove Athletic K:O 7.45 pm and then the final
friendly will be at Booth Street on Saturday 4th August, K:O 3pm against Alsager
Town.
PROMISING SIGNS FOR THE BEARS : 15 July 2007
Congleton Town FC showed some promising signs in the two friendlies last week. At Biddulph Vics, they drew 1-1 with a side where several players were playing together for the first time. Scott Williams had the privilege of scoring the first goal this season. The Bears went one better two days later when they entertained a Port Vale XI at Booth Street and ran out 2-0 winners. A first half goal by John Paul Jones followed good work from a free kick by Andy Alston. A second half goal of some quality was put away by Matt Nelson to send the Bears fans home pondering the promise of a better season ahead.
Manager Anthony Buckle continues to build a side after the news that Ben Alston, Tommy Baker, Craig Jones and Jamie Petrie had all decided to look at Connah’s Quay FC, where Andy Lee has been appointed assistant manager. The Bears have made a number of signings and more details will follow over the next few weeks. In the meantime, the league fixtures are out and the opening game takes the Bears to Blackpool to meet Squires Gate on the opening day, 11th August. The first home game is on Tuesday 14th August when Trafford are the visitors.
The FA Cup draw takes the Bears back to Daisy Hill where they played in the FA Vase last season. That match is on 18th August. The FA Vase campaign starts on 22nd September with a home tie against Ashton Athletic or Rossington Main.
This Saturday 21st
July, the side travels to play Norton at Shamblers FC K:O 1 pm. Then Tuesday
24th July sees the Bears travel to Leek Town for a friendly K:O 7.45 pm before
the home friendly against Witton Albion on Saturday 28th July K:O 3pm.
BEARS READY TO STRETCH THEIR LEGS : 10 July 2007
With a few strenuous training sessions under their belt, the Bears get ready to put in some match practice with two friendlies in three days. Following the trip to Biddulph Victoria on Thursday 12th, the Bears have a home match against a Port Vale XI on Saturday 14th July K:O 3 pm at Booth Street.
The next scheduled matches at Booth Street feature the reserve side as they take on Knutsford at home on Monday 16th July and then Alsager Town Res on Thursday 19th July. Both K:O will be early as the floodlights are being upgraded that week. Aim to be at Booth Street around 7 pm.
Next Saturday the sides travel to play Norton at Shamblers FC K:O 1 pm.
BEARS BEGIN PREPARATIONS FOR THE NEW SEASON : 18 June 2007
The Bears, under new management, begin their playing preparations for season 2007/08 next Tuesday, 26th June as their pre-season training starts. Manager Anthony Buckle and Assistant Darren Twigg, have called the players to reports at 6.45 pm at the ground. There will be regular training sessions from there on in with the pre-season friendlies kicking off on 12th July.
The current list of friendlies are as follows:
12 July Biddulph
Vics (A)
14 July Port Vale XI (H)
21 July Norton (A)
24 July Leek Town (H)
28 July Witton Albion (H)
31 July Kidsgrove Ath (H)
4 Aug Alsager Town (H)
League season kicks off on Saturday 11th August.
The club once more throws out an open invitation to local players who feel they want to and have the quality to play at either Mid-Cheshire or North West Counties level, to report at the ground on Tuesdays or Thursdays at 6.45pm. The club have retained the reserve team and have resumed the running of a youth team.
The North West Counties have seen the first division reduced to 20 clubs after three teams were promoted to the UniBond League and none were relegated back. The UniBond league have18 clubs in their two regional leagues.
Those with access
to the internet can keep up with events on www.congletontownfc.co.uk
BEAR
FACTS 2006 - 2007
BEARS DOUBLE BLOW : 9 May 2007
The Bears plans for next season were dealt a double blow over the last couple of weeks. Firstly they had to face the loss of the services of Ann Guilfoyle, their popular phsio, who has made a tremendous difference since joining the club with Paul Moore and Andy Lee last season. Ann has landed a job with Doncaster Rovers and leaves with the best wishes of everybody at the club.
Having barely got over the disappointment of losing Ann, the Bears then learnt that Manager Andy Lee was moving with his family to Blackpool. That news naturally had the board worried as they could see that Andy would find the long journey a strain and on Monday evening, he informed Pete Evans, club Chairman that he felt he had little option but to resign. Andy took over when Paul Moore left to manage Leek Town and he kept the squad together to produce some fine performances that saw the Bears win the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup and push FC United of Manchester to the limit with a two-legged semi-final that saw the Bears edged out 6-5 on aggregate. A 10th place finish in the NWC League Division One was a little disappointing but the basis was there to build a stronger squad next season.
Although sad to lose the services of another popular member of the playing staff, Chairman Pete Evans was philosophical about the state of affairs. “We all love football but there can be no doubt that families and work take their rightful priority and Andy’s decision was in my view the right one. Andy knows he will always be welcome to visit and who knows what the future holds.”
Pete Evans moved very quickly after Andy confirmed his decision to resign. Having spoken with Nigel Gleghorn to seek his advice, Anthony Buckle was a strong recommendation and Pete spoke with him and arranged to meet on Tuesday, along with Darren Twigg who was Buckle’s preferred assistant. Having exchanged views, the board offered the job to the two of them and they accepted the challenge of pushing the playing side on to a top four finish.
Buckle had been
courted by Alsager Town and with Twigg has had previous experience managing
at Kidsgrove Athletic. Buckle had also served as assistant to Nigel Gleghorn
at Nantwich and Newcastle Town.
CURTAIN FALLS ON BEARS SEASON : 7 May 2007
The Bears signalled the end of their season with their presentation event held at the Bears Den on Sunday 6th May. A number of people and players were recognised for their contributions and achievements. The following were among those acknowledged:
For the first team:
Young Player of
the Year – Chris Smith
Goal of the Season – Jordan Johnson
SSG Golden Boot winner – Ged Courtney
Leading goal scorer – Ged Courtney
Peter Farrow Merit Award – Ken Mead
Players Player of the Year – Tommy Baker
Supporters Player of the Year – Andy Alston 1st
Ged Courtney Runner-up
Scott William 3rd
Manager’s Player of the Year – Richard Bailey
Player of the Year (Graham Burgess Trophy) – Ben Alston
A special presentation was made to physio Ann Guilfoyle who has left the club to take up a post at Doncaster Rovers. She was thanked for her services to the club and wished the very best with her new challenge.
For the Reserves
Leading goal scorer
– Kev Hammond
Secretary’s Merit Award – Pete Alston
Player’s Player of the Year – Rob Gorry
Manager’s Player of the Year – Dan Chadwick
Player of the Year – Craig Phelan
Flowers were presented to Sue Williams, Karen Burgess, Dawn Wright and Sue Yates for their help throughout the year and to Mrs Burgess (who donated the Graham Burgess Trophy) and Mrs Stevens (wife of Fred Stevens of STD the club’s main sponsor).
Thanks were given to Gary Randall and Crewe Colour Printers (joint programme sponsors), Mr Murcott and Martin Lenton for the reserve team tracksuits and the Supporters Trust for providing the reserve team Kit.
Special thanks
were given to Fred Stevens of STD who is the club’s main sponsor and a
framed shirt was presented to STD Limited. The club were also pleased to announce
that Fred and Ann Stevens have made a personal donation that will permit the
club to tarmac the area between the main stand and the clubhouse between the
player’s entrance and the boardroom.
BEARS STRUGGLE AGAIN : 21 April 2007
The end of season malaise continued for the Bears with two more defeats. At Glossop they went down 1-0 on a difficult surface that made most of the play a lottery. The introduction of three young players from the reserves was a plus point after the absence of Ged Courtney, Andy Alston and Andy Hurst (along with Scott Murcott’s continued absence) stretched the Bears resources. They followed that up with a better performance at Maine Road but their failure to take some excellent first half opportunities was punished as Maine Road scored twice in the second half to take the points.
The reserves showed great spirit with a 1-0 win against high flying Golborne Sports to leave them with a glimmer of hope of escaping the need to apply for re-election with just two away games left to play.
The final game of the season for the first team is this Saturday 28th April at home to Squires Gate, K:O 3pm. The reserves are away at Crewe FC on Saturday 28th K:O 3pm before their final game of the season away at Whitchurch Alport on Saturday 5th May, K:O 3pm.
A reminder that
the presentation event this year will be held on Sunday 6th May starting at
1pm at the Bears Den with a barbecue before moving on to the presentations starting
around 2.30 pm. Everyone is invited to the event.
BEARS LOOK WEARY 14 April 2007
The Bears followed up the disappointing display on Easter Monday against Nantwich with a similar performance on Saturday against Trafford. The 3-0 score line did not flatter the visitors as the Bears hardly mustered a shot on goal. The reserves in contrast did well to gain a valuable 3 points away at Maine Road with a 2-1 win and give themselves a glimmer of hope of escaping the need to apply for re-election.
This Saturday 21st April K:O 3pm the Bears first team are at Maine Road and there has been a change of date for the away fixture at Bacup Borough. It will now take place on MONDAY 23rd April K:O 7.45 pm having been moved to avoid clashing with Man Utd’s Champion League Cup Semi Final a day later. Then it’s the final match of the season for the first team with the home game on Saturday 28th April K:O 3pm against Squires Gate.
The reserves play at home against Golborne Sports K:LO 3pm and on Saturday 28th K:O 3pm they travel to Crewe FC before their final match on Saturday 5th May K:O 3pm away at Whitchurch Alport.
The presentation
event this year will be held on Sunday 6th May starting at 1pm at the Bears
Den with a barbecue before moving on to the presentations starting around 2.30
pm. Everyone is invited to the event.
BEARS WIN, DRAW AND LOSE : 9 April 2007
The Bears played three times in the up to and over the Easter holidays. They beat Bacup Borough 2-1 at home with goals from Jones and Smith with an Andy Alston own goal a last minute consolation for the visitors. Last Saturday they were unlucky not to have beaten Newcastle Town but had to settle for a share of the points with a Courtney special lighting up the afternoon for the Bears fans after Newcastle took a controversial lead in the second half. On Easter Monday, Nantwich Town took the honours with a 2-1 win at Booth Street with Courtney levelling early in the second half and after Nantwich were reduced to 10 men, the Bears would have fancied their chances, but a Dabbers side intent on promotion were not going to give up easily and scored again to take the points.
With the season entering its last three weeks, the first team are at home again this Saturday with Trafford the visitors and then are away on Tuesday 17th April K:O 7.45 pm at Glossop North End. Then Saturday 21st the Bears play away at Maine Road K:O 3pm.
The reserves are
away at Maine Road on Saturday 14th April K:O 3pm and at home on Tuesday 17th
April K:O 7.45 with Warrington Town Reserves the visitors. They are play their
last home game this season on 21st April K:O 3pm against Golborne Sports.
BEARS WIN ONE LOSE ONE : 25 March 2007
The Bears faced two away matches over the past week and had mixed fortunes. They had little trouble in taking all 3 points from their trip to Atherton LR with goals from Jones (a stunning 25-yard volley) and one from Petrie giving the Bears a 2-0 half time lead which was never really threatened and that was the final score. It was a different story at Silsden where an even first half display in which the Bears had the better of the chances, saw a weak second half and two goals gave the home side the points.
Whether any of the players were protecting themselves for the two cup ties due over the last 5 days remains to be seen but the Bears need immediate improvement if they are to have any chance in either match.
The reserves did well at home against Billinge and ran out winners by 2-1. The game ended with some controversy as after having a player sent off during the game, it seems the visitors had another two reported after the final whistle.
This Saturday, 31st March, K:O 3pm, the Bears travel to Gigg Lane for the second leg of the League Cup semi final with the scores level at 2-2. If the scores are level after 90 minutes, 30 minutes of extra time will be played and only then, if the scores remain level, will the away goals counting double rule be invoked. So if the game ends 2-2 after two hours of play, penalties will decide the winners.
On Tuesday 3rd
April, the Bears finally appear again at Booth Street when Bacup Borough are
the visitors, K:O 7.45 pm. The reserves are at home on 31st March K:O 3 pm with
Crewe FC the visitors K:O 3pm. On Saturday 7th April, the Bears are away at
Newcastle Town K:O 3 pm and the reserves are at home against Broadheath Central
K:O 3pm.
BEARS KEEP CUP HOPES ALIVE : 18 March 2007
The Bears faced FC United of Manchester in the first leg of the League Challenge Cup sponsored by D-Zine (Contractors) Ltd last Thursday. They kept their cup hopes alive by fighting back at Witton Albion after going 2-0 down in 20 minutes to earn a 2-2 draw with a brace from Andy Hurst who was returning after injury. The second leg is at Gigg Lane on Saturday 31st March K:O 3pm.
That performance was not repeated in the away league match at Ramsbottom where a solitary first half goal was enough to take all three points. A disappointing first half display was followed by a more spirited second half performance but the Bears could not find a way to breach the home defence.
The reserves drew 0 - 0 at home against Eagle Sports on Wednesday 14th March and lost 3- 0 at home against Curzon Ashton Reserves last Saturday.
This Saturday 24th
March K:O 3pm, the Bears are away at Silsden and then on Tuesday 27th March
K:O 7.45 pm, it’s back to Witton Albion, this time to take on the home
side in the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup Final. The reserves are at home on Saturday
24th March K:O 3pm against Billinge.
PLAYERS GET RECOGNITION FOR RECORD RUN : 11 March 2007
The Bears were without a game last Saturday after the match away at Bacup Borough was postponed as the pitch was waterlogged. The reserves did not have a fixture scheduled.
Following the record breaking nine match winning run including all four matches won in January and February, the Bears suffered their second successive 3-0 defeat last week. Curzon Ashton, the only real threat to FC United’s drive to be this season’s league champions, came to Booth Street and after leading 1-0 at half time scored twice in three minutes to tie up the points.
Disappointment at Andy Lee’s managerial achievement in maintaining a 100% record in both months not being recognised by any Manager of the Month award was compensated to some degree by Andy Alston and Paul Forester winning the Player of the Month and Goalkeeper of the month award respectively for February. Andy, the club captain, had scored three times in February including two match winning goals and Paul Forster kept two clean sheets plus made vital saves in the other two games which were won by the odd goal. Indeed, his double save in the last minute of the Challenge Cup quarter final kept the Bears in the competition and the match was won in extra time to set up the vital semi final clash with FC United. The Supporters Trust also rewarded the playing staff by presenting them with two dozen bottles of wine to share between them.
The first leg of the league challenge cup semi final against FC United is scheduled to take place at Witton Albion FC on Thursday 15th March and the second leg at Gigg Lane on Saturday 31st March. This Saturday, 17th March, the Bears are at Ramsbottom United K:O 3pm and then on Tuesday 20th March K:O 7.45 pm are away at Atherton LR. Saturday 24th March K:O 3pm, sees the Bears away at Silsden.
The reserves are
at home on Saturday 17th March K:O 3pm against Curzon Ashton Reserves and again
on Saturday 24th March K:O 3pm against Billinge.
TAME END TO WINNING RUN FOR BEARS : 5 March 2007
The Bears extended their winning sequence to nine with a 2-1 win in difficult conditions at Formby. Having fallen behind in the first half it took late goals from Williams and Andy Alston to earn the Bears the points in a match where the wind and some erratic play did not make for attractive viewing. The chance to make it 10 out of 10 went begging as the Bears repeated last year’s mediocre performance at Flixton and although somewhat better than in last season’s cup quarter final, the result was the same - a 3-0 defeat. Still, the fine run of wins has still to be admired and the Bears must regroup and start again as March contains no fewer than 8 matches and includes two cup ties against FC United and the home league game against Curzon Ashton as real testers.
The reserves were doing fine until half time, holding Whitchurch at1-1 but the final score of 4-1 was a little harsh.
This Saturday 10th March the first team are away at Bacup Borough K:O 3pm. On Thursday 15th March, the Bears face FC United of Manchester at Witton Albion’s Wincham Park ground in the league cup semi final with the second leg at Gigg Lane on Saturday 31st March K:O 3pm.
The reserves have
no game on Sat 10th March at Booth Street as that is the venue for the Macclesfield
& District FA Cup semi final. The reserves are at home on Wed 14th March
against Eagle Sports K:O 7.45 pm and on Saturday 17th March K:O 3pm against
Curzon Ashton Reserves.
SEVENTH HEAVEN FOR BEARS : 26 February 2007
The Bears recorded their seventh successive win in 2007 with a 7-0 defeat of Nelson at Booth Street. That took their winning sequence to eight in a row and has statisticians searching the record books for any better run in their history.
Two goals from Ged Courtney, two from Chris Smith and one each from Jordan Johnson, Jamie Petrie and Andy Alston made up the total as the Bears dominated throughout. The reserves were back in action last Saturday but went down 3-1 at Club AZ.
This Saturday, 3rd March, the first team are away at Flixton, K:O 3pm and then on Tuesday 6th have their only home league game in March when high flying Curzon Ashton are the visitors, K:O 7.45pm. On Saturday 10th March they are away at Bacup Borough K:O 3pm. The reserves are at home on 3rd March when Whitchurch Alport are the visitors, K:O 3pm and have no game on 10th March.
The League Cup
semi-final first leg against FC United of Manchester takes place at Witton Albion’s
Wincham Park ground on Thursday 15th March K:O 7.45 pm with the second leg at
Gigg Lane on Saturday 31st March K:O 3pm.
DREAM DRAW FOR BEARS : 19 February 2007
It was cup weekend for the Bears as they took on Padiham at Booth Street for a place in the semi finals of the NWC League Challenge Cup and the reserves completed their much delayed Macclesfield & District FA cup tie. It was mixed fortunes for the sides.
The Padiham match ended with victory by 3-2 after extra time. Having struck the post or crossbar 4 times, it was a relief when Craig Jones gave the Bears the lead a quarter hour form full time. Padiham grabbed an equaliser in one of a limited number of attacks and then almost stole a last minute victory but for a fine double save by ‘keeper Paul Forester. Goals from Ged Courtney and Andy Alston gave the Bears a two goal cushion and a goal just before the half time interval in extra time gave the score a closer look than it ought to have been. The draw for the semi-finals took place in the Bears Den after the match and the two legged semi final saw the Bears drawn against FC United. The dates have to be agreed as yet.
The reserves were leading 1-0 in their match until a last minute equaliser took it to extra time and another goal apiece. They then lost the tie on penalties. This coming Saturday, 24th February K:O 3pm, the reserves are away at Club AZ.
The first team
are at home to Nelson on Saturday 24th Feb K:O 3pm when they hope to extend
their winning sequence to eight. They then travel to Formby on Tuesday 27th
Feb K:O 7.45 pm.
BEARS LOOK TO LIGHTEN UP : 15 February 2007
Congleton Town FC have just placed an order for new floodlighting equipment in a further step to improve facilities at their Booth Street Ground. The equipment will use the existing floodlight pylons but with newly made caps and spars. New floodlights with housings will be controlled by new boxes. The projected illumination will be around 230 lux intitially before settling down to around 180 lux.
Ken Mead adds “Our existing lights have been in place for about 20 years, although we replaced all the bulbs about three years ago. The pylons were safety tested at that time and were in good condition. The new lights will be more efficient and more considerate to our neighbours who currently ‘share’ our illumination on match days and training nights during winter. Although reaching the prescribed minimum, the existing system does not have a lot of leeway left to maintain standards. When we had strong winds around three years ago, it damaged one of the spars forcing us to relocate a lamp. The recent winds have done likewise and hastened our desire for renewal.”
Chairman Peter Evans, who sits as part of the clubs recently formed Development Group adds “I am grateful to members of the group for reaching this goal in a short space of time. I am particularly grateful to benefactors of the club, main sponsors STD Limited, Programme sponsors GMR Plumbing & Heating, Billbo UK and a donation from the Congleton Town Council which has gone to raise most of the money to get the job underway.”
Peter is too modest
to add that he too had to chip in towards the costs!
Draw for the Semi-Finals of the League Cup will take place in the Club House
at aprox 5.30pm on Saturday.
SNOW GO FOR BEARS : 11 February 2007
The midweek snow had a telling effect on the NWC League fixtures last Saturday. Indeed, no midweek games were possible thanks to the weather but the thaw of sorts did not help the Bears for their fixture at Glossop. That left the pitch a quagmire and once again the Bears sat idle as the reserve game in the Macclesfield & District FA Cup was also postponed.
Whether that was a benefit for the Bears will be decided later. Both Maine Road and Trafford lost to lower placed opposition in the form of St Helens and Silsden and in addition the Bears escaped any injury worries before next weekends important League Cup tie.
The good news came in the form of Richard Bailey’s winning of the Player of the Month for January and the news that the order for the replacement floodlight boxes and lamps had gone in and the money had been raised with the help of STD, GMR, Billbo UK, Chairman Pete Evans and Congleton Town Council. More will still be needed to complete the work but that is in hand.
This Saturday 17th
February, the first team are at home in the quarter finals of the league cup
against Padiham K:O 3pm. The reserves try again to play their cup tie against
Congleton Athletic at Back Lane K:O 2pm.
BEARS MARCH ON : 4 February 2007
The Bears continued their 100% record in 2007 with an emphatic 3-0 win at home to Colne Dynamoes. Andy Hurst continued where he left off with a brace and Ged Courtney got a third in the first half to virtually put the game beyond the visitors. The fog presented the greatest risk to the Bears efforts to keep the momentum going as the season enters its last third. The reserves put up a good show away at Stalybridge before losing 2-1.
Andy Lee was unfortunate to lose out on the Manager of the Month award for January after the three qualifying matches left the club on the same number of “Manager of the Month” points as Curzon Ashton. The match against Runcorn Linnets was not a qualifying match. To have won the award, the Bears needed to score two more goals or to have beaten Atherton Collieries twice away instead of one at home and one away. C’est la vie as they say in posh places!
Two notices of approach have been received in the past week. Alsager want to talk to Ged Courtney and Newcastle Town want to speak to Jordan Johnston. The club, naturally, would like to keep both players as they have been major factors in the success of recent weeks and have earned their place in the Mid-Cheshire Cup Final against Witton and would hope to be part of a side that could be involved in a two-legged NWCFL Challenge Cup semi final if they can overcome Padiham.
Now with six successive
victories, the Bears travel to Glossop North End on Saturday 10th February,
K:O 3pm in an effort to make it seven in a row. Then it’s the eagerly
awaited League Cup 4th Round tie at home against Padiham on 17th February KO:
3pm. On 10th February K:O 2pm, the reserves are away at Back Lane against Congleton
Athletic in the rescheduled Macclesfield & District FA Cup tie. On 17th
Feb they are away again, K:O 3pm against Crewe FC.
ANOTHER CUP THRILLER FOR THE BEARS : 29 January 2007
The Bears progressed to the fourth round of the NWCFL Challenge Cup sponsored by D-Zine after a last minute winner saw them edge out Atherton Collieries 3-2. Atherton led after 14 minutes but Matt Murray equalised in the 20th minute. A minute later he was adjudged to have brought down an opponent in the area and Atherton Colls restored their lead. Another tremendous finish by Ged Courtney levelled the scores before half time. The Bears were by far the stronger side in the second half but while the scores remained level, defeat was just a shot away. It was the Bears however, who saved extra time with an 89th minute winner after one of the best moves in the match. Williams cross was headed back across goal by Courtney for Hurst to throw himself and head the ball home.
The reward for that win is another home draw in the quarter finals, against Padiham on Sat 17th February. Before that, it is a home game on Sat 3rd February K:O 3pm against Colne when Andy Lee tries to make it six successive wins. The following week, 10th February K:O 3pm it away at Glossop North End.
The reserves resumed
after a two week lay off with a splendid 5-1 win away at Lostock Gralam. They
will take that confidence booster with them this Saturday when they travel to
Stalybridge Celtic K:O 3pm. On 10th February they are at home against Warrington
Town Reserves K:O 3pm.
BEARS STILL 100% FOR 2007 : 22 January 2007
The Bears faced two challenges over the past couple of games. Firstly, they overcame a good Runcorn Linnets side at Booth Street to reach the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup final after two previous attempts to stage the game were thwarted by the weather. An entertaining and close game ended 3-2 to the Bears after extra time. Going in at half time 1-0 down the Bears fought back with a John McAllister goal early in the second half, only to fall behind again. It took a spectacular Scott Williams effort in the last couple of minutes to take the game into extra time. It was Williams with his second, another good finish that proved to be the winner and set up a meeting against Witton Albion.
Last Saturday, the Bears went to Atherton Collieries and on a heavy pitch did well to triumph 2-1 thanks to second half goals from Richard Bailey and a penalty from Ged Courtney. A goal five minutes from time gave the score a closer look than the play showed. That win kept the Bears 100% record for 2007. The reserves were once again without a fixture as the closure of Back Lane precluded the paying of their scheduled Macc & District FA cup tie away at Congleton Athletic.
This Saturday, 27th January K:O 3pm, the Bears are at home against Atherton Collieries, this time in the 3rd Round of the NWCFL Challenge Cup. The following week 3rd February K:O 3pm, they are also at home when Colne are the visitors.
The reserves resume
league fixtures next Saturday with an away trip to Lostock Gralam K:O 2pm.
BEARS BLANK WEEK : 15 January 2007
The Bears had a completely blank week as the weather took its toll. Having seen the rain force the last minute postponement of the Mid-Cheshire Senior up semi final against Runcorn Linnets on the Tuesday, the rain accounted for the away match at Ramsbottom on last Saturday. The reserves also suffered as Back Lane was closed by Thursday and their scheduled cup match away to Congleton Athletic was also postponed.
Arrangements were made for both cup ties to be played again. The Runcorn Linnets match for the first team was due to be played on Wednesday 17th Jan as Runcorn had planned an important meeting for the Tuesday. The reserves cup tie is due to be played on Saturday 20th Jan K:O 1.30 pm at Back Lane.
The first team
are away at Atherton Collieries on Saturday 20th January K:O 3pm and then play
the same opponents a week later, Sat 27th January at Booth Street K:O 3pm in
the League Challenge Cup 3rd Round. The reserves hope to resume league fixtures
on the same day away at Lostock Gralam K:O 2pm.
BEARS START NEW YEAR IN STYLE : 9 January 2007
2006 had ended with a 3-0 win away at Abbey Hey and 2007 started with a 4-1 home win against Formby. Jordan Johnson gave the Bears a first half lead before a hat trick in 9 minutes just after half time from Richard Bailey put the game beyond the visitors who scored a consolation goal shortly after the 4-0 lead was established. The Mid-Cheshire Cup semi-final was looking to go ahead as late as 5:15pm on Tuesday before persistent rain for about 2 hours left the pitch waterlogged and the referee with little option but to postpone the game.
The reserves went down 5-4 last Saturday at Monk FC after leading at half time. They play at Back Lane this Saturday against Congleton Athletic K:O 1.30 pm in the Macclesfield & District Cup.
This Saturday 13th January
K:O 3pm the first team have a difficult match against Ramsbottom United. Both
these games depend on the weather so please check before travelling. The revised
date for the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup tie is likely to be 16th Jan but may be
delayed until 23rd Jan. Discussions will take place in the next couple of days.
BEARS COME THROUGH STICKY PATCH
2006 ended with some good news as the Bears completed the double over Abbey Hey with a comfortable 3-0 win away last Saturday. Two first half goals from Petrie and one early in the second half from McAllister sealed the points. In increasingly difficult conditions, the match could have ended 9-4 to the Bears but just as the conditions contributed to the opportunities, so they did to the missing of them.
With Scott Williams suspended for this match, Kevin Hammond stepped up from the reserves to play in mid field. Scott Murcott is looking to make a comeback for this Saturday’s home match against Formby and Ged Courtney resumed playing at Abbey Hey after missing three games. Matt Murray spends the last of his three match ban sitting out the Formby match.
2007 starts with the home game against Formby on Saturday 6th January K:O 3pm. The Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup semi-final against Runcorn Linnets has been brought forward to Tuesday 9th January K:O 7.45 pm. The winners will meet Witton Albion in the final. Then on Saturday 13th January K:O 3pm the Bears have a difficult match against Ramsbottom United.
The reserves will be away at Monk FC on 6th January K:O 2pm and the following Saturday play local rivals Congleton Athletic away in the Macclesfield & District Cup K:O 1.30pm.
Everyone at the
club wishes its sponsors, benefactors and supporters a very Happy and Prosperous
New Year.
NO CHRISTMAS JOY FOR BEARS : 27 December 2006
It was a bleak Christmas for the Bears as they tried to put their season back on track. They started with a 2-1 defeat at St Helens with ex-Bear Chris Burke putting in a man of the match defensive display to thwart any hopes of ending the year with a draw let alone a win although Bailey’s goal to level the scores just before half time gave some cause for optimism. On Boxing day, the visit of Newcastle Town presented a challenge to both sides who had managers seeking their first league victory. That went the way of the visitors after a good first half saw the cores at 1-1 with McAllister’s scrambled goal scant reward for some good play. The second half was a different story as ‘Castle scored twice, one from the penalty spot to secure a 3-1 win.
Matt Murray was suspended for the Newcastle Town match and Scott Murcott has still not fully recovered from injury sustained against FC United. Ged Courtney was due to return on Boxing Day but a sudden bereavement the day before of a close friend ruled him out. Saturday sees Scott Williams suspended along with Matt Murray and Scott Murcott still doubtful, so the Bear’s resources are being stretched.
The reserves also had a tough Christmas with a 3-1 home defeat on 23rd December but they were not required to play on Boxing Day.
The first team
travel to Abbey Hey this Saturday, 30th December K:O 3pm while the reserves
are at home against Eagle Sports K:O 2pm. The following week, Saturday 6th January
2007, sees the new year kick off with the first team at home against Formby
K:O 3pm and the reserves away at Monk FC K:O 2pm
BEARS LET TWO GOAL LEAD SLIP : 17 December 2006
For most of the game, the bears looked capable of taking the points off a Salford side looking for the victory that would take them top of the table. The Bears wanted to peg back their rivals who were beginning to open a large gap that would take a superhuman effort to pull back. With a well taken goal from Williams, and one from Johnson giving the Bears a 2-0 lead after 34 minutes, they looked set to achieve their objective but a disputed penalty award allowed Salford to pull a goal back just before half time.
In an exciting second half where both sides upped the tempo, Salford levelled after a good spell of pressure with the Bears saviour being ‘keeper Forester. Another late and disputed free kick award for the visitors led to the winner in the 4th minute of stoppage time and it was almost no surprise that the referee ended the match very soon after. The Bears undoubtedly missed the presence of both Andy Alston and Scott Murcott at the heart of the defence, although both Ben Alston and Matt Murray had fine performances as deputy central defenders.
The Bears completed the signing of Jamie Madden from Stone Dominoes and he came on as a substitute in the Salford match.
The reserves match
at Whitchurch was postponed. The next set of matches sees the first team away
at St Helens this Saturday, 23rd December K:O 3pm before the home game on Boxing
Day K:O 3pm against Newcastle Town. The reserves are at home this Saturday 23rd
December K:O 2 pm against Maine Road Reserves.
BEARS OFF COLOUR : 10 December 2006
Once again the trip to the cold hills of Colne saw the Bears struggle on a sloping pitch, in cold and showery conditions on a soggy pitch. They may have put up a better performance than others there in recent times but the outcome was just the same. A 1-0 defeat was a disappointment after the spirited display against FC United. So attention turned to two home games, the first against Runcorn Linnets on Tuesday 12th December in the semi-finals of the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup and the second this Saturday 16th December at home against Salford City K:O 3pm.
The reserves were without a game last weekend as their match against Crewe FC was postponed after a morning pitch inspection. They are due to play away at Whitchurch Alport on Saturday 16th December K:O 2pm.
A DVD of the match against FC United is available at £6. There is a choice between the unedited version or the highlights version. If you would like a copy, please place you order at the club on match days with the £6 payment and clearly stating your preferred version of the DVD.
You are also reminded
that the club is collecting toys for donation as Christmas presents to a local
hospice. Each present should be wrapped and marked clearly to show whether it
is suitable for a boy or girl (or either). There is a collecting box at the
club this Saturday. The project closes this weekend so please be generous and
help make a deserving child happy this Christmas.
BEARS HOLD LEAGUE LEADERS : 4 December 2006
After a lot of planning and detailed preparation, the Bears ‘home’ game against FC United of Manchester took place at Witton Albion’s ground on Sunday 3rd December. A turn out of around 1100 was around the expected attendance. The match was a good advert and the Bears showed why they are still in contention to challenge for a promotion spot at the end of this season.
A fine header from Scott Murcott gave the Bears an 18th minute lead and this after Scot Williams had seen his earlier shot hit the post. Debutant ‘keeper Paul Forester saved a penalty, FC United equalised from the consequent series of corners, Matt Murray was sent off for striking an opponent (although he looked to be as much a victim as villain) and Richard Bailey saw his effort rebound of ‘keeper Ashton and on to the crossbar. So a 1-1 draw meant for the first time (ever?) FC United had gone two league games without a win.
The reserves fared less well at Warrington the previous Tuesday, losing 5-0 and that was followed by a 3-0 defeat at Curzon Ashton on Saturday.
This Saturday,
9th December, the first team are away at Colne, K:O 3pm and the reserves are
at home against Crewe FC K:O 2pm. The first team are at home on Tuesday 12th
December K:O 7.45 pm in the semi-final of the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup against
Runcorn Linnets. They are vat home again on Saturday 16th August in the vital
clash against Salford City, K:O 3pm.
BEARS BIG DAY LOOMS : 26 November 2006
The Bears were without a first team game last weekend after their planned away match at Formby was postponed as a mark of respect for their Chairman Chris Welsh who died on Sat 18th November and the funeral took place on Friday 24th November. The reserves played at home against Tarporley Vics and won 1-0. The reserves are away this Saturday, 2nd December K:O 3pm against Curzon Ashton Reserves and at home on Saturday 9th December K:O 2pm against Crewe FC.
Meanwhile, the first team are preparing for a match they have been looking forward to all season, the home game against FC United of Manchester. Regretfully, the ‘home’ venue is at Witton Albion’s Wincham Park ground. The safety issues that forced the police and local authority safety officers to move the venue from Booth Street are not an issue there and the ground can hold over 4500 people. It would be wonderful if the attendance was something like that but anything over 1000 would still be a welcome sight for the Bears. Entry to the ground will be £6 adults, £4 concessionaries and £2 children under 12. Transfer to the stand will be £1 and car parking is available in Witton Albion’s car park at £1.
The following week,
Sat 9th December, K:O 3 pm, the Bears are away at Colne. Then on 12th December,
Runcorn Linnets are the opponents in the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup semi-final
at Booth Street K:O 7.45 pm.
ONE WIN ONE LOSS FOR BEARS : 19 November 2006
The Bears had a mixed week with two cup ties. The first against Norton United ion the League Challenge Cup ended with a 2-1 victory and a home draw against Atherton Collieries in the 3rd Round on 27th January. The goals came from Jamie Petrie and Andy Alston. The more lucrative cup tie in the FA Vase 2nd Round Proper saw Whitley Bay the visitors to Booth Street and they took the spoils (including the £1000 prize money) back to the North East with a 3-1 victory. Ged Courtney scored to give the Bears a brief glimmer of hope. Jordan Barnes made his debut in the Norton game, and Jordan Johnson made his in the Whitley Bay game.
After the match, the club announced a change of ownership with the shares once held by Paul Marshall and John Pollard, being bought by Chairman Pete Evans and Vice Chairman Steve Burgess.
This Saturday, 25th November, the Bears are away at Formby K:O 3pm. Their next game will be the much awaited home game against FC United of Manchester After consideration and comment from the Police and Local Authority Safety Officer, the match has been switched to Sunday 3rd December K:O 2pm at Witton Albion’s Wincham Park ground. It is not all ticket and prices will be £6 adults, £4 concessionaries for access to the terraces.
The reserves went
down 3-0 at Broadheath Central in the Mid Cheshire League 2nd Division Cup last
Saturday and are at home to Tarporley Vics in the league this Saturday K:O 2.15
pm. They are way on Tuesday 28th November K:O 7.45 pm at Warrington Town.
BEARS READY FOR BIG TESTS AHEAD : 13 November 2006
The Bears had a quiet week without a game last Saturday or the previous midweek so it was left to the reserves to record a 4-0 win at Old Altrinchamians in the Macclesfield & District FA Saturday cup to provide the entertainment. The first team were left with the task of finding goalkeepers after Terry McCormick’s departure to Skelmersdale Utd. They secured Paul Forrest from Pilkingtons but he promptly injured himself last weekend and so another search started and ended with the signing of Andy Paxton from Skelmersdale.
Also added to the squad were Jordan Barnes, son of England’s John Barnes, from Chester City, Sam Wood and Jordan Johnson from Leek Town. Andy Lee is looking to have a strong squad for the next push in the league and cup campaigns.
This Saturday, 18th November sees the Bears face Whitley Bay in the FA Vase at Booth Street K:O 3pm with extra time if needed. If still level the teams replay on Tuesday 21st K:O 8 pm. In that case there would be a coach leaving Booth Street at 3pm. If no replay is required for the Bears or for Flixton, the two teams meet at Booth Street on Tuesday 21st K:O 7.45pm.
The reserves are
away at Broadheath Central this Saturday K:O 1.45pm in the 2nd Round of the
Divisional cup and meet Tarporley Vics at Booth Street on Saturday 25th November
K:O 2.15 pm.
BEARS LOOK TO FORWARD TO A WEEK OF REST : 7 November 2006
Playing a third league match in succession against a team in the bottom three, the Bears eventually ran out comfortable winners away against Stone Dominoes. The 4-1 score line came courtesy of goals from Tommy Baker, McAllister, Petrie and Skellern. The match was poised for a while at 1-1 before the Bears superior fitness finally told. A more demanding game followed away at Trafford, who featured ex-Bears Canning and Jackson. Having fallen behind 10 minutes into the second half, the Bears fought back to equalise through a splendid Courtney glancing header and almost took all three points at the death when Baileys powerful shot was deflected narrowly wide.
The Bears will hope to extend their five match unbeaten run when they resume playing next Tuesday 14th November. They are without a game from Saturday 4th but they then face two cup ties in four days. Starting with the home tie against Norton United on Tuesday 14th K:O 7.45 in the League Challenge Cup 2nd Round, they follow that with an important home tie in the FA Vase against Whitley Bay on Saturday 18th November K:O 3 pm. If needed, extra time has to be played in the first match against Whitley Bay but if a replay is then required, it will take place on Tuesday 21st November K:O 8pm. If not, then Flixton will be the visitors to Booth Street on 21st November K:O 7.4 pm.
Having received 7 days notice of approach from Skelmersdale Utd for Terry McCormick, the Bears were set to lose their regular goalkeeper during this week. Andy Lee has moved to sign Peter Collinge (who has also signed for Leek Town) emergency cover with Paul Forester signed from Pilkington AFC as the long term replacement.
The reserves went
down 1-0 to a late goal against Stalybridge Celtic reserves in a fine performance
against the league’s front runners. They are involved in cup action this
weekend as they travel to Old Alts in the Macclesfield & District Cup K:O
1.30 pm.
BEARS STILL GOING STRONG AT HOME : 29 October 2006
The Bears picked up another 3 points in their home match against St Helens last Saturday. Building on the 3-1 win away at Nelson and the 2-1 win at home to Lostock Gralam, a class finish from Ged Courtney on the stroke of half time was all that separated the sides in a close affair at Booth Street. The Bears survived a couple of early scares in particular, one of which saw the ball come back off the crossbar before they settled down to show only glimpses of their previous week’s performance at Nelson. They face Stone Dominoes on Wednesday before travelling on Saturday 4th November K:O 3pm to face a Trafford side that has been steadily climbing the table. There is no game at all the following week for the first team and their next match will be the home tie against Norton United on Tuesday 14th November, K:O 7.45 in the League Challenge Cup 2nd Round.
The reserves went down 2-0 away at Eagle Sports last Saturday and face an even tougher match ton Saturday 4th November when Stalybridge Celtic Reserves are the visitors for a 2.15pm K:O.
The win against
Lostock Gralam in the Mid-Cheshire Senior Cup has earned the Bears a home tie
in the semi-final against Runcorn Linnets. The date has not yet been agreed.
The Bears continue to miss Scott Williams who is struggling with injury but
John McAllister is working on his fitness playing with the reserves as he tries
to overcome an extended absence through injury.
BEARS BACK ON GOAL STANDARD : 23 October 2006
After
the two disappointing 1-0 defeats against Atherton Collieries and Curzon Ashton,
the Bears found their shooting boots again with a fine 3-1 win away at Nelson.
Two first half goals from Courtney and Hurst gave the Bears a 2-1 half time
lead and another from Skellern wrapped up a comfortable win. They followed that
up with the midweek victory at home to Lostock Gralam in the Mid-Cheshire Senior
cup. Two first half goals from Skellern and Hurst put the Bears on the road
to success with a late penalty from a spirited Lostock side making the score
line closer than the Bears would have liked. Still, the win gave the Bears a
place in the semi finals.
This Saturday,
28th October, K:O 3pm, the Bears are at home to St Helens Town and the reserves
are away at Eagle Sports K:O 2.15pm. The Bears travel to Stone Dominoes (at
Meir KA ground) on Wednesday 1st November K:O 7.45 pm. On Saturday 4th November,
the Bears are away at Trafford, K:O 3pm with the reserves at home against Stalybridge
Celtic K:O 2:15pm. During the following week there is now no scheduled match
as they should have faced Norton on 11th November but they are involved in Staffs
County Cup tie and the game has been moved to Tuesday 14th November.
MANAGER UPDATE : 9 October 2006
"Congleton Town had a mixed weekend with the gloss taken off their fine
win in the FA Vase by the news that Manager Paul Moore had taken up the offer
to manage Leek Town, currently sitting at the foot of the UniBond Premier League.
Paul had been steadily building a side over the past two years and had seen
the Bears off to one of their best starts to a season for some time. Unbeaten
at home, with 8 wins from 9 starts and only one league defeat away at FC United
before their midweek trip to Salford City, the news left a number at the Booth
Street Club a little deflated. They had just seen another good performance that
produced four goals of the highest qualty in the 4-0 defat of Dinnington Town.
Assistant Andy Lee will assume control for the time being as Chairman Peter
Evans tries to maintain stability amongst a settled squad. Unusual for the Cheshire
club with a change of manager, they are currently not looking for an influx
of new players as the settled squad they have are producing a string of creditable
results."
BITTER SWEET DAY FOR BEARS : 8 October 2006
The Bears important FA Vase tie against Dinnington last Saturday brought them a bitter sweet day to remember. The good news came by way of a convincing 4-0 win with goals from Houghton, Bailey, Courtney and Hurst all of which were quality strikes. Coupled with a shot off the foot of a post, one off the crossbar and one hacked off the line, the home side’s faithful were again given an excellent display to appreciate. The victory earned the club a prize of £600.
The gloss was taken off that a little with the news that manager Paul Moore had accepted an offer from Leek Town who are struggling at the foot of the UniBond Premier League. The Bears still look to remain together with the team spirit high and their performances giving both players and spectators much optimism about the season’s prospects. Andy Lee will take over the reins for the time being. Whether any other appointment will be made has not yet been decided.
After the game on Saturday, John Harrison of SSG presented Paul Moore with a couple of bottles by way of wishing him good luck and Sam McNutt was also presented with a bottle of his favourite tipple to thank him for his services and wish him good luck as he is departing to work in Canada for a year.
The reserves were at Tarporley Vics on Saturday and came away with a well deserved point in a goalless draw.
During the past
week, the Bears were looking to see what the draw in the FA Vase was going to
produce and they were due to play at Salford on Tuesday. This Saturday 14th
October, the Bears are at home against an improving Atherton Collieries side,
K:O 3pm. Then in a change to fixtures, they are way at Curzon Ashton on Monday
16th October K:O 7.45 pm. The reserves are away at Fearnhead this coming Saturday,
14th October K:O 3pm.
BEARS MARCH ON : 2 October 2006
The Bears won against at Booth Street last Saturday. This time Atherton LR were unable to derail the Bears current home form. A first minute penalty converted by Courtney was countered by a 12th minute equaliser. Williams super strike regained the lead but poor defending saw Atherton LR equalise before half time. Two goals in the opening 10 minutes of the second half , one from Courtney and one from McNutt was added to by Skellern’s late goal to make the final score line a convincing 5-2.
The reserves were at Malpas last Saturday and came away with a 3-3 draw. A late ‘winner’ was ruled out to deny the Bears a good win.
This weekend sees the Bears at home in the FA vase against Sheffield side Dinnington Town. K:O is at 3pm. Subject to any FA Vase replay intervening, the Bears are at Salford City next Tuesday, 10th Oct K:O 7.45 pm. If the Bears require a replay at Dinnington, this will take place on Wednesday 11th K:O 7.45 pm. On Saturday 14th October K:O 3pm, it’s home again against Atherton Collieries and then in a change to the fixtures, the Bears face Curzon Ashton on Monday 16th October K:O 7.45 pm.
The reserves are
away at Tarporley Vics this Saturday (7th Oct) K:O 3pm.
BEARS STILL ON COURSE : 26 September 2006
The Bears had another good week with a comfortable win away at Daisy Hill in the FA Vase and then a thrilling 1-1 draw at home against second placed Maine Road in the league. At Daisy Hill, two goals in the opening 10 minutes by Courtney, one from the penalty spot, settled any pre-match nerves. Andy Alston extended the lead just before half time and added his second and the Bear’s fourth in the second d half before Richard Bailey wrapped up the scoring five minutes from time.
On Tuesday, Hurst gave the Bears a second half lead before Maine Road equalised 10 minutes later. The match was played at almost frenetic pace and provided full value for money for everyone. The Bears thus lost the 100% home record but still remain unbeaten in competitive games at Booth Street this season.
The reserves were unlucky to go down 2-1 at home to Lostock Gralam, conceding a last minute goal from a free kick. They are away at Malpas this Saturday, 30th Sep K:O 3pm and away at Tarporley on Sat 7th Oct.
The first team
are at home to Atherton LR on Sat 30th Sep K:O 3 pm, and at home again in the
FA Vase First Round Proper on Sat 7th Oct K:O 3pm when they meet Dinnington
Town. The Sheffield based club are in their first season in the FA Vase.
NOW SIX OF THE BEST : 18 September 2006
The Bears had a good week with a fine draw at fancied Nantwich Town and maintained their 100% home record on Saturday with their sixth successive win when they defeated Ramsbottom United. At Nantwich, a superb strike from Sam McNutt gave the Bears an early lead but with a quarter hour left, they trailed 2-1 but a clever goal from Ged Courtney got the Bears a share of the points they fully deserved.
A home against Ramsbottom, a close game was settled by a low Richard Bailey drive from 18 yards. Sam McNutt was more of a villain when he was dismissed for remarks to the referee. Terry McCormick continued his fine early season form with some fine saves in both games.
The reserves faced a Golborne side managed by Kevin Langley and including ex-Bears Mike Scully and Martin Gwinnett. A brave performance was not enough to deny the home side a 3-0 win.
This Saturday 23rd Sep K:O 3.00 pm the Bears travel to Daisy Hill in the FA Vase. Any replay will take on Tues 26th Sep K:O 7.45 pm. The reserves are at home on Sat 23rd, playing Lostock Gralam K:O 3.00 pm. Provided no FA Vase replays interfere, the Bears will play current second placed Maine Road at home on Tues 26th September K:O 7.45 pm and follow that with another home game on Sat 30th Sep K:O 3.00 pm when mark Cox’s Atherton LR side are the visitors.
BEARS FIRM HOME FORM : 11 september 2006
The Bears maintained their 100% home record last Saturday with a 3-1 win against Abbey Hey. All the goals came in the first half and two from Richard Bailey and one from Sam McNutt were the telling strikes. Abbey Hey rallied briefly to equalise but could not find a way to get a second and give the Bears a testing time. The boot was on the other foot the previous Wednesday as FC United of Manchester ran out 3-0 winners at Gigg Lane. A miscued shot, an own goal (off Dave Shaw’s shoulder but credited to Rudd) and a suspicion of off-side for the third were no excuse as the home side dominated most of the match.
The reserves also had a mixed week, winning 6-2 at home against Fearnhead but losing 5-2 away to Billinge.
This week the Bears
are at home on Saturday 16th Sept K:O 3.00pm with Ramsbottom United the visitors.
The Reserves play away at Golborne on the same day, K:O 3.00 pm. There are no
league fixtures during the week and on Saturday 23rd Sep K:O 3.00 pm the Bears
travel to Daisy Hill in the FA Vase. Any replay will take on Tues 26th Sep K:O
7.45 pm. The reserves are at home on Sat 23rd, playing Lostock Gralam K:O 3.00
pm.
BEARS MIXED FORTUNES : 4 September 2006
The Bears maintained their 100% home record on Tuesday night with a 2-1 win against Glossop North End after going in 1-0 down at the interval. A penalty won and converted by Courtney early in the second half levelled the scores and Courtney’s ninth goal this season won the match.
The FA Cup offered no reward for the Bears up in the north east and a 4-0 defeat was summed up by the sore line. Three down at half time and outplayed for most of it, it was mostly about pride in the second period. At least the players restored some of that. They created several openings but were not convincing and a goal near the end was the final blow.
FC United of Manchester away presents the next challenge. The Bears have signed an old favourite at Booth Street as Dave Shaw returns after spells with Stone Dominoes, Lancaster City and Kidsgrove. Paul Moore was hoping for one more signing before the weekend to boost his squad strength.
The reserves did get their first victory on Saturday with a 4-3 home win against Eagle Sports in the Second Division Cup.
This week sees the Bears at home on Saturday 9th September K:O 3.00 pm against Abbey Hey and that is followed by the trip to Nantwich Town on Wednesday 13th Sep K:O 7.45 pm.
The reserves were
playing Fearnhead on Tues 5th Sep K:O 7.30 pm and on Saturday 9th Sep K:O 3.00
pm are away at Billinge.
BEARS HIT SCORING FORM : 28 August 2006
The Bears certainly found their scoring boots in the last week with a fine 5-0 win in midweek against Stone Dominoes. Ged Courtney scored three with the others from Bailey and Hurst. Ten on Saturday, they scored four times at Squires Gate, Courtney (2), McNutt and Ben Alston the scorers. Unfortunately their normally sound defending was not on show and they allowed Squires Gate to share the points in a 4-4 draw.
The reserves drew 2-2 at home to Club AZ in midweek but went down 4-2 at home to league leaders Monk FC on Saturday.
This week’s action sees the Bears in FA Cup action at Billingham Town on Saturday 2nd Sep K:O 3.00 pm. There is a coach for this trip and anyone wishing to travel with the team should be at the ground at 9.30am. Fares will be £7 adults and £4 children/OAPs. If a replay is needed, it will be at Booth Street on Tuesday 5th September K:O 7.45pm. If not, the Bears will be away at FC United on Wednesday 6th September K:O 7.45pm. FC United play at Bury’s Gigg Lane. On Sat 9th September, the Bears are at home against Abbey Hey K:O 3.00pm.
The reserves are
in action on Sat 2nd September, at home to Eagle Sports in the 2nd Division
Cup, K:O 2.30 pm. They are then at home (FA Cup replays permitting) on Tues
5th Sept in the league against Fearnhead, K:O 7.30 pm.
BEARS MIXED CUP FORTUNES : 22 August 2006
After a sound start in the league, the Bears faced two cup ties in four days and had mixed fortunes. With players missing through holidays and injury, six changes were necessary for the Cheshire Senior Cup and the need for Ben Alston to play in goal against Nantwich Town was not a good omen. The Bears did lead after 2 minutes thanks to Leigh Skellern’s deft header but a generous looking penalty brought Nantwich back into the match and they led 2-1 at half time, running out 3-1 winners in the end.
Last Saturday, the more serious matter of the FA Cup, with glory and prize money up for grabs, was on the minds of the Bears players and supporters. Winsford provided some testing moments but a splendid header from Scott Murcott was all that separated the sides at the final whistle. With £500 bagged as reward, the Bears looked north for the next round as they are pitched against Bilingham Town on Sat 2nd Sept, K:O 3 pm. There will be a coach for that trip; details will appear in next week’s Bearfacts.
League matters move to Blackpool this weekend with the Bears at Squires Gate on Saturday 26th Aug K:O 3.00 pm and then another home league game on Tuesday 29th Aug K:O 7.4 pm against Glossop North End.
The reserve side are at home on Saturday 26th Aug K:O 3.00 pm when Monk FC are the visitors. That is followed by home games against Eagle Sports on Saturday 2nd Sept K:O 3.00 pm in the 2nd Division cup and then on Tuesday 5th September against Fearnhead in the league, K:O 7.30 pm.
BEARS MAKE STEADY START : 15 August 2006
The Bears started the season with a good win 2-1 against Silsden. Two second half goals from debutant Gerrard Courtney proved enough. The first half belonged to the visitors and they led 1-0 at half time but the Bears dominated the second, especially the final quarter of the match, to run out deserved winners.
The match at Nantwich in the Cheshire Senior Cup last Tuesday will have seen the Bears without Baker and Jones (on holiday), Andy Alston and John McAllister (injured) and Courtney (unavailable).
This Saturday 19th August sees the start of the FA Cup with the Bears involved in an Extra Preliminary Round against Winsford United at Booth Street, K:O 3.00 pm. The reserves begin their season with an away match at Broadheath Central on Saturday 19th Aug K:O 3.00 pm. On Tuesday 22nd August, KO 7.45 pm, the Bears will be at home again against Stone Dominoes unless a replay is required against Winsford. If that is the case, that will be at Barton Stadium on Wednesday 23rd August, K:O 7.45 pm. Also on Wednesday evening, the reserves have their first home game against Club AZ, K:O 7.30 pm.
The lack of players
for a youth team and with no manager for the side, has forced the team have
be withdrawn from the FA Youth Cup. They have also had to resign from the Youth
League.
BEARS READY FOR THE BIG KICK OFF : 11 August 2006
This Saturday sees the start of the Moore & Co Construction Solicitors North West Counties League. The fixtures were produced some three weeks ago and it has taken only a week or two to produce two changes in the first four games!
Originally the Bears were meant to start away at Silsden but with just over a week to go to the start, Silsden found themselves unable to have the pitch ready and the Bears agreed to a switch on condition that they wouldn’t be sent to Silsden on a weekday. Then, with Cheshire insisting that the Cheshire Senior Cup starts right at the start of the season, they excelled themselves by arranging the fixtures for the week commencing 14th Aug. Drawn away at Nantwich Town, the Bears (and Nantwich) lost their scheduled NWC matches. Fortunately, the fixtures were such that both the Bears and the Dabbers opponents were due to meet on 22nd Aug and so that fixture was brought forward a week so that the Bears would meet Stone Dominoes on 22nd Aug instead of a blank midweek.
Training has gone well in as much as the turn out has been excellent and the players have worked hard on regaining their fitness. As usual, holidays take their toll on the availability of players during the pre-season friendlies and there has been a large variation in the teams Paul Moore has fielded. The results have ranged from the disappointing 7-1 defeats by Macc Town and Alsager to the very encouraging 2-2 draw with Skelmersdale Utd and narrow 1-0 defeat by Port Vale. The time for assessing players and experimenting has come to an end as the side needs to be in winning form from the start. The FA Cup begins on 19th August with a home tie against Winsford United.
In an effort to signal a determined effort to do well and to try to turn out a stable side, three players have been placed on contract. Club Captain Andy Alston and fellow centre back Scott Murcott join the promising Leigh Skellern. Leigh went to Rochdale for a week’s trial but their lack of personnel and the impending start of their own league fixtures curtailed the opportunity to play in a friendly, although Rochdale intend to have Leigh watched over the coming weeks.
The side will be playing in a new strip this season. The first team and the newly formed reserve side will play in black and white stripes, black shorts and black socks. The first team will be sponsored by STD Limited, based on Radnor Park Congleton. The reserves kits will be sponsored by the Supporters Trust. The change strips for the reserves will be Orange with White shorts and socks. The First team change strip will be an all silver/grey outfit sponsored by Pallex, the national palletised delivery network of which STD are a member.
The Programme will continue to be jointly sponsored by Gary Randall’s GMR Heating and Plumbing and Crewe Colour Printers. Additional copies are being ordered this year to meet the expected demand from the match against FC United of Manchester. (It would be nice to need extra too for an extended run in at least one of the major cup competitions).
The reserves will be playing at Booth Street in the Mid-Cheshire League Second Division but this year, there will be no Youth side after the players expected to be moved up from Vale Juniors went en bloc to play elsewhere and there was no manager to run the side. Reluctantly, the club have had to inform the Youth League and the FA of their demise. Withdrawing from the FA Youth Cup at this stage will undoubtedly mean the side’s exclusion from at least next year’s competition if not for a longer period.
Season tickets will be available on Saturday 12th August at £90 adults and £52 OAPs and children. Academy members will be admitted free to league games only, on production of their membership card. Children under 5 will be admitted free to league games and also to cup ties with agreement from opponents.
With hopes high for good start to the season and a real effort
to challenge for a top three place, the club are hoping for the support, which
has long been the envy of other clubs, to spur the team on.
VALE AT BOOTH STREET FOR FRIENDLY: 26 July 2006
Congleton Town FC are pleased to announce that Port Vale
have agreed to bring a strong XI to Booth Street next Tuesday evening KO 7.30pm
for a pre-season friendly.
In addition, a fixture against Alsager Town has also been arranged for Saturday
5 August - 3pm, at Booth Street. The club are trying to rearrange the Maghull
friendlies on the same day. If this is not possible there is a chance that the
Reserves will fulfill the fixture at Maghull. Check out the forum for any announcements.
FIRST FRIENDLIES SHOW PROMISING SIGNS : 24 July 2006
The Bears have completed two of their pre-season friendlies
following matches against Macclesfield Town and Warrington, both at home. The
Silkmen turned out their first team and ran out easy winners by 7-1, although
for the first 20 minutes, the Bears were still giving the visitors a challenging
time and Tommy Baker’s well taken goal had levelled the scores until Macc
showed a more clinical and ruthless streak to finish off the Bears.
Against Warrington Town, the Bears were more than a match for their UniBond opponents and went down to a freak effort late in the game when a low drive kicked up off the hard surface to bounce over Matt Conkie’s low dive. The next game at Booth Street is against Tommy Lawson’s Skelmersdale Utd this Saturday, 29th July K:O 3.00 pm. The home fans get a chance to see the reserve side shaping up on Wed 2nd August, K:O 7.00pm when Alsager Town are the opponents.
Team building continues with three players placed on contract, skipper Andy Alston, Scott Murcott and promising youngster Leigh Skellern. Paul Moore awaits the return from holidays of Seb Krupa, Phil MacDiarmid and Terry McCormick as well as expecting a couple of new faces top feature in the Skelmersdale Utd match.
The Bears have
been pitted against Nantwich Town away in the Cheshire Senior Cup. That match
is supposed to take place in the week commencing 14th August and if it does,
will mean the first scheduled league game at home against Stone Dominoes will
be rescheduled.
BEARS RECEIVE LEAGUE FIXTURES : 10 July 2006
Congleton Town FC received their league fixture list this week. Starting on 12th Aug with an away trip to Silsden, their first home league game is on 15th Aug when Stone Dominoes provide the opposition. That is followed by the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round at home against Winsford United on Sat 19th Aug.
Before that, the pre-season friendlies continue following the Macclesfield Town game on 12th July with home games against Warrington Town on Sat 22nd July K:O 3pm and Skelmersdale Utd on Sat 29th July K:O 3pm. Away games are scheduled at Golbourne Sports on 25th July K:O 6.45pm, Maghull on Sat 5th Aug (this may be a double match with reserves K:O at 12 noon and first XI at 3 pm) and on Tues 8th Aug at Crosfileds K:O 6.30pm.
Players have started
signing on with all those Paul Moore wanted to remain at the club pledging their
services. Some are still on holiday but a full list of registered players will
be issued shortly. This will include 3 who are likely to be on contract as Paul
Moore looks to build stability into his squad.
BEARS IN UPBEAT MOOD : 19 June 2006
The mood at Booth Street is upbeat as the Bears continue the build up to the start of the 2006/07 season. Having established a sound mid-table side last season, Manager Paul Moore has been working to get the remaining quality players on board for the start of a vital season. Off the field, other activities have been moving steadily forward towards improving the Bears prospects both on and off the field.
The coming season looks set to see the completion of the football restructuring of the National Leagues with the introduction of the second UniBond ‘First’ division, to leave a UniBond Premier Division, and a First Division North and First Division South (although the southern division could well extend to the midlands area). The consequences of the final restructure would require an additional set of promotions from the North West Counties and the Northern League. So a further 4 to 6 sides could well be promoted from the North West Counties at the end of 2006/7 season.
Off the field the Bears have seen the introduction of the Congleton Football Academy, run by Paul Moore’s Sports Vision Coaching. Now entering its seventh week, the academy has a registered strength of just under 80 youngsters ranging in age from 5 to 16 years old. They meet on Monday evening from 6.45 pm to 7.45 for the 5 to 10 year olds and 7.45 to 8.45 for the older groups. The Youth Team will again be entering the FA Youth Cup after another successful season during which they won the League Cup. Any home ties in the FA Youth Cup will be played at Booth Street but their league games will resume again at back lane. The Bears now have a reserve side entered into the Mid-Cheshire League Second Division and will be playing their games at Booth Street on Saturday afternoons. The manager of the reserve side has now been appointed and is Andy Ratcliffe from Rode Heath.
The Vice President’s club has been expanded, and continues to grow, thanks to the efforts of Chris Spence, himself a Vice President. The club are most grateful to Chris and also to John Harrison from SSG who was the driving force behind the VP club’s inception two years ago. The VP club brings in vital revenue as well as introducing some influential people to the club and its activities. The pre-season preparations are also well under way with some interesting events.
First up will be a fund raising dinner at The Church House on Saturday 1st July. With a meal and entertainment laid on, places can be reserved by contacting Graham Withers at the Church House. Tickets are £25 per person. The following day, Sunday 2nd July, there is a charity match at Booth Street, K:O 1 pm when Merseyside TV bring a Hollyoaks/Brookside team to take on a Congleton Town XI. The charity chosen by the celebrity opponents is the Clatterbridge Cancer Research Fund. Entry to the match will be £6 adults, £3 OAPs and Children with Children under 3 free. Come along on the day to grab some autographs and support a good cause too. Then on Wednesday 5th July, starting around 6pm, the Town Sports are again being held at Booth Street. Come along and see the youngsters of the town striving to make their school the champions.
The pre-season matches include home games against Macclesfield Town on Wednesday 12th July K:O 7.30, Warrington Town on Saturday 22nd July K:O 3.00 pm and Skelmersdale Utd on Saturday 29th July K:O 3.00 pm. Other games arranged will be announced later.
The main challenge for the club this coming season, other than securing a top 4 finish, will be to replace the ageing floodlights so that the Bears can continue to play unhindered in the major FA Competitions as well as at the contributory level in the football pyramid. The newly formed development committee have already started work on that scheme along with planning other significant developments in the facilities and fund raising needed to sustain any promotion challenge and the increased costs should that prove successful.
The mood is upbeat and the
number of people getting involved in helping the club has increased. The playing
side should soon take shape as the signing of players begins this week. It is
hoped that the support for the endeavours of a large number of people will be
reflected in the attendances at the forthcoming events. Early league and cup
fixtures will be published as soon as they are received. One cup draw has been
made. On Saturday 12th October, the Bears are at home to either Cheadle Town
or Norton United in the NWCFL Challenge Cup 2nd Round.