Match Reports - Season 2006/2007

	DIVISION ONE	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Old Blackburnians	24	21	1	2	93	27	66	64
2	Horwich RMI	24	18	3	3	67	22	45	57
3	Tyldesley United	24	15	5	4	65	36	29	50
4	Thornleigh	24	12	3	9	59	50	9	39
5	Bolton Wyresdale	24	11	3	10	55	53	2	36
6	Spotland Methodists	24	9	5	10	67	66	1	32
7	Hesketh Casuals	24	10	2	12	46	61	-15	32
8	Tonge United	24	9	2	13	58	71	-13	29
9	Little Lever SC Res	24	8	2	14	55	57	-2	26
10	Chaddertonians Res	24	8	2	14	41	61	-20	26
11	Bolton Ambassadors	24	6	4	14	41	67	-26	22
12	Broughton Amateurs	24	5	3	16	51	80	-29	18
13	Oldham Hulmeians	24	5	3	16	45	92	-47	18
Little Lever withdrew from League Mid Season

Sat. 19th Aug 2006	V	Hesketh Casuals (h) 2 - 3 (ht.2-1) scorers : A.Chatell, S.Glennister
		After an undefeated pre-season and with a totally new squad we arrived to the first league game of the season full of confidence. After being let down by our stand in keeper, James Graham stepped in (our trusted centre half) to hold the fought. After an average opening 10 minutes we settled down and started passing the ball well using the width of the pitch to our advantage. A.Chatell could have put us 1 nil to the good after 15 mins but made amends soon after, collecting a through ball from M Jones and rounding the keeper to tap home. We should have been further in front before Hesketh equalised when their attackers shot was well saved by James in goals only to see his parry rebound back of the attacker and into the net (some calls for offside but worst was yet to come). After re-grouping in the middle of the park we pressed forward and won a succession of corners, from our third in a row a moment of magic happened, Stegsy scored a cracker, his darting run from outside the box was well timed to smash home a low cross from the corner kick. Half time came and went with words of encouragement from manager and captain to continue what we started and to finish the game off. But that never happened, we never had control of the ball anywhere on the pitch, substitutions were made hoping for a change in fortune but still the ball was being kicked up to the forwards who at this time were also struggling. Hesketh equalised after an error at the back but their winner was scored from an off-side position and the linesman flag was overruled. The game ended shortly after with the whole team disappointed. The encouraging prospects were the teams 1st half performance which you couldn’t fault plus its early days in the season so we can still work in training on what went wrong - ME.
Sat. 26th Aug 2006	V	Tyldesley United (a) 3 - 6 (ht.2-3) scorers : R.Taylor 2, B.Stuart
		With a very weakened side we approached the game hoping our luck would change, started off brightly with chances for both teams. Tyldesley got the upper hand first but with goals from Ricky Taylor we went in at half time still in the game. Second half came and went in the same manner with Ben Stuart adding to our goals. In summary, we played well for half the game, created lots of chances but defensive frailties at the back cost us three points - ME.
Sat. 2nd Sept 2006	V	Oldham Hulmeians (h) 2 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : J.Graham, M.Jones
		In a must win game and with a stronger team out, especially at the back with James Graham playing, I was hoping three points would come. 2 goals were scored by James Graham and Mick, the motley, Jones, but unfortunately goal keeping errors upon which Oldham pounced meant the game ended 2 - 2, Simon in nets was unfortunate, again we should have won against our bogey team. - ME
Sat. 9th Sept 2006	V	O.Blackburnians (h) 3 - 7 (ht.2-4) scorers : A.Chattell 2, M.Jones
		We were facing top of the league with only 11 players and no subs against a team we've not lost against in three years, but that was to change. Old Blacks scored at will, at the beginning and at the end, scoring 7 in total, at one point we were 4 - 0 down, but great goals for Chattell 2, and Mick Jones 1 reduced it to 4 - 3, but the lack of subs meant Old Blacks were physically fitter and stronger and we were let down. Yet again the lack of quality defending, which starts from the front but ultimately the defence should cope better than they are doing. As for the next game, I hope i'm not let down by players and we start on our winning ways. I must remind all players that read this, we have scored at least 2 goals per game, sometimes 3 away from home which should get us 3 points on the board, we will work at training and hopefully sign some new players, things can only get better! - ME
Sat. 16th Sept 2006 LAL Cup Rd 1	V	Little Lever (a) 1 - 5 (ht.0-2) scorer : Sedu
		Started the game yet again with seven changes and two new signings on an even pitch with very long grass. Broughton started brightly with the welcome return of Graham Mason at sweeper dictating the game from the back which enabled Broughton to play a lot of good football. Chances, very good chances! Came and went by the dozen, but we could not score and Little Lever inevitably scored a couple of goals and got the upper hand. At half time M.E'S team talk was short and sweet, more of the same lads and the goals will come. Second half started where it left off in the first half with Broughton creating umpteen chances but could not score, meanwhile, Little Lever kept on scoring through mistakes and errors by Broughton. It didn't help when Graham Mason had to go off which upset the balance, this meant Little Lever in the last 10 mins made the score 5 - 1 to them. It's not very often i'll say this, but we did not deserve to lose and could have quite easily have won by 5 clear goals ourselves. This is a competition we played in last year and got to the semi-final but at the moment hands are tied with a forward progression for the first team, unless we get a settled side from the players that are available reports like this will occur weekly. - M.E.
Sat. 23rd Sept 2006	V	Chadderton Res (a) 3 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : D.Bamber, J.Mottley, M.Elgee
		Another 6 changes for the game meant yet another unsettled team for Broughton and another new signing plus the fact we were playing against an unbeaten team. We started the game well again and dominated with some good football that allowed us to create lots of chances. It wasn't until substitute Dave Bamber came off the bench (for an injured Stegsy) that the game opened with it's first goal. Dave was originally on left midfield, but by a stroke of genius by the manager [ha-ha] was switched to right midfield. A cross came in from the left and Dave hit the ball on the volley, from 30 yards and it nestled into the top right hand corner of the goal, without a doubt will not be beaten as goal of the season - until later in the game! Before half-time, Chadderton equalised. HT team talk yet again was short and sweet, more of the same and a result should follow and it did. Second half started as the first half finished, an even game until Mick the Motley Jones scored a typical goal (for him) pace and accuracy after a well worked move made the opening. Then another forced substitution meant Mick Elgee went on, (although only 50% fit - as three players no showed today), but the goal of the season was to come as Mick picked the ball up beat a player and shot from fully 35 yards which the keeper could not handle due to the power and accuracy [ha-ha-ha]. Chadd's were now 3-1 down and threw the kitchen sink at us which ended in a free kick 20 yards out for them and credit to their striker scored a cracking goal, but it ended up 3-2 and a well deserved win for Broughton. Its great to get 3 points on the board in such a manner with every single player giving 100%. A new captain Pete Monks, and the new signing in centre mid and too many others to mention having hopefully matured from this game. - ME
Sat. 30th Sept. 2006 LFA Cup Rd 2	V	Springfields (WIGAN) (a) 3 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorers : P.Monks, A.Chatell 2
		Only a few changes from the week before, the first team seems to be getting settled. Playing in the Lancashire Cup against an unknown quantity although reports showed that they won their league last season meant we had to be focused and ready for the game. The pre-match warm up was non-existent as we got changed in the cellar of a pub and had to walk a good 15 minutes to the pitch and kicked off as soon as we got there. The game started at a hectic pace with Springfields creating lots of half chances but Broughtons defence (inc Simon in nets) was solid. It was an even first half which ended up 0-0. The game started in the second half as the first half, with Springfields creating a few half chances but within 20 minutes, Broughton started playing good two touch football and started to dominate. Captain Pete Monks, with 20 minutes to go, took the game by the scruff of the neck, beat two players and shot from fully 25 yards into the top left hand corner. Anthony Chatell scored another 2 good goals in the last 15 minutes. Man of the match; Pete Monks is still defying the harshest critics, the rest of the team man for man from Craig at right back and Motley/ Chatell up front are starting to gel, Simon in nets made yet again some quality saves, well done lads. - M.E
Sat. 7th Oct 2006	V	Thornleigh (h) 0 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorers : -
		Only two major changes from the week previous, but a slight alteration in positions for the team. Also players were asked where they preferred to play and were played in that position. On paper, this is the strongest team i've had out of all season, but it wasn't to be successful. First half was played in blustery conditions but on a big flat playing surface which meant no excuses for no football being played, but all advice pre-match, was not taken on board and can only be described as the worst first half of football we played since i've taken over as a manager nearly 2 and a half years ago, which resulted in Thornleigh, going in at the break 1 - 0 up, but could have been more. Half time, team talk was furious and straight to the point, play football. Second half came and went, just as the first half, three substitutions were made quite quickly with only 3 or 4 players holding their heads up high after the game, result 1- 0 to Thornleigh. Absolutely dismal display and could have lost by 3 or 4 goals, although the ref did not help matters, that is a poor excuse but had to be said. M.E
Sat. 14th Oct 2006	V	Chadderton Res (h) 2 - 3 (ht.1-1) scorers : M.Jones, A.Chatell
		As it my last game as first team manager the report will be short and straight to the point. It's a game we lost 3 - 2 against a team we have already beaten 3 - 2, although this is a game we should have won again. Danny Spensley, Rick Simpson, Pete Monks, Richard Merch, Anthony Chatell, Mick Jones all played well, but the reason came again as to why i have handed over the reigns to Wayne, players who are asked to do jobs decided to do the complete opposite as was asked of them, i feel it is the right time for Wayne to impose his authority hopefully this will improve the first team and the results will become more consistent, the building blocks are there - ME
Sat. 21st Oct 2006 LFA Cup Rd 3	V	Aldermere AFC (MANCHESTER) (a) 2 - 5 (ht.1-1) scorers : A.Chatell 2
		The game started with Broughton completely in control and going 1 - 0 up through a well worked A. Chatell goal, before the break the Manchester team equalised. Unfortunately, the first team had no subs (but the 2nd team had 3) so all players that turned up had to play the full 90 mins. The game ended in the 5 - 2 defeat with A.Chatell scoring both goals and the result probably not reflecting Broughtons ability. Hopefully, the new approach from Wayne and Paul and new ideas, will result in an upturn in fortune for the first team. M.E
Sat. 18th Nov 2006	V	Horwich RMI (h) 1 - 4 (ht.0-2) scorer : A.Chatell
		After four weeks without a match this was not the best time to be playing one of the high flyers in our league. We began brightly but an excellent worked goal by Horwich after 16 mins deflated us. Poor marking 9 mins later meant that we went further behind and struggled through the remainder of the first half. Changes were made at half time and after quickly conceding another goal the performance improved with Chattell scoring from a cross after 57 mins. Another piece of slack marking allowed Horwich to put the game beyond our reach in the 70th min. We need to build from the improved second half performance if we are to escape from the relegation zone.
Sat. 25th Nov 2006	V	Tonge Utd (a) 3 - 6 (ht.2-3) scorers : P.Harford 3
		A much improved performance although the final score does not reflect it. We began brightly and after 7 min Harford scored from a free kick. Tonge equalised after 15 min but 3 mins later Harford again scored from a free kick. For almost all of the rest of the first half we played well and should have gone further ahead in the 40 min when following a delightful move we missed an open goal. Then our luck changed and Tonge scored twice just before half time the second goal being a penalty from an accidental hand ball. Changes were made at half time and before we settled down Tonge had got a fourth goal. It was reassuring that the players responded well and took the game to Tonge and in what now had become an extremely open game Tonge scored twice on the break and Harford got his hat trick.
Sat. 2nd Dec 2006	V	Spotland Meths (h) 2 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : A.Chatell, P.Harford
		On a heavy pitch which neither side really came to terms with the game was very scrappy with both teams not making the most of their chances. In an even first half Spotland scored the first goal after 32 mins in spite of Thomas making a great save from their first attempt. Just as half time approached Chattell converted a fine through ball from Harford to even the score. Broughton went ahead in the 60th minute when after a period of pressure Harford scored . Unfortunately five minutes later Spotland scored from a free kick and after that neither side could convert any of their chances to win the match.
Sat. 9th Dec 2006	V	Hesketh Casuals (a) 2 - 5 (ht.1-3) scorers : P.Harford, M.Jones
		The home match with Hesketh had been a close affair so we travelled to Southport hoping to reverse the score and win. However a quick raiding Hesketh attack had our defence in a spin and they went three up by the 38 min. P Harford scored just before half time to give us some hope. Back to a 4-4-2 in the second half resulted in a quick goal from M Jones and we started believing we could get something from the game. However another soft penalty was awarded against us and the task became harder. The team battled on missing an open goal and hitting the post twice. Hesketh again caught with a fast break and although we kept going to the end we could not pull anymore goals back.
Sat. 27th Jan 2007	V	Little Lever SC Res (h) 2 - 3 (ht.1-3) scorers : N.Eccles, C.Best
		After a lay off of seven weeks we were back in action against a Little Lever side that has struggled for points lately. We began brightly and missed our chances to go into a lead. Then after 25 mins poor marking at a corner allowed Little lever to score, this was then followed in the 33rd min by them scoring directly from another corner. Before we recovered from that a poor back pass was cleared against a Little Lever player and the rebound went into the net. Then just before half time we scored when Best was first to a rebound from the bar following a free kick. This goal brought back the belief and five minutes into the second half Eccles scored. Although we dominated the second half we could not get the equaliser. Monks went into goal after an injury to Thomas but Little Lever never really tested him. Another match that we should have gained points from - how many times have I said that this season ? - SS
Sat. 3rd Feb 2007	V	Bolton Wyresdale (a) 0 - 3 (ht.0-0) scorers : -
		Following last weeks improved performance we went to Bolton Wyresdale hoping for a repeat effort but a kinder result. However we never reached the level of last weeks performance and on a pitch that favoured the long ball approach we struggled to hold their lively attackers. We did however hold out until the 55th min when Wyresdale went ahead and then increased their lead in the 67th min. Although we continued to battle all hopes were dashed when we had another dubious penalty decision given against us in the 80th min, from which they scored to seal our fate. - SS
Sat. 17th Feb 2007	V	Horwich RMI (a) 1 - 7 (ht.0-3) scorer : J.Mottley
		We travelled to Horwich knowing that we would have to play better than in the previous game if we were to get any points from a high flying side. In the first half we matched Horwich in all areas except goal scoring; we missed our opportunities and Horwich converted all theirs, result we were three down at half time. Five minutes into the second half we conceded another goal from a corner and from this point the team lost heart, discipline and some players energy as Horwich went on to score a further three goals to our solitary response from Mottley. All the team need to look hard at themselves and start to work together for 90 minutes if we are to avoid relegation.
Sat. 10th Mar 2007	V	Bolton Wyresdale (h) 0 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorers : -
		Saturday saw us playing only our third match in the new year against a Bolton Wyresdale side that easily beat us two games ago and following our heavy defeat against Horwich. We saw the return of three key players and although Chattell stood in as goalkeeper the sides performance was totally unrecognisable from the two previous games. The defence allowed Wyresdale only a couple of half chances throughout the game. Chances were also rare for us but had we taken the opportunity in the dying minutes we would have managed all three rather than the one. A far better performance by everybody. -SS
Sat. Mar 17th 2007	V	Little Lever SC Res (a) 5 - 4 (ht.1-2) scorers : P.Lindsay, P.Monks, T.Martin, M.Elgee, og
		Playing away vs a team in the top half of the table, with five players missing from the team that played so well the week before. We made a slow start and it was not surprising that we went behind after 15 mins. Although starting to play better we conceded another goal after 30 mins but a great strike by LINDSAY reduced the arrears 3 mins later. We now started to believe we could get something from this game and after 56 mins Tony Martin was brought down in the area and MONKS converted from the spot. Little Lever scored after 62 mins and when Whillians scored an own goal with an excellent header we thought the game might have slipped away. However we kept going and after 75 mins MARTIN converted a through ball quickly followed by ELGEE scoring after some great wing work by Alston. We continued to pile on the pressure and with five minutes to go a cross from PLASKETT was put into the Little Lever net by one of their players. A great fighting performance for the three points. It was good to see Tony Martin back after a long absence and that he still knows how to find the net. -SS
Sat. 24th Mar 2007	V	Oldham Hulmeians (a) 6 - 3 (ht.1-1) scorers : N.Eccles, J.Mottley, P.Lindsay, A.Alston, T.Martin, D.Bamber
		This was a match we had to win if we are going to stay in Division One. Wayne let us down by not turning up and with no other volunteers that "man-to-be-relied-on-in-a-crisis" Mick ELGEE donned the hastily bought gloves. We pressed from the start but found it hard to break down their defence. Eventually ECCLES broke through and scored after 20 mins but five minutes later Oldham equalised from a quick break away. After half time we continued to dominate but again a defensive mistake gave Oldham another goal. We quickly replied and scored five goals in 12 mins through MOTTLEY, LINDSAY, ALSTON, MARTIN and BAMBER. Oldham replied with a consolation goal in the 76 min. Three well earned points. -SS
Sat. 31st Mar 2007	V	Bolton Ambassadors (a) 1 - 4 (ht.0-1) scorer : T.Martin
		Another match were we had hopes of gaining more points, although when players let us down at the last moment we travelled with the bare 11 and Mick ELGEE again having to don the gloves. The pitch was hard and bumpy and the wind strong, a day for the strong and brave. Ambassadors quickly went one up after we failed to clear the ball. Although we had the wind we couldn't score so half time came with Bolton one up. We struggled with the conditions in the second half and Ambassadors scored three more goals with MARTIN getting our consolation goal in the 81st min. PS. Bad news Oldham got three points and are now only one point behind us.. -SS
Sat. 7th Apr 2007	V	Tyldesley Utd (h) 0 - 2 (ht.0-2) scorers : -
		As Tyldesley were second in the league and could not afford to drop points this was a hard fixture against a high flying side. The first half saw us absorbing a lot of pressure with the back four competing well. However we were getting over run in midfield and that resulted in Tydlesley eventually scoring two goals. In the second half Broughton took the game to Tydlesley and we were the better side but could not convert this into goals. A disappointing result but a good performance. - SS
Sat. 14th Apr 2007	V	Spotland Methodists (a) 1 - 2 (ht.0-1) scorers : M.Jones
		Another bone hard and bumpy pitch not the surface that suits our style of play. The game was evenly balanced in the first half with both sides struggling to control the ball and get any shots on target. However after 30 mins a long ball from Spotland was dealt with badly which resulted in Spotland going one up. In the first period of the second half Broughton were well on top and JONES scored from a through ball. Unfortunately for all the pressure we applied we could not get our shots on the target and gain a lead. As the game progressed both defences took control and just when it looked like the game was heading for a draw we failed to clear a corner and Spotland made it 2 - 1 in the 88min. - SS
Mon. 16th Apr 2007	V	Bolton Ambassadors (h) 2 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : M.Jones 2
		Back at home and on a pitch that players could control the ball and play football. We started well and JONES opened the scoring after 6 mins. Although dominating the first half chances were missed and the score remained 1 - 0 at half time. Immediately after half time JONES scored again to calm the nerves. The remainder of the second half was a close contest but again we didn't convert any of our chances and their defence stood firm. This win means we now move off the bottom on goal difference but with a harder run in than Oldham. - SS
Sat. 21st Apr 2007	V	O. Blackburnians (a) 2 - 3 (ht.2-0) scorers : J.Mottley 2
		On a warm and sunny day we went to Old Blacks with them having already won the Division title. Within 30 seconds we had scored a goal as their defence hesitated and MOTTLEY scored from the cross. After 11 mins we again harried their defence and from the resultant centre MOTTLEY scored again. We continued to match their play all the way through the first half and the score remained 2-0. In the second half with the wind now against us we worked hard to remain in front and after they missed a penalty wondered if it was going to be our day. After 68 mins an own goal encouraged them to increase the pressure and our midfield began to tire. A superb strike from midfield equalised the score after 72 mins and they got a third 5 mins later. We tried hard to get an equaliser with Mottley hitting the bar but they kept us out. - SS
Wed. 25th Apr 2007	V	Thornleigh (a) 3 - 4 (ht.1-3) scorers : L.Plaskett 2, N.Eccles
		We went to Thornleigh knowing that if we win this mid week match then we cannot be pipped by Oldham. However in the first half we struggled against a tall Thornleigh side who used a long ball at every opportunity. We quickly went one down as we failed to clear a corner and then two down after 10 mins when we again could not clear from a corner. After 31 mins things turned even blacker as we again could deal with a dead ball situation. But one minute later PLASKETT finished off a great move with a tremendous shot. In the second half we were now playing down the slope and with more believe and after 55 mins PLASKETT put a free kick into the top corner. We continued to press hard but could not get an equaliser. After 80 mins a break away from Thornleigh resulted in them scoring again. We pressed hard and scored after 85 mins with a great passing sequence that was finished off by ECCLES. Thornleigh held out in the last five minutes and we now have to win on Saturday to be sure of staying up. - SS
Sat. 28th Apr 2007	V	Tonge Utd (h) 4 - 3 (ht.2-2) scorers : J.Mottley 2, N.Eccles, L.Plaskett
		Another sunny day with the need to win to ensure avoiding relegation. Disaster struck early as Tonge scored directly from a corner after 5 mins and then increased their lead after 20 mins. Although we were making chances we until the 35 min when MOTTLEY scored twice in five minutes. The second half was dominated by Broughton and as chances were spurned things were not looking good. However after 79 mins ECCLES scored after we tore the Tonge defence apart with a fast flowing movement (the crowd went wild!!) and then 5 mins later PLASKETT scored from the penalty spot to ease the anxiety. Just before the whistle Tonge scored after a mix up in defence. Oldham also won so the win was necessary to ensure safety. - SS

	DIVISION THREE	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	Rochdale St.Clements ‘A’	24	15	5	4	50	34	16	50
2	Old Blackburnians ‘A’	24	14	6	4	58	41	17	48
3	Old Mancunians Res	24	14	6	4	47	30	17	48
4	Hesketh Casuals Res	24	15	1	8	61	40	21	46
5	Broughton Amateurs Res	24	10	3	11	60	50	10	33
6	Bolton Wyresdale Res	24	8	7	9	48	51	-3	31
7	Ainsworth	24	9	3	12	46	47	-1	30
8	Accrington Amateurs Res	24	7	8	9	39	36	3	29
9	Radcliffe Town Res	24	8	5	11	42	50	-8	29
10	Tottington United	24	7	5	12	47	60	-13	26
11	Bury GSOB Res	24	7	4	13	30	45	-15	25
12	Mostonians Res	24	6	6	12	36	49	-13	24
13	Prairie United Res	24	5	3	16	31	62	-31	18

Sat. 9th Sept 2006	V	Prairie Utd Res (a) 1 - 3 (ht.0-2) scorer : S.Fenton
		A poor performance to start the season. Steve scored from long range and claims he meant it.
Sat. 16th Sept 2006 Cup Rd 1	V	Rossendale Amateurs (h) 0 - 4 (ht.0-2) scorers : -
		Shocking attempt at playing football, albeit with a depleted side.
Sat. 23rd Sept 2006	V	Radcliffe Town Res (h) 4 - 2 (ht.2-0) scorers : C.Duffy 3, L.Plaskett
		We're Back - A game we dominated from the start and scored a brace in each half including a stunning hat-trick from Carl and a well deserved strike from Lee.
Sat. 30th Sept. 2006	V	O.Mancunians Res (h) 0 - 1 (ht.0-0) scorers : -
		Nothing between the teams all match and our failure to hit the net when we created the openings cost us dearly.
Sat. 7th Oct 2006	V	O.Blackburnians 'A' (a) 0 - 3 (ht.0-2) scorers : -
		After getting off to a bad start we left ourselves too much to do in the second half and our finishing and confidence in front of goal was crucial in our demise.
Sat. 14th Oct 2006	V	Mostonians Res (a) 4 - 2 (ht.2-1) scorers : J.Seddon 2, N.Eccles, B.Stuart
		We travelled to Mostonians with a strong squad and confident of getting a result. Pidge returned from a long lay off and was in the starting XI. Yet again though as with most of our previous matches we started slowly. Sloppy passing and less than 100% effort was allowing the opposition to exert pressure early on and without some fine saves from Thomas in goals we would have been down more than the one goal we soon conceded. As in previous matches this seemed to spur us on, we were mounting attack after attack, Seddy and Ben were threatening down the wings constantly. This led to confusion in the Mostonians defence and Pidge coolly lobbed the ball over the oncoming keeper to equalise. With Fenners and young Scott bossing the midfield all Mostonians could do was try to hit us with the long ball or on the break and, with Ade keeping their best player in his pocket, the defence dealt with rest. Pidge held the ball up well and played a through ball which Seddy took in his stride and slotted home in the far corner. After Halftime Mostonians came at us straight away but with the defence holding and Thomas commanding his goal area well their efforts soon fizzled out. After 10 mins of the half "old-man" Fenners finally got the rest he has been asking for all season!! With Seb Walsh coming on, and Alex replacing Jay. Neither player had put a foot wrong. We have a strong squad and I'll have no hesitation in spreading the mins around! We continued to exert pressure on the Mostonians goal and from a great in-swinging corner by Lee, Ben scored with a powerful header. We were now in total control of the match Alex was his usually classy self and Seb and Scott were in control of the midfield, we were attacking all the time and without the help of some dubious offside decisions from the Mostonians linesmen we may have gone further ahead. With 9 mins to go we were caught a little too gung-ho and Mostonians hit us on the break to score a simple goal with Wayne unsighted in the goals. We simply put the foot down again and attacked. No sooner had we a strong penalty claim turned down, than we were awarded one through Alex's trickery. Seddy smashed the ball into the roof of the net. Apart from the first ten mins a very good performance. We played some great football and Bell actually stayed on the pitch the whole 90 mins!! - CB
Sat. 21st Oct 2006	V	Hesketh Casuals Res (h) 3 - 4 (ht.2-1) scorers : J.Seddon 2, N.Eccles
		A positive start continuing from last weeks win saw us take an early 1 nil lead when Eccles scored a stunning volley from 18 yards. We had plenty more chances to increase the lead hitting the post and narrowly missing the target on several occasions. Hesketh eventually came to life hitting the woodwork before finding the net and bringing the scores level, but right on the stroke of half time J Seddon scored from almost 25 yards to put us back in front. Soon after the break it was 3-1 when Plaskett broke free down the left wing, he looked up and found Seddon on the edge of the box who again slotted home with ease. With us leading 3-1 we became too comfortable and started getting lazy, before we knew it Hesketh had hit back with a quick fire double and were throwing everything at us. We couldn’t hold on and Hesketh made it 4-3, our last gasp efforts were in vain as our 60 minutes of hard work and domination slipped away to leave us with nothing. - NE
Sat. 4th Nov 2006	V	Bolton Wyresdale Res (h) 8 - 4 (ht.3-2) scorers : J.Seddon 5, N.Eccles, C.Duffy, OG
		After going 1 nil down early on Broughton equalized through Seddon, moments later we were in front when a Duffy cross was knocked into the net from an opposing defender for an OG. After some strong battling in the centre of the park from Scott and Sebby we were unfortunate to concede again. But right on the stroke of HT we were awarded a penalty that Seddon dispatched with ease. After the break Wyresdale brought the game level again, but we regained the lead when Eccles found the net (Alston with the assist of the match after a superb run into the box), but we couldn’t hold on and they equalised for the 3rd time. With the scores at 4-4 Broughton sprung to life scoring 4 goals in 20 mins, Seddon completed his hat trick with another penalty which soon became 4 and 5 with 2 brilliantly placed headers and to round things off Duffy finished well from 12 yards. An overall outstanding display in front of goal but on another day our defensive mistakes could have cost us. - NE
Sat. 11th Nov 2006	V	Ainsworth (h) 3 - 3 (ht.1-1) scorers : L.Plaskett, A.Whillians, J.Seddon
		A re-arranged Broughton team took to the task of holding another 1st team XI at bay. We started slowly but ended up 1 nil to the good after some great work from Plaskett. We continued being sloppy and were made to pay as Ainsworth equalised and looked like an in-form team. We held firm though and somehow ended up in front again when Whillians was left un-marked at the back post to fire the ball home. After the break we started brightly going 3-1 in front through Seddon whose goal scoring form is remarkable, 10 goals in 4 games (not bad for a midfielder), we held out for a long period in the second half competing well and battling hard, but in the last 10 minutes their overall fitness level showed and they scored to well worked goals to seal a point. Overall a good point considering the team we were up against, however we were 3-1 up and maybe should have killed the game off. - NE
Sat. 18th Nov 2006	V	Bury GS Res (a) 2 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : J.Seddon, L.Plaskett
		An important away win as we try to keep up with the leading pack in the league, we rarely created a goal scoring opportunity in the first half but went in at the break 1 nil through a converted penalty from - who else - John Seddon. Our second half performance was by far the best football we have played all season, our defending was outstanding and the way we moved the ball around the pitch was first-class, our superiority eventually paid of as Plaskett netted to put us 2 up with a well taken goal just inside the area. On another day we could have scored 10, but it was the team's overall contribution and work rate that were the BIG confidence boosters as we aim to climb the league. - NE
Sat. 9th Dec 2006	V	Tottington Utd (h) 1 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : N.Eccles
		A well earned point from Broughton point of view as our 2nd XI were playing Tottingtons 1st XI, we competed extremely well in every area and really should have come away with all 3 points. After conceding an early goal we took total control and put the opposition under a lot of pressure, just before half time we were back on level terms when Eccles bundled the ball home from a corner. But before the half was over there was still time for Broughton to hit the woodwork twice. In the second half we tried to break them down but they were equal to our hard work, plus our defence was up to the task of keeping them at bay.
Sat. 6th Jan 2007	V	Moston Res (h) 3 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorers : N.Eccles, J.Seddon, J.Bardsley
		We started the New Year with another victory keeping our unbeaten run of 5 still going. In the first half we didn’t play well at all and were very lucky not to be a couple of goals down by half time. After some words of confidence from the stand in boss S.Fenton and first team coach Wayne we started the second half on fire. Within 5 minutes we were 1 up when Eccles ran onto a long through ball to neatly chip the keeper from 12 yards. We continued to hold the ball well giving Moston the run around and it wasn’t long before it was 2 with Seddon finishing off a great team move. Moston lost it after this, flying in with all sorts of poor challenges and foul play, but this only spurred us on even move with Jay scoring from a well worked set piece. We missed a penalty late on but it was all over by that stage with the win comfortably in the bag. - NE
Sat. 13th Jan 2007	V	Radcliffe Town Res (a) 2 - 3 (ht.0-2) scorers : N.Eccles, L.Plaskett
		We left ourselves too much to do after falling 2 goals behind in the first half. Although Pidge and Lee notched that 3rd score was always elusive and that meant the end of our long unbeaten run.
Sat. 27th Jan 2007	V	Hesketh Casuals Res (a) 3 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorers : B.Stuart 2, L.McGladrigan
		A great victory against high flying Hesketh. Although falling behind in the first half we kept playing and working hard and were encouraged by the fact we kept creating opportunities. Finally in the 2nd half we started to take a few and gained a terrific 3 points on the road.
Sat. 3rd Feb 2007	V	Accrington Ams Res (h) 1 - 6 (ht.1-2) scorers : Jones
		This was a poor team effort, reflected by the comprehensive defeat although conceding 6 was harsh, but you do not deserve to get anything if you don't put anything in.
Sat. 10th Feb 2007	V	Ainsworth (a) 4 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorers : C.Bell, B.Stuart 2, A.Whillians
		Although a fairly even first half they did snatch a lead but we are used to conceding the first score and as usual we kept our composure and in the 2nd half after Bell's equaliser it was a dominant team performance with further goals from Stuart (2) and Whillians sealing a hard fought but well deserved victory.
Sat. 17th Feb 2007	V	Bury GS Res (h) 5 - 0 (ht.2-0) scorers : Jones 3, C.Bell, C.Duffy
		A totally dominant performance, with the good play being rewarded with goals at regular intervals throughout the game. Well done lads..
Sat. 24th Feb 2007	V	Accrington Ams Res (a) 1 - 1 (ht.1-0) scorers : J.Seddon
		A battling draw but disappointing result overall, after having been in front at the break.
Sat. 3rd Mar 2007	V	Rochdale St. Clems 'A' (h) 4 - 1 (ht.2-0) scorers : C.Bell 3, C.Duffy
		Confidence was high in the Broughton team as we had played well at home for the past couple of games even as top of the league Rochdale arrived at Myerscough with only one defeat to their name. Team was pretty much unchanged using the 4-3-3 formation which has served us so well recently. We started brightly and on a great day for football we were quickly into our passing game, we continued to press, restricting Rochdale to limited possession. After a number of excellent crosses into the box Glenister again delivered, this time BELL was on hand to glance the ball into the net from close range, due reward for our opening, enterprising play. From the restart we maintained our passing style and it wasn't before long before DUFFY linking well with Bell smashed a 25 yard unstoppable shot into the top corner. 2-0 at halftime and it was the least we deserved. From the restart we again slipped smoothly into our game exerting pressure on the Rochdale defence. This pressure brought a free kick which Harford delivered excellently into the box for BELL to smash home on the volley.3-0, we were cruising and came close on a couple more occasions until a rare mistake from the defence, which had been excellent all game allowed Rochdale an undeserved goal. Rochdale then briefly rallied until again we applied pressure resulting in a free kick for Harford which he again delivered dangerously into the box for BELL to head home at the far post – hat trick! You would have thought that a hat trick would gain the MOM award – No!!, that went to Ricky Wharton for a fantastic energy packed performance where he broke up nearly every Rochdale attack before it had started. A fantastic performance from the team, with some great football played throughout. Same again next week! - CB
Sat. 10th Mar 2007	V	Rochdale St. Clems 'A' (a) 1 - 2 (ht.1-2) scorers : P. Harford
		Broughton went into this game full of confidence having beaten Rochdale (who were then top of the table) the week before at Myerscough. Accusations (unfounded) that we had fielded half our 1st team in that game only added to the pre-match tension. Both teams started well but the heavy pitch was not helping Broughton's silky passing game that had served them so well the week before, however our pressure produced the early goal we wanted when a swift break down the right ended with the ball at Paul HARFORD's feet and unmarked in the area he made no mistake in beating the keeper. We however failed to settle and build on this encouraging start & Rochdale were soon back in the game when a hopeful punt wrong footed our defence and a soft equaliser was conceded. Rochdale continued to pressurise and more bad defending, when several attempts to clear the ball were wasted, led to Rochdale's 2nd, courtesy of a freak deflection with the ball settling in the bottom corner of the net when it could have ended up anywhere. We responded well but the half time score remained the full time score despite good pressure and several excellent chances to equalise being wasted and we were unable to clinch the draw which was the least we deserved. -RW
Sat. 17th Mar 2007	V	Prairie Utd Res (h) 3 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : C.Duffy 2, J.Seddon
		Broughton got back to winning ways with an ultimately comfortable 3-0 win. With 2 late goals adding a deserved gloss to the score line in a game which we controlled from the kick off. Prairie arrived bottom of the table but made us work hard for the win which elevated the team to 2nd place, albeit having played more games than most of our rivals. A well worked goal mid way through the 1st half by DUFFY was followed by a series of glaring misses enabling Prairie to remain in the game at half time. The away team battled well in the second half without really threatening the Broughton goal but still the 2nd goal we deserved from our all round performance eluded the home team until DUFFY settled our nerves with a well deserved finish 15 minutes from time. The game was finally settled by substitute John SEDDON with a 3rd close to the end providing a score line which was ultimately a fair reflection on the game and the respective positions of the 2 teams. -RW
Sat. 24th Mar 2007	V	O. Blackburnians 'A' (h) 2 - 3 (ht.2-1) scorers : M.Jones, P.Harford
		Broughton's inconsistent recent form continued with this disappointing home defeat to Old Blacks. Slack defending at crucial times and an aversion to scoring goals from open play were our undoing yet again with the opposition showing more desire to chase down the 3 points in the final quarter of the match. In a first half of poor quality Old Blacks took the lead with a well worked goal assisted by static defending from the home team. Despite not playing well Broughton were handed a way back into the game when Wharton was upended in the box and Mick JONES put the penalty away. Our improved play brought further reward when a free kick on the edge of the area was dispatched gloriously by Paul HARFORD to give a half time score of 2-1. Broughton were however unable to close the game out and Old Blacks equalised and then took the lead with the home team again allowing the opposition too much time to work the ball into the danger area. Promotion now only a distant possibility. - RW
Sat. 31st Mar 2007	V	O.Mancunians Res (a) 1 - 3 (ht.0-2) scorers : B.Stuart
		Match Report will be here if submitted
Sat. 21st Apr 2007	V	Tottington Utd (a) 2 - 3 (ht.2-0) scorers : C.Bell, C.Duffy
		2-0 up at half time then we wilted in the heat throughout the 2nd half to lose a game we controlled in the early stages.
Sat. 28th Apr 2007	V	Bolton Wyresdale Res (a) 2 - 3 (ht.2-0) scorers : C.Duffy 2
		2-0 up at half time then we wilted in the heat - hang on there's a pattern emerging here !!! Maybe we just need more training ready for next season.

	DIVISION SIX	P.	W.	D.	L.	F.	A.	GD	Pts
1	Bury Amateurs ‘A’	22	19	3	0	79	20	59	60
2	Rossendale Amateurs ‘B’	22	13	3	6	59	34	25	42
3	Bury GSOB ‘A’	22	13	3	6	45	33	12	42
4	Hesketh Casuals ‘B’	22	11	6	5	50	33	17	39
5	Oldham Hulmeians ‘A’	22	10	3	9	62	61	1	33
6	Broughton Amateurs 'A'	22	8	7	7	52	48	4	31
7	Lymm ‘A’	22	8	7	7	54	53	1	31
8	Old Mancunians ‘B’	22	8	3	11	49	50	-1	27
9	Bolton Wyresdale ‘A’	22	8	1	13	44	64	-20	25
10	Radcliffe Town ‘A’	22	4	6	12	47	78	-31	18
11	Horwich RMI 'A'	22	3	5	14	39	61	-22	14
12	Thornleigh 'B'	22	2	3	17	36	81	-45	9

Sat. 2nd Sept 2006	V	Hesketh Casuals 'B' (h) 2 - 4 (ht.0-2) scorers : C.Harrison, G.Halse
		A poor start to the game (and therefore the season) meant we were always playing catch-up. Too many players were off the pace and we were not disciplined enough in doing the basic un-glamorous tasks. That said 3 of their goals were down to our errors, therefore if we can eliminate those aspects and continue to score goals of the quality Chris and Gav did we should have a good season. But a bad start to the campaign.
Sat. 9th Sept 2006	V	Thornleigh 'B' (h) 1 - 1 (ht.0-0) scorers : G.Halse
		Broughton played well enough overall to have won by 3 goals, but failed to do so through a lack of incisive play in the penalty box area, The defence was sound with Major and Huddleston at the heart. Midfield and attack linked well, but the finishing touch was always missing. Thornleigh played well in the second half and took the lead through a well worked goal. Substitutions provided something of a spur and Liam turned well in the box to draw a penalty. Halse converted well but we were unable to drive it on to earn the 3 points - DB.
Sat. 16th Sept 2006 Cup Rd 1	V	Bury Ams 'A' (a) 0 - 5 (ht.0-2) scorers : -
		I would like to think of something positive to say about this performance. Jim McHugh was outstanding, the defence and keeper battled well, but the rest were bloody useless - and we lost our water bottles.
Sat. 23rd Sept 2006	V	Horwich RMI 'A' (a) 6 - 4 (ht.5-0) scorers : S.Rawsthorn 4, G.Halse 2
		Some new faces in the side , but we got off to a flying start when Gavin Halse controlled a difficult ball and lashed it in from the edge of the box. Broughton then dominated the 1st half with both Halse and Rawsthorn combining well and looking dangerous. The team looked solid as Lowcock and McHugh controlled midfield. 5-0 at half time should have been a basis for confidence, but within 20 minutes of the break it was 5-4 . 2 quick, freak goals unsettled the whole team, but eventually Broughton settled and played the best football of the game in the last quarter. Rawsthorn 4 and Halse 2 shared the glory, but all the team should share the positive and negative aspects of this performance - DB.
Sat. 30th Sept. 2006	V	Radcliffe Town 'A' (a) 8 - 3 (ht.5-1) scorers : S.Rawsthorn 2, M.Shirley 2, R.Pomfret 2, C.Harrison, G.Halse
		...not bad , but not faultless either. Keeper Gareth made a good save early in the 1st half, but then we dominated and scored regularly. The best goal was the first, finished by Pomfret and involving half a dozen excellent passes, but Mark Shirley's late run to connect with Huddleston's angled free kick ran it close. With a 5-1 half time score line the danger was to avoid a repetition of last weeks 2nd half debacle. There were no such problems, and though boy scout type marking allowed Radcliffe to score 2 second half goals, there was never much danger and the final score of 8-3 was, if anything, flattering to them. Chris Harrison was involved in much that was good and got his reward with the 6th goal. Halse and Rawsthorne again looked dangerous and combined well and Pomfret and McHugh were outstanding - DB.
Sat. 7th Oct 2006	V	O.Mancunians 'B' (h) 2 - 2 (ht.2-0) scorers : S.Rawsthorn, G.Halse
		With a new Keeper Adam and winger Liam filling Shirley's slot we again started the game as normal, plenty of possesion on what was a tough pitch to play on. Chances were being created with Halse and Rawsthorn again linking up well with good movement. The first goal came mid way through the first half when Gavin controlled the ball before turning and firing into the roof the of the net from 12 yards. We continued our attacks and a 2nd followed a fine move with John Major floating a super ball for Rawsthorn to score. Halse came close to adding his 2nd before he got injured late on in the half. Into the 2nd half and chances were still coming, Gavin and Liam made way for Craig and Kieren. They pulled a goal back from a free-kick and an equaliser came not long after. Our 2nd half performances at the moment need a lot of work. We still had chances late on to win with their keeper saving well and with the last kick of the game Rawsthorn missed the target. This must be looked at as 2 points lost, and with all the positives we can take from our 1st half performances this season so far, there are probably as many negatives from our 2nd half performances. As the gaffer said we need to be closer to our men throughout the match and not just until we have what should be commanding leads. - SR
Sat. 14th Oct 2006	V	Bury Ams 'A' (h) 2 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : R.Pomfret, G.Halse
		Playing against a team with a 100% record it was going to be tough especially after we lost 5-0 in the cup to the same team. The game produced few clear chances but when our first real chance came as a result of a corner Pomfret was on hand to drill in low from 12 yards. With Bury offering little either and both defences cancelling out most threats at goal their equaliser came from a set piece. Into the 2nd half and a couple of chances fell the way of Pomfret and Shirley before persistent play by Gavin saw him tripped for a penalty. Up he stepped to miss a 2nd penalty of the season, only to follow up the rebound and blast home. Looking fairly comfortable we conceded an equaliser for the 2nd time, and with little else happening the match fizzled out into a tepid 2-2 draw. A good point but perhaps could have been more.
Sat. 21st Oct 2006	V	Bury GS 'A' (a) 1 - 3 (ht.0-1) scorers : G.Halse
		Changes were forced on us before kick off in key areas, and this meant it would be a tough match. Throughout the first half Bury were creating chances and little was falling the way of our forwards. When the breakthrough came for Bury it was through our mistake failing to clear and leaving our goal exposed. Into the 2nd half and they quickly increased their lead with a fine finish and then shortly after John Major poked into his own net from a corner. The pitch throughout caused us problems with such a high bounce - well this was the excuse given by Simon for a couple of missed chances the 2nd half. The consolation came from a fine flowing move ending with Rawsthorn pulling it back from the bye line for Halse to slide in with the defender and knock into the corner (the FA Video Replay panel are checking this goal for an OG). Next week, with players back we hope for a better result.
Sat. 28th Oct 2006	V	Rossendale Ams 'A' (a) 0 - 5 (ht.0-5) scorers : -
		This game should not have started. The pitch was unplayable. The first half performance was shambolic to say the least. With the return of Peter Monks to defence he got his mandatory yellow card, for what? nobody could answer you. A combination of errors in midfield, defence and goal caused a calamitous display which saw us 3-0 down in the opening 15mins. With little service throughout the match our forward line were pretty much spectating. Changes were made at half time and the 2nd half was much improved, although only a couple of half chances fell our way. With a free week ahead, the Gaffer has a couple of weeks to think of how to take this team forward ahead of our next match. - SR
Sat. 11th Nov 2006	V	Lymm 'A' (h) 2 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : R.Pomfret, T.Lowcock
		Four changes to try and amend our dismal performance last time out paid dividends against a team in 2nd place. On a very wet and cut up pitch we played some decent football creating enough chances and on another day we would have battered them. Two early chances fell to our attackers forcing a good save and a well timed tackle. Lymm were gifted the lead through a sloppy tackle giving them a penalty which was buried straight down the middle. Minutes later it was our turn for a penalty when Smithy went down like he'd been shot allowing Pomfret to slot home. We continued to create chances in the 2nd half and Tom scored with a long angled shot into the top corner. Moments later they equalised, again from slack marking giving a free header from 6yrds. The weather was now atrocious, but we continued to produce chances with Harrison & Halse going close. A post was hit and with almost the last kick a shot from 35yrds saw the keeper get down to save. The gaffer must have seen a great improvement on our last performance. - SR
Sat. 18th Nov 2006	V	Bolton Wyresdale 'A' (a) 5 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : S.Rawsthorn 2, T.Lowcock, G.Halse, I.Smith
		The best performance of the season so far. Our new central defence pairing of Winny and Leaver looked solid and nothing really got through with Adam only having 1 save to note. A close 1st half was split by a 20yrd volley by Rawsthorn to give a deserved lead. We dominated the 2nd half from start to finish, with the returning McHugh and Kieran in fine form. Our four 2nd half goals saw some excellent team moves with Lowcock finishing into the roof of the net after a flowing team move. Rawsthorn added his 2nd with a lob over the keeper from an excellent through ball by Winny. Halse and Rawsthorn then combined for Halse to neatly slot home. Smith scored a rare goal after a clever free kick by McHugh, and Rawsthorn could have had a hat trick after a great team move saw his header saved by the Wyresdale keeper. Lets hope we carry the good form onto our home pitch and record our 1st home win of the season next time out.
Sat. 2nd Dec 2006	V	Bury Ams 'A' (a) 1 - 1 (ht.0-1) scorers : G.Halse
		Another excellent team display away at table toppers Bury to secure our 2nd draw with them this season, still the only team to take points from them. After an encouraging start we fell behind to an own goal following some indecision between defence and keeper, but this didn't stop us from continuing to get stuck in and try and play football. Although we had lots of the ball in a fairly end to end 1st half, we were playing too many high balls to our front men and they were being stifled out by some resolute defending. The half time talk was a positive one and just asked to keep going but get the ball down on the floor to the front men. We came out in the 2nd half very much on top with some quick, slick 1-2 touch football from midfield to front which produced a goal from Halse on the hour mark to race through and slot home. Chances came thick and fast at both ends, but a quick 1-2 move with Pommy, Rawsthorn, Halse almost produced a fine goal by Pommy only to see the ball pass the top corner. Our defending was excellent throughout and although a few nervy minutes towards the end we held on for a fine draw and another performance that can only take us forward in the coming matches. The only downer were injuries to Mick Bowerham and the Gaffer. The Gaffer managed 2 mins before suffering a shoulder injury.
Sat. 6th Jan 2007	V	Hesketh Casuals 'B' (a) 1 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : K.Stewart
		Our first game for a month saw us dominate for the most part with their keeper making a number of fine saves throughout, but it was Hesketh who took the lead after 20mins when they had a free header from a corner to nod in at the back post. We continued to attack and eventually we equalised on the stroke of half-time. A free-kick 25 yards out saw Rawsthorn fake the shot and roll the ball to Pomfret who squared for Stewart to smash home from 8 yards. The 2nd half saw us more on top and chances were coming our way but a combination of a heavy pitch blocking passes and fine saves from their keeper kept the scores level, with our keeper a virtual spectator through the 2nd period. We move on to a home game with the knowledge that we need to turn these draws into wins if we are to get anything from this season. - SR
Sat. 27th Jan 2007	V	Bury GS 'A' (h) 1 - 5 (ht.1-3) scorers : J.McHugh
		This was as bad as it gets, this season. 3-0 down in no time, the 1st a free header from yet another set piece, the 2nd was a mishit cross and the 3rd indecision between defenders. The right hand-side was continually opened up through the 1st half and midfield failed to close down balls and allowed their big No.16 to take control. Although Jim pulled one back before the break with a header from a corner it wasn't to change anything. Smithy replaced Major at right back, but it wasn't long before a cross from their left was spilled by us into an empty net. A frustrating afternoon again for our frontline who saw little of the ball, with many balls over hit, was punished by a 5th goal, game well and truly over. Where to next ? You may ask, well it must start with basics of football and always meet the ball and not wait 4 it to come to you and this is how many of problems begin, allowing the opposition chances to intercept. - SR
Sat. 3rd Feb 2007	V	Rossendale Ams 'B' (h) 2 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : G.Halse, K.Stewart
		A couple of changes with Smithy replacing injured Bowerman and Douggie in for Harrison. Rawsthorn was moved to play wide left, and the 1st chance came to him after beating the full-back he curled in a shot just missing the far corner after 5mins. Possession was quite even although our keeper had little to do. After 20mins we took the lead after a good team move saw Gavin go past a couple and fire into the roof of net from 12 yards. The equaliser came when we failed to clear a corner and their drilled shot was deflected into the far corner with keeper no chance. The 2nd half saw many corners at both ends of the pitch and as the game went on we gained even more space to attack their full-backs. 15mins to go saw Shirley and Stewart replaced Dougie and Tom. The winning goal saw another great team move culminating in Stewart running onto a through ball and slotting home from the edge of the box. A much improved team and defensive display saw Winnie and Lever rarely troubled in the centre of defence. Lets hope we can continue this in our next game. - SR
Sat. 17th Feb 2007	V	Bolton Wyresdale 'A' (h) 2 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorers : M.Shirley, G.Halse
		The first 20mins were pretty even in this game before we eventually began to take control and started creating many chances, with Halse, Rawsthorn and Dougie all having scoring opportunities but failing to find the finishing touch. The H-T 0-0 score was saved by a goal-line clearance from a corner. We continued to attack in the 2nd half and Shirley replaced the injured debutant Craig after 55mins. In the 65th minute Shirley then proceeded to give us a deserved lead and showed the forwards how to do it with a terrific shot from 25 yards into top corner, by far the cleanest strike on goal all day. Chances continued to come our way and in the final minutes we broke with Rawsthorn making a run down the left to square for Halse to score. Another win keeps our recent good form going.
Sat. 3rd Mar 2007	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'A' (h) 4 - 1 (ht.2-0) scorers : G.Halse 2, D.Birch, M.Shirley
		This was a very dominant display throughout, attacking the Oldham wings at will. Having already had a number of chances to take the lead it was HALSE who slotted in from close range to complete a move involving a number of players. The 2nd followed soon after when BIRCH followed up a fumble by their keeper to thump home from close in. As usual we started slow in the 2nd half and allowed them to pull an early goal back, and yes you guessed it from yet another set piece. Shirley replaced the injured Birch early 2nd half and Monksy replaced Major. It was SHIRLEY who got the 3rd when the Oldham defence stood still thinking we were off side to allow him a free walk through to slot past the keeper. A late 4th was added when a quick burst down the line by Rawsthorn saw his 2nd assist for HALSE to tap in from close range. A comfortable win but the score line could and should have been much greater. To stand any chance of going up though this form must stick till the end of the season and only wins will give us a chance of a late surge up the table. Keep it going lads.-SR
Sat. 10th Mar 2007	V	Thornleigh 'B' (a) 4 - 1 (ht.0-0) scorers : K.Stewart, T.Lowcock, G.Halse, S.Rawsthorn
		This was an unforgettable match to play in. How was this match 0-0 at half-time chance after chance went amiss and not forgetting at least 40, yes 40 OFFSIDE decisions given against us. Our main chance go in with a lead wasn't taken when Pomfret hit the post with a penalty. The HT team talk was taken up mostly with players berating the referee and their linesman. The 2nd half saw them gifted two penalties in as many minutes early on with the 1st put away the 2nd hitting the post following a pull by Winny. It wasn't long before we were level when we beat the offside trap for STEWART to run clear and slot in at the near post. It was now a matter of how many, and minutes later we broke clear again for LOWCOCK to beat the keeper. Changes were made and Shirley and Harrison replaced McHugh and Smith. A 3rd was added when HALSE raced clear to round the keeper and slot into an empty net. The 4th came when Shirley aimed a long throw for Halse only to over throw and RAWSTHORN followed up to tap into empty net. Any way another comfortable win that should have been far greater had it not been for some very debatable offsides. - SR
Sat. 17th Mar 2007	V	Horwich RMI 'A' (h) 0 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorers : -
		This is a result that we must see as 2 points dropped. We dominated from start to finish with some very good attacking football, but in all fairness today the pitch let our finishing down with some awful bobbles at the wrong time. Our keeper was forced into 1 save all match and made some good claims from corners. We must ensure we keep it tight, like today, and don't let the good work of recent weeks go to waste.-SR
Sat. 24th Mar 2007	V	Radcliffe Town 'A' (h) 4 - 3 (ht.0-1) scorers : R.Swan, C.Lathom 2, I.Smith
		Bottom line is we won a game that we should have won!! We should have been 3 up after the first half as good chances came and went, but in fact we went in a goal down after slack marking proved our undoing. A bad injury to Gavin Halse and hamstring problems for Birch led to a change of strike force at the break, but the new paring of Rick Swan and Craig Lathom conjured up 3 great finishes to keep Broughton in the game. End to end stuff as first SWAN equalised with a nicely struck right footer! then Radcliffe converted a sloppily concede penalty. McHugh then failed with a spot kick we received before LATHOM put Broughton ahead with 2 excellent finishes, the second a header being the goal of the season so far after he met a great Shirley cross field pass. There was still a twist to come as first Radcliffe equalised, then full back SMITH, the human dynamo, burst forward in the last minute to clinically finish a good move. Management, exhausted, retired to the doug out. Too much stress, easier at work. -DB
Sat. 31st Mar 2007	V	O. Mancunians 'B' (a) 1 - 3 (ht.0-1) scorers : M.Shirley
		A disappointing end to a game we could and should have one. This was a case of a lack of guile rather than lack of ability or effort. Too often great work would win the ball in defence or midfield, but then the creativity and know how needed to create openings was not there. There was no support for the ball winner and no meaningful running to create gaps. Management stress levels reached an all time high. Despite that we went in just one down and having regrouped went into the second half showing much greater commitment to the cause. SHIRLEY equalised following a good move and our overall play looked like it would pay dividends. We were rocked by conceding a poor second goal but pushed forward. Birch came on to provide a focus to the attack and play was centred much more in and around the opponents box. Birch missed the best chance, but at last things looked coordinated for a good 30 minutes Leaver and Pomfret played to their ability, but as for the rest of us ... -DB
Sat. 14th Apr 2007	V	Lymm 'A' (a) 0 - 1 (ht.0-0) scorers : -
		In scorching temperatures of 25°C and rock hard pitch it was never going to be a spectacle, but we should never have lost this match. We created all the chances had a majority of the possession and in the end we couldn't find the net. With Adam in a goal a virtual spectator for the most, it took a break away goal with 10mins to go to settle the match, with Adam receiving little protection from our defence. - SR
Sat. 21st Apr 2007	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'A' (a) 3 - 5 (ht.1-4) scorers : M.Shirley 2, S.Rawsthorn
		For our final match we had a depleted team, missing 6 regulars from the starting 11. It was a disastrous start in which our defensive line didn't turn up until 20mins in, by which time we were 0-4 down. When we settled down we played some good football and in fairness dominated the remainder of the match creating many chances that could and should have got us something from the game. We pulled a goal back minutes before the break when SHIRLEY had a tap in following a good move by Birch and Rawsthorn. Major saw a long distance free kick go just over the bar on the stroke of halftime. Early into the 2nd half and SHIRLEY was well positioned to score at the back post. Hursty in nets had a great 2nd half and was unlucky to be beaten for them to extend their lead again. Our 3rd came when Smithy laid a ball through their defence for RAWSTHORN to run onto and slot home. Summary of the seasons was that after a poor start we had an excellent run through the middle and a finish that was sluggish like we'd just run a marathon. Thanks to all the lads that played and to DOUG BIRCH the gaffer for another well organised season. - SR

	DIVISION SEVEN	P	W	D	L	F	A	GD	Pts
1	* Mostonians ‘B’	22	16	4	2	79	21	58	50
2	Bury Amateurs 'B'	22	14	4	4	80	39	41	46
3	Lymm ‘B’	22	14	4	4	56	36	20	46
4	Old Blackburnians 'C'	22	13	3	6	72	54	18	42
5	* Broughton Amateurs 'B'	22	11	4	7	78	52	26	36
6	Chaddertonians ‘B’	22	8	6	8	38	55	-17	30
7	Spotland Methodists ‘A’	22	8	5	9	48	49	-1	29
8	Spotland Methodists 'B'	22	8	3	11	78	68	10	27
9	Bolton Wyresdale ‘B’	22	7	3	12	40	55	-15	24
10	Rossendale Amateurs 'C'	22	5	2	15	46	98	-52	17
11	Bury GSOB ‘B’	22	4	3	15	34	78	-44	15
12	Oldham Hulmeians ‘B’	22	3	1	18	39	83	-44	10
	* = Points adjustment

Sat. 2nd Sept 2006	V	Bury GS 'B' (a) 7 - 1 (ht.3-0) scorers : C.Bradshaw 3, S.Connolly, C.McCrudden, og(2)
		With our first game of the season it was always going to be difficult to pick a side. Competition for places and not wanting to change the side too much from last season was playing on my mind. That said I eventually made up my mind and we set off to Bury. The conditions were not perfect to say the least. a strong wind and driving rain meant it was going to be difficult to play our game. It did not matter, we won comfortably 7-1. The goals came thick and fast but a superb hat-trick from Chris Bradshaw and a wonder goal from Shane inside his own half and a birthday goal for Chris McCrudden. The boys were fantastic and a special mention to the boys who came to watch because it was the whole squad that won not just the side, thanx boys - JC.
Sat. 9th Sept 2006	V	O.Blackburnians 'C' (a) 2 - 3 (ht.2-0) scorers : C.Bradshaw 2
		A cracking day weather wise as we set off for our first away game of the season. Numbers good again saw Baldy and John missing out but to their credit they still came along. With a huge win the week before confidence was high and we were determined to build on that performance. Game started with their manager reffing (more on that later), and for the first 10 mins we struggled with our shape as they pulled us all over the place. We then started to match them with our challenges and movement but even at that early stage in the game the ref was giving us nothing and his OWN TEAM everything. We then hit them with 2 cracking goals from our man-of-the-match Chris Bradshaw. So 2-0 up at half time and with the message to keep the pressure on we began the second half with no changes. What happened in the second half was an "absolute shambles" (in the words of one of their players.) With our team well organized and hard working, looking a real good footballing side, they needed their manager "the ref" to alter the course of the game. Free kicks, throw ins and fouls all went the way of the home side at every opportunity. This was the major factor in our losing this game but with not much experience on the pitch the lads heads went down. It's a sad truth that these games happen but I honestly believe a lot of the younger lads will learn from this experience and be more determined than ever to show that if this happens again we can be stronger and still win these games!! - JC.
Sat. 16th Sept 2006 Cup Rd 1	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'B' (h) 7 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : C.Bradshaw 3, J.Clark, G.Porter, C.McCrudden, D.Sanders
		After the Display from last weeks ref we were determined to go out and win this week. Our first home game seen Chris come in for Alex (who ref for us) a star he was. We started off sluggish with poor passing and trying the killer ball far too often (inc myself). We paid the price by going 1 behind after 25 mins. We still looked second rate after the restart with growing impatience amongst some players. The main thing was to settle and start using the ball more effectively we knew it would come and shortly before the break we scored and went in level. At half time the point was made, keep it simple, be patient and let the ball do the work. The boys listened and we won the second half 6-0. A game of two halves to say the least. We got in amongst the opposition and beat them to everything. I scored the second followed by man of the match Chris Bradshaw who scored 3. goals, from Dazza max and what should have been Baldy (C.Mcrudden). I hope this is another lesson learned for the lads BE PATIENT, KEEP IT SIMPLE AND PLAY TO OUR STRENTGHS. Well done boys!! - JC
Sat. 30th Sept. 2006	V	Spotland Meths 'A' (h) 1 - 1 (ht.1-1) scorers : C.Bradshaw
		After a good second half in the last game I wanted us to continue where we left off, Patience, Commitment and Belief. The first 2 we did to a certain extent but the latter was missing. We still went ahead with a well crafted goal Des and Chris combining, resulting with a neat finish from Chris. We were not really under any pressure when they equalised but failure to clear the ball resulted in the opposition scoring before half time. Second half we set about going through the motions with no real conviction (BELIEF) we had 4 good opportunities to take the lead and on another day we could have won quite easily. The league table shows we are 3 points off the leaders, this said our next game is important. As long as we play as a team, encourage each other and follow the three main points Patience, Commitment and Belief we can beat any team in this division - JC. (PS. I WILL USE THESE 3 POINTS TO DETERMINE MY SUBS FOR NEXT GAME).
Sat. 21st Oct 2006	V	Rossendale Ams 'C' (h) 9 - 1 (ht.6-0) scorers : C.Bradshaw 3, S.Connelly, G.Porter 2, D.Robinson 2, D.Sanders
		After 2 weeks off and a few players missing (inc. myself) there was several changes. What followed was a superb performance from the boys. We played controlled, simple and aggressive football. The defence were fantastic, playing it simple when they could and mixing it up when needed. Then there was the midfield, quite simply bossing their area both on the floor and in the air. A special mention for Steph who was excellent and deserving of the man of the match. Up front Chris was his usual self, not giving the defence a moment on the ball. Des finally got off the mark (thank god). If we had taken our chances it could have been 15 (no kidding). That said well done lads! lets keep it going - JC
Sat. 4th Nov 2006 Cup Rd 3	V	Little Lever SC 'B' (h) 7 - 4 (AET.ft.3-3.ht.0-3) scorers : A.Robinson 2, C.Bradshaw 2, R.Fenton, D.Sanders, C.Cornwell
		After a weeks break, and a break to a fullback's wrist, I had to choose a side which was not altered too much from the brilliant performance last time out. That said I decided to go with Chris up front and Charlie playing the free role. That meant Des started on the wing. With more coaching and more experience I think he could play the role but it was a mistake on my behalf asking him to play a role he was not familiar with. With not much shape along the midfield we were exposed and we were down 3 goals by half time. I had already converted to a 4-4-2 mid way through the first half and knew all we needed was a goal to kick start our performance. 10 mins into the second half we got that goal a neat move resulting in a well taken goal. We retrieved another 2 goals to take it to extra time. By this time we were well on top. In the first half of extra time we gained the lead for the first time and we were looking good for the win. We scored again in the 2nd half of extra time to make it 5-3. Then they scored to make it 5-4. A nervous 10 mins meant we had to be strong and hold our shape then came the decisive goal scored by Chris to make it 6-4 game over! Charlie capped off the best performance under me with a great goal. The other team are top of the 5th division and were unbeaten. This result shows the potential of the team and along with the team spirit we can progress through the division!! WELL DONE BOYS (and me) - JC
Sat. 11th Nov 2006	V	Spotland Meths 'A' (a) 7 - 5 (ht.1-2) scorers : C.Bradshaw 3, A.Robinson 2, C.Cornwell, JOHN CLARK
		To my surprise the game was given the green light and we set off to Rochdale (via Accrington!). The weather was not good and this in mind I instructed the boys to keep alert and do the basics. We then proceeded to try the difficult ball and let the opposition walk the ball into net!! To be fair it was not the best conditions and we would've scored if the 2 up front kept on side!! We did score to make it 1-0, after that we were caught too many times in possession and paid the price by going in 2-1 down. The half time talk consisted of 2 main points stop getting caught offside and simply defend the area better. We began the second half and the forwards started timing their runs better resulting in a goal in the first 5 mins. We still were worrying in defence and this resulted in us going 3-2 down. We eventually began to click after the 3rd goal we quickly made it 6-3. They were not finished though and scored to make it 6-4 we then scored again and then gave a penalty away to make it 7-5. Thank god we have got our worst performance of the season so far out of the way - and won! We can not, as a team, play that bad again. The weather was also a major contributing factor to our performance and we must not read into the performance too much!! - JC
Sat. 2nd Dec 2006	V	Bury Ams 'B' (h) 3 - 4 (ht.2-1) scorers : C. Bradshaw, S. Corrigan, A. Robinson
		These are the games which will determine our season and unfortunately this game did not go our way. Individual errors i'm afraid to say cost us the game in which we competed well all over the pitch. It is not just errors at the back we had at least 4 chances to kill the game off. In a game where time on the ball was rare we must start to do the basics, dont let the ball bounce, lay the ball off more, put our foot through the ball, get rid when needed, play collectively. When you look at the game we only lost by 1 goal and we did compete well. Individual errors can be resolved and we are still in the race. That said the game panned out with us taking the lead twice the first a good goal from Chris on his left. The second was a great team effort worked down the right resulting in a belter of a finish from Des. So 2-1 up at half time and looking good. Second half saw us concede 2 in as many minutes. I wont go into detail too much people know when they have ~~F**** up~~ / made a mistake. Towards the end Steph got his goal and he could have scored again but it was not our day. So we will re-group, and because of our team spirit we WILL bounce back and beat Top this week!!
Sat. 6th Jan 2007	V	Bury GS 'B' (h) 5 - 3 (ht.3-1) scorers : A. Robinson 5
		After a long break of 5 weeks without a game we needed to make sure we were up for it. The last game ended in defeat, so this was important to re-establish our position in the league. I decided to move into defence and push Bully into midfield, this worked well with Bully enjoying the role and putting in a positive performance. My contribution was a little less convincing, an attraction to the ball being my main fault!! That said we started positively and could have been 2 up. Chris missing a one on one and Bully firing just wide. We then conceded with a free kick, Tom was unlucky not to save it. We re-grouped and pressed for the equaliser this came with Des getting his 1st of 5 goals, we began to click. Tom was excellent in his distribution, not everyone will remember but 4 out of 5 goals started with Tom Rolling or Throwing the ball to the full backs, this is so important as we have possession automatically. ALL the back 4 need to be clever and use this when possible. By half time we were 3-1 up and deservedly so we were playing slick 1 touch football on a poor surface. The surface meant we would normally have to hit the long ball, but i could see the lads wanted to play, every player wanted the ball (important!). We started the second half and stopped playing for 15 -20 mins. Players too interested in slagging each other, THIS AFFECTS OTHERS NOT INVOLVED, AFFECTS THE TEAM!!. Everyone knows my feelings on negativity, it will stop!! A combination of this and a howler from me meant they pulled back to 3-3. We were really under the cosh for 10 mins after with the visitors hitting the post and pushing us back. A rethink was needed and i decided to push Shane to right midfield and my-self into the centre. It worked, I received the ball from John and played it to Shane who beat his man and crossed for Des to score his fourth. We looked more comfortable at the back and i believe the opposition were confused with the re shape. Man of the match Des, scored his 5th and we won the game. Two things came out of the game, NO MORE POINTING FINGERS and i need to play in midfieid!!
Sat. 27th Jan 2007	V	Rossendale Ams 'C' (a) 4 - 3 (ht.1-2) scorers : C.Bradshaw, C.McCrudden, A.Robinson, C.Cornwell
		After Beating Top, this side was not going to be the push over they were at home. I told the boys this fact and it was proved right in the 1st 25 mins. Me and Charlie could not get near the ball with their number 10 & 6 controlling midfield. It was a poor start from us and we paid the price by going 2-0 down through individual and team errors. It was vital to get one back before half time and we did through Chris McCrudden pouncing on a keepers error. It's easy to say what's going wrong elsewhere on the pitch and overlook your own contribution. If some one miss places a pass, so what ! if someone misses an easy chance, so what! If someone doesn't play a pass, so what! These things will Happen! Get over it. At half time I spoke with Paul and Bully and we all said we would win. It's the belief we will score goals. Tap-ins, long range, volleys, headers, it doesn't matter. It also doesn't matter who scores. In my eyes its the player who makes the goal not scores the goal. They will be first on my team sheet every game. Second half players who were not performing began performing. Daz started making his mazy runs, I got closer to their best player and Charlie came to life. Chris pulled it back to 2-2, then Charlie scored with a great free kick. Des made it 4-2 but they pulled it back to 3-4. Keeno missed when it was easier to score. I will Banter with him all week but that's what it is banter, we need to get back to the p**s taking and start enjoying it again OK!!!!!! - JC
Sat. 3rd Feb 2007	V	Lymm 'B' (a) 1 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : J.Clark
		I dont want to go into too much detail but this game was there for the taking and we did not take it. Great football though! - JC
Sat. 3rd Mar 2007	V	Bury Ams 'B' (a) 3 - 6 (ht.2-2) scorers : A.Robinson, C.Bradshaw 2
		The manager's team talk consisted of instructions recommending we do not get on each others back and play as a team. Certain players ignored this and as a result this was the main factor in us losing. Yes some players struggled with the condition of the pitch. Yes some people didn't play well. But it was the lack of spirit and determination that cost us the game. The game was scrappy and we were 2 down within 20 mins. It was a surprise to go in level at half time with goals from Chris and Des. The ill discipline within the team re-surfaced and was the reason we lost 6-3. Next game the side will change as a result of the attitude of some players not the result of the match. Here's to the revolution!!-JC
Sat. 10th Mar 2007	V	Mostonians 'B' (h) 2 - 2 (ht.1-1) scorers : C.Bradshaw, A.Robinson
		After last weeks poor performance I changed the side based on the lack of effort and spirit. The reshape saw John move to left wing and Max coming in at left back. Steph moved to right wing with Charlie back in the centre with myself. Mostonians have only lost 1 all season and had they not called a game off too late, meaning a loss of 4 points they would be top. This said I told the lads to expect a physical game and it was. My brother who stepped in to ref had the hard task of trying to keep control of the game. To be fair he was alright and even though he sent off a player from both sides he still got the respect from both teams at the end. The game was a scrappy affair with the pitch not at its best. We took the lead with a goal from Chris. We had started with a determination and it showed in our game. We were competing all over the pitch, first to challenges, second ball and playing the ball first time. The defence were pushing out calling everyone with them. Their goal was not really deserved and we went in level. The second half saw us go behind to a soft goal but we never gave up and Des scored the second to bring it back level. We could have won the game but a draw was probably the fairest result. It was a step in the right direction and hopefully we are back on track. Well done lads. - JC
Sat. 17th Mar 2007	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'B' (a) 3 - 0 (ht.0-0) scorers : C.Bradshaw, D.Sanders, S.Corrigan
		This week I made a couple of changes and the lads who came in did well. Keeping everyone happy is near impossible but I do the best I can whilst keeping the best interests of the team in mind. It is always difficult playing against bottom teams as the belief is we are going to hammer them. In reality they are hard games. Teams at the foot of the table always give everything, they have nothing to lose. So at half time at 0-0 I was the only one not surprised. You have to earn victories. The main thing is to be PATIENT as you normally find once you get 1 goal it opens the floodgates. This was the case in the second half. We didn't play that much better in the second half we just converted our chances. The team we played were not that good but they nearly had a helping hand from ourselves. Lets take this result and build on it.-JC
Sat. 24th Mar 2007	V	Spotland Meths 'A' (a) 4 - 1 (ht.3-0) scorers : C.Bradshaw, A.Robinson, A.Baldwin, og
		The matches following are all about results not glory. This match was no different as we ground out another result before the backlog of games kick in. With the experience of Clarky and Bully missing along with Charlie, prior to kick off there was a feel of unease on how we would cope. However the lads did more than cope, this was a game where we played as a TEAM! The match got off to an interesting start with good old me miss kicking the centre, oops! Within minutes of kick off it was clear that our advantage was youth and legs. This showed by our first goal with Dazza running past their defender and crossing the ball to myself who (left footed may I add) slotted it in to the bottom corner. The next goal was calamitous to say the least! From out of Tom’s hand the ball was kicked over their defender’s head where Chris ran on to a 1 on 1 situation, the keeper did well to push Chris wide, however Chris got the shot in and to the disbelief of us all on the pitch their defender kicked it straight into his own goal!?! SHOCKIN! Not learning from that mistake again the ball was lofted over a defender, and again Chris ran onto it and this time slotted it into the back of the net to make it 3-0 at half time. There were no words needed at half time as we were doing the talking on the pitch in a constructive way. For about twenty minutes of the second half you could of mistaken us for a certain south American team, all passing and movement, we were looking like a team deserving of promotion! With twenty minutes to go I came of to give Baldy a chance to shine, and shine he did. Within 5 minutes of being on the pitch he was making himself a nuisance for their defence and finished off a sweet move to score his first goal of the season, well done lad! They got a consolation goal from their "best" player but they never really looked like doing much. Man of the match was undoubtedly John, total domination when the ball was in our part of the pitch. This result show’s that we have the talent to win this league, not individually but as a TEAM!! Well done lads lets keep it up! - AR
Sat. 31st Mar 2007	V	Chaddertonians 'B' (h) 6 - 0 (ht.1-0) scorers : A.Robinson 3, C.Cornwell 2, S.Corrigan
		Match Report not yet submitted.
Thu. 5th Apr 2007	V	O. Blacks 'C' (h) 0 - 3 (ht.0-2) scorers : -
		It was a cracking night for footie but the pitch was not up to its best. A few players missing meant some new faces in the side. It is always difficult mid week but its the same for all teams. Last time we played Old Blacks we were beaten by their own referee, this time though the team they put out deserved the victory. They were better in most areas including up front were as we failed to convert our chances. A team of experience will 9 times out of 10 win over youth and pace. They know when to slow the game if needed and they always cover less ground Why? They let the ball cover the ground! I'm not saying we should stop running with the ball, this is our main strength, but teams of experience soon find you out. This is when we have to adapt! Don't run at them, let them come to you and this will create the gaps in behind them. If our players can identify when to adapt we will kill teams AMEN!! - JC
Sat. 7th Apr 2007 Cup	V	Hesketh Casuals 'B' (h) 4 - 2 (ht.1-2) scorers : J.Clark, A.Robinson, C.Cornwell, C.McCrudden
Semi-Final		The manager reluctantly made himself sub. Daz, Chris, Bully and Tom were all back and went straight back in the team. The atmosphere was tense but everyone was focused. Team was named and instructions were given to go and enjoy themselves. Players not involved were disappointed but as I have continued to communicate my only interest is the team and what is best. For example, my condition meant I only had limited play time, I could have started but hopefully demonstrated fairness and consistency and put the team first. The game kicked off and we got about Hesketh. A little tentative in the tackle at first, a little slow to the ball and too much respect for the opposition. Some players had started well and some didn't. Our lads on the wing had the job of back-tracking to begin with as Hesketh pushed us back. The main area of concern was the amount of crosses coming in. The majority over hit until a cross came in and we failed to clear our lines, it dropped to their number 7 and he pushed it past Tom. 1-0 down not so good. They soon made it 2 as we pushed for the equaliser. Another cross not dealt with meant they looked like they wanted it more. A goal before half time is what we needed. Charlie obliged with a great goal made and finished by himself. We started the second half with more belief. We soon won a free kick about 30 yards. Clarky took control of the dead ball situation and then proceeded to hit a screamer into the top left hand corner. 2-2 and game most definitely on. The aim was to pull their defence along the line as well as bring them out. This resulted in the third goal with JC running and marker following. Des then ran into the space left by them, received the pass and slotted home. It was class, not only to lead but to ram the words of their defender down his throat. The 4th goal was a calmly taken goal from Chris, keeping cool under pressure and slotting home. We deserved the victory. We had rode the storm and we were in the final. Its Mostonians in the final and like Old Blacks they are a team of experience we must remember this. WE WILL!! - JC
Thu. 19th Apr 2007	V	Bolton Wyresdale 'B' (h) 8 - 1 (ht.4-1) scorers : M.Harrington 2, C.Bradshaw 2, P.Kenn, A.Robinson, Ash, G.Porter
		Ok just what you need before big games a right good win. The performance was class and we really got about this side. Goals from the old school was the order of the day. With 2 from Matt 1 from Old Mr Porter and a cracker from Mr Keen. We all deserve a pat on the back and with performances like this we can be confident for the final!! - JC.
Sat. 21st Apr 2007	V	Lymm 'B' (h) 2 - 3 (ht.1-2) scorers : J.Clark, A.Robinson
		This was Lymm's last game and with still a chance for promotion for both teams it would be a tense game. The other thought was of Monday night's cup final so I needed to make sure we focused on this game. Dazza started up front in place of Chris with Shane on the wing. The game started off with both sides trying to play a bit of football, I had noticed a huge hole between their defence and midfield. This was created by the pace of Des and Daz pushing their defence back and their midfield too eager to get forward. I had told our full backs to hit the ball long into this hole and eventually John played a cracker into my path and I headed it into the goal past the out rushing keeper. 1-0 and we were looking good. Lymm are the most experienced team in the league with (as I was informed before the game) every player over 40!! This is why it is always difficult to play against them. They first of all play it short and on the ground as opposed to killer pass, They will not just clear the lines they will play the percentage ball and most of all they let the ball do the work. They know how to play football as a team. They used these and got back into the game with a neat volley and a well worked goal sealed their lead before half time. By this time the lads who still find it hard to grasp they are not the only player in the side, had began to blame everything and everyone instead of looking first at their own performance. I find this embarrassing more than anything. The persons in question have not exactly worked their arses off themselves. I will always give people 1 chance has I have shown. This subject is now closed. The second half was fairly even and could have gone either way unfortunately it was the opposition that took all 3 points and this means we will not be promoted. Next time maybe? -JC
Mon. 23rd Apr 2007 CUP FINAL	V	Mostonians 'B' (at Daisy Hill) 0 - 2 (ht.0-1) KICK OFF 7.30pm scorers : -
		The pitch was softened by two days much needed rain, the surface was good and the ball zipped off the turf. Moston were into their stride quicker than us controlling play as we defended in depth. They were rewarded for the start with the first goal after 10 mins but it was disappointing from our viewpoint. We passed the ball square across our own back four, instead of sending it down field or into touch, this put the central defence in trouble as their forward challenged the ball broke loose, fortuitously for the onrushing attacker who slotted it under the advancing keeper. The next 10-15 mins was fairly even but gradually we began to get a stranglehold and for the last 20 mins of the 1st half we dominated play. Restricting them to counter attacking as we had ALL the pressure. Sadly though we couldn't create many clear cut chances and we made some good breaks but the final pass, cross or shot was too often lacking enough quality to result in a goal scoring chance. Then just before ht we fashioned a move that ended with Des receiving the ball inside the right side of the box with a clear sight of goal but his weak shot summed up our attacking efforts. Second half mirrored the first with them starting brightly for the first 5 mins but then once again we got to grips with them and dominated territory again for most of the rest of the match. Moston had little or no pressure on our goal in the 2nd half and again just relied on the counter attack. But as with the first period we camped in their half however only occasionally did we trouble the keeper. Keeno rose brilliantly to meet a cross but under pressure of a challenge couldn't keep his header down, Chris had a shot saved and Charlie, Daz and Des all had long range efforts. We needed a bit of a break in their box, but sadly they got the lucky break in the 75th min when a long clearance sailed over everyone and one of their forwards nipped in to beat our keeper to the ball, and once again it fell nicely for him to side foot into an empty net. Even at 0-2 we pushed forward for a goal to give us hope but it didn't happen on this occasion. In summary credit goes to both teams who tried, and succeeded in spells, to play football. Our back 5 was immense, despite the goals, and the midfield worked hard and pushed them back for most of the match, our front men never gave up but didn't receive the ammo. Both their goals were disappointing for us in that they didn't create them and, particularly the first, were a bit of a gift. We can be proud that our lads pushed to the end to get something but just our creativity or cutting edge in the final third was lacking tonight. But there will be other nights !!!
Wed. 25th Apr 2007	V	Chaddertonians 'B' (a) 3 - 3 (ht.-) scorers : A.Baldwin, S.Connoly, A.Robinson
		A good response from the lads after the disappointment of losing the final in our last game.
Sat. 28th Apr 2007	V	Oldham Hulmeians 'B' (h) 2 - 1 (ht.-) scorers : M.Bulman, C.Cornwell
		Another professional performance saw us get a good win with that rarest of events a Bully goal.
Mon. 20th Apr 2007	V	Bolton Wyresdale 'B' (a) 1 - 8 (ht.0-3) scorers : A.Robinson
		We struggled to raise a team and therefore played a crop of youngsters, whereas they strengthened their team with players from higher teams and this showed in all aspects a learning curve for our youngsters.
Wed. 2nd May 2007	V	Mostonians 'B' (a) 0 - 0 (ht.-) scorers : -
		Match Not Played (our fault) - Moston awarded points.
Sat. 5th May 2007	V	Spotland Meths 'B' (h) 5 - 1 (ht.-) scorers : S Corrigan (2), J Wilson, C Bradshaw, D Sanders
		A solid win/performance to round off a great season.

PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY Wed. 9th Aug. 2006	V	Newman College (a) 2 - 0 (ht.1-0) 7.00pm KO scorers : M.Jones 2
		It was the first teams first real game together this season against our annual pre-season friendly teams,a much improved Newman College. After losing 8 or 9 genuine 1st team players over the summer to other teams one of which Accrington Stanley, "who r they"? a brand new team took to the pitch. The game started at a brisk pace on a very big pitch with Newman almost scoring after a minute. New signings Scot, Sebby and Anthony Chatell played centre mid in an unfamiliar role of 5-3-2 and it took a while for them to adjust. It didn't stop Chatell sliding the ball through to club capt. Mick Jones to score. A more familiar 4-4-2 line to the 2nd half settled the team down and a much improved performance with some good football being played which led to another goal for Jonesy. A good first game and result which should have been 8-2 to Broughton. Other new players to the team played well Dave Bamber, Scott Iddon {hope he stays this year}, Neil Eccles who showed great attitude after being promoted from the 2nds, Craig who came on centre-mid, Smithy in nets - awesome!!! The next game will be much tougher specially with a couple of players missing and playing against quality opposition - but excuses over with - if we show the same commitment I'm sure we will put up a good game. - ME

PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY Sat. 12th Aug. 2006	V	Collegiate OB (h) 2 - 2 (ht.1-1) 2.30pm KO @ Myerscough scorers : A.Chatell, D.Bamber
		We began with Simon, the third team keeper, playing in nets and another new signing, Craig at centre-back. The game started at an even faster pace than Wednesday night with the "scoucers" playing their typical pass and move football effectively from front to back. Even so, we matched C.O.B at their own game and the words from manager Mick Elgee still ringing in their ears from the pre match team talk worked wonders to this young Broughton team. After that pacey opening spell and chances for both sides it ended as an even first half at 1-1 with Anthony Chatell scoring our well worked equaliser. Half time team talk was more of the same and with the chances we are creating, goals will surely come. Second half started with another new signing, Matt Johnston and young Tom from the thirds who played the first half really well, carrying on where he left off. Chance after chance was created by Broughton, but unfortunately C.O.B scored and soon after they nearly scored a third, and probably should have. Broughtons new found character and players willing to listen showed great commitment and we deservedly equalised with a goal from Dave Bamber. Well done Woodsy as well. In the final minutes Neil Eccles could have scored the winner, but didn't. Even so, "Pidge" had the best game Broughton's first team manager has seen from him. Overall, from the referees independent view, we should have won the game. But a 2 - 2 draw was more than satisfactory considering the oldest player was Mick Jones, until Danny Barry went on . . . "old tw*t". Well done lads, another tough game Wednesday, as part of our our rigorous pre-season schedule, but i'm sure we will do well if we play in the same manner. - ME

PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY Wed. 16th Aug. 2006	V	Horwich Vics (h) 2 - 1 (ht.2-0) scorers : S.Bamba, A.Chatell
		A few players missing tonight, but still managed to field 15 men. The game started off with us on top for a good half an hour playing some good football which resulted in a freakish goal for Sedu Bamba scoring a speculative 35 yard cross come shot which the Horwich keeper could not deal with. After that, Horwich seemed to settle down in a way we could not cope with and started knocking the ball high and long, which our defenders dealt with but only just. Even so, our footballing ability led to another goal, which was the result of a good move finished by Anthony Chatell smashing the ball home, from 20 yards into the top corner. HT 2 - 0. Second half started in the same manner as the first half ended, with us under pressure from long balls, but in short spells we still played some good football. Despite this Horwich scored a deserved goal to reduce the deficit, and dominated the remainder of the match. The report so far does not take into account goalkeeper Simon's brilliant display a major factor in winning the game for us. Scott Iddon also had a really good game, but to be honest, a draw would of been kinder and fairer to Horwich. But "a win is a win" which means we are, for the first time...in a long time, unbeaten in pre-season friendlies which, shows great character and belief. Saturday is our first real game of the season and if we carry on showing the same football ability and attitude, a result should favour us. Well done lads! - ME

2nd Team PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY Sat. 26th Aug. 2006	V	2nd Team v Oswaldtwistle St. Marys (h) 0 - 3 (ht.-) @ Myerscough
		A good run out and a competitive match for those that turned up, obviously a bit rusty and this showed as the more organised team ran out worthy winners.