Charnock Richard Football Club 16 - V NORTHWICH VICTORIA NORTH WEST COUNTIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER
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Charnock Richard Football Club 16 OFFICIAL MATCH DAY PROGRAMME SEASON 2019-20 £2.00 V NORTHWICH VICTORIA NORTH WEST COUNTIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER, 3.00PM
ISSUE 16
A
warm Charnock
welcome to everyone
today, including
EDITORIAL... those connected with
Northwich Victoria.
CHARNOCK RICHARD
FOOTBALL CLUB
Unincorporated Association Firstly, thank you for purchasing a programme. I’m
A Charter Standard Club writing this while having a celebratory glass of red wine
Mossie Park, Charter Lane, Charnock Richard, after our fine win at Litherland Remyca on Wednesday
Chorley, Lancashire, PR7 5LZ
evening. I knew when we’d signed Jordan Darr that this
T: 01257 794288
lad has it in him to be the next Carl Grimshaw. I hope
CLUB OFFICIALS he adds to his hat-trick from that game against one of
Chairman: Shaun Tootell his former sides today.
Vice Chairman: Geoff Haslam
Secretary: Dave Rowland
Assistant Secretary: Graham Randle Fair to say, we’re currently excelling ourselves. Dare
Treasurer: Steve Mawdesley I say, I had predicted pre-season that Northwich
Commercial Manager: TBC
Club Photographer: Alan Walker would be challenging for top 3, but as yet that hasn’t
Website Co-ordinator: Shaun Tootell materialised. I wouldn’t discount them just yet though,
Social Media Coordinator: Adam Donnellan we still have a good portion of the season left, the
Groundsman: Pleasant View GM visitors are only nine points behind us. Our “problem”
Ground Supervisor: Harold Heaton
Kit Man: Jim Bibby is we’ve played more than most around us in the table,
Committee: Steve Porter, Dave Smith, but I’ve always been a fan of ‘points in the bag’ rather
Dave Dixon, Lewis Spensley, Brian Lowe, than playing catch-up.
Ian Livesey, Alan Baron.
1st Team Manager: Ryan Donnellan
1st Team Assistant Manager: Dave Haslam Don’t forget off the field tonight we’ve got “Super
1st Team Coach: Danny Nolan. Saturday” here. After the game this afternoon you’ll be
Goalkeeping Coach: Gareth Jones
able to watch the Manchester derby in the clubhouse,
First Team Assistant/Analyst: Lewis Spensley
Team Physio: Kate Smith then at 9pm we have the Anthony Joshua v Andy Ruiz
Reserve Team Manager: Ian Mountain fight on the big screen, but it is members only. Don’t
Reserve Assistant Manager: Paul Charnley worry if you’re not a member, you can pay on the night,
Reserve Team Coaches: Tom Charnley,
Paul Billington and membership entitles you to a discount at the bar.
PROGRAMME Thanks again, enjoy the game, and have a Merry
Programme Co-ordinator: Ian Livesey
Contributors: Keith Reader, David Rowland, Christmas.
Shaun Tootell, Ian Mountain, Dave Smith,
Gareth Jones, Ryan Donnellan. Ian Livesey,
Design & Print: Andy Calvert Programme Co-ordinator
www.matchdaycreative.co.uk
All editorial in this programme is copyright of Charnock Richard Football Club and may not be
reproduced. The views of the contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the club.
Information correct at the time of going to press.
Chorley Alliance League: 1947-48, 1956-57 | Gillett Cup: 1956-57, 1959-60, 1963-64 | Guildhall Cup: 1957-
58, 1968-69, 1992-93 | Preston & District League: 1960-61, 1966-67, 1968-69, 1988-89 | Chorley Amateur
Cup: 1960-61, 1961-62, 1964-65 | Hunt Cup: 1969-70 | Lancashire Amateur Shield: 1967-68, 2001-02,
2006-07, 2010-11, 2011-12 | West Lancashire League Division One: 1997-98 | West Lancashire League
Premier Division: 2002-03, 2008-09, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2013-14, 2014-15 | Richardson Cup: 2001-02,
2003-04, 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16 | Goldline Trophy: 2000-01, 2005-06 | West Lancashire League
Reserve Division Two: 1995-96 | West Lancashire League Reserve Division One: 1996-97, 1997-98, 2013-14
THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME 03
1ST TEAM PLAYER STATS
SEASON 2019-20
League Cups Total Overall
App Sub Goal App Sub Goal App Sub Goal App Sub Goal
Ainscough R 1 1 1
Ascroft B 15 8 23 23
Bennett J 6 5 2 1 3 9 8 2 32 36 6
Bibby S 17 1 8 1 1 25 1 2 190 52 16
Darr J 11 1 8 2 2 1 13 3 9 13 3 9
Dashti D 400 156 26
Davision M 16 1 2 6 1 22 2 2 80 13 22
Eastwood J 3 1 4 6
Fairhurst N 11 1 2 8 19 1 2 147 3 18
Green O 1 1 1 2 1 2 1
Griffith A 10 3 4 3 1 14 6 14 10 1
Grimshaw C 16 17 9 6 25 23 403 22 451
Haydock L 16 2 6 8 1 24 3 6 24 3 6
Kay J 2 3 3 1 1 5 4 1 5 4 1
Lindley N 1 1 2
McNally L 2 2
Morris O 2 2 2 2 3 4
O'Farrell R 11 3 5 2 16 5 163 43 7
Oxley O 8 9 3 3 4 1 11 13 4 25 39 12
Pilgrim L 1 1 4
Regan D 10 3 1 8 2 18 3 3 41 3 5
Schofield R 2 2 3 5 2 96 13 2
Turner O 2 1 4 6 1 18 6
Walker J 15 1 5 3 20 3 1 88 7 7
Woods M 11 3 2 5 3 1 16 6 3 144 27 22
Young A 13 1 1 7 20 1 1 152 5 24
Premier Division Table P W D L F A GD Pts
1 1874 Northwich 16 12 2 2 44 14 30 38
2 Charnock Richard 18 12 0 6 46 29 17 36
3 Bootle 15 10 2 3 36 24 12 32
4 Irlam 14 9 4 1 37 19 18 31
5 Longridge Town 13 10 0 3 35 20 15 30
6 Rylands 14 9 1 4 32 18 14 28
7 Whitchurch Alport 16 8 4 4 32 23 9 28
8 Ashton Athletic 15 7 3 5 34 22 12 24
9 Winsford United 17 8 0 9 35 35 0 24
10 Northwich Victoria 15 7 2 6 34 22 12 23
11 Avro 18 7 2 9 36 40 -4 23
12 Runcorn Town 15 6 4 5 24 24 0 22
13 Congleton Town 15 5 3 7 30 31 -1 18
14 Barnoldswick Town 17 5 3 9 27 37 -10 18
15 Hanley Town 15 4 4 7 17 26 -9 16
16 Padiham 17 4 2 11 16 34 -18 14
17 Squires Gate 17 4 2 11 25 44 -19 14
18 Skelmersdale United 16 3 4 9 23 31 -8 13
19 Burscough 17 2 3 12 12 41 -29 9
20 Litherland REMYCA 16 1 5 10 10 51 -41 8
04 THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME
THE MANAGER
RYAN DONNELLAN
G ood afternoon and welcome back
to Mossie Park.
it, we did that by
scoring two more to
make it 4-0. I was a
Our last game at home was a week ago little disappointed to concede two goals but
today against Hanley Town. It was another we came away 5-2 winners away from home
impressive win for my side but Hanley held on a poor pitch. I can’t ask for anything more
us to 0-0 at half time but in the second half than that. The lads were brilliant once again.
of the game I thought we took control, and
scored all 4 goals in one half dented Hanley’s It was good to see Oli Turner back in action
confidence to get anything out of the game. after a bad run of injuries. Also another
To be fair to Hanley they played some good young prospect for the future Nat Lindley
passing football at times but without any made an appearance and did well when he
threat to us, we defended well throughout came on.
the team. It was also very pleasing to get Going into today’s game, Aaron Griffith
another clean sheet. is available along with Owen Green. Also
Nathan Fairhurst is slowly making his way
On Wednesday we travelled to Litherland back to fitness after suffering a toe injury.
Remyca. Somewhere we’re I feel is always a Mark Woods and James Walker remain
tough place to go regardless of their current unavailable.
league position. The first half was a tough
physical battle but scoring two goals gave That’s all from me, enjoy the game.
us a strong foothold in the game. It was key
in the second half we got another goal to Ryan Donnellan
stop any chance of Remyca getting back into
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CHARNOCK RICHARD F.C. OFFICIAL PROGRAMME
THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME 05
THE BOARDROOM
FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Good afternoon and welcome to Mossie Park for this
third home league game of the season for Charnock
Richard FC in the Hallmark Security League. On behalf
of everyone here at Charnock Richard, I would like to
welcome the management, players and committee
SHAUN TOOTELL
from St Helens Town. We hope you all have a very
enjoyable day at our club and have a safe journey
back home.
Our first ever home league game two weeks ago against
Alsager Town was a bit of a wake-up call for us all and
showed everyone that we can expect to face some very
G
difficult opponents in this league. It is however very
encouraging that as I write this article, the team has since
bounced back with two excellent away wins at Silsden and
ood afternoon and welcome to Mossie a penalty shoot-out. Maybe At the endthey
of the day have
Whitchurch Alport. We were advised by the league that suffered
we have a responsibility to comply
Park for today’s NWCFL Premier one of the management committee would be present at our
some form of hangover from last
predicament whichseason
must be resolvedaswithinthey
with the Ground Grading Regulations, so we have a
first home game to offer advice and support on the day and the next six
Division fixture. I would firstly like have struggled with a lack of consistency so far
it was the league Ground Grading Chairman Geoff
months. One option would be to raise the height of the
Wilkinson who visited us on the day. Geoff is very well
current stand to ensure all that all 100 plus seats afford a
to welcome the players, club officials this term and currently sit around
good view of the pitch - mid-table
not an easy option butin
known to us all here at Charnock and has been offering the not
impossible. A second option would be to build a covered
club valuable advice on ground grading matters over a
and supporters of tonight’s opponents the league. They started the season
standing as one
area to accommodate
number of years. It is fair to say that Geoff’s advice has ofspectators
50 or 100
that we can meet the Grade G requirements. These
helped to save the club a lot of money which could have
the so
Northwich Victoria FC. We hope that you all favourites for promotion, so itwillwill
issues be interesting
be discussed
been spent unwisely as we developed the Mossie Park
facility.
at the next committeeto meeting
which will be held in a few days’ time and hopefully we
have an enjoyable stay at our club and have see if they are able to turn will
On the day, Geoff took the opportunity to update us on our
around we mustn’t
their
agree our preferred
issue forget is
season
strategy
that should we
and
going forward.
be the
One
fortunate
a safe journey back home to Cheshire. current Groundmake a push
Grading status. For those for
who arepromotion
not over
position the
to challenge next
for promotion tocouple
the Premier
Division next season, then the ground must the meet the
familiar with the grading standards, grounds must initially
of months.
meet the FA Grading Standard H to gain promotion into the requirements of Grade F which will almost certainly
require us to raise the height of the stand to allow all 100
North West Counties League. Following admission into the
Last Saturday we picked up another three points league, all clubs must then meet Grading Standard G by plus seats to give a good view of the pitch.
the 31st March in the following year (in our case 31st
with another strong performance at home to Last Saturday evening we On held our
a final note
March 2017). The difference between Grade G and H is first
I would like tofundraiser
thank many of you who
attended our recent Reserve league game at home to
very minimal - Grade H requires a minimum covered
Hanley Town. The fixture was in some doubt in the of the season and it turned out Reserves.
Workington
spectator accommodation of 50, whereas Grade G to beNotan only excellent
did we get an excellent
attendance on a Monday evening but it is fair to say that
morning before kick-off due to a partially frozen evening which was very it waswell
requires a minimum covered spectator accommodation of
attended
a superb
100 (of which 50 must be seated and located in one
by byclub
game of football played two excellent
young sides who were both a credit to the game. I lost
pitch but thankfully the sun made a welcome members, players and supporters.
stand). Both Grading Standards state ‘All seating must In came
count of how many spectators
afford a good view of the pitch’ and whilst our current
total we
up to me after the
match to say that they had thoroughly enjoyed the game.
appearance and the pitch was in excellent raised over £1300 for the club which is a fantastic
seated stand holds just over 100 seats, only the higher 50
seats meet this criteria due to the potential for standing
That’s enough from me for the time being, so please
condition by mid-afternoon. We weren’t at our effort from all concerned. In
enjoyparticular,
spectators along the touchlines blocking the views from the
your day and hopefullyI wewould like to
can look forward
lower seats. It is fair to say that we have visited other
seeing you again at Mossie Park as the season
best in the first half but as soon as we went a goal to thank Alan Baron, Daveprogresses.
Smith, Kate Smith and
grounds recently and the same argument could be raised
as to whether some ground level seating at other venues
up early in the second half, we quickly took control Lewis Spensley who helped ShauntoTootell
organise the event.
afford a good view of the pitch but we will leave that for
others to debate. Chairman
of the game to eventually record an excellent 4-0 Our next fundraiser is the Annual Sportsman’s
win. During the game, Carl Grimshaw hit another Dinner on Friday 6th March,
06 which is always a very
milestone, scoring his 450th goal for the club. popular event that sells out fast. If you would like
to reserve a table or tickets for that event then
On Wednesday evening we visited Litherland please speak to Alan Baron.
REMYCA and turned in another dominant
performance again a team who have been Our Reserves are back in action today with a
struggling at the bottom of the league for most relatively short trip to Burscough Dynamo. They
of the season. It was good to see Jordan Darr get will be looking to get back to winning ways again
his first hat-trick for the club on a night where we today following their recent home defeat to
were just that bit more ruthless in front of goal Storeys of Lancaster in their last league match two
than our opponents. weeks ago.
Our first team squad is almost back to full strength As today will be our last scheduled home fixture
following some recent injuries to key players. before the festive period, then on behalf of
Our recent league form has been excellent, with everyone here at Charnock Richard FC, I would
11 wins out of our last 13 league games, so we like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a
move forward into December with a fair level of Prosperous New Year. Please enjoy today’s game
confidence, knowing that on our day we can match and as always, get behind the lads with your full
any team in this league. Unlike last season, no support.
team is currently running away with the league at
the present time, so it is all to play for all clubs who Shaun Tootell
are eyeing those three promotion spots.
Today’s opponents Northwich Victoria had a
superb season last term finishing fourth in the
league and reaching the Semi Finals of the FA Vase,
only to miss out on a trip to Wembley by virtue of
06 THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME
PEOPLE AND MADE MANY NEW FRIENDS.”
SECRETARY'S REPORT
Welcome to Mossie Park for this afternoon’s Division
One game against Sandbach United who are visiting
us for the very first time and a warm Charnock
welcome to all who have travelled up from deepest
DAVE ROWLAND Cheshire to be with us today. We hope that you will
enjoy your stay and have a safe and trouble-free
journey home after the game. The East Cheshire side
are a friendly and welcoming club as we found out
when visiting them on that ill-fated fog-bound
afternoon at the end of November. It is hoped that we
G
can return their excellent hospitality today.
ood afternoon everyoneI firstand welcome
met United’s secretary, Johnthe famous
Clayton, and a couple Drill Field, which was thought to be the
A new direction was needed to ifhost
the club was to grow.
to Mossie Park for this today’s Northern
of their committee, at the Imperialoldest
Hotel on thefootball
North ground in the country
Remaining stagnant was not an option. We have had
football.
Promenade in Blackpool when attending the North West
A good deal has passed under theFindingbridge since
Premier League Premier Counties
Division game
League AGM back on the 11th June. Applicant problems to contend with. funding for essential
against our visitors from Cheshire,
clubs wereNorthwich
asked to remain outside those happy
of the meeting until days. ground
The rise to
development beingan appropriate
and finding founderlevel for
members ofwhen our reserve
the Alliance side was only
Premier Leaguea couple in of examples.
1979-The
Victoria. We would like to take this
being opportunity
summoned by League Chairman
the representatives from each of the
Paul Lawler
immediate aim was to consolidate at Step 6 level in the
to extend a warm Charnock welcome toanthe 80,six applicants
now the were National League,
National League System to and theto bedecline
in a positionin to
called upon to give introductory speech to the
players, club officials and supporters
assembled throng ofbefore
ourbeing votedrecent
in by theyears,
member is unhappily
sustain thiswell documented.
in the long term. The players Sadly of our three
this included the iconic
senior Drill
teams Field
have had being
a fine sold
season and off
once to
again this
visitors. We hope that you will clubs.
enjoy As we waited nervously in an adjacent room, Steve
your
and I gotday
Mawdesley into conversation with the Sandbach
developers in 2002. has been due to the management skills and dedication of
However, the name Northwich
out with us and have a safe and trouble-free
contingent and quickly found them to be a very sociable
Victoria
the management teams of all three. On the
journey back home after the game.group. WeWe got onwould
with them immediately and itstill
was and holds that nostalgic
administration and
side, iconic
we have been ambience
joined by David Smith
enjoyable exchange. That day wefor mademe. Football
our first friends in has never
and Brian lost
Lowe whoits have
romancevery kindlyfor Dave
agreed to give of
also like to extend a warm welcome to our
the North West Counties League and Rowland
long may itand their precious
hopefully never will.
continue. time and for this we are very grateful.
three match officials this afternoon; referee, Today also,
Sandbach United are one of the six newcomers to the I would Forlike tois welcome
me, this my fifth seasonaas very secretary good
and I can
Dale Baines, who has replaced theCounties
North West injured League this friend
season andof spentmine
the in the shape
honestly say, hand ofon‘Vics’
heart, thatbossthe 2016-17Steve campaign
Adam Brown, and his two able assistants,
previous campaignJack Wilkes.
at Step 7 in the Cheshire LeagueWe go backisaonelong of the best
way; thatto
I havehisenjoyed
North in football.
End,At times
it has been hard graft and there are many individuals
Ryan and Lee Harding. where they finished in 4th spot in the Premier Division.
Morecambe,
Like most of the newly promoted clubs they have made a
Southport, Bamber
who have Bridge
put in a good deal ofandthat thisDarwen
term, literally. It is
days.
good impression in their first season We could writethe
in the competition a book
combinedabout
efforts ofthe adventures
you all that make this, suchof a
Northwich Victoria have started and wetheir
wish them2019-
well. Today is ofthose days
course our special football we
and the characters
last home club came
and suchacross
a wonderfulalong
place to be.
game of the
20 campaign quietly but remain one of the clubs season not withstanding any play-off game Of course, we do not know just how things will pan out as
the way. Some of myafterhappiest
that we may be involved in. To say that it has been a today. Indeed,days ofthree
we have myvery lifedifficult
have away
to watch for a challenge in the special
Premier Division
one would been We
be an understatement. spent
have in non-league football
games to negotiate. andweI’m
Whether are incertain
the play-offs or
promotion stakes as the season progresses.
enjoyed some wonderful football, that
been toSteve would echo
many different notthe sameguess
is anybody’s sentiment.
but it is a sign of the success that
venues for
Talking of promotion, just a reminder ofthewhat
first time, met some really great people and
will we have enjoyed, when we are still talking about where
Last Saturday we had
made many new friends. When we left our comfort zone in
to get a referee in for a pitch
we will finish amongst the top group at this stage of
transpire at the end of the current season. The inspection
the West Lancashire League, we did so because the club as we had concerns
affairs. in thewellmorning
Whatever occurs, done one andthat all.
Champion Club, 2nd and 3rd placed Clubs
had grown in theto a point
and developed there
where were
new areas of the pitch that were frozen. I
challenges
North West Counties League, Northern and new East
Counties horizons hadstarted
become a necessity. Dave Rowland | Club Secretary
contacting referees as soon as I was notified
League and the Northern League will definitely be that there was a problem. Local referee Richard
promoted to the Northern Premier League regardless Holmes came to 07 the rescue despite the very short
of ground grading but will have to ensure that their notice and having to bring out his young son. It is
grounds meet the ground-grading regulations for this sort of commitment from our match officials
Step 4 by the end of March 2021 or be relegated to that we clubs depend on. During the course of the
Step 5 for the 2021-2022 season. Clubs promoted season I witness this on a regular basis. Match
to Step 4 must comply fully with the requirements officials, like Richard do a great deal of service to
of Grade E by 31stMarch in the year following clubs right across the country and very rarely take
promotion and comply fully with the requirements of the expenses and fees that they are entitled to in
Grade D by 31st March in the year following that. such cases as doing pitch inspections. That is why
Clubs competing at Step 4 must comply fully with I find it extremely irksome when they receive abuse
the requirements of Grade D. from those in the game that should know better.
When I was a schoolboy in the 1950’s and early Congratulations to Carl Grimshaw who reached
1960’s Northwich Victoria were one of the ‘leading the incredible figure of 450 goals for the club in
lights’ in non-league football here in the North competitive games when netting a brace our last
West. In those days ‘Vics’ plied their trade in the home game against Hanley Town last Saturday. He
old Cheshire County League which, along with The recently made his 400th appearance for the club.
Lancashire Combination, was ranked the highest Carl is a great and loyal club servant who is without
competitions below the Football League in the North doubt a Charnock Richard legend. This season Carl
West of England. I remember my dad telling me that has scored no less than 22 goals; 16 in the Premier
Northwich Victoria was a former Football League Division and 6 in the cups.
side and that the legendary Billy Meredith had once Talking of goals, it was good to see Jordan Darr
played for them. In the 50’s and 60’s they, alongside net a hat-trick in the game at Litherland Remyca on
their near neighbours Witton Albion, were prominent Wednesday night in the 5-2 win. It was a fine display
members of the Cheshire County league, which also all round. Also, it was great to see Oliver Turner back
included the likes of Altrincham, Congleton Town, in the line-up on Wednesday following a horrendous
Hyde United, Mossley, Runcorn and Stalybridge run of bad luck injury wise this term. Well done one
Celtic and Welsh sides such as Bangor City and Rhyl. and all.
My dad also informed me that the club played at Dave Rowland, Secretary
THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME 07
IN OPPOSITION
NORTHWICH VICTORIA
N
orthwich Victoria were formed in 1874 and league scalp for 17 years defeating Bury at the Drill Field in a first
named in honour of the reigning monarch, round replay, before turning a 2-0 deficit against Leyton Orient
Queen Victoria. The following year the into a 3-2 lead before a late equaliser earned the Londoners a
club established themselves at the Drill Field, replay at Brisbane Road, a game which they in turn won 3-2 after
extra time having trailed the Vics' 2-0, a thrilling match screened
so named, as it was the former Drilling Ground live on Sky TV.
of the 22nd Company of the 3rd battalion of the When Alexander was offered the post of Director of Coaching
Cheshire Rifle Volunteers. at Lincoln City in the summer of 2001, he was replaced for two
seasons at Northwich by former Northern Ireland international
Vics' initially played only friendly matches but graduated to a Jimmy Quinn. After Quinn departed for Shrewsbury Town, Vic’s
loose association of clubs called the Combination. A giant step unsuccessfully suffered three more managers before finishing
forward was taken in 1892 when Northwich became founder bottom of the Conference in 2003/04, only to survive relegation
members of the 2nd division of the Football League. Two on ground technicalities at other clubs.
seasons were spent in the league but the financial burden of Following the sale of the famous Drill Field ground, Vics'
professionalism saw the club resigning league status at the end undertook ground sharing with neighbours Witton Albion which
of the second year. During Vics' final season in the league, they lasted a further 3 seasons.
acquired the services of the legendary Billy Meredith, the peerless 2004-2009 In September 2004 the club went into administration
Welsh wizard of the wing. and suffered a 10 point deduction. However, against all the odds
The club returned to the Combination until 1898 when it joined the current manager Steve Burr and his team produced some fantastic
newly formed Cheshire League where it stayed for two years. A spell performances, eventually finishing outside the bottom three,
in the Manchester league followed before the club became members culminating in the team being voted “Non-League club of the
of the Lancashire Combination in 1912/13. Organised football year” by the Non-League paper.
came to a halt at the outbreak of the Great War but when hostilities However due to a technicality in the club administration
ceased, the Vics' joined the newly formed Cheshire League. Vics suffered their first relegation since the foundation of the
Although a top ranking club, the title was captured just once in a conference league & started the 2005/2006 season in the
memorable 1956/57 campaign. conference north.
The Glory Years Vics' again became founder members of a The club under the ownership of Mike Connett commenced the
new league when they accepted an invitation from the Northern season at the newly built Victoria Stadium & their form matched
Premier League in 1968, remaining there until they signalled their their superb new facilities as they went fifteen games undefeated
ambition by joining the new Nationwide Alliance Premier League in before emphasis shifted to a tremendous F.A Cup run. After
1979. Last season was the club’s 25th continuous season among victories against Frickley , North Ferriby , Barrow , Morecambe
the elite of non-league football. & Woking the run culminated in the Vics' playing their first ever
Before joining the national elite however, Vics' name had been on game against a premiership side, and a great day out against
the tips of the nation’s tongues following the remarkable FA Cup Sunderland at the Stadium Of Light in front of 19,323 fans &
run in 1976/77. The team defeating three football league sides en cheered on by over 3,500 Vics' supporters, the team produced a
route to the fourth round – Rochdale, Peterborough and Watford battling display, finally losing the game 3-0. After slipping to 3rd
(the latter being watched by a crowd of 8,989 at the Drill Field in the league during January & February the team embarked on a
including at that time their chairman Sir Elton John), before finally record breaking run of 15 consecutive victories & were eventually
bowing out to Oldham Athletic in a game seen by nearly 30,000 crowned champions after defeating closest rivals Stafford Rangers
at Maine Road. by a 3-1 scoreline on the penultimate Saturday of the season this
In 1982/83 the Club reached its finest hour when they won time cheered on by a record 3,154 at the Victoria Stadium .
through to the final of the FA Trophy but lost 2-1 to Telford United Vics' didn’t find it easy going back into the conference national
at Wembley. The Vics' faithful had only to wait twelve months and at times were too close to the bottom four for comfort.
before returning to the twin towers, where they drew 1-1 with However, a superb run of fine victories at the end of March when
Bangor City. To the delight of their fans the Greens won the replay they defeated the likes of Oxford United, Dagenham & Redbridge,
2-1 at Stoke’s aptly named Victoria Ground. Kidderminster, Crawley Town and Tamworth saw them finish in a
After a short spell in the doldrums the 1990's saw Vics' begin comfortable 13th place position in the league. They also had a
to reassert themselves as a leading force in semi-professional successful FA Trophy run which saw them reach the semi finals
football. Most notably, when defeating Martin O’Neill’s Wycombe stage before being defeated 4-3 on aggregate to Kidderminster
Wanderers on their home turf in April 1993 to lift the Drinkwise Harriers. At the end of a long hard season the club was rocked by
Cup. the sudden resignation of manager Steve Burr and his move to
In 1995/96 Vics' continued their progress, recording a best Stalybridge Celtic.
finish of eighth in the league and another trip to Wembley in the Neil Redfearn took over the managers job at the start of the
FA Trophy, a fantastic achievement considering they were drawn 2007/2008 season. But his reign only lasted until mid October
away from home in each round. Alas, it was not a successful one after only picking up one point from the first nine games of the
as Cheshire rivals Macclesfield Town proved too strong on the day, season. Paul Warhurst stepped in for just two games before he
winning 3-1. too resigned.
Five years on, Vics' sampled further FA Cup glory under the Dino Maamaria, one of the senior professionals at the club took
management of Keith Alexander. The club claimed their first over in a caretaker role until the position could be advertised, but
08 THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME
he impressed the club officials & supporters so much that he was Mid-Cheshire Senior Challenge Cup title was added to the honours
soon given the job on a full-time basis. list, defeating Witton Albion 4-0 in the final at the Help For Heroes
It took until 24th November 2008 for Vics' to register their first Stadium in Northwich. The Club narrowly missed out on a 20th
league win of the campaign against Rushden & Diamonds. The Cheshire F.A Senior Cup title, losing to Vanarama Conference
second half of the season saw a massive improvement in results Premier giants - and old foes Macclesfield Town by the odd goal
and against all odds they secured safety from relegation with a in three; by 3-2. Vics' had hauled themselves back into the game
tremendous 2-1 victory at Stevenage Borough in the penultimate to draw level at 2-2; from a parlous position at 0-2 down early in
game of the season. the piece.
Under the new ownership of Jim Rushe with the backing of the 2015 – 2017 Season 2015/16 saw the Vics' back in their home
main sponsors Encia the club look forward to a bright future. town of Northwich, having agreed a three-year groundshare with
2009 - 2015 On 19 May 2009 the club went into administration Evo-Stik Premier Division One North neighbours Witton Albion
for the second time in five years following their relegation from F.C. Despite the departure of manager Jim Gannon to his beloved
the Conference National; they were threatened with a double Stockport County, a third place finish was achieved in the Evo-
relegation to the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League as a result Stik NPL DivIsion One North League campaign and the season
of this, but ultimately won an appeal to be placed into the ended with a heartbreaking promotion play-off final defeat 2-0
Conference North for the 2009-10 season. away to Spennymoor Town. The second round of the F.A Cup
On 24 October 2009, under the management of Andy Preece was incredibly reached and was cruelly (and most observers said
and Andy Morrison - Northwich played FC United of Manchester in undeservedly) ended at eventual runaway league two title winners,
the FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round. Northwich won the game 3–0. Northampton Town by 3-2 after establishing a 2-0 lead just past
In the First Round proper, Northwich were drawn against former the hour mark. The run to the second round took in notable
Premier League side Charlton Athletic, which was televised live on victories against higher-league opposition; away at National
ITV1, providing much needed revenue for the club. Northwich won League Club, Boreham Wood in the first round and National
the game 1–0. Northwich were then drawn against Lincoln City, a League North Club, Chorley F.C, again away from home in the
match which was again televised on ITV1. The game was played fourth qualifying round.
on 28 November, with Lincoln winning the game 3–1. The 2016/17 season was a tough one for the Club and
The 2009–10 season saw Northwich achieve a mid-table finish, supporters of the Green and Whites. With off-field developments
but due to the ongoing financial problems, the club were expelled overshadowing the hard work of players and management, the
from the league and placed in the Northern Premier Division. new-look team struggled at the lower end of the table for much
During the season, Northwich won the Cheshire Senior Cup of the season. The resignation of manager Adam Lakeland was
for the first time in 15 years, beating Woodley Sports on followed swiftly by the departure of his assistant and caretaker
penalties. This was their first piece of silverware since they boss Dave Wild, and new manager Paul Moore certainly had his
won the Conference North in 2006. They remain unbeaten in work cut out from the start. Sadly, the writing was on the wall for
the competition under the management of Andy Preece and Vics and despite some last-gasp heroics and potential lifelines
have reached the final for the 2010–11 season for the second at the end of the season, the announcement came that the Club
successive year. was to enter administration yet again (along with the inevitable
By the start of the new season, only 3 players from the previous 10-point deduction) and relegation to Step 5 was confirmed.
season remained in the squad. The reserve feeder team, Woodley 2017 onwards June 2017 brought probably one of the most
F.C, became Northwich Villa - who play in Division One of the important developments in the history of this grand old institution,
Cheshire Football League. Many of the squad for that season came as an agreement was reached for the Northwich Victoria
through the new structure into the first team squad. Supporters Association to take full control of the Club. This,
The 2011 / 2012 campaign saw the team relegated from the coupled with a ground-share agreement with Barnton FC, ensured
Evo - Stik Premier League, even though the team finished 2nd. that the Club would remain in Northwich and gave fans a new
The season saw Andy Preece leave for Airbus UK, and two other sense of optimism.
managers in the hot seat namely Paul Simpson and Martin Foyle. 2017/18 saw the Vics’ finish just below mid-table in the North
Andy Mutch and Alan Wright took the helm for the following West counties Premier Division after Paul Moore resigned in late
campaign which the team will contest in the Evo Stik Division september owing to work commitments. Ex-Padiham boss Steve
One South. After an up and down beginning to the season Mutch Wilkes; a North West Counties Premier Division title-winner - took
resigned and was replaced by the then Kendal Town manager over alongside assistant Steve Pickup for the rest of the season -
Lee Ashcroft with former Wigan Athletic legend Ian Kilford the duo signed a two year contract recently. The Vics’ in season
appointed as his right hand man. Lee guided the trickies to a very 2018/19 will ground share with neighbours Witton Albion F.C.
respectable 8th placed-finish, narrowly missing out on a play-off Last season; 2018/19 - the Vics’ finished in fourth position in
place taking the season right to the end groundsharing with the final North West Counties Premier League table and had a
Stafford Rangers. tremendous run in the F.A Vase, losing heartbreakingly in the
2013/2014 and 2014/15 saw Vics' switch leagues to the semi-final to eventual winners Chertsey Town 5-4 on penalties
Northern section of the Northern Premier League First Division, after extra time. The scores being 1-1 after the two legs were
hosting games at Valley Road in Flixton. completed. They did win silverware though; winning the Mid-
The 2014/15 season saw Vics' finish in fourth spot in the Evo- Cheshire District F.A Challenge Cup; beating league rivals Winsford
Stik NPL Division One North table, losing 2-1 away to Bamber Utd after a penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 ninety-minute
Bridge in the promotion play-off semi-final after extra time. A 16th stalemate.
THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME 09
WEDNESDAY 4TH DECEMBER 2019
LITHERLAND REMYCA 2 CHARNOCK RICHARD 5
T
wo changes were made to the starting fruitless. Interchanging passess between each
line-up for this latest game in the other, Young set Bibby on his way down the
North West Counties Premier Division. right hand side, cutting in, he stung the hands
of Molloy with a well driven shot.
Oliver Turner, making his first start since the
beginning of September, replaced Aaron The second half continued in much the same
Griffith, and Oliver Oxley playing in place of vein as the first, Young received an early yellow
an unavailable James Walker. Litherland are card a couple of minutes after the restart. Four
bottom of the table, and after this showing minutes in, Darr did well on the right by getting
of ninety minutes they will be hard-pressed the ball over the defence, it fell to Oxley, but he
to find any relent in their quest for survival in somehow side-footed over the bar from as much
the remaining months of the season. as 4 yards. A couple of minutes later, Charnock
had another great chance to go further ahead.
The game, not unlike Saturday, was slow to Bibby and Davison linked up again, just as they
get going. Ashley Young was the first to post did for the first goal, with the latter crossing
a shot of meaningful purpose, attempting a lob low to Grimshaw who met the ball with a shot
over the home goalkeeper Ben Morrow which which was saved by the legs of Molloy. But the
landed behind the goal. Litherland's Jason third goal came on 54 minutes, and this time
McShane then skied an effort from the edge of Oliver OXLEY atoned for his earlier miss. A ball
the area, before Darr's cross and Bibby's shot was sent through to him, and, inside the box,
both ending up the wrong side of the post. A rounded the keeper and coolly slotted into the
late challenge on Lewis Haydock resulted in a empty net. Three nil down, this seemed to wake
caution for Neil Monaghan, with the resulting the home side up. Bibby had to make a couple
free kick headed over by Carl Grimshaw. A of yards on his man on the left, clearing the
quick second yellow card was produced for ball from the feet of McShane in the Charnock
Remyca's Daniel Duffy for fouling Jack Bennett. area, then followed a mis-directed header from
The breakthrough came on 24 minutes. A quick the resulting corner, and a James Law whipped
move started by Bibby in the middle, found cross which flew past everyone in the area. On
Davison on the wing, the low cross being turned 64 minutes, Charnock got a fourth. Jordan DARR
home by Jordan DARR. A minute later Grimshaw sprung the offside trap whilst hugging the left
was narrowly offside attempting to latch onto hand touchline, cutting inside the penalty area,
a high ball from Young. It wasn't long until the precise right-footed shot beat Molloy easily.
Charnock added a second. The ever reliable Changes to personnel were made, and this
GRIMSHAW tucking home Darr's powerful shot seemed to allow Litherland a hand back into the
which squirmed under the goalkeeper. Three game. On 76 minutes, a substitute got a goal
corners in succession for the home side proved back for the homeside. As a Remy player looked
to just fall over on the edge of the area, James
TEAMS: Charnock Richard: Ascroft, Bibby, Turner, Young, O'Farrell, Haydock, Davison, Jack
Bennett, Grimshaw (capt), Darr, Oxley.
Substitutes : Lindley (for Bennett 74'), Regan (for Bennett 66) Not used : Morris, Fair-
hurst.
Litherland REMYCA: Morrow, Gregson, Doherty, King, Crist, Clemens (capt), Duffy,
Monaghan, McDonald, McShane, Law.
Substitutes : Diggle (for McDonald 53'), Hammill (for Gregson 55'), Lee (for Monaghan 66').
Not used : McShane, Lenton
10 THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMMEHAMMILL stepped up to take the free-kick,
and the accurate effort evaded the reach of
Ascroft. Five minutes later, and after Ross
O'Farrell's name was taken by the referee,
Hammill hit another free kick to goal. This
time Ascroft got down to save, but the
ball kindly fell to Ashton CLEMENTS to
tuck it home under the Charnock keeper.
Thankfully for the Greens, Jordan DARR
hadn't stopped scoring. He got his third,
and Charnock's 5th when Danny Regan's
shot came off the base of the far post,
and Darr scored his ninth of the season
so far, with ease. Darr even could've had a
fourth, but Molloy saved well from him as
the clock ticked into the ninetieth minute.
There was even time for Hammill to try his
luck from the right side of the Charnock
penalty area, the shot beating Ascroft, but
came back off the far post.
Ian Livesey
THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME 11▪ High pressure ▪ Emergency call out
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12 THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMMEPLAYER SPONSORS
SEASON 2019-20
Ryan Donnellan Dave Haslam Kate Smith Gareth Jones Lewis Spensley Danny Nolan
Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by:
Kool Planet Ltd Paul Derbyshire Janet Smith Available Home Truths Estate Available
& Lettings Agency
James Walker Spencer Bibby Ross O’Farrell Oliver Turner Ash Young Jack Bennett
Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by:
Doug Partington Gary Young Alan Unsworth Dave Arrowsmith Paul Makinson SCS Engineering Ltd
(Hindley)
Mark Woods Nathan Fairhurst Lewis Haydock Aaron Griffith Danny Regan Owen Morris
Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by:
Graham Pennington Alan Baron Charter House Available Mercer and Douglas Available
Kennels
Matt Davison Carl Grimshaw Oliver Oxley Jordan Darr Ben Ascroft
Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by: Sponsored by:
Alan Walker Smithills Open Farm Available Adam Donnellan Mount Auto
Photography (Bolton) Repairs (Wigan) &
Dave Arrowsmith
If you would like to sponsor a player, please get in touch with either
Dave Smith or Shaun Tootell, or email info@charnockrichardfc.co.uk
THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME 13W EST
TH
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Official Website of The North West Counties Football League
For the latest League & Club News & Info,
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18FIXTURES & RESULTS 2019/20 SEASON 1 2 3 4 5 6 A 3 Rylands a 2-3 131 Ascroft Griffith Walker Woods O'Farrell Bennett Da 6 Barnoldswick Town h 2-1 164 Ascroft Bibby Walker Woods O'Farrell Bennett Dav 10 Lower Breck FAC EPR h 2-1 185 Ascroft Bibby 1 Griffith Woods O'Farrell Haydock Da 17 1874 Northwich h 0-5 216 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Bennett O'Farrell Haydock Da 21 Longridge Town a 2-3 195 Ascroft Bibby Walker Haydock Schofield Morris Da 24 Longridge Town FAC PR h 1-1 234 Ascroft Bibby Walker Turner Schofield O'Farrell Ha 26 Avro h 1-3 154 Ascroft Bibby Walker Turner Schofield O'Farrell Ha 28 Longridge Town FAC PRr a 2-0 525 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Turner Schofield Young Ha 31 Cammell Laird FAV 1QR a 3-2 103 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Turner Schofield Young Ha S 7 Irlam FAC 1QR h 0-4 209 Ascroft Bibby Walker Turner O'Farrell Young Ha 10 Irlam a 4-2 114 Ascroft Bibby Walker Haydock 1 Young Woods Da 14 Prestwich Heys FAV 2QR a 3-2 117 Ascroft Bibby Walker Haydock Young Woods Da 18 Runcorn Town a 3-1 146 Ascroft Bibby Walker Haydock Young Woods Da 21 Winsford United h 4-1 110 Ascroft Bibby Walker Haydock 1 Young Woods Da O 5 Burscough a 2-1 101 Eastwood Bibby 1 Walker Haydock Young Woods Da 12 Lower Breck FAV 1R h 2-5 185 Ascroft Bibby Walker Haydock Young Woods Da 15 Congleton Town h 1-3 131 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Haydock 1 Young Bennett Re 19 Bacup Borough MC 1 a 1-1 71 Ascroft Bibby Griffith 1 Haydock O'Farrell Young Da 22 Skelmersdale United h 4-0 128 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Haydock O'Farrell Young Da N 2 Whitchurch Alport h 4-0 131 Eastwood Bibby Griffith Young O'Farrell Haydock Da 5 Lancaster City LCT 2R h 1-5 161 Eastwood Green Walker Young O'Farrell Bennett Da 12 Bootle h 3-1 148 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Young 1 O'Farrell Haydock 1 Dav 16 Congleton Town a 1-3 195 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Young O'Farrell Haydock Da 19 Padiham h 2-0 101 Eastwood Bibby Griffith Young O'Farrell Haydock Da 23 Winsford United a 2-0 194 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Young Green Haydock 1 Da 30 Hanley Town h 4-0 102 Ascroft Bibby Griffith Young O'Farrell Haydock 1 Da D 4 Litherland Remyca a 5-2 51 Ascroft Bibby Turner Young O'Farrell Haydock Da 7 Northwich Victoria h 14 Padiham a 21 Squires Gate a 26 Ashton Athletic h 28 Whitchurch Alport a J 4 Irlam h 11 Rylands h 25 Hanley Town a F 1 Burscough h 8 Northwich Victoria a 15 1874 Northwich a 29 Runcorn Town h M 7 Skelmersdale United a 14 Litherland Remyca h 21 Barnoldswick Town a A 4 Longridge Town h 11 Bootle a 13 Ashton Athletic a 18 Squires Gate h 25 Avro a 16 THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME
Goalscorers in BOLD | ( ) Indicates substitute was used
7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17
avison Fairhurst 1 Grimshaw 1 Oxley Regan Haydock (6) Schofield (2) Kay (10) Ainscough
vison 1 Fairhurst Grimshaw 1 Oxley Regan Haydock (6) Kay (10) Griffith Ainscough Schofield
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw Kay 1 Regan Bennett (4) Oxley (10) Morris Walker (6)
avison Morris Grimshaw Kay Regan Ainscough (4) Oxley (10) Walker Schofield (8)
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw 2 Kay Regan O'Farrell (5) Oxley (6) McNally
aydock Fairhurst Grimshaw1 Oxley Davison Morris Kay( ) McNally Young
aydock Fairhurst Grimshaw 1 Oxley Regan Woods (6) Kay (10) Griffith Young
aydock Fairhurst Grimshaw 1 Kay Regan 1 Woods (8) Oxley O'Farrell (6) Walker
aydock Fairhurst Grimshaw Kay Regan 1 Woods (10) 1 Oxley O'Farrell (5) Walker (3)
aydock Fairhurst Grimshaw Woods Regan Davison (10) Oxley (5) Kay Griffith (4)
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw 2 Oxley Regan Bennett (6) Darr (10) 1 Griffith
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw 3 Oxley Regan Bennett (11) Darr (10) Griffith (8) Turner
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw Darr 2 Regan Bennett (6) Oxley (10) 1 Griffith (4) O'Farrell
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw 2 Oxley 1 Regan Bennett (4) Pilgrim (10) Griffith (3) O'Farrell Turner
avison Fairhurst Darr 1 Oxley Regan Bennett (4) Griffith (7) Turner O'Farrell (6) Pilgrim
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw 1 Darr 1 Regan Bennett (7) Griffith (3) O'Farrell Oxley (6)
egan Fairhurst Grimshaw Darr Woods Davison (11) Oxley (4) O'Farrell (6) Walker
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw Darr Regan Bennett Oxley (4) Woods (11) Walker (3)
avison Fairhurst Grimshaw 2 Darr Walker Regan (11) 1 Oxley Woods (7) 1 Bennett (8)
avison Fairhurst 1 Grimshaw 1 Darr Walker Woods (3) 1 Oxley (10) Regan Bennett (8) 1
avison Woods Grimshaw Oxley 1 Regan Fairhurst Darr (7) Haydock (8) Bibby (9)
vison 1 Woods Grimshaw Darr Walker Morris Oxley (9) Green (8) Turner
avison Woods Darr 1 Oxley Walker Morris Regan (3) Green Turner
avison Woods Grimshaw 2 Darr Walker Morris (6) Oxley (10) Green Turner
avison Woods Grimshaw Darr Walker 1 Morris (8) Oxley (10) Bennett Turner
avison Bennett 1 Grimshaw 2 Darr Walker Fairhurst (6) Oxley (11) Green Turner (3)
avison Bennett Grimshaw 1 Darr 3 Oxley 1 Regan (7) Lindley (8) Morris Fairhurst
TRUE BEARING
CHARTERED FINANCIAL PLANNERS
PeterAshcroft-TrueBearing-Ad-125x60mm-Oct19-081019-Paths.indd 1 08/10/2019 16:54
THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME 17PEOPLE AND MADE MANY NEW FRIENDS.”
ISN'T THAT A PIP?
Welcome to Mossie Park for this afternoon’s Division
One game against Sandbach United who are visiting
us for the very first time and a warm Charnock
welcome to all who have travelled up from deepest
Cheshire to be with us today. We hope that you will
DAVE ROWLAND enjoy your stay and have a safe and trouble-free
journey home after the game. The East Cheshire side
are a friendly and welcoming club as we found out
when visiting them on that ill-fated fog-bound
afternoon at the end of November. It is hoped that we
can return their excellent hospitality today.
I
I first met United’s secretary, John Clayton, and a couple
A new direction was needed if the club was to grow.
n the programme for the last ofPromenade
home the
their committee, at the ground
Imperial Hotel on thetook
North its name. The hall was built in
in Blackpool when attending the North West Remaining stagnant was not an option. We have had
problems to contend with. Finding funding for essential
game against Hanley Town clubs seven
Counties League AGM 1867
back on and
the 11th belonged
June. Applicant
were asked to remain outside of the meeting until
to the
ground3rd Battalion,
development and finding anCheshire
appropriate level for
our reserve side was only a couple of examples. The
days ago, I mentioned one of our
being summoned RifleChairman
by League Volunteers.
Paul Lawler when
the representatives from each of the six applicants were
Originally a piece of fenced-off
immediate aim was to consolidate at Step 6 level in the
youngsters, Cian Spencer-McDermott,
called upon to give an land,
introductoryaspeech
grandstand
to the
assembled throng before being voted in by the member
wasNational League System and to be in a position to
constructed in the 1890s
sustain this in the long term. The players of our three
who has just stepped up to our reserve
clubs. As we waited housing 600 spectators.
nervously in an adjacent room,
Mawdesley and I got into conversation with the Sandbach
Steve senior
has
teams
During
been due
havethis
to the
had a fine
management
season andfrom
period, once again this
skills and dedication of
side from the junior ranks. contingent and quickly1892-1894,
found them to be a very
group. We got on with them immediately and it was and
the
sociableground hosted
the management League
teams of all three.football
On the
administration side, we have been joined by David Smith
enjoyable exchange. That fordaythewe madeonly time
our first friendsin
in its and
long Brianhistory,
Lowe who haveas veryNorthwich
kindly agreed to give of
their precious time and for this we are very grateful.
the North West Counties League and long may it continue.
Cian is quite unique here at Mossie Park in that Victoria became founder members of the Football
Sandbach United are one of the six newcomers to the For me, this is my fifth season as secretary and I can
he has played at Wembley Stadium in a Cup NorthFinal.
West Counties LeagueLeague Second
this season and spent Division.
the In 1912
honestly a heart,
say, hand on covered stand
that the 2016-17 campaign
previous campaign at Step 7 in the Cheshire League is one of the best that I have enjoyed in football. At times
On Saturday the 24th May 2014, Bolton School where they finished in was
4th spot constructed,
in the Premier Division. whichit has would
been hard later
graft and therebeare moved
many individuals
Like most of the newly promoted clubs they have made a who have put in a good deal of that this term, literally. It is
Junior Boys met Bournemouth Schools good the in theirtofirstface
atimpression season inthe grandstand
the competition and became
the combined known
efforts of you all that make this,as such a
and we wish them well. Today is of course our last home special football club and such a wonderful place to be.
famous home of English football. They hadgame played
of the season not the DaneanyBank
withstanding play-off gameStand, Of due course,towe its
do notlocation beside
know just how things will pan out as
that we may be involved in. To say that it has been a after today. Indeed, we have three very difficult away
their way through local and regional stages special onetowould be an the banks We
understatement. ofhavethe River games Dane. In 1914,
to negotiate. Whether we Northwich
are in the play-offs or
enjoyed some wonderful football, been to many different not is anybody’s guess but it is a sign of the success that
reach the Final and their excellent performancevenues for the first time,Victoria
met some really purchased
great people and theweground have enjoyed,forwhen we£1,000
are still talkingfrom
about where
made many new friends. When we left our comfort zone in we will finish amongst the top group at this stage of
saw the northern youngsters bring the the Westcup Colonel
Lancashire League, Sir
we did so Thomas
because the club Marshall. 82 occurs,
affairs. Whatever years welllater
done onein andthe
all.
had grown and developed to a point where new
home to Lancashire. It was reported that “In and
challenges summer
a new horizons had becomeof a1996,
necessity. a plan DavetoRowland
rebuild | Club the Dane Bank
Secretary
closely contested clash the youngsters overcame Stand was announced in order to help the ground
Bournemouth to run out 3-1 winners prior to to meet Conference 07standards and was officially
the Championship Play-Off Final between Derby reopened on the 27th January 1998. Sadly, the
County and Queens’s Park Rangers”. What is final game played at the Drill Field was a Mid
more, our young Cian got himself on the score- Cheshire Senior Cup match against Congleton
sheet. The match reporter stated that “The result Town on 3 May 2002. Following this, the ground
was put beyond doubt with a matter of minutes was sold to property developers and demolished,
remaining as Cian Spencer-McDermott made it with the club moving into their new home a few
three for the Lancashire side with a well taken years later at the Victoria Stadium in Wincham.
free-kick from 20 yards out”. Goodness me!! How The entire Dane Bank Stand, rebuilt in 1998, was
many Charnock players of the past or those to dismantled and re-erected at the Victoria Stadium.
come will be able to claim fame to an achievement Following the closure of that stadium, the stand was
like that? Now isn’t that a real pip? dismantled for a second time, where the steelwork
was recycled for installation at Broadhurst Park,
Today’s visitors Northwich Victoria once upon a the new ground of F.C. United of Manchester. The
time played at the Drill Field between 1875 and 3 road where the Drill Field was located retains its
May 2002. At the time that it eventually closed, old name, despite now being used for houses as
it was believed to have been the oldest football Drill Field Road. I was very privileged to have been
ground in the world on which football had been on the iconic Drill Field many years ago. The Dane
continuously played. The place became the home of Bank, mentioned above, was quite imposing sight
Northwich Victoria in 1875, whom, until that point and ran the full length of one side of the ground
had played at Stumper's Field, a short distance opposite the main stand.
away next to the Hayhurst Bridge. The Drill Field
was, at first, used free of cost, and then leased Northwich Victoria is of course a former Football
from its original owners. The site was located on League side and there are others sprinkled around
a field next to the Drill Hall in Leftwich, from which the North West Counties League’s geographical
18 THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMMEfootprint. Off the top of my head there is Barrow, It was great to see so many Charnock people in
Chester, Glossop North End, Southport, Stalybridge attendance at the Litherland Sports Centre on
Celtic, Stockport County and Workington. Of these Wednesday night. The weather wasn’t exactly
clubs Glossop North End, Stalybridge Celtic and great and it was a low turnout at the gate.
Workington have been members of the North West However, I can honestly say without any fear of
Counties League at one time or another. Present contradiction that we made up at least 90% of the
Football League sides who have been members overall attendance. The support given to the team
of the NWCL are Accrington Stanley, Fleetwood was top notch and we enjoyed a fine away win over
Town and Salford City. Former NWCL sides to have the struggling Merseysiders.
played in the League of Wales include Caernarfon
Town and Rhyl with Colwyn Bay joining the second Dave Rowland, Secretary.
tier of the renamed League of Wales, The Cymru
Premier League, only this season.
Charnock Richard FC acknowledge that every young person or adult who plays or takes part in football
should be able to do so in a safe and enjoyable manner. The club also acknowledges that all the above
mentioned should be protected from poor practice and free from abuse be it verbal, physical or racial. The
club will not tolerate any form of foul or abusive language from spectators, guests, visitors or club officials
of both teams on the sidelines, especially abuse which is directed at an individual player or match official.
Admission to the ground and the right to remain is on condition that spectators adhere to the above.
Throwing missiles of any description or encroachment on to the playing area, climbing on boundary fences
or buildings will not be tolerated. Alcohol must not be brought into or consumed in the ground unless it has
been purchased in plastic glasses from the Clubhouse. By order of Charnock Richard Football Club.
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To make a booking or enquiry, contact Joe on:
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@blakecarcare 'Great friendly service, fantastic results!'
THE OFFICIAL CHARNOCK RICHARD FOOTBALL CLUB PROGRAMME 19You can also read
