Alty outplayed by Dragons

Altrincham 1-3 Wrexham
Blue Square Premier; attendance 1,821


Under estimated how cold it would become. Glad when the final whistle came and we could stomp off to the tram station. I know you can leave early but it's not the sort of behaviour a proper football fan should do.. Besides the last five minutes of the game were gripping as Altrincham were fired up after scoring a penalty.

So Saturday afternoon stood on terraces in bright sunshine and freezing air. The stuff of a film set you couldn't have located it better. The old regulars moaning, the young kids easily distracted by the surroundings whilst dad has come to see the local team, the away supporters at the far end doing some singing, and the queue for the refreshments. That queue...it never got below 30 punters even throughout the game. So missed out on coffee and chips. Even got a mascot dressed like an unclassified furry brown mammal with a tail but it is suppose to a robin.

Wrexham scored in the first three minutes and that set the tone for the match. Essentially they played better football in the passing style. Well as much passing style that can happen in the lower divisions as lots of long ball hoofing takes place.

Admission £13; programme £2 (actually 1 and a half programmes - the postponed game programme and an eight page wrap around); tram ticket £2.90; bus fare £1.20.

Had just the one pint of Holts bitter in The Bridge Inn which my mate Dave bought. A small unpretentious public house in need of decorating but would the gaggle of career drinkers milling around appreciate a coat of magnolia paint.

If you have an interest in lower division football then I'd recommend the excellent Altrincham website. It is updated every day, sometimes more and gives a balanced view of happenings in the Blue Square Premier. I check it everyday as a source of football news and the goings on at a sustainable local club.

Good game at Trafford

Trafford 0-2 Clitheroe
Unibond First Division North; attendance 122
A capital day at Shawe View, Flixton watching some entertaining attacking football by both sides. I had planned to go out to watch New Mills take on West Auckland in the FA Vase. Given the state of the weather, a poor excuse when it was the tiredness after an evening of quoffing wine and beer.

I settled for the easy option - the 276 little bus from Chorlton Green up to the Roebuck in Flixton. A brisk walk up over the railway bridge and straight through the turnstiles. I haven't seen Trafford for awhile, and it was nice to visit one of my favourite non-league grounds. Friendly officials, a little refreshment hut facing the pitch and a bar with sports Tv chunnering away. Can't take your glasses outside it's something to do with FA rules on drinking. Plus the added benefit of somebody relaying the latest United scores from West Ham to those nearby.

Two evenly matched sides both trying win. Apart from a late tackles creating handbag incidents were everyone wants to have a go and pushing and shoving it was a quite sporting. Even the Clitheroe goalie joined in one of these incidents, running half the length of the pitch to join in. The ref flashed a few yellow cards about but I could see he was reluctant to spoil the game with any red cards.

Clitheroe had brought about 40 supporters along but as they had blue and white scarfs, and Trafford play in white and blue it was only when the away team scored that sections of them made themselves apparent to me.

Despite all the attacking play it wasn't until the 83rd minute that a goal was scored. Thought I was in for winning goal Golden Goal for sometime in the second half. I'd drew 71st minute away side so another £1 lost to the Trafford finances. Not that you mind it's not going to those robbing, greedy bank executives. A second goal in added time sealed it for Clitheroe. It was a long range shot from a wide angle that even the Trafford supporters nearby were praising.

Best quote of the day "I hate Chorley more than I hate Flixton". I had to laugh.
Admission £6; Raffle Ticket £1, Golden Goal Ticket £1, Tea 50p, Bus Fare £2.

View from the Lounge as Buxton beat FC

FC United 1-0 Buxton
Unibond Premier League; attendance 2147
What was expected to be a chilly seat watching FC win against near bottom club Buxton was turned on its head. Watched the whole game from the Lounge Bar, behind glass at pitch height level. It's comfortable and something alien to me. Never seen a game standing on carpet with the noise of the crowd just creeping in above the chatter in the room.

Very hard to keep up with the flow of the game, one whole corner of the pitch was out of view and with the distractions of beer, peanuts, crisps and SkySports News on Tv I didn't have my 90% focus on the play. Essentially Buxton got a goal at 53 minutes, they were surprised, and so was everyone else. Unfortunately despite some strong attacks and some shots that tested the Buxton goalie that was the only goal of the game.

Still our small group who had been given free tickets to watch the match really enjoyed their day out. Because it was a different cosy experience for the likes of us terrace fodder it'll be remembered for that and not the football.

Admission : free, bus & tram ticket £5.80, beers £7.80, snacks £1.50. Weather 7 degrees, and light rain showers - still got wet stomping between the ground to Bury Interchange for the tram.

As for FC United they are now languishing in the relegation zone on 17 points with Whitby Town and Buxton. Poor Durham City are doomed with nil points. So a few wins needed to climb back to mid-table comfort before the season ends on 24th April 2010. No one is worried yet as this is a topsy turvey league and could still storm up to the play-offs by winning the four games in hand.

Great Night at Stalybridge

Stalybridge Celtic 0-1 FC United
FA Cup 3rd Qualifying Round Replay; attendance 1,923
The drama as FC United clung onto their only goal to go through to the next round and a tie at Northwich Victoria. A great night out - it sure beats another evening with the Tv.

The Biffa herself got caught up in the cup fever after Sunday's 3-3 draw and decided to join me on public transportation out to the edge of the Pennines. Arrived at Oxford Road Station a little too early. That's the perils of bus journeys sometimes they don't get stuck in traffic. So mooched around. By the time you've read every leaflet on offer about great days out in Lancashire and all day rover tickets you just want the 1907h to Scarborough to roll up.

In Stalybridge at 1926h, and fortunately spotted a huddle of FC fans at the bus stop outside the station. That saves some scurrying around. Big queues to get in. You'd think they'd have more than two turnstiles open when you've got 1,500 away supporters stood in your car park.

The goal from Jerome Wright came out of nowhere. A rocket into the top corner. Well that's how it looked to me from our end. Wild scenes, flare set off (that's the smoke in the photo), jumping around and the obligitory scarf waving.

On the night FC United played the better football, though Celtic were always in the match but just failed to score. The singing about "Going to Wembley" is fun and everybody is enjoying a bit of a cup run. Just getting to the 1st round will the achievement and only 32 clubs from every league and divsion below the Football League are allowed that chance.

We stomped down the long hill back to town. I wouldn't have liked to walked up to this ground, living a flat part of the world and not being a rambling type. Gasping for a bevvy and where else but the noted Stalybridge Buffet Bar on Platform 1. Had a bitter called "SOS" - I usually just pick something from a micro brewery I've never tried before. Excellent finish to the Stalybridge experience.

Admission £10, bus & rail ticket £5.30, beer £2.40, coffee £1.30. Took our own pies and confectionary bars though we noted lots of take aways and chippies in Stalybridge.

FC United 3-3 Cup Thriller

FC United 3-3 Stalybridge Celtic
FA Cup 3rd Qualifying Round; attendance 2,819
The magic of the Cup on a Sunday afternoon. Bit apprehensive about getting a good result against a team from the Conference North. But a goal up after 13 minutes from Carlos Rocca so maybe this would be the day. However in the end a 3-1 lead slipped to 3-3.

Stalybridge made use of their pacey No.7 who slipped in good crosses, two of which resulted in goals. Their other goal was a dubious penalty decision. Now if only some of our other chances had gone in the net. Ah yes, the words "if only". So went home a bit disappointed. Now considering going to the replay on Tuesday so missing the Salford City v. Blyth Spartans cup match.

Viv Anderson, a ledgendary player (54 games for Manchester United) did the half time cash draw. The Biffa herself bought an "Eric Cantona" badge from the Mega Cabin. I think buying metal football badges and pins might be a hobby she's not told me about. I wanted to buy a programme but they had sold out.

Admission £7.50, took out own pasties & confectionery, travelled by car. Weather - dry, sunny spells and about 14 degrees.

Giggsy magic

Salford City 1-0 Hyde United
FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round Replay; attendance 391

Rhodri Giggs beat the offside flag and scored the only goal in a tight match. Whilst other clubs were kicking off their 3rd round games I took myself off to Moor Lane in Kersal, Salford for a re-match of the previous Tuesday. Then Hyde drew 2-2 with Salford.

It's a small cosy ex-rugby ground, and despite the club house getting burnt down last week it's still a welcoming place. The first half didn't see may chances for either side. Though Hyde who are two divisions higher were better organised. When they announced at half time that the tie would go to extra time and penalties I feared not getting home until gone 1900h. i knew this but you never consider it because you're expecting goals.

Second half took a seat in the big main stand. The Salford fans were behind me and they encourage the team and catch me on to the names of the players. Recognised Rhodri Giggs straight away. He runs like his brother, and I've seen him play a season at FC United. As thoughts of extra time came to mind he managed to race onto a ball for a one and one with the keeper. Slotted it home beautifully. Pity it's not on video. He celebrated by running round the back of the nets to the delight of those behind the goal.

Last few minutes Salford managed to hang on. There was about three minutes of added on time, but no announcement of it. Crowd sang songs about going to Wembley. Well it'll be more like meeting Blyth Spartans on Tuesday at this ground. They had a good cup run last year, remember watching them on Setanta. This is a good cup run for Salford, and hopefully i can get down after work in three days time and see it carry on.

Bit of a nightmare getting home. Manchester city centre was a traffic nightmare. Road works, fans coming out the netball international at the Arena, a fascist demo, an anti-fascist demo and scores of riot police, the bus station closed...

Admission £7; bus fares £4.30; donation £1; raffle tickets £1; cup of tea 85p; confectionary 35p; took my own pie for half time.

Dabbers Seen Off

FC United 4-0 Nantwich Town
Unibond Premier; attendance 1,650
at Ewen Fields, Hyde United FC
A mid-week travel adventure and what a cracking game. What we got was a slick passing FC United and a battling and always dangerous Nantwich. A red card in the second half for a Nantwich player, and a missed penalty by Nantwich in the first half - it hit the post.

So off to Hyde as the home game. Took the Hadfield train from Piccadilly at 1918 calling at Ashburys (very dark), Gorton (didn't know they had a station), Guide Bridge (brightly lit), Flowery Field (sound sbetter than it is)...must remember to get off next otherwise I'll end up in Godley, then Hadfield which is where they filmed the League of Gentlemen Tv series.

Caught a view of the floodlights soon after leaving the station, and a ten minute walk gets you into the ground. In fact a lovely ground - clean, sturdy, plenty of stands. Plus a very well kept pitch. Considering Hyde played Salford in the FA Cup the previous night after a day of heavy rain it was in remarkable condition.

Watched the first half from the main stand side. The Nantwich fans, about 30 of them, had brought along a drum, which is always annoying. The FC fans went through their songbook for the next 90 minutes. For the second half went to the FC end. I do have a preference for watching your own side score close-up. Lucky tonight managed to see all four goals. One from a free kick, round the wall and into the far left corner. Keeper looked pretty miffed he didn't save it. He looked miffed later on when the defence did a bit of ball watching from 6 yards out.

Admission £7.50, refreshments £2.30, bus & rail ticket £5.30 (at last I've managed to understand the combined tickets available in Manchester). Got home at 2250h and straight onto the red wine - a fruity South African organic fairtrade bottle suitable for mid-week drinking.

Eventually I should get to every football ground in Greater Manchester, there are about 40 and I have still have 15 to go....

Bloods against Shaymen

Droylsden 0-2 FC Halifax Town
FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round; attendance 902

Circumstances led me to the Butchers Arms Ground on a pleasant Saturday afternoon. It sure beats shopping with the hordes in town. Never been out to Droylsden before, even though I lived here as an under-5 year old.

Nice little ground right in the centre of the town so surrounded by pubs, supermarkets and shops. Modern sitting area but I went for the old wooden shed opposite. The Halifax fans took up behind one of the goals. At half time we all moved around, that's one of the joys of unsegregated non-league football. Sun in your eyes, post in the way, want to smoke a tab then you find somewhere to suit.

The game got underway to a cracking pace and it was Halifax who appeared better organised on the pitch and lots of supporters giving vocal support most of consisting of chanting "Shay-men". They might be two divisions below the Bloods but they have ambitions to get back into the Football League. That's three promotions. They scored with what I'll describe sloppy fumbling in the box. That's what happens when you don't clear your lines or put it out for a corner.

Second half and I'm now with a bunch of Halifax fans at the other end. As usual the action is on the Halifax goal. I should be paid by teams to keep the ball away from their goal 'cos if I'm near your goal it will be safe most of the match. But I did clearly see the second Halifax goal from fans favourite 'Deano' (it's really James Dean) whom I'd describe as a good solid centre forward. Keeps the ball, fights off shirt tugging and then smacks a downward header into the net. That was on 88 minutes. Job good as done.

Did a final check of the Manchester United result - we go to top of table. Also FC United win at North Ferriby to go through to the next round of the FA Cup, along with the Shaymen, Blyth Spartans and Guisley. Another nine rounds and it will be the Wembley final.

Must revisit this ground soon. Easier and quicker to get to than Bury and maybe next time Droylsden will win.

Admission £10, programme £2 (lots of pages and some on colour), bus fare £3.50. Weather - about 15 degrees, slight breeze, a clear early autumn afternoon.

Bridge Beat Road

Maine Road 1-4 Bamber Bridge
FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round; attendance 85
It's three o'clock on a Saturday and the weather is warm enough for just a t-shirt. Get yourself to that football ground for some FA Cup action, then get home and watch the United match on Tv.

The local tv station Channel M came down to film the game. One camera, two blokes - that's no budget telly for you. At least they are doing some recording but I doubt if i'll get to see it.

Game starts briskly but soon it comes clear that Bamber Bridge are having the best of it. One division higher than Maine Road, a bit quicker and pushing for the first goal. The home side are confined to breakaway attacks. That's the first half no goals. Some of the crowd are hearing that Manchester City are winning and are well pleased. One bloke has his old transistor radio doing the commentary. Most of us have moved on to radio reception in mp3 players or mobiles and a set of headphones but it is good to see some old style wireless blissful ignorance. I'm more interested in the FC United cup game in Sheffield. Using Twitter updates on the mobile phone. Well happy with a 3 nil lead at half time. Tune into BBC Radio Sheffield at half time to see if there are any match reports. It might be the world's oldest cup competition with the world's oldest club but nothing is heard. Next time you hear that guff from the BBC about glorious football history, blah, blah they don't actually cover it for the first five months of the competition. Alright FC United won't be going to Wembley but a good Cup run is the joy. Will there be a good Cup run for Maine Road this afternoon?

Cruelly no. Bamber Bridge score early in the second half, Maine Road do a breakaway and pull it back. That's the point in the game when you feel it will turn. It does and Bamber get another three. Felt the score flattered them and is no reflection on "AJ" the regular keeper in Maine Road goal who is let down by the defence.

The Biffa herself comes to pick me up outside the gates and everyone goes home with most of the world none the wiser that a FA Cup tie was played in Whalley Range this afternoon.

Admission £5, programme £1.50 (lots of stats), cup of tea 50p, charity collection £1. Took own pie and biscuit. Weather: 18 degrees C, force 2-3 breeze SSW. Just like a summer's day.

Just A Pic: Night Game

The last thing you'd imagine is finding yourself on a website in an unfamiliar pose watching a match. Browsing the Maine Road FC website spotted myself in a nonchalant position on the left, and the Biffa herself with red hoodwear. It's the friendly with FC United in August.

Done a bit of digital manipulation to try and give it an oil painting feel. Last season I was snapped at the Manchester United Reserves v. Accrington Stanley match with other work dodgers at The Cliff - it was a Thursday afternoon 1400h kick off. Stanley might not be around much longer 'cos the tax collecters want about 300k next month and they haven't got it in the bank - yet.

Back to see Maine Road v. Bamber Bridge in a FA Cup tie tomorrow afternoon, followed by Spurs v. United on ESPN, followed by our local street party. Heady days. It will be if the football results are right. Especially the one in Dronfield, Yorkshire where Sheffield FC play FC United in the FA Cup. Billed as the oldest club versus the newest club. Back to reality on Sunday with a shift at work.

Footie in the old grey town

Kendal Town 1-0 FC United
Unibond Premier 2009/10; attendance 1,117

Two nights in Kendal, see the sights of south Cumbria but the footie was always going to be the highlight. Up ridiculously early for a Saturday. Going to Windermere, Ambleside and Bowness first. It's not cheap doing a round trip in single journeys by bus and ferry. Got back to Kendal about 1400h. Just about time to grap a sandwich, and make shortcut through the cemetary to get to the Lakeside Stadium.

We took up on open air seats behind the goal. Rest those legs, and let the game entertain us. Let's hope it doesn't rain again. First half Kendal took all the action down to the FC goal at the other end. A few lucky let offs and eventually they scored just before half time. It was bound to happen. When you watch FC United you are used to going a few goals down so are never worried.

Spirited FC play in the second half. We hadn't moved from our seats so again all the play was again at the far end. Hit the post, scrambles in front of goal but still no equaliser. The game got a bit heated. The ref was flashing the yellow card again, yet again, and one red to Kendal player. Instead of walking off the pitch was jumped the wall into the crowd. Didn't see him again. Noticed there is a distinct slope from top right to bottom left in the Kenal pitch. Finding any flat land around these parts is an achievement.

Despite piling on the pressure FC failed to score. Oh well. At least Kendal will be happy staying top and having a good crowd turn up. We went off to see the nearby Kendal Castle. Basically a ruin on top of a hill. It comes with a moat and a couple of garderobes built high into the walls.

Admission £8; programme £1.50 (a good read) - other expenses have been attributed to the holiday budget. You could easily do this as a day trip on the train and it would be great in sunny weather.

Late Wombles Winner

Altrincham 0-1 AFC Wimbledon
Blue Square Premier: attendance 1,438
After a week indoors, the furthest I'd ventured out was to move the wheelie bins for collection, it was good to have a bright sunny day of t-shirt wearing weather just stood watching a match.

I've seen The Wombles before play FC United in a friendly fixture for the Direct Supporters Cup, and I used to enjoy the old Wimbledon play at Old Trafford. Those were fixtures with the lowest police presence of the season and we'd have a few bevvies with some of their supporters in the Throstle's Nest before the game.

Getting off the bus met a couple of their supporters up for the day. We chatted about football matters and I took them down to the Crown Inn, pointed out the ground a ten minute walk away next to the landmark radio mast and told them to get into the far end for the away supporters. I went off for a pie.

First half Wimbledon well on top being given loads of room to their No.8 Lewis Taylor out on the wing. Time and time again the bal sailed over there. But no goals. A marked lack of conviction in front of goal.

Half time I got to sit on the concrete steps, ate my sandwich and listened to a bit of radio on headphones. United were no score and I was fearing the worse at Wigan - a goal drought.

Second half I went behind the Altrincham goal thinking I would see some goals. All the Altrincham supporters had moved up to the other end thinking they'd see someone of their own team score. They do this every game. The Wimbledon supporters, maybe 200 or so, couldn't go anywhere being enclosed at the other goal end.

Altrincham did most of the attacking, coming close but just not doing enough. Last 15 minutes the game got stretched from end to end. Whoever scores now will win this. It was Wimbledon with a lovely low strike into a bottom corner. Last few minutes both sides had more attempts, in fact the last bit of the game was more exciting than the whole of the first half.

I'd heard United were 4 nil up and Owen had scored so was is in a good mood. Got a lift home from the Biffa herself who was down the road in Bowden - that's the posh bit of big houses with five car parking spaces.

Admission £13, programme £2, bus fares £2.60, tea £1, cheese & onion pie £1.40
Temperature 20 degrees C, slight breeze.

Day out in Altrincham

Altrincham 1-1 Ebbsfleet United
Blue Square Premier (Conference) att: 914

The season flickers into life. We opt for a trip to Altrincham to see some competitive football. It's an all afternoon affair. Want to use public transport and the tram system is closed for an upgrade. The replacement bus service is fast and takes us through parts of leafy Timperley I'd never seen before. Then wanted to go to The Green House Vegetarian cafe (41-43 Oxford Road WA14 2ED ) which I haven't visited in years. It used to have that old-school veggie 1960's feel of soups and shives of wholewheat bread. But today it's had a good lick of paint, the sun is reaching through the windows and we get absolutely stuffed on a slice of pizza and five portions of different salads. Thoroughly enjoyed it, if you want to keep out of the pub before the game they'll no room for beer after eating here.

To the match. We're in the queue to go in when there is a minute's silence announced for the late Sir Bobby Robson. Nobody is going in and everybody in line and inside respects the memory of legendary man.

We take up a position at the front and it has to be outdoors 'cos the Biffa wants some sunny tanning rays. Don't do match reports - Alty have one here but suffice to say Chris Senior scores a well worked opener for The Robins. Seen him play quite a few times, one of those nippy terriers who will chase every ball and any opportunity to get a goal. After that Ebbsfleet have more of the game. They equalise in the second half on 59 mins with substitute Lindie coming on. From our viewpoint the Alty defence had gone to sleep.

For the last part of the game Alty lost their impetus and it all resulted in long hopeful balls and wasted half chances. Three minutes of added time and the sun is shining and we've a BBQ to drop into on the way home. I think the Ebbsfleet manager and their 30+ fans at the game would be more pleased with the result as this a new team who haven't played together before .

Stats: Admission £13, couldn't find a programme seller, pre-match lunch £10, bus fares £5.20. Temperature 25 °C, very slight breeze, t-shirt weather.
Some photos

Relax in Cheadle

Cheadle Town 0-1 Darwen
North West Counties Division 1; attendance 62

Just so I can claim to have been to 70 games this season I needed to get to another match - United v. Man. City and Arsenal will be 69, and 70 . As soon as the Boro v. United game finished it was off to Park Road in Cheadle. The Biffa herself gave me a lift down to a quiet suburban street before nipping off to sunny Stockport. I could see her snickering as she left me in a cul-de-sac of parked cars.

Walked through the gate and a lad popped up from somewhere for some cash. Thought I'd better buy a programme as they probably need the money. A great sunny day at my 16th ground this season. So not ground hopping standard but I have been to Wembley, and I'm watching Darwen a very old club who nearly went out of existence a few months ago.

The game wasn't that good - thought this has a 1 nil written all over it. Both keepers had trouble kicking a moving ball and getting into best position. The first player to put a well placed shot on target will get that goal. But it's an end of season mid-table clash so the result doesn't matter. It's not until the last 10 minutes do the teams go up a gear for a winner. So a wait until the 90th minute and Darwen tuck it away. By that time I've seen two dogs on leads walked around the pitch and had an interesting cup of coffee. It was an instant from a big tin. The the lad in the hut said "put your own in 'cos i don't know how strong you like it". Bloody hell, not weak dishwater like in the Premiership.

Journey home, and a moan about how public transport in Manchester needs to be municipalised and everyone given Oyster cards.
a) No.11 bus Cheadle to Gatley train station (Stagecoach company £1.40)
b) Airport - Piccadilly line : Gatley to Mauldeth Road, 14 punters waiting on platform (Northern Trains £1.40)
c) No. 22 bus Mauldeth Road to Chorlton Bus Station (First Direct company £2.00)
Journey time : 95 minutes. Longer and more expensive than the match. Plus you need to carry lots of small change. In the 21st Century can't we replace this metal in your pocket for something digital.

Game 68; admission £3.50, programme £1.00, coffee 50p, Mars Bar 50p, bus fares £2.80, train fare £1.40.

Nice little ground, tatty but friendly, and a small loyal support some with scarves. Still glad I go to these non-league games and you get a chance to retrieve the ball.

Spring time football night

Maine Road 2-1 AFC Fylde
North West Counties Premier League; attendance 145

Going to a night game and it's still daylight, no hat or gloves needed it's a wonderful spring evening. A ten minute drive and I'm at the turnstile just as the match kicks-off. AFC Fylde are top of the league and I was looking forward to some goals from last season's FA Vase winners.

It is a fast and feisty game - I was waiting for one of the teams to try and slow it down, keep the ball and work it around the pitch. But no the tackles are flying in, the players are shouting and hoofing long balls about. This suits Maine Road who go one goal up.

Fylde could have won this game if the number of times the ball smacked the steel goalposts and bar had gone in - I counted at least seven times. Also some great shot stopping from Maine Road's keeper - a fearless young lad referred to as AJ in all the shouting.

Even when 2-0 down Fylde kept on attacking, and pulled one back with about five minutes to go. It set it up to be a exciting finish as Maine Road were determined to hang on to their 3 points. As with football at this level you never know how long added time is going to be. Tonight it turned out to be five minutes, and the ball hit the Maine Road post again in the final minute.

Enjoy this evening escapism into non-league footie virtually on my doorstep. I'd have only been at home watching rubbish Tv or mindless web surfing.

Game 59 this season, admission £5, cup of tea 50p.

Watching Trafford in a cup tie

Trafford 2-1 Mossley
Unibond President's Cup Semi-Final; attendance 157.
Shawe View, Pennybridge Lane, Flixton.

Local Cup Semi-Final from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Last year I went to see FC United win this cup in the final at the Tameside Stadium. Seeing as they didn't do any cup runs this season thought I'd get to at least one tie before May. Cold crisp night at Trafford's ground. The local Tv company Channel M (Sky 203) were there, it'll probably be on their "Great Manchester Football Show" - you can watch back issues online.

You've got two mid-table Unibond Division 1 North sides who would like a silver cup at the end of the season. Trafford came out of the blocks, clearly wanting to win and after 26 minutes they got a penalty awarded. I thought the goalie would have been sent off by the no nonsense referee. He was a big bloke who kept telling the players "no fouling boys" when the tackles were flying in. So 1-0 up to Trafford. Mossley in their attractive dark orange strip start looking for the equaliser. But it gets to half time, and that means pie time. As ever it's Holland's cheese and onion. Turn down the gravy and a plastic tray. Even though I'm a northerner I've never liked food swimming in gravy, and I hate those plastic trays ever since I saw an evil McD one on Manley Beach, Sydney years ago.

Back to the match. For some reason the manager of Trafford always comes out five minutes before the team emerge. Tonight he has an assistant who has been doing a lot of shouting at the players to got to certain positions. Don't like it, but the players are listening to him. Bit like someone telling you how to drive when you're the one with the wheel and pedals.

Mossley equalise on 80 minutes and their three dozen supporters are in raptures. I'm thinking another 30 minutes extra time in 3 degress is not what I want. There is only so much thrilling football you can have in a night. Bloody hell, Trafford go and score straight from kick off, nippy Scott Barlow clear with only the keeper to beat.

Last few minutes are a hanging on job by Trafford with the goalie making some good saves. Only a few minutes ago he'd been telling the bench he'd like to be substituted only to told to hang on as we've only got one sub left....

For some decent snaps and a report by a Mossley fan then check out Six Tame Sides a highly recommended weblog.

Enjoyable night, I really like football at this level. It is an intimate game - you hear the ref, the lino, manager and the looney partisan passionate supporter all shouting instructions as the ball zips around and gets booted out of the ground. A week ago I was watching Inter Milan, tonight it was Mossley. Same game - different depths.

Game 55 this season, admission £5, cheese and onion pie £1.2o, draw ticket £1 (I got away team score in the first minute so no chance), transport driving by car at 30 mph to avoid all the cameras dishing out speeding tickets.

I think Trafford have a little cup final with Quorn after this. There was also a dog on a lead at the ground called Dill.

Get a book of non-league grounds

Sent off my cheque, and behold this 88 page book arrives in a padded envelope. Plenty of colour pictures and background history. I realise I am a closet ground hopper and if I had mates like The Groundhopper I'd be driving around the region looking at dugouts, main stands, social clubs and a bit of footie.

A strange thing football, one night I'm watching the great players of Europe and a few days later I'm planning a trip to Marine FC in Crosby to watch FC United. Same game, different levels and no one can stop me.

Terry Gorman even sent a note to check pages 62 & 63. I can see the centre circle from my bedroom window in between No.15 and No.17. Don't you just love a labour of love, and this is it. Worth it! Volume 2 on the way put me down for it....

Read get details and a review here

A Visit to Trafford

Trafford 2-4 Newcastle Blue Star
Unibond Division 1 North; attendance 104

Not content to mooch about until 1715h for the Fulham v. United cup-tie I got the chores out of the way and drove up to Shawe View, Flixton. I was taken with this fixture because it was a team from the north east, and liked the name Blue Star. The sort of thing part time gamblers do spotting a horse with a name they like and having a punt.

Straight to the refreshment hut for a cup of tea. Still supping it when Blue Star scored one of the softest goals. Bit of a mix up in the Trafford defence when the defenders all thought someone else was going to tackle, the goal keeper comes out, and the attacking player gets a clean sight on goal. Woeful, but undaunted Trafford come back to equalise and then take the lead with their big No.9 Harry Winter. A dozen Trafford fans have their song for him, unsurprisingly it's "walking in a winter wonderland".

More bad defending just before the half time and it goes to 2-2. More bad defending in the second half and Blue Star now look the better side. A bit of a flash point with players nearly coming to blows, the sort of thing that would get you sent off if there were Tv cameras present. It's just handbag stuff and the ref calms it all down.

An enjoyable match, six goals and the Geordie lads are still on track for a play-off place. They have a fixture pile up from lots of winter postponements. This happened to FC United last year and you end up playing three games a week because the league committee won't extend the season into May.

I do wonder of the sustainability of semi-professional football at this level. The travel costs, ground up keep and this is a lovely little ground, and fees for the match officials....the list goes on. Most people who follow football don't even know these teams exist.

Game 52 : Admission £5, programme £1.50, draw ticket £1, cup of tea 50p, cheese & onion pie £1.20

Small Town With a Sweet Shop

Maine Road 0-1 New Mills
North West Counties League Premier Division; attendance 160

The small town with a sweet shop is a reference to the Swizzels factory that makes Love Hearts. It's in the lovely town of New Mills. I've enjoyed many a visit, not to the ground but to the fast flowing river that makes hydro-power and the relics of old stone cotton mills. Worth a visit if you're in Derbyshire.

So what to do on a Tuesday night. The Biffa herself is away in London, the Tv is bobbins, and a ten minute car trip to Brantingham Road beckons. It turns out to be a well contested match. If New Mills stop skying the ball into the car park they might take the lead. Eventually they do score with a good header in the second half. At this point in the game I'm stood with the Maine Road fans, so do not celebrate. After this I drift back round to the New Mills fans, there are about 30 of them. Not that there is any chanting or singing. The players and the coaches do the shouting, lots of shouting, the linesman has banter with the nearby spectators. This is close-up football - sometimes you get lucky and kick the ball back for a throw in.

I don't dislike Maine Road, they are local and it's Manchester. But it's their City connection, and they play in sky blue. So when I come here I secretly support the opposition. Maine Road put in a good effort to get it level but it's not to be. New Mills on track for promotion with these three points.

An enjoyable evening - I prefer the night matches over the Saturday afternoons here - it's more atmospheric and the little tea and pie shack brightly lit in the far corner is a joy to behold.

Game 46 this season : admission £5, cup of tea 50p.

Unstuck at Ashton

Ashton United 2-1 FC United
Unibond League Premier; attendance 1,561
I wanted to go by train, 10 minutes from Manchester Victoria. But the Biffa herself pointed out the faff of getting to the station and then to the ground. Then she started checking out Ikea online as there is a big store in Ashton-under-Lyne. The short of it we went by car and Ikea was a joke, thankfully. Looking at flat pack furniture on a Saturday with a lot of a people with nothing going on in their life except the pursuit of consumerism. Went to Lily's Vegetarian restaurant instead and sampled some South Indian delights - sev puri and uttapham for me, bel puri and marsala dhosa for the Biffa. Excellent scoff and under £15 for the two us. Pics.

Ashton United have the oldest ground in Greater Manchester at Hurst Cross. Football started here in 1878. It has two covered stands, some terraces, two refreshment huts and crowd barriers. Couldn't spot any Victorian toilets just those portable ones as at festivals. Plenty of flags flying including a large Canadian one - you can sponsor them said the programme.

The football was good stuff. Pity we lost but it was going to be hard to score against a very organised Ashton defence with four across the back. We let in some soft goals. Winning the ball back inside the penalty area then getting it taken off you just outside is careless. FC United came closest with two shots that hit the post, and one that rolled slowly just wide after their goalie was beaten. Pulled one back in the 90th minute, and with four minutes added time it made for a thrilling finish pushing for the equaliser.

In all, a good day out but bitterly cold with an iced breeze swirling around.
Game 59; admission £8, programme £2, raffle ticket £1

Boxing Day at the other Trafford

Trafford 5-2 Salford City
Unibond Division 1 North; attendance 176
As soon as I finished watching the Stoke City v. United game it was onto le velo for a dash to the Shawe View ground in Flixton. They let you open the side gate here and lock your bike up near the turnstile. Made it just in time for kick-off, breathless and thirsty. Straight to the excellent tea hut situated on the half way line.

Didn't have to wait long for a goal, about 10 minutes from Scott Barlow the top scorer in this league. Expecting a landslide Trafford victory as Salford have only won once this season and are heading back to the North West Counties. Three nil up after 30 minutes or so, then Salford pull one back which spurs the visitors to play better. Trafford are sleeping now so by half time it's 3-2.

It's a beautiful crisp bright day and another cup of tea is needed. We have the ritual of about a ten Salford fans swopping goal ends with about 17 Trafford fans. Second half is more vigourous and gritty with Trafford eventually getting on top with two more goals.

Now for the bike ride home, which is done on a steady 3rd gear under streetlights through the quiet roads of Urmston and Stretford.

Game 58; admission £7, tea £1 (two cups), and £1 for a ticket for time of first goal (got 87th minute away side - so no chance).

Late winner over Mariners

FC United 3-2 Marine
Unibond Premier League : attendance 2,122
A heavily overcast and wet day. That special rain we have in Manchester were everybody walks about in this fine drizzle that you can't feel until you sit down and realise your damp jeans are now stuck to your legs. Looked forward to this fixture against in-form Marine. They come from Crosby, which is posh Scouseland, and is famous for its Anthony Gormley statues on the beach. A bit of football trivia - Barcelona play in the old colours of the noted Merchant Taylor School in Crosby it is claimed.

The game started, but already grumpy because I forgot to bring my pie and had to buy an overpriced Yorkie bar to keep hunger at bay. Well matched sides so when we went 1-0 up after 20 minutes the outcome looked promising. However Marine, who played in yellow tops and green shorts - you'd think a nice choice of blue would be more appropriate, got a penalty and got back level. FC replied straight away, back in the lead.

Second half, and Msrine equalise after about 7 minutes. Their small band of supporters have brought some drummers with them and are now rattling on those snares with gusto. FC singing is now the "we hate scousers songbook".

The surprise was the 87th minute goal by FC United. A whole 6 minutes of added time added to the tension. A tramp uphill the tram station in the rain but in good spirits. That's when it went downhill. Tram service suspended 'cos of breakdowns on the line. That meant going for the alternative - the 135 bendy bus back to Manchester. Only had £20 note so expected wrath from the driver. What's happened to the country now have bus staff from Eastern Europe - he didn't even blink at the big note and said thank you.

Game 57; admission £7.50, Yorkie chocolate £1, Xmas raffle ticket £1 (didn't win), tram ticket £2.70, bus fares £4.40. Plus £2 for the FC United fanzine "A Fine Lung" which made good the hour spent on the buses.

Surreal Tv Coverage

Missed two games now through the weather and illness. The lesson is, take any opportunity to go and see a live game when you can. It may be your last.

First off FC United v. Boston United (FA Trophy 3rd round), on Sunday last was cancelled with a waterlogged pitch. Drat, I was going to live blog this game and even booked the day off work. Double drat that's a holiday wasted at home. Re-scheduled for Wednesday, didn't go as the Biffa herself was ill. But enjoyed the surreal streaming internet coverage on the laptop. A webcam, on a monitor of the live camera recording the game was fed up to the web. Blurry, stream breaks-up and comedy commentary from FCUM-TV who cover the FC United play, and a guest supporter from Boston United as he knows the names of their team. This is gritty broadcasting, not the slick formula of modern telly. Lost 1-3, and attendance a mere 936.

Secondly I got ill and spent most of Thursday in bed asleep. The Biffa woke me up at 2200h to tell me the result of the United Youth v. Chelsea Youth game. Not good either, lost 2-3. But Danny Welbeck scored, she said, but it wasn't enough. Attendance 1,246.

Should be fit enough to watch the big derby game, away at the Council House this Sunday. Though personally I'm not optimistic about coming away with all three points. City are a good and very patchy side, but can raise their game especially against United.

FC 5 and the Cammells 5

FC United 5-5 Cammell Laird
Unibond Premier League; attendance 1,714
The long trip up to the deserted streets of Bury to be rewarded with a ten goal spectacle that any of the sides could have won. Woeful FC United defending. Dithering in the six yard box again and again. 2-4 down at half time after leading 2-1 earlier in the game.

Thought it was all over trailing 2-5 at 65 minutes. But some nifty substitutions changed things around. An appearance by Papis Deytte who had a 40 yard rocket shot hit the post. It lifted the crowd, everytime he got the ball he was implored to have a strike. 3-5 on 70 minutes, 4-5 on 80 minutes. We want six chanted the supporters. Then 5-5 at 89 minutes, and a further 4 minutes stoppage time to play.

Thoroughly entertaining match, went home in good spirits.
Game 52: admission £7.50, tram fare £2.70, bus fare £1.20

Six goal thriller on my doorstep

Maine Road 3-3 Runcorn Linnets
FA Vase 1st Round Proper; attendance 120

Linnets in FA Vase from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Before the Manchester United kick-off at 1730h I planned to get across Chorlton to see a visit by the fans owned club Runcorn Linnets to Brantingham Road. Plenty of those Runcorn fans turned up too. Maine Road chose to swop ends so as to take advantage of the southerly wind blowing across the open ground. It paid off. In spite of the early Runcorn pressure, Road went 2 up by half time.

During the break the feeble loudspeaker announced "the winning ticket is number 127 and you can collect a bottle of whiskey at the tea hut." Wow, that's me so I joined the queue for pies and hot drinks to collect my prize. The Linnets fans, a friendly bunch, despaired at their performance and wrote their side off. Anyway collected a bottle of 'The Famous Grouse' brand, which meant watching the second half with 70cl of Scotch precariously stuffed in my jacket pocket.

Second half with the wind in their favour and the ref getting a lot of stick from the Linnets fans for some questionable decisions they got back level after about ten minutes play. Stood next to a Linnets fan taking notes who compared his notes with a local reporter. The difficulty in covering football at this level is the absence of loudspeaker announcements and a big clock. Who scored, what minute, who came on as sub takes some working out.

A dodgy third goal from Maine Road, the lad appeared to knock the ball out of the keepers hand looked like the winner. But you never know how much injury time is being added on - no announcements. But a late equaliser from possibly a lad called Tom Baker of the Linnets saved the day. He gets his own song from the Linnets fans and is nicknamed Dr. Who. It's a reference to a 1970's Tv series as if you didn't know.

In the FA Vase extra time is played if the scores are level. Couldn't stay as I had an appointment with Blackburn v. United. But no more goals were scored.

Game 42; entrance £5, raffle ticket £1, cup of tea 50p, bus fare home £1.40. Took home a bottle of whisky so a good day out then.

FC Goalless with Worksop

FC United 0-0 Worksop Town
Unibond Premier League: Attendance 2,033
Glorious sunny day in Bury, so bright that Worksop won the toss of the coin and changed ends so as not to play into the brightness. Should have brought my sunglasses as I was soon squinting at the game. Worksop are in green and white strip and go for a defensive game, one up front and everyone else behind the ball. Most of the game was in their half as FC put in cross after cross into the box. Second half was a bit more open play. FC hit the bar with a long range effort, and had a few headers on goal but nothing happened.

This is the third game on the run, except for the amateur game last week, that's ended with no goals. It gets a bit disheartening. Not the most exciting game I've seen, not dull, just no goals and no win to go home with....
Game 39: Admission £7.50 - no travel expenses, large Snicker bar at half time. Didn't bother with a cup of tea I'm fed up with the poor catering facilities at Bury FC. Bought a fanzine "Under the Boardwalk" - a very good read for just £2.

Not So Good Elsewhere

West Didsbury & Chorlton 1-2 Stand Athletic
Manchester League Division 1: Att: 12
By the time I got here Wests where a goal down. Get your priorities right I had to finish the Liverpool v. United match. Wrong result at Anfield - impose a news blackout, blank it from your mind and get on with something else. Pleasant day in the sunshine watching the very local team going it's 6th successive league win. It's so local I nip through a neighbours garden to get to pitch side. So local that I know the parents of half the Wests team and the manager and the lady behind the bar. But I'm a hoodoo and after Wests equalised, and someone in the crowd got a lecture from the referee for use of language their No.7 banged a cracking shot to win the match.

Normally I go back in the club house for a bevvy, the players get changed and everyone watches the scores come in on the Tv. I remembered my news black out, and as nearly everyone here are City supporters I went home. Not before being a witness to West Didsbury doing some warm down exercise with a few laps of half the pitch. What was that about? But this club is serious about getting up to the next level.

Game 37: Free entry, no programme, no expenses.

Just A Pic: Sad Sight

One of the most depressing sights is to see a derelict football stadium. What once was, is nowt but memories. Saw this on an internet forum called UK Urban Exploration. Yes sometimes there is intelligent life in forums though very little amongst the amoeba who fire off into football matters. Basically you somehow get into derelict properties, take a shufti and snap some pics.
Links : Thread with photos

This is the old Haslingdon FC ground that was last occupied by Stand Athletic in the Manchester League. By coincidence they are playing away across the road my house on Saturday. Might pop along after the early kick off Liverpool v. United game - free entry and a clubhouse for beers and snacks.

You've scored no goals and no passes

Altrincham 0-0 Salisbury City
Blue Square Conference National: attendance 1002

The FC United v. Eastwood Town match was called off after an early morning pitch inspection. I thought it would be after yesterday's rain, so I plumped for this match. A quick check on the Altrincham website "despite the week's downpours, today's match at Moss Lane is definitely on; it has been a dry morning in Altrincham so far". It turned out to be a bright sunny day. Pity about the football.

It was a tiresome long ball game, big kicks up field, long throw ins, bouts of head tennis. I thought whoever can string 5 passes together is going to win it. Alty came close in the first half with three good attempts on goal - a wide, a save, over the bar. Second half Salisbury got within striking range.

Sat in the main stand for the first half. Less leg room than at Old Trafford, which is a bit silly considering how big and empty the ground is. Stretched my legs at half time and had a look inside the Robins Shop which is inside the ground. Besides the usual shirts and photos on offer there was an old programme stall. Plenty of old Manchester United programmes, and lots & lots of other clubs too. Didn't have any cash so didn't ask the prices.

Stood up in the second half in the sunshine. Prior to the game I thought top of the table Salisbury would win with 4 goals. Yet neither side looked like getting a winner unless it would be by luck.

Game 36; admission £12, tram fare £3, bus fare £1.40. Cheese and onion pie £1.40 from the fantastic Fish & Chip opposite the ground. Brought my own half time snacks - Twix bar, organic banana, organic hot chocolate in a small flask.

Related links: Altrincham v. FC United (August Friendly)

FC take the points in the hills

Buxton 0-1 FC United
Unibond League Premier att: 2090

Footie Singing at Buxton from biffadigital on Vimeo.
It's nice to wake up to an English summer's day instead of the recent dark skies and wet weather. Leave the train, no chance of missing your stop as it's the end of the line from Manchester, and walk downhill into the pretty town. Plenty of time to look around. We go to the spring water, and I even drink a bottle of the stuff. I rarely drink water unless very thirsty but this is good stuff. The Biffa herself even manages to buy a hand-knit woollen hat, though this is not a day for hats.

Lots of police about. Is there going to be trouble? I doubt it, they probably all want over-time pay. Two riot vans, one copper with a dog, 13 of them in the ground, 8 of them at the station. C'mon this is non-league football not a local grudge derby. The game is fast but any chances on goal are squandered. No goals in the first half. I tell the Biffa that "they should take our No.7 off as his passing is dreadful, looks a bit over-weight and not on form. Bet he goes and scores now". Bloody hell, he does. Jamie Baguely hits a long distance curler into the top of the goal, keeper no chance.

After that Buxton pile on the pressure, but their supporters who were very noisy in the first half don't get behind them. Good defending, and a bit of time wasting by taking the ball up to the Buxton corner flag and messing about in the last ten minutes. Think we can hang on and get the points. We do, first win of the year. W1, D1, L1 , and somebody announces Bradford Park Avenue have lost 3-1. They are seen as the money bags club who poached two of our star players.

Game 31. Admission £8, programme £1.50, train fare £7.00, bus fare £3.30, expresso in local coffee shop £1.30, brought own sandwiches for half time.

Big Day Out in Buxton

Can you believe there isn't a Manchester United home game until the 27th September. Luckly I have my other team, and so it's off to Buxton for some live football to see FC United play their 3rd game this season. Buxton is a small, beautiful town in the hills. It has the highest football ground in Britain, some fantastic Georgian architecture nearby, and clear spring water that has poured out of a fountain since the Romans did a nationwide empire tour. You fill your water bottles for free instead of buying it in a supermarket.

The match is all ticket - the ground has a capacity of 3,000 - and is the biggest match for years to come to town. I checked out the Buxton FC website and the chairman has written a special article for Saturday's programme on the links over the years between Buxton FC and Manchester United. There is even full match commentary on the local FM station - www.highpeakradio.co.uk - available online.

Got a new video camera, quality pictures let down by hand shake and battery flake out. Butties (sandwiches in English), money for train ticket and drink. As we say 'bring it on'.

The Cup Runs Over

New TV series starts this week called "The Cup". The trailers look good, maybe having a manager with a Scottish accent who throws tea cups strikes a chord. But it's with a team of u-11's so it's comedy. It was filmed up here in the North, and where would this country be without the North - well pretty dull actually. I think some of the ground scenes are at one of Atherton clubs who play in the NW Counties League.

The Cup is on BBC 2 Tv 2130h BST (2030 UTC) - details and trailer.

In the real world the FA Cup started, and some of the few readers of this weblog will know I follow it from the start in August. ITV showed a game on the web on Friday. It had a 1820h kick-off at Wantage Town. Possibly no floodlights, or maybe they wanted to save electricity. Picture quality very good but the screen size was no bigger than half a postcard. As the games are videoed by the various ITV companies there is nobody working at weekend to edit the highlights of the dozen other matches. So they turn up on Monday in dribs and drabs. But a very good effort so far. Well apart from the results service. I tried to find out how Sunderland Nissan went on - just like the idea of a Japanese car factory as part of your club name . BBC, ITV, and The FA had nothing doing. But the old media, a copy of NonLeaguePaper from the Esso garage on Sunday morning did the job. I don't know how many copies they sell but they deserve a medal for old school reporting. Proper match reports, full results and breadth of national coverage - banging it all out for the Sunday morning newsstands.

Just A Pic : FC United Celebrate

FC United of Manchester on the front page of today's Non-League Paper celebrating the promotion to Unibond Northern Premier League. For some reason this weekly, and rival publication are both stocked by my local Co-op, and at the Texaco garage up the road. Well I had to buy it, price 1.40, it's always an interesting read, well it is to me.

The other great promotion was fans club AFC Wimbledon going up to the Blue Square South (Conference South) - well done the Wombles, they'll be on Setanta next season.

Pre-Match Tension Watch Another Match

West Didsbury & Chorlton 2-1 AVRO att: 6
Manchester Premier League Division 1

The big game today is at 1715h but it's a Saturday afternoon. Don't fancy the DIY jobs so take a walk over the road to see the local amateur side. Lots of shouting from AVRO, half the team are being captains ordering the play about. They go 2-0 down, so even more shouting but it pays off with an easy tap in goal. I say easy, they've already skied a few chances into the trees behind the nets.

Half time, retire to the club house for a coffee (50p), West Didsbury go to the dressing room and AVRO stay in a huddle on the pitch with their lucozade. I'm joined by the Biffa herself, then Davey one of the neighbours. We watch the remaining game with beers looking out of the big window. A few close shaves but the home side hang on for the points. If you're wondering about the name AVRO then think of the makers of the famous aeroplanes Vulcan and Lancaster.

Daniel the manager starts selling 50p shots on a guess the team card. The Biffa invests two quid and wins a tenner by picking Coventry City. After buying beers we're a few quid up on the day. Now even better they have Setanta Sports on the telly....bring on United..

Game 22, come home 3 quid better off

FC United on target

FC United 5-2 Lancaster City att: 2,704

A game of open and attacking football but it took FC United a while to settle. 1 nil down after 2 minutes, 2-1 down at 18 minutes. Thereafter they took control. The scoreline doesn't do justice to Lancaster City who hit the metalwork a few times and had some good chances to get back in the game. Considering FC had already played two games this week with a draw and a win they looked fresh and energetic. This was the last Saturday match at Gigg Lane this season, so felt I must go. Might not be here next season, it could a groundshare elsewhere?

Match 19: Admission 7.50, programme 2.00, cup of coffee 1.50, half time draw ticket 1.00, tram fare 2.70, bus fare 1.10. Took my own "smokey vegetable burrito" for a snack.

New Trafford not Old Trafford

Trafford 2-1 Congleton Town att: 128
North West Counties League Division 1 (The Vodcat League)

Trafford FC Championes from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Had a trip in the sunshine and showers to see Trafford take three points and win promotion. This is the league FC United won last season. Very friendly at Shawe View, if you went on a regular basis you'd be on first name terms with everyone. It's a few miles west of Old Trafford in the quiet suburbs of Flixton. Trafford were two nil up in less than half an hour and looked like getting more. But Congleton scored and from where I was standing it looked like a foul on the goalkeeper. Up until the end Congleton pressed for a second goal but came up against a strong defence. So well done Trafford, but I'm hoping FC United don't play against you next season which is looking increasingly likely. FC lost again 3-2 away to Wakefield.

Game 17; admission £5, programme £1, draw ticket £1, 2 cups of tea £1, Snicker chocolate bar 45p, bus fare £3. Total £11.45

Links : TraffordFC, Congleton Town FC, NW Counties League

Further reading :
20 Things you always see and hear at non-league football grounds
Trafford v. FC United in the FA Cup - video clip.

FC Late Winner at Woodley

Woodley Sports 1-2 FC United att: 1066

Easter Monday and we've driven to a sleepy part of Stockport. Woodley are a struggling club at the bottom of the division and have just put their prices up to £8. Can't begrudge them the money. First half is uneventful apart from the loss of the Woodley full back through injury, and our star player Rory Patterson takes a knock and doesn't come out in the second half.

Half time we walk round to the other end of the ground, wish I had permission to do this at Old Trafford. But we go a goal down (47), but this spurs the team to start attacking better. Get a goal back (65). Looks like it heading for a draw but a spectacular goal by Stuart Rudd on 87 minutes is the winner.

We then joined the traffic jam to get of the narrow roads of the estate, the locals peering through their windows at the strangers with scarfs from Manchester.

Game 15; Admission £8; Programme £2; byo coffee and cake.

Just a point for FC United

FC United 2-2 Radcliffe Borough att: 2149
Unibond League Division1 North

Goin to Gigg Lane : Pies & Flasks from biffadigital on Vimeo.
The tram was nearly empty on the way to Bury and only a few people about. Thought I'd got the fixture date wrong or the game had been called off. It's only when I got down to The Staff of Life near the ground that I saw a red scarf. Shakey start by FC and it was no surprise when Radcliffe went ahead. All FC could reply with were long high balls into the wind to hit their four tall defenders. Second half was a little brighter. FC came straight out and equalised after about a minutes. When they started passing to feet it looked promising. But it was not to be, Radcliffe went ahead again and after that it was chasing the game.

Last five minutes was the best bit of the match, pressure on for a winner. Strangest moment - for about five minutes watching a game in bright sunshine with the floodlights on. Black cloud turned up to deliver a shower.

Used Manchester's expensive and barely intergrated transport system again. This involves a sprint to swop to the Altrincham tram, a power walk and use of an mp3 player to relieve the tedium of travel.

Cost : Admission 7.50; programme 2.00; cup of tea 1.50 - dreadful; draw ticket 1.00 - never win; tram 2.70 - metro saver - cheaper than a return; bus 1.30 - No. 23 Stretford - Chorlton; text service to find the time of the next bus 25p and i thought it was a free service but apparently not. Game 13, £16.25. Not including snacks.

The Easter Weekend

The big games are on Sunday. Only four big platinum Premiership games at Old Trafford in a season and the biggie is United v. Liverpool at 1330h. There is a bitter northerly wind blowing across Manchester at the moment, the forecast is for snow and Lawro's prediction is a 1-1 draw. We'll see - I'm going for no snow and a 2-0 win. Afterwards Chelsea play Arsenal at 1600h. Makes you think the fixture list isn't made up at random but rather a Tv fest for Sky. Noticed in Italy there are no Serie A matches at Easter - obviously the Pope has more power than Sky there.

I'm having my own Easter footie fest. Besides Old Trafford it's off to see FC United play neighbours Radcliffe Borough yet again - 3 o'clock on a Saturday. Three vital points at stake. On Easter Monday, when a third of the country sits in heavy motorway traffic, it's over to Woodley Sports against FC United. I'm told it's a small ground with a plastic pitch at the back of a housing estate.

Still on my mission to see 40 plus games this year so have to attend at least 20 before the summer break. Only five United home games left, six if we get the Champions League semi-final. So there might be some strange reports coming up like watching Whalley Range v. Newton Heath next month. They all count.

Another Liverpool Grudge Game?

No not Sunday's clash with Liverpool that goes without saying....

Next season there is a very real prospect of AFC Liverpool coming into being. A fans club fed up with ticket price hikes. It's not a break away club like FC United. They may be playing in the NW Counties League (Vodcat League) next season. Well good luck to them. More grassroots football and a prospect of another Mancs v. Scousers clash. It would probably be a Cheadle Town fixture in NWCFL Div 2...but they all count. There were over 10,000 spectators for a Liverpool Reserves v. United Reserves the other week such is the rivalry. Essentially a game of chess in the rival red shirts would draw a big crowd...

For those who only know the Premiership then a venture into partisan non-league football is recommended. Same songbook, same shirts, same accents. For anyone with kids it's ideal because of no seat restrictions and low expenses.

FC Lost 1-5 but still go thru

Nantwich Town might have beaten FC United 5-1 in the Unibond President's Cup on Monday but today they were disqualified for fielding an ineligible player. Don't know what to make of this. I'd rather FC United concentrate on winning a third successive promotion than having an extra game. So it's a semi-final away to Goole AFC on the 8th March.

FC United This Saturday

You couldn't possibly get more grass roots and co-operative than the forthcoming FC United v. Bamber Bridge fixture at Gigg Lane, Bury on Saturday 1st March. The kids (u-18's) have free admission, there are free fairtrade snacks provide by The Co-operative and other activities if you get there early to Youth United Day. As Big United are away at Fulham I'll be in attendance in the Main Stand. Bamber Bridge are currently third in the table and FC United seventh with three games in hand due to lots of bad pitch postponed fixtures.
Details

Football Hurts TV

Spotted a billboard advertising a football programme called "Football Hurts". Described as "a unique grass roots football docu-drama about every fan's favourite second club: AFC Wimbledon." It's on Thursday 2200h, repeated Saturday 2100h, Sunday 2200h, Monday 2130h. There are some clips on the Football Hurts website so you know what you'll be letting yourself in for. In my case, people talking in strange accents rather than the blood, sweat and cheers it mentions. Sky 207; Freeview 42.
Nuts TV

FC in minor cup win

FC United 2 Rossendale United 1
Unibond President's Cup 3rd Round, Gigg Lane, Bury attendance 1,554.
Basically the Unibond make you play in these extra cup competitons, and it has to be at your main ground and the money is split 50/50. So that means renting Bury's ground for a game that would normally attract 600 supporters on a Wednesday night in Radcliffe. Fortunately the FC faithful rallied to the call and the club did not incur a loss.

Not the most exciting game. A break away on 55 minutes and Rory Patterson chipped the keeper for the first goal. A second by Rudd on 81 minutes followed by some pressure by Rossendale. Their goal was an excellent shot by Eddington from outside the area which was greated with applause by everyone it was that good.

Best bits of the afternoon...FC reduced to 10 men for a while after a player was accidentally injured by the referee. Goes off with a nosebleed. The news that Havant & Waterlooville were leading twice at Anfield (I was getting Twitter texts from United on Fire and I bet he didn't know someone in a draughty stadium was appreciating them). Admission : 7.50, Programme 1.50, half time snack: Snicker bar.

So on to a quarter final clash away at Nantwich Town.
Trivia note : FC Cup runs - FA Cup (Trafford W, Fleetfood L), FA Trophy (Bradford Park Ave D,L), Challenge Cup (Alsager Town L), President's Cup (Bamber Bridge W, Rossendale W), Manchester FA Premier Cup (Droylsden W, Flixton W)...

Filling in a Saturday Afternoon

West Didsbury & Chorlton 1-4 Wythenshawe Town
Bridgewater Office Supplies Manchester Football League Div 1

West Didsbury v. Wythenshawe from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Waiting for the Villa v. United 1715h kick off and want a restful day as its work tomorrow. Get fed up of struggling in the mud on a mountain bike so sack that for the football across the road. A 1400h kick off and it's free. It's all a pleasant diversion especially when you fall into a conversation with a friend, neighbour and club committe member to shoot the breeze. Whistle blows, straight to the bar for a pint of Hydes. TV blaring the half time FA Cup updates. After a while the players come in looking for the hot pot and sandwiches. The manager's dog is looking for anything edible. Another world, I like it. West Didsbury arn't doing too well with recent results and are now two places above the relegation zone but nobody seams worried.

Vodkat League Game anyone?

Maine Road v. Glossop North End from biffadigital on Vimeo
Take your mind off tomorrow's big match with a visit to the grassroots. I wanted to go to Salford City v. Hallam in the FA Vase (3-0 to Salford), but it was too parky and too far. So settled on Maine Road v. Glossop North End in the middle of Whalley Range. I'm at a North West Counties League game that goes by the title of Vodkat League this year. It's a cheap brand of vodka based booze. Two goals in the first half to the visitors in red. When the sun went down the cold set in, eating through the gloves and socks. Attendance 55, admission £5, programme £1, cup of tea 50p (well worth it as you get a whole tea bag to yourself), half time snack : Thai wrap (byo). Lift to the ground, walked home.

Y Clwb Pel-Droed

Thought I'd watch this little football highlights show. Y Clwb Pel-Droed (Club Football) on S4C (Sky 134) on Saturday at 1925h. Chatting to brother-in-law who is a camera man. One week he's doing test match cricket or the Premiership but today he had to drive down to Carmarthen to cover a Welsh Premier League game. It's not that bad. He actually likes the little games - easier set-up, same money, and very friendly with cups of tea brought to you. The highlights were of Carmarthen Town 8-0 Connah's Quay Nomads. The show is mostly in Welsh language though some of those interviewed can only manage English. But as we know football is an international language so you don't really need a commentary to watch the play. Much prefer this than to X-Factor on the ITV at the same time. An overlong karaoke show - best bit is when the audience clap like chimps out of time and off beat to the song. Give me muddy non-league level football anytime. Unscripted drama is always a winner, that's why we want footie.

Soviet Union, Kanchelskis and trivia

We're not called 'Biffafootie" for nothing. Had a comment from the Soviet Union team to check out their web site, seeing as I've shown interest in a previous post . They play in the O'Neills Leinster Football League, and by the names on the team sheet you'll understand why the club is called Soviet Union FC. Based in Dublin, which is the nearest capital city to Manchester.

Then I checked out what happened to our most famous Soviet Union international Andrei Kanchelskis who was capped 23 times for the CCCP. Retired a season ago, and back in Moscow. Always remember that fantastic game against Manchester City, in fact I don't remember it well at all. The score might have been 5-1, and Kanchelskis scored quite a few of them. Stats : Played 145 times for United, scored 48 goals 1991-95. Trivia : Scored in scored in the Glasgow (for Rangers), Merseyside (for Everton) and Manchester (for United) derbies....

FC leave it late to win

FC v. Rossendale (at Radcliffe) from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Get out the tram station not sure which way to go. Neither does the bloke from Urmston who's looking as puzzled as me. It's left and right somewhere...but we pick up a small group on the way to the game. But they stop off at a pub....it can't be far now. After the longest half mile we get to the ground behind some new build houses.

An early goal from Rory Patterson settles the game down. But chances are few. There is no second goal. I video the chippy hut at half time, about fifty people in the line and only three people serving. Glad I took my own pie. Rossendale might be at the bottom end of the table put they keep pushing the ball around well. Their equaliser comes. It's heading for a draw but some scrappy play gives us a winner. Some scrappy camera work and you can spot it on the video. The last five minutes are played out with time wasting. Get home at 1830h. There were a few Exeter City fans on the tram. They've got a long journey home, and they lost at Bury 1-0. It's a funny old business being a footie fan.

Stats : FC United 2 Rossendale United 1, att: 1,744. Admission £7.50, programme £2, pie (byo) £1.60, tram ticket £2.70

What Saturday Brings

Tuesday it was a seat in the Stretford End on W11, Row 8. Today I'll be standing in the The Inn2Gether Stadium, M26 3PE. That's it in the picture. FC United v. Rossendale United - and a need for a win and three points if we're going to make the play-offs. I think they have play-offs in the Unibond.

No hangover, weather looking favourable. Scarf, pie, flask, programme and tram ticket. At some point in the day my mind will think of the bloated F.A. board on suits and expenses. The one's who hired McClaren and then fired him. The one's who talk root and branch reform. It's another world.

A Dampner of the United Front

FC United v. Bradford PA - penalty from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Went up to Gigg Lane, Bury. My mate Colin was going to text me the scores from the Reebock. I only received one - that was it, beaten by Bolton Wanderers 1-0. It was cold up in Bury, needed an extra layer of clothing and a flask. Didn't bring either. Good game, pity about the result. Stats : FC United 3-4 Bradford Park Avenue, attendance 2,235, brought our own mushroom and nut pie for half-time.

But that's football. Both your teams collect nil points. It's why winning tastes sweet and you forget these low points.

Soviet Union Beaten 1-6

Yesterday Russia slipped up against Israel throwing England a lifeline to qualify on Wednesday. I'm predicting a crushingly dull 1-1 against Croatia, just as long as they don't blow it. Noticed that the Soviet Union still have a team. They have been reduced to playing on a Sunday morning somewhere in Leinster, Ireland. They didn't do too well either by getting thumped 1-6 at home. Where can you find all this trivia you may ask? On RTE Aertel, which is Ireland's teletext service. You can view it all on the web here. Yes, I know teletext on the web is a bit weird. Check out Local Soccer Page 430. Football is a different game in Ireland.

FC Win 5-1 Hurrah Huzzah

The joys of the web for on a bitterly cold night you can be part of the armchair army. But you have to hand it to the 1,691 who went to Gigg Lane, Bury to watch FC United come back from 0-1 down to put 5 past Rossendale United. Once again the Visual Radio at FCUM TV proved excellent. Listen and surf - the hours just fly by. Match Report.

A few people I've met said it would be good if FC United stayed down in this division for a season. What defeatist nonsense. Winning two consecutive promotions to rise out of the North West Counties is hardly high flying. Getting to the Unibond Premier next year means there is still a long way to go, before you reach a national league which is the Blue Square Premier, formally the Conference. What football fan is happy when there team looses? Only a deluded one.

Bought Your Own Club

I didn't think it would happen so quickly but MyFootballClub (Independent & Provident Society - one member one vote) have bought 51% of Ebbsfleet. I didn't know much about Ebbsfleet in the Blue Square Premier until I realised last season it used to be Gravesend & Northfleet in the Nationwide Conference. It would appear quite a few clubs wanted to be bought out. Sloppy reporters refer to a website taking over a football club - which is nonsense - when it's a collective of individuals. It's not the only football club run on co-operative lines by fans (FC United, AFC Wimbledon). I'm given to understand that Football League rules prohibit a club being an I&PS and not a capitalist company which shows how out of touch they are with current Government and UEFA thinking.
Story - BBC News
Earlier Post : Own You Own Club

So what if it is Saturday?

Deep Grass Roots Footie from biffadigital on Vimeo.
Oh when Saturday comes but then you find yourself without a match to go to. An Old Trafford visit tomorrow so that's something to look forward to - always a tough game against Blackburn Rovers so I'm not predicting four goals. Nobody I knew fancied taking in a local FA Cup tie today. So it's five before two, let's go over the road all of 200 metres or so, behind some houses. Standing to watch a Bridgewater Office Supplies Manchester League Division 1 game...I find someone I know in the crowd of six. Joe is a United fan who's sacked it and watches FC United. But today we've dropped down a few divisions. Chapel Town (yellow and black) are putting in a strong performance and our local side West Didsbury & Chorlton (black and white) can't muster strong attacks. The lads from Derbyshire come out easy winners 1-5. Back home to watch the results come in and have a cup of tea. Where are the Premiership matches - only three! FC United lost. Oh, what's happened to Saturdays.

Chapel Town FC
West Didsbury & Chorlton FC

Scarborough Online Auction

"ONLINE AUCTION - THE CONTENTS TO SCARBOROUGH FOOTBALL CLUB

On the Instructions of R. Sadler of Begbies Traynor, The Liquidator of Scarborough Football Club Limited...Including: Goalposts & Nets; Corner Flags; Extending Players Tunnel; Flood Lights; Turnstiles; Signs; Pitch Turf; Training Equipment; Pitch Barriers; Seating; Stands; Entrance Gates; Stand-By Diesel Generator"

Founded 1879, Football League 1987 - 1992, Wound up on 20 June, 2007, with debts of £2.5m. A new fans owned club has been formed called Scarborough Athletic, owned by the Seadogs Trust. There is something about seaside clubs they find it hard to survive - bit like seaside towns in winter.

FC United Video

FA Cup FC United first ever match
Took a while to encode this. Great day out Chorlton Five go to Altrincham on the tram. Only caught the penalty on the video but got the atmosphere. Trafford 2-5 FC United

FA Cup Tram Trip

Went off to Altrincham on a damp Sunday afternoon. It's FC United with their first ever FA Cup match and it's against the rivals Trafford FC. Two up in about 15 minutes, turns to 2-2. A penalty award for handball puts FC United ahead before half time. The final score is a 5-2 win though the play was a lot closer than the score records. Back home to Stretford on the tram, a good day out for the five of us. FC United now have to travel to Fleetwood Town away on September 15th. Attendance 2238.

Flixton whom we watched in the earlier round won 1-0 yesterday. A 90th minute goal over Salford City.

Road to Wembley

So going to watch United v. Sunderland on Saturday, and then the FA Cup on Sunday absolutely marvelous. The road to Wembley, and I've actually been at an early round game when a dozen fans were singing that. Come to think of it was at Trafford FC in August 1999 and MUTV cameras were at the game - the year Manchester United were pressured to go to Brazil for a FIFA World Club tv tournament. Well FC United are up for the cup - you can download cut out FA Cups for the event. Link.

Flixton v. Bootle

FA Cup Early Round.
That time of year again and off to see a very early FA Cup round. It doesn't get earlier than the Extra Preliminary Round. Our first ever visit to Valley Road, made a wrong turn and had to ask for directions. However this was young Archie's first ever match. He lives next door even at 8 months old he was impressed by the shouting and the flag waving linesman in front of the stand. It was a close game, managed to see all the goals but not capture them with the camera.
Flixton 2-1 Bootle
HT 1-0 Attendance 49
Now meet Salford City at home September 1st.

North West Counties

Now I haven't been to a NW Counties Football League game for a while but I've got plans and the desire...

How about FC United v. Maine Road on Easter Monday 9th April - the mini-derby reds v. blues. Ramsbottom v. FC United with a trip on steam train from Bury using the East Lancashire Railway. It'll be an all ticket match as the ground is mostly field and not terraces. The tie could switch venues so I won't build any away-day hopes yet.

So at present it's hibernation armchair supporting watching FCUM TV on Channel M (Sky 203), or using t'internet. There is a great new video player console on the FCUM-TV website for watching clips you've might have missed. Makes browsing a doddle, well done lads.

Issue 2 of North West Side Stories is out now. This gives an insight into what goes on in grassroots football. Worth reading just for the comments about pies from "Farny at the Far Post" (Alan Farnworth, Vice Chairman of the NWCFL)...Pies and football, no burgers, no prawns.