After 14 years in the cup wilderness Everton are in the FA Cup Final, following their win over Manchester United today.
Woo and indeed hoo!
Showing posts with label FA Cup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FA Cup. Show all posts
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Get in!!!!
After 14 years in the cup wilderness Everton are in the FA Cup Final, following their win over Manchester United today.
Woo and indeed hoo!
Saturday, November 17, 2001
Tranmere Rovers 4 Brigg Town 1
Saturday 17th November 2001, FAC Round 1
Brigg Town’s brave FA Cup run ended today at cup graveyard Prenton Park. It was certainly no disgrace for Brigg, as the gulf in class between the two teams separated by five divisions, told in the end.
As you would expect Tranmere started the better of the two sides and in the ninth minute Rovers new signing Jason Price stole in following Gareth Roberts good work down the left had side. Brigg Town keeper Steve Jordan was more an equal to this and parried the ball to safety.
Tranmere’s early possession was rewarded soon after. Nineteen minutes into the game the home side took the lead. Veteran striker Paul Rideout, holder of a cup winner’s medal from his time over the water with Everton, was fouled on the edge of the box. From the resulting free-kick, new boy Alan Navarro stepped up to curl the ball into the back of the net, to make it one – nil to Tranmere.
Two minutes later, Navarro almost doubled his contribution to the game, when he dispossessed the Brigg back-line. He managed to fire in a shot but this was blocked by the visitor’s keeper.
These chances seemed to spur on the nervous looking Brigg Town and on 25 minutes they should really have equalised. Phill Rowland skipped down the right – his cross, found Simon Roach, Brigg’s hero of the last round. But his header had no pace and was gathered by the grateful Tranmere keeper Joe Murphy. A minute later Murphy had to alert when Steve Carter struck a long-range effort, but this was dealt with competently dealt with by the home keeper.
Brigg’s travelling support saw calls for a penalty turned down on the half hour mark, when Danny Hope, was seemingly felled, by Tranmere defender Graham Allen. The travelling fans had to make do with a corner instead.
Tranmere boss Dave Watson had obviously seen enough at this point – and left his position in the stands. This no doubt prompted the renaissance for the remainder of the second half.
After the break again Tranmere started the better of the two sides and after 48minutes they almost doubled their lead, when Stuart Barlow reacted the quickest to Paul Rideout’s flick on. Again the visitor’s keeper excelled himself by turning the ball around the post for a corner.
Just before the hour mark, Rovers lively new midfielder Jason Price gathered the ball outside the area; he beat two men but could only drill his shot into the side netting.
Tranmere’s fitness was beginning to tell at this point with Brigg unable to get a foothold into the game in the second half. It was inevitable that Tranmere would score and when they did it was no surprise who would score it.
The goal that broke Brigg hearts came on 64 minutes following good work down the right by Steve Yates. Yates’ cross found Price unmarked, his header was superbly saved by Jordan, unfortunately for him the ball fell kindly for the Tranmere man Price and he fired home to make it two – nil.
There was seemingly no way back for Brigg. Their task was made even greater after 76 minutes when Seyni N’Diaye burst through the visibly tiring Brigg back line. N’Diaye reached the by-line, where he back heeled the ball to Price who made the score three – nil.
Almost immediately Brigg grabbed themselves a consolation goal when substitute James Leech fired a curling shot past Murphy in the Tranmere goal. This capped a meteoric rise for the undergraduate from Leeds University, who up until three weeks ago was playing parks football.
With the game virtually over there was time for Tranmere to add to there total with three minutes to go when Sean Flynn unleashed an unstoppable shot from thirty-five yards past Steve Jordan, who had excelled himself despite conceding four goals. A minute later Jordan pulled of a remarkable point blank save to deny Stuart Barlow from close range.
So Briggs FA Cup odyssey is over, but what a great run it has been. After the game Ralph Clayton reflected on what might have been,
“ I really enjoyed today’s game. The reception we got from Tranmere was great. I’m really proud of them and my players.” Dave Watson the Tranmere manager paid tribute to the Brigg Town team “All credit to them in the first half they played some good football, but I felt second half we got to know them a little better. All credit to Brigg this was their day”
ATT – 7693
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Brigg Town’s brave FA Cup run ended today at cup graveyard Prenton Park. It was certainly no disgrace for Brigg, as the gulf in class between the two teams separated by five divisions, told in the end.
As you would expect Tranmere started the better of the two sides and in the ninth minute Rovers new signing Jason Price stole in following Gareth Roberts good work down the left had side. Brigg Town keeper Steve Jordan was more an equal to this and parried the ball to safety.
Tranmere’s early possession was rewarded soon after. Nineteen minutes into the game the home side took the lead. Veteran striker Paul Rideout, holder of a cup winner’s medal from his time over the water with Everton, was fouled on the edge of the box. From the resulting free-kick, new boy Alan Navarro stepped up to curl the ball into the back of the net, to make it one – nil to Tranmere.
Two minutes later, Navarro almost doubled his contribution to the game, when he dispossessed the Brigg back-line. He managed to fire in a shot but this was blocked by the visitor’s keeper.
These chances seemed to spur on the nervous looking Brigg Town and on 25 minutes they should really have equalised. Phill Rowland skipped down the right – his cross, found Simon Roach, Brigg’s hero of the last round. But his header had no pace and was gathered by the grateful Tranmere keeper Joe Murphy. A minute later Murphy had to alert when Steve Carter struck a long-range effort, but this was dealt with competently dealt with by the home keeper.
Brigg’s travelling support saw calls for a penalty turned down on the half hour mark, when Danny Hope, was seemingly felled, by Tranmere defender Graham Allen. The travelling fans had to make do with a corner instead.
Tranmere boss Dave Watson had obviously seen enough at this point – and left his position in the stands. This no doubt prompted the renaissance for the remainder of the second half.
After the break again Tranmere started the better of the two sides and after 48minutes they almost doubled their lead, when Stuart Barlow reacted the quickest to Paul Rideout’s flick on. Again the visitor’s keeper excelled himself by turning the ball around the post for a corner.
Just before the hour mark, Rovers lively new midfielder Jason Price gathered the ball outside the area; he beat two men but could only drill his shot into the side netting.
Tranmere’s fitness was beginning to tell at this point with Brigg unable to get a foothold into the game in the second half. It was inevitable that Tranmere would score and when they did it was no surprise who would score it.
The goal that broke Brigg hearts came on 64 minutes following good work down the right by Steve Yates. Yates’ cross found Price unmarked, his header was superbly saved by Jordan, unfortunately for him the ball fell kindly for the Tranmere man Price and he fired home to make it two – nil.
There was seemingly no way back for Brigg. Their task was made even greater after 76 minutes when Seyni N’Diaye burst through the visibly tiring Brigg back line. N’Diaye reached the by-line, where he back heeled the ball to Price who made the score three – nil.
Almost immediately Brigg grabbed themselves a consolation goal when substitute James Leech fired a curling shot past Murphy in the Tranmere goal. This capped a meteoric rise for the undergraduate from Leeds University, who up until three weeks ago was playing parks football.
With the game virtually over there was time for Tranmere to add to there total with three minutes to go when Sean Flynn unleashed an unstoppable shot from thirty-five yards past Steve Jordan, who had excelled himself despite conceding four goals. A minute later Jordan pulled of a remarkable point blank save to deny Stuart Barlow from close range.
So Briggs FA Cup odyssey is over, but what a great run it has been. After the game Ralph Clayton reflected on what might have been,
“ I really enjoyed today’s game. The reception we got from Tranmere was great. I’m really proud of them and my players.” Dave Watson the Tranmere manager paid tribute to the Brigg Town team “All credit to them in the first half they played some good football, but I felt second half we got to know them a little better. All credit to Brigg this was their day”
ATT – 7693
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Tuesday, October 30, 2001
Southport 2 Marine 1
FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round, Replay, Tuesday 30th October 2001
Southport booked a place in the first round proper of the FA Cup with a 2-1 victory over Marine at the second time of asking. The Sandgrounders were made to work hard for their win, by a spirited Marine side that battled hard over the two games, and almost forced today’s game into extra time.
The Merseyside area had been treated to barmy summer like conditions all day, so it was no surprise that the referees whistle would herald storm like weather conditions, which forced the Marine fans on the open terrace, behind the goal, to run for the shelter of the covered main stand.
Southport made three changes from the side that disappointed at the weekend. Back came centre back John Robertson, who announced his return from suspension with an early booking. Like Saturday, it was Southport who started the better of the two sides and seven minutes into the game they almost took the lead when Neil Grayston’s cross from the left, found Simon Parke unmarked who narrowly fired wide of the goal. Six minutes later Parke rattled the cross bar with a header from Chris Lanes cross from the right.
Chris Clarke in Marine goal had to be alert on 14 minutes, when he saved a speculative effort from Port’s Tony Sullivan. Given the conditions had taken a turn for the worse this was a smart save from Clarke, at the foot of the post to his left.
The conditions almost played a part in Marines best chance of the game so far. 22 minutes into the game, Richie Townsend’s cross-eluded everyone in the Southport back line. Kevin Formby stole in to fire a shot that was well saved by Steve Dickinson in the Southport goal.
A minute later though Southport got the goal that there, first half pressure had deserved. Sullivan took the free kick near the half way line to Chris lane, whose cross-found defender Barry Jones who rifled his shot from the edge past the despairing dive of Clarke.
Credit to Marine, like Saturday they responded to going a goal down took the game to Southport. Nine minutes before half-time a chance went begging for Marine, when the Townsend, John Morgan or Kevin Formby never took the responsibility to convert Jon Gautrey’s cross.
The second half started with Marine continuing to search for that elusive goal and three minutes in Michael Douglas’ long ball into the box found John Morgan who turned and fired narrowly wide of the goal. Marine were frustrated in their efforts in finding a goal, in the second half. For all their possession they lacked that killer pass that could break down the effective Southport back line
Southport’s Simon Parke was further frustrated by a combination of the post and the Marine keeper Clarke, following Chris Lanes right wing corner.
Out of nothing Southport increased their lead on 71 minutes when Lee Elam dispossessed centre back Steve Rimmer. He skipped past two men but was brilliantly tackled by Gautrey. However, Elam’s follow up shot cannoned off a Marine defender and the ball fell to Steve Jones whose shot was deflected past the unlucky Clarke from the edge of the box.
Roly Howard’s plucky Marine side showed their usual strength of character and almost grabbed a foothold back into the game two minutes later. How Morgan didn’t score god only knows. It was a similar chance to that of Simon Parke earlier in the half. Again a combination of the post and the keeper’s agility denied Marine.
Marines never say die attitude brought them a late consolation goal, when a quickly taken free kick by substitute Neil Black, was turned into his own net by John Robertson. It was all in vein the visitors were left to rue earlier mistakes. Southport just about shaded it tonight but Marine was left to contemplate what might have been.
Manger Roly Howard summed up his feelings by stating “The team has played well and done us proud over the two games. We gave as good as we got in both games. We let ourselves down a little with the number of chances we failed to put away and we’ve got to put that right”
Southport’s under pressure manager Phil Wilson was certainly a very relieved man at the final whistle. “I felt we deserved tonight’s victory. It’s certainly important for us to be in the next round of the cup. Its certainly hard at this stage of the competition as the eight conference sides eliminated at the weekend will testify”
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Southport booked a place in the first round proper of the FA Cup with a 2-1 victory over Marine at the second time of asking. The Sandgrounders were made to work hard for their win, by a spirited Marine side that battled hard over the two games, and almost forced today’s game into extra time.
The Merseyside area had been treated to barmy summer like conditions all day, so it was no surprise that the referees whistle would herald storm like weather conditions, which forced the Marine fans on the open terrace, behind the goal, to run for the shelter of the covered main stand.
Southport made three changes from the side that disappointed at the weekend. Back came centre back John Robertson, who announced his return from suspension with an early booking. Like Saturday, it was Southport who started the better of the two sides and seven minutes into the game they almost took the lead when Neil Grayston’s cross from the left, found Simon Parke unmarked who narrowly fired wide of the goal. Six minutes later Parke rattled the cross bar with a header from Chris Lanes cross from the right.
Chris Clarke in Marine goal had to be alert on 14 minutes, when he saved a speculative effort from Port’s Tony Sullivan. Given the conditions had taken a turn for the worse this was a smart save from Clarke, at the foot of the post to his left.
The conditions almost played a part in Marines best chance of the game so far. 22 minutes into the game, Richie Townsend’s cross-eluded everyone in the Southport back line. Kevin Formby stole in to fire a shot that was well saved by Steve Dickinson in the Southport goal.
A minute later though Southport got the goal that there, first half pressure had deserved. Sullivan took the free kick near the half way line to Chris lane, whose cross-found defender Barry Jones who rifled his shot from the edge past the despairing dive of Clarke.
Credit to Marine, like Saturday they responded to going a goal down took the game to Southport. Nine minutes before half-time a chance went begging for Marine, when the Townsend, John Morgan or Kevin Formby never took the responsibility to convert Jon Gautrey’s cross.
The second half started with Marine continuing to search for that elusive goal and three minutes in Michael Douglas’ long ball into the box found John Morgan who turned and fired narrowly wide of the goal. Marine were frustrated in their efforts in finding a goal, in the second half. For all their possession they lacked that killer pass that could break down the effective Southport back line
Southport’s Simon Parke was further frustrated by a combination of the post and the Marine keeper Clarke, following Chris Lanes right wing corner.
Out of nothing Southport increased their lead on 71 minutes when Lee Elam dispossessed centre back Steve Rimmer. He skipped past two men but was brilliantly tackled by Gautrey. However, Elam’s follow up shot cannoned off a Marine defender and the ball fell to Steve Jones whose shot was deflected past the unlucky Clarke from the edge of the box.
Roly Howard’s plucky Marine side showed their usual strength of character and almost grabbed a foothold back into the game two minutes later. How Morgan didn’t score god only knows. It was a similar chance to that of Simon Parke earlier in the half. Again a combination of the post and the keeper’s agility denied Marine.
Marines never say die attitude brought them a late consolation goal, when a quickly taken free kick by substitute Neil Black, was turned into his own net by John Robertson. It was all in vein the visitors were left to rue earlier mistakes. Southport just about shaded it tonight but Marine was left to contemplate what might have been.
Manger Roly Howard summed up his feelings by stating “The team has played well and done us proud over the two games. We gave as good as we got in both games. We let ourselves down a little with the number of chances we failed to put away and we’ve got to put that right”
Southport’s under pressure manager Phil Wilson was certainly a very relieved man at the final whistle. “I felt we deserved tonight’s victory. It’s certainly important for us to be in the next round of the cup. Its certainly hard at this stage of the competition as the eight conference sides eliminated at the weekend will testify”
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Sunday, October 28, 2001
Marine 1 Southport 1
FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round, Saturday 27th October 2001
It was honours even at Rossett Park today as Unibond League side Marine denied their neighbours Southport a passage through to the first round proper of the FA Cup.
It was a cracking cup-tie played out by two teams with differing points to prove. Southport were looking to halt a run of form that has prompted some quite discontent amongst supporters, unhappy at the perceived direction with which the club is going. The Marine side contained numerous players who had played for Southport and no doubt they wanted to give a good account of themselves in front of their former team.
In front of Marine’s best attendance of the season with over 1300 in attendance, swelled by the travelling support of Southport who had made the relatively short trip down the coast. Southport kicked off attacking the College Road end and looked fairly purposeful, belying the form that had seen them score only once in six games.
It was not long before Southport made their pressure count when five minutes into the game they took the lead. Southport keeper Steve Dickinson launched a long hopeful ball into the box. Steve Jones prevented the ball from going out and pulled the ball back to wing back Chris Lane who stole in unmarked on the six yard box unmarked to make it one nil to Southport.
Four minutes later Southport almost doubled their lead when James Connolly rose unchallenged to head the ball wide following Gary Bauress’ cross. Marine were under the cosh a little in the first quarter of the game seemingly unable to step out and get possession of the ball. When they did they used the ball effectively. Marine centre half Steve Rimmer brought the ball out from the back. His through ball found Kevin Formby who laid the ball off to Michael Douglas who fired his shot, straight at Southport keeper Dickinson.
Having been on the back foot for the early part of the game, Marine were now enjoying a greater share of the game and almost levelled the score when Jon Gautrey headed the ball over the bar from Kevin Formby’s cross.
The deserved equaliser finally came 21 minutes into the game. Anton Lally’s worked a quick corner to Formby, who delivered a precision cross to Richie Townsend to head home the equaliser. Townsend almost doubled his contribution to the game five minutes later but the ball did not run kindly for him.
Ten minutes before half time, the impressive Kevin Formby was again at the heart of the action. His deep searching cross was flicked on by Townsend to Eddie Hussin but he could only manage to head the ball over the bar.
On 38 minutes, Marines plans took a dent when midfielder Anton Lally went off with an injury and had to be replaced by Stuart Gelling.
With five minutes to go to half time, Southport could have restored their lead. Lee Elam showed his usual trickery down the flanks. He delivered a cross that had goal written all over it but for the timely intervention from Jon Gautrey off the head of Gary Bauress.
The second half followed a similar pattern to that of the first with Southport starting the brighter. A minute after the restart Marine keeper Chris Clarke brilliantly denied Simon Parke, with a point blank one handed save.
After this early scare Marine again stepped up the pressure. John Morgan beat the offside trap; unfortunately he could only fire his shot in to the side netting. Another chance fell to Mike Douglas who fired his long-range shot over the bar. Marine were enjoying the greater possession and the resolute Southport back line stood firm, and allowed Marine long-range speculative efforts.
Sixty-four minutes into the game, Marine full back Gary Randles won possession of the ball in midfield and fired a long-range effort that Southport keeper Dickinson was more than equal to. From the resulting corner Kevin Formby’s perfectly flighted corner found Morgan unmarked but he headed over on this occasion. Four minutes later another chance went begging for Marine, when Gautrey headed over the bar following more good work by Kevin Formby.
Southport enjoyed a brief respite from the constant Marine pressure with Kevin Leadbetter and Steve Jones going close for the visitors. With three minutes of normal time remaining Southport almost snatched the game from Marine. Southport full back Chris Lane got forward and delivered a cross to Simon Parke who could only head the ball over the bar. Two minutes later Marine’s Steve Rimmer brilliantly denied Parke the simplest of tap ins, following good work down the left by substitute Stuart Whittaker and Lee Elam.
In the end a fair result both sides had enough chances to win the game but they must do it all again on Tuesday night at Haigh Avenue to determine who will play Basingstoke or Dagenham & Redbridge in the next round.
ATT – 1307
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
It was honours even at Rossett Park today as Unibond League side Marine denied their neighbours Southport a passage through to the first round proper of the FA Cup.
It was a cracking cup-tie played out by two teams with differing points to prove. Southport were looking to halt a run of form that has prompted some quite discontent amongst supporters, unhappy at the perceived direction with which the club is going. The Marine side contained numerous players who had played for Southport and no doubt they wanted to give a good account of themselves in front of their former team.
In front of Marine’s best attendance of the season with over 1300 in attendance, swelled by the travelling support of Southport who had made the relatively short trip down the coast. Southport kicked off attacking the College Road end and looked fairly purposeful, belying the form that had seen them score only once in six games.
It was not long before Southport made their pressure count when five minutes into the game they took the lead. Southport keeper Steve Dickinson launched a long hopeful ball into the box. Steve Jones prevented the ball from going out and pulled the ball back to wing back Chris Lane who stole in unmarked on the six yard box unmarked to make it one nil to Southport.
Four minutes later Southport almost doubled their lead when James Connolly rose unchallenged to head the ball wide following Gary Bauress’ cross. Marine were under the cosh a little in the first quarter of the game seemingly unable to step out and get possession of the ball. When they did they used the ball effectively. Marine centre half Steve Rimmer brought the ball out from the back. His through ball found Kevin Formby who laid the ball off to Michael Douglas who fired his shot, straight at Southport keeper Dickinson.
Having been on the back foot for the early part of the game, Marine were now enjoying a greater share of the game and almost levelled the score when Jon Gautrey headed the ball over the bar from Kevin Formby’s cross.
The deserved equaliser finally came 21 minutes into the game. Anton Lally’s worked a quick corner to Formby, who delivered a precision cross to Richie Townsend to head home the equaliser. Townsend almost doubled his contribution to the game five minutes later but the ball did not run kindly for him.
Ten minutes before half time, the impressive Kevin Formby was again at the heart of the action. His deep searching cross was flicked on by Townsend to Eddie Hussin but he could only manage to head the ball over the bar.
On 38 minutes, Marines plans took a dent when midfielder Anton Lally went off with an injury and had to be replaced by Stuart Gelling.
With five minutes to go to half time, Southport could have restored their lead. Lee Elam showed his usual trickery down the flanks. He delivered a cross that had goal written all over it but for the timely intervention from Jon Gautrey off the head of Gary Bauress.
The second half followed a similar pattern to that of the first with Southport starting the brighter. A minute after the restart Marine keeper Chris Clarke brilliantly denied Simon Parke, with a point blank one handed save.
After this early scare Marine again stepped up the pressure. John Morgan beat the offside trap; unfortunately he could only fire his shot in to the side netting. Another chance fell to Mike Douglas who fired his long-range shot over the bar. Marine were enjoying the greater possession and the resolute Southport back line stood firm, and allowed Marine long-range speculative efforts.
Sixty-four minutes into the game, Marine full back Gary Randles won possession of the ball in midfield and fired a long-range effort that Southport keeper Dickinson was more than equal to. From the resulting corner Kevin Formby’s perfectly flighted corner found Morgan unmarked but he headed over on this occasion. Four minutes later another chance went begging for Marine, when Gautrey headed over the bar following more good work by Kevin Formby.
Southport enjoyed a brief respite from the constant Marine pressure with Kevin Leadbetter and Steve Jones going close for the visitors. With three minutes of normal time remaining Southport almost snatched the game from Marine. Southport full back Chris Lane got forward and delivered a cross to Simon Parke who could only head the ball over the bar. Two minutes later Marine’s Steve Rimmer brilliantly denied Parke the simplest of tap ins, following good work down the left by substitute Stuart Whittaker and Lee Elam.
In the end a fair result both sides had enough chances to win the game but they must do it all again on Tuesday night at Haigh Avenue to determine who will play Basingstoke or Dagenham & Redbridge in the next round.
ATT – 1307
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Sunday, October 14, 2001
Runcorn FC Halton 2 Bedlington Terriers 2
FA Cup Sponsored by AXA Third Qualifying Round, Saturday 13th October 2001
Former Newcastle and Preston North End man Ian Boggie, denied Runcorn with late equaliser in this keenly contested encounter. It means that both sides will have to do it all again on Wednesday night up in the North East.
It was a special day for the home side as today’s game was the first FA cup-tie to be played at Runcorn’s new home, the impressive Auto Quest stadium. It was certainly a case of first night nerves for the home side after a sluggish opening 45 minutes. It was renowned cup battlers Bedlington Terriers, who made the early running in this match. Not for the first time in cup football that the Terriers have belied their lowly status.
It was Runcorn’s Dave Gamble after six minutes, who tried a long-range effort that the Terriers keeper manage to fumble the ball to safety. It was all Bedlington at this moment, much to the frustration of the home supporters who were imploring their side to get forward and not sit back.
This advice was not heeded and after only six minutes of the match played, Bedlington took the lead. It was the visitors first meaningful shot on goal and it came following Dean Gibbs curling in swinging free kick which found William Moat unmarked to head home to give the Terriers an early lead that their early pressure had warranted.
It was a sizeable crowd at the Auto Quest stadium today, augmented with a good number from the North East and both sets of supporters were united in their despair at the whistle happy official from Manchester. Frustrations were rising amongst the players and Terriers player Ian Boggie earned himself a telling off from the referee, for talking out of turn.
In a bid get Runcorn back into the game player-manager Liam Watson switched wings and this almost paid dividends. Watson’s cross found Dominic Morley who seemed to Dally on the ball to long, his pass found Gamble who curled the ball around the post and wide.
Ten minutes before half time, Bedlington almost doubled their lead but John Milner could only head the ball wide, following Anthony Chapman’s cross. Despite this scare Runcorn were enjoying a healthy spell of pressure and after 36 minutes they were back in the match. A long probing ball from right to left by full back Steve Carragher, found Watson whose shot was saved by the keeper. Bedlington couldn’t clear their lines and from the right corner of the pitch Carragher, again delivered the decisive ball, which found McNally, who headed home to equalise.
Runcorn started the second half the more purposeful and were rewarded two minutes into the second half with a goal. Again Carragher whipped in a curling a cross that found McNally, who stole a yard on his marker but his header was saved with by visiting keeper.
The referee had seemingly awarded a corner. But with the intervention of the assistant linesman he changed this decision and instead he awarded a penalty, much to the annoyance of the visitors. The Bedlington defender was adjudged to have impeded McNally when he headed the ball. It was Liam Watson who made sure from the spot to give Runcorn the lead.
The referee was again the centre of attention a minute later when he had appeared to caution Bedlington’s number seven Anthony Chapman for talking out of turn. The confusion was heightened seconds later when Chapman was booked for an over the ball challenge on Watson. Everyone in the ground and on the benches believed that this caution was Chapman’s second of the game. The referee appeared to take his book out for the earlier incident but it transpired that he was not booked.
Bedlington were now chasing the game and John Milner was guilty of squandering two easy chances in the second half. It was Runcorn’s turn to waste chances when on 68 minutes Paul McNally fired wide following good work down the left by Liam Watson. It was to be Watson’s last meaningful contribution to game, as he appeared to pull up with a knee injury and was replaced by David Ness.
It was all Bedlington at this stage in the game as the visitors went in search of the goal that would earn them an equaliser. With four minutes of the game remaining Bedlington were awarded a free kick thirty yards out. No doubt the former teammate of Paul Gascoigne, Ian Boggie, had learnt a few tricks of the trade, from his more illustrious colleague all those years ago in the Newcastle youth team. This showed as he despatched the ball curling, over the wall and into the back of the net to give Bedlington the equaliser that their performance had deserved.
So it’s to Wednesday and a long trip to the North East for Runcorn, who are no doubt kicking themselves that this tie slipped from their grasp. Bedlington will start the replay favourites and will no doubt be fancying a plum tie in the Monday’s cup draw.
ATT – 396
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Former Newcastle and Preston North End man Ian Boggie, denied Runcorn with late equaliser in this keenly contested encounter. It means that both sides will have to do it all again on Wednesday night up in the North East.
It was a special day for the home side as today’s game was the first FA cup-tie to be played at Runcorn’s new home, the impressive Auto Quest stadium. It was certainly a case of first night nerves for the home side after a sluggish opening 45 minutes. It was renowned cup battlers Bedlington Terriers, who made the early running in this match. Not for the first time in cup football that the Terriers have belied their lowly status.
It was Runcorn’s Dave Gamble after six minutes, who tried a long-range effort that the Terriers keeper manage to fumble the ball to safety. It was all Bedlington at this moment, much to the frustration of the home supporters who were imploring their side to get forward and not sit back.
This advice was not heeded and after only six minutes of the match played, Bedlington took the lead. It was the visitors first meaningful shot on goal and it came following Dean Gibbs curling in swinging free kick which found William Moat unmarked to head home to give the Terriers an early lead that their early pressure had warranted.
It was a sizeable crowd at the Auto Quest stadium today, augmented with a good number from the North East and both sets of supporters were united in their despair at the whistle happy official from Manchester. Frustrations were rising amongst the players and Terriers player Ian Boggie earned himself a telling off from the referee, for talking out of turn.
In a bid get Runcorn back into the game player-manager Liam Watson switched wings and this almost paid dividends. Watson’s cross found Dominic Morley who seemed to Dally on the ball to long, his pass found Gamble who curled the ball around the post and wide.
Ten minutes before half time, Bedlington almost doubled their lead but John Milner could only head the ball wide, following Anthony Chapman’s cross. Despite this scare Runcorn were enjoying a healthy spell of pressure and after 36 minutes they were back in the match. A long probing ball from right to left by full back Steve Carragher, found Watson whose shot was saved by the keeper. Bedlington couldn’t clear their lines and from the right corner of the pitch Carragher, again delivered the decisive ball, which found McNally, who headed home to equalise.
Runcorn started the second half the more purposeful and were rewarded two minutes into the second half with a goal. Again Carragher whipped in a curling a cross that found McNally, who stole a yard on his marker but his header was saved with by visiting keeper.
The referee had seemingly awarded a corner. But with the intervention of the assistant linesman he changed this decision and instead he awarded a penalty, much to the annoyance of the visitors. The Bedlington defender was adjudged to have impeded McNally when he headed the ball. It was Liam Watson who made sure from the spot to give Runcorn the lead.
The referee was again the centre of attention a minute later when he had appeared to caution Bedlington’s number seven Anthony Chapman for talking out of turn. The confusion was heightened seconds later when Chapman was booked for an over the ball challenge on Watson. Everyone in the ground and on the benches believed that this caution was Chapman’s second of the game. The referee appeared to take his book out for the earlier incident but it transpired that he was not booked.
Bedlington were now chasing the game and John Milner was guilty of squandering two easy chances in the second half. It was Runcorn’s turn to waste chances when on 68 minutes Paul McNally fired wide following good work down the left by Liam Watson. It was to be Watson’s last meaningful contribution to game, as he appeared to pull up with a knee injury and was replaced by David Ness.
It was all Bedlington at this stage in the game as the visitors went in search of the goal that would earn them an equaliser. With four minutes of the game remaining Bedlington were awarded a free kick thirty yards out. No doubt the former teammate of Paul Gascoigne, Ian Boggie, had learnt a few tricks of the trade, from his more illustrious colleague all those years ago in the Newcastle youth team. This showed as he despatched the ball curling, over the wall and into the back of the net to give Bedlington the equaliser that their performance had deserved.
So it’s to Wednesday and a long trip to the North East for Runcorn, who are no doubt kicking themselves that this tie slipped from their grasp. Bedlington will start the replay favourites and will no doubt be fancying a plum tie in the Monday’s cup draw.
ATT – 396
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Saturday, January 6, 2001
Blackburn Rovers 2 Chester City 0
F.A. Cup - Third Round, Saturday 6th January 2001
Second-half Goals from Blackburn's Martin Taylor and Marcus Bent put paid to a spirited performance from Nationwide Conference side Chester City.
City were backed a strong contingent of their own supporters almost 3,000 made the trip and even though the result went against them, they certainly could be proud of their sides efforts. So many of them had made the trip in fact, that the game had to be delayed by 15 minutes to enable them to reach the ground in time for kick-off.
When the game finally got under way, Chester made a mockery of the supposed gulf in class between the two sides, in the opening exchanges of the game, they began the game with a purpose. They coped well with Blackburn's early chances and they even managed to carve out chances of their own.
On thirteen minutes, Chester’s left wing back Matt Doughty made good ground down the left wing, but he could not steer his cross in to the path of another Chester player. Blackburn tried to clear their lines, but only as far as Steve Whitehall who fired his shot over the bar.
It would not have been a typical cup tie, without the odd over ‘enthusiastic’ tackle and this game was certainly no different. Chester’s Carl Ruffer was booked on 15 minutes after a rash challenge on Blackburn’s Matt Jansen. Seven minutes later, Rovers former Liverpool and Norway wing-back Stig Inge Bjornebye followed Ruffer into the referees note book, after an equally crude challenge.
The game settled down again and after 23 minutes, Craig Hignett fired a shot on to the post from 25 yards. The early composure that Chester had shown in the first 30 minutes was not apparent when, Chester centre half Lancaster conceded an unnecessary corner after a breakdown in communications between himself and Chester goalkeeper Wayne Brown. From the resulting corner, Paul Carden almost put through his own goal, under no pressure from any advancing Blackburn forwards.
City managed to retain the ball well in the first-half, but it was Blackburn who managed to out carve the best chances, Jansen came close twice, but on both occasions he fired wide. Chester’s Matt Doughty wasted a good opportunity after a great tackle in his own half saw him run the length of the pitch, but instead of putting Whitehall through, he fired over the bar.
It certainly was not Chester who wanted the first-half to end. As the half wore on they showed the greater urgency of the two teams and looked the more assured.
Blackburn manager Graeme Souness, no doubt had a few things to say to his players at half-time. In an attempt to shake things up Souness replaced the largely ineffective Darren Dunning with the youngster Jonathon Douglas for the start of the second period.
Blackburn were on the attack early in the second-half, with the words of Graeme Souness, no doubt still ringing in their ears. Looking a little sharper than they did in the first half, they should have scored after 50 minutes, when David Dunn sent over a cross to Egil Ostenstad, who could only steer his header at the Chester goalkeeper.This was to be Ostenstads only and last contribution to the game, he was replaced by Marcus Bent on the hour mark.
Chester were still pushing forward in search of a goal to break the deadlock. With 20 minutes to go they thought their endeavours had been rewarded when Steve Whitehall put the ball past Blackburn’s Brad Friedel but the referee had adjudged that Carl Ruffer had climbed all over Martin Taylor, from Cardens inswinging corner.
As thoughts were turning to a possible replay, on 72 minutes Blackburn scored. Alan Mahon sent over a teasing corner which found the tall central defender, Martin Taylor, who glanced his header past the despairing dive of Wayne Brown.
Chester could have laid down and died at this point, but they fought back and they very nearly equalised. Steve Whitehall who had been denied earlier by a referees whistle this time found himself denied by a superb save from Friedal, the ball eventually fell to Paul Beesley who fired wide of the post. Then again, with eight minutes to go, after good work by Chester substitute Darren Wright down the left put in Whitehall, who fired over the bar from close range.
Blackburn then sealed their passage through to the next round with eight minutes to go. After a harshly awarded free kick for an alleged foul on the left touch line by Neil Fisher on Alan Mahon. From Dunn’s resulting free-kick found Bent unmarked, who then headed past the unlucky Wayne Brown in the Chester goal.
Though Blackburn were just about worthy of their victory, it was certainly cruel that Chester did not get a replay that their endeavours deserved. Chester manager Graham Barrow, although disappointed to lose reflected on the positive aspects of the day
“I thought my players were quite phenomenal and I couldn’t ask for anything more from them. Although I'm disappointed with the result, I am pleased with my players attitude. This performance can give us hope for the future”
Graeme Souness reflected on the game that it was a no-win situation for Blackburn and was just pleased to go through “ I was disappointed by our first-half performance, we weren’t at the races at all. I’m just glad that we never came unstook”
Attendance 15,223
Second-half Goals from Blackburn's Martin Taylor and Marcus Bent put paid to a spirited performance from Nationwide Conference side Chester City.
City were backed a strong contingent of their own supporters almost 3,000 made the trip and even though the result went against them, they certainly could be proud of their sides efforts. So many of them had made the trip in fact, that the game had to be delayed by 15 minutes to enable them to reach the ground in time for kick-off.
When the game finally got under way, Chester made a mockery of the supposed gulf in class between the two sides, in the opening exchanges of the game, they began the game with a purpose. They coped well with Blackburn's early chances and they even managed to carve out chances of their own.
On thirteen minutes, Chester’s left wing back Matt Doughty made good ground down the left wing, but he could not steer his cross in to the path of another Chester player. Blackburn tried to clear their lines, but only as far as Steve Whitehall who fired his shot over the bar.
It would not have been a typical cup tie, without the odd over ‘enthusiastic’ tackle and this game was certainly no different. Chester’s Carl Ruffer was booked on 15 minutes after a rash challenge on Blackburn’s Matt Jansen. Seven minutes later, Rovers former Liverpool and Norway wing-back Stig Inge Bjornebye followed Ruffer into the referees note book, after an equally crude challenge.
The game settled down again and after 23 minutes, Craig Hignett fired a shot on to the post from 25 yards. The early composure that Chester had shown in the first 30 minutes was not apparent when, Chester centre half Lancaster conceded an unnecessary corner after a breakdown in communications between himself and Chester goalkeeper Wayne Brown. From the resulting corner, Paul Carden almost put through his own goal, under no pressure from any advancing Blackburn forwards.
City managed to retain the ball well in the first-half, but it was Blackburn who managed to out carve the best chances, Jansen came close twice, but on both occasions he fired wide. Chester’s Matt Doughty wasted a good opportunity after a great tackle in his own half saw him run the length of the pitch, but instead of putting Whitehall through, he fired over the bar.
It certainly was not Chester who wanted the first-half to end. As the half wore on they showed the greater urgency of the two teams and looked the more assured.
Blackburn manager Graeme Souness, no doubt had a few things to say to his players at half-time. In an attempt to shake things up Souness replaced the largely ineffective Darren Dunning with the youngster Jonathon Douglas for the start of the second period.
Blackburn were on the attack early in the second-half, with the words of Graeme Souness, no doubt still ringing in their ears. Looking a little sharper than they did in the first half, they should have scored after 50 minutes, when David Dunn sent over a cross to Egil Ostenstad, who could only steer his header at the Chester goalkeeper.This was to be Ostenstads only and last contribution to the game, he was replaced by Marcus Bent on the hour mark.
Chester were still pushing forward in search of a goal to break the deadlock. With 20 minutes to go they thought their endeavours had been rewarded when Steve Whitehall put the ball past Blackburn’s Brad Friedel but the referee had adjudged that Carl Ruffer had climbed all over Martin Taylor, from Cardens inswinging corner.
As thoughts were turning to a possible replay, on 72 minutes Blackburn scored. Alan Mahon sent over a teasing corner which found the tall central defender, Martin Taylor, who glanced his header past the despairing dive of Wayne Brown.
Chester could have laid down and died at this point, but they fought back and they very nearly equalised. Steve Whitehall who had been denied earlier by a referees whistle this time found himself denied by a superb save from Friedal, the ball eventually fell to Paul Beesley who fired wide of the post. Then again, with eight minutes to go, after good work by Chester substitute Darren Wright down the left put in Whitehall, who fired over the bar from close range.
Blackburn then sealed their passage through to the next round with eight minutes to go. After a harshly awarded free kick for an alleged foul on the left touch line by Neil Fisher on Alan Mahon. From Dunn’s resulting free-kick found Bent unmarked, who then headed past the unlucky Wayne Brown in the Chester goal.
Though Blackburn were just about worthy of their victory, it was certainly cruel that Chester did not get a replay that their endeavours deserved. Chester manager Graham Barrow, although disappointed to lose reflected on the positive aspects of the day
“I thought my players were quite phenomenal and I couldn’t ask for anything more from them. Although I'm disappointed with the result, I am pleased with my players attitude. This performance can give us hope for the future”
Graeme Souness reflected on the game that it was a no-win situation for Blackburn and was just pleased to go through “ I was disappointed by our first-half performance, we weren’t at the races at all. I’m just glad that we never came unstook”
Attendance 15,223
Sunday, December 10, 2000
Southport 1 Kingstonian 2
Saturday 9th December 2000, FA Cup Second Round
First half goals from Mark Harris and the impressive Geoff Pitcher saw Kingstonian through to the third round of the FA cup for only the first time in their history.
In an all Nationwide conference clash Southport unbeaten in their last ten games and currently second in the table, took on Kingstonian currently residing in the bottom three. With renowned cup campaigner Geoff Chapple in charge, this game was always going to be a different proposition for Southport. The Southport public responded to Mark Wright’s midweek call for them to get behind their team, with well over 3000 in attendance.
Southport’s best gate by some distance this season.
Kingstonian gained an early advantage by winning the toss, and elected to kick with the wind in the first half. This tactic nearly came to fruition in the opening minutes of the game when Sammy Winston sent over a speculative effort which nearly deceived the Southport keeper, Dickinson.
The initial exchanges were scrappy but this was to be expected in a game with so much at stake. On nine minutes, Southport’s Ian Arnold tried a long range effort from outside the box after receiving a pass from And Gouck. This brought about a concerted spell of pressure for Southport. A minute later the lively Dino Maamria was put through again by Gouck, but unfortunately for the home crowd. Maamria’s shot hit the post and bounced to safety.
Even though Southport were enjoying more of the possession in the early stages of the game. Kingstonian had chances as well, carved out by an effective counter attacking ploy which nearly paid dividends. After twelve minutes Kingstonian won a succession of corners. One of which brought the best out of the Southport keeper, when he denied a Sammy Winston header with an acrobatic tip over from Pitchers well worked corner.
The changing nature of this encounter saw Southport come close with efforts from Maamria
And ex-Liverpool player Mike Marsh. But Southport were left to rue these missed chances when Kingstonian seized the advantage. Twenty minutes into the game the referee awarded Kingtonian a free kick, just outside the box following a foul by Scott Guyett. Geoff Pitchers subsequent free-kick was charged down for a corner. From the resulting corner, Pitchers perfectly flighted cross found Mark Harris at the back post, who lept above the flailing keeper to put Kingstonian into the lead
Southport tried to get back into the game just minute later when Phil Bolland placed a header just wide from Mike Marsh’s corner kick. The end to end nature of the game showed no signs of abating when on 30 minutes Kingstonian full back Colin Luckett, tried a shot from 25 yards which sailed over the keeper and luckily for him onto the bar.
Obviously encouraged by Luckett’s shot a minute earlier. Geoff Pitcher tried his luck from similar distance. Yet this time Pitchers stunning effort found the top right of Dickinsons net, to make the score two-nil to the visitors.
All credit to Southport they tried to get back into the match straight away, and they did so soon after. On 39 minutes, great work in and around the area by Gouck and Maamria, saw Maamria unleash a shot into the top left hand corner to bring the score to two-one.
Maamria’s influence came to the fore again a minute later when he pounced on a Marsh through ball beating the Kingstonian offside trap, but on this occasion he was denied’ in what was to be Southport’s last chance of the half.
In the second half, Southport tried to use the advantage of the wind, like Kingstonian had in the first half. An early substitutuion for Southport with Whittaker replacing Furlong nearly paid dividends. Good work down the left by Whittaker played in Maamria who had his shot blocked.
Andy Gouck was lucky to stay on the field after 50 minutes. After a typically robust challenge, which saw him come off the worse. After a lengthy stoppage, the referee decided to take no further action just as well as he had been booked earlier in the game.
For all Southport’s second-half pressure, they failed to capitalise on the possession they enjoyed. At times the final ball was not forthcoming and there was a tendency to over elaborate with their passing. The second-half was a more stop start affair which suited Kingstonian more than Southport who found it difficult getting any tempo to their play as they chased the game.
Kingstonian coped resolutely with everything that Southport threw at them and only allowed the home side half chances. When the visitors did attack they were prompted by the impressive former Watford and Colchester player Geoff Pitcher, who played a part in both goals and most of their attacks.
Southport nearly found away through on 76 minutes. When Maamria kept possession well to put in Andy Whittaker who fired over the bar. Despite constant pressure from Southport, they were unable to turn this pressure into goals. When they did find a way through poor finishing or the impressive young keeper Gavin Kelly was to blame. Kelly was making his debut today for Kingstonian following a recommendation from Tottenham’s goal keeping coach Hans Segars.
With four minutes to go Southport were further denied when a goal bound effort from Mike Marsh was cleared off the line. Kingstonian nearly put the game beyond Southport when substitute Nyamah forced Southport keeper Dickinson into an error. When he put his clearance straight to the advancing striker, fortunately for Dickinson, Nyamah could not steer his shot goal wards.
With time up the fourth official indicated that a further four minutes would be added on. Southport had every chance of bringing about an equaliser, which they nearly did. Again Maamria was at the heart of the action. His pass found Ian Arnold at the post, from five yards Arnold blasted over the advancing keeper and more importantly over the bar.
After the giant killing exploits of the previous round Kingstonian live to fight another day. As Southport ponder what might have been. Kingstonian’s manager Geoff Chapple thought’s turned to the next round.
“ Although I’m a Chelsea fan, I would like an away trip to Manchester United-for the financial reward as well as the chance to play at a great stadium.”
Southport’s manager Mark Wright was gracious in defeat and was in disbelief as how Kingstonian were languishing in the bottom three of the conference. But he did bemoan his sides bad luck.
“We created five easy chances but we didn’t put them away. We missed leading scorer Simon Parke and Andy Gouck played with flu”
Attendance - 3,659
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
First half goals from Mark Harris and the impressive Geoff Pitcher saw Kingstonian through to the third round of the FA cup for only the first time in their history.
In an all Nationwide conference clash Southport unbeaten in their last ten games and currently second in the table, took on Kingstonian currently residing in the bottom three. With renowned cup campaigner Geoff Chapple in charge, this game was always going to be a different proposition for Southport. The Southport public responded to Mark Wright’s midweek call for them to get behind their team, with well over 3000 in attendance.
Southport’s best gate by some distance this season.
Kingstonian gained an early advantage by winning the toss, and elected to kick with the wind in the first half. This tactic nearly came to fruition in the opening minutes of the game when Sammy Winston sent over a speculative effort which nearly deceived the Southport keeper, Dickinson.
The initial exchanges were scrappy but this was to be expected in a game with so much at stake. On nine minutes, Southport’s Ian Arnold tried a long range effort from outside the box after receiving a pass from And Gouck. This brought about a concerted spell of pressure for Southport. A minute later the lively Dino Maamria was put through again by Gouck, but unfortunately for the home crowd. Maamria’s shot hit the post and bounced to safety.
Even though Southport were enjoying more of the possession in the early stages of the game. Kingstonian had chances as well, carved out by an effective counter attacking ploy which nearly paid dividends. After twelve minutes Kingstonian won a succession of corners. One of which brought the best out of the Southport keeper, when he denied a Sammy Winston header with an acrobatic tip over from Pitchers well worked corner.
The changing nature of this encounter saw Southport come close with efforts from Maamria
And ex-Liverpool player Mike Marsh. But Southport were left to rue these missed chances when Kingstonian seized the advantage. Twenty minutes into the game the referee awarded Kingtonian a free kick, just outside the box following a foul by Scott Guyett. Geoff Pitchers subsequent free-kick was charged down for a corner. From the resulting corner, Pitchers perfectly flighted cross found Mark Harris at the back post, who lept above the flailing keeper to put Kingstonian into the lead
Southport tried to get back into the game just minute later when Phil Bolland placed a header just wide from Mike Marsh’s corner kick. The end to end nature of the game showed no signs of abating when on 30 minutes Kingstonian full back Colin Luckett, tried a shot from 25 yards which sailed over the keeper and luckily for him onto the bar.
Obviously encouraged by Luckett’s shot a minute earlier. Geoff Pitcher tried his luck from similar distance. Yet this time Pitchers stunning effort found the top right of Dickinsons net, to make the score two-nil to the visitors.
All credit to Southport they tried to get back into the match straight away, and they did so soon after. On 39 minutes, great work in and around the area by Gouck and Maamria, saw Maamria unleash a shot into the top left hand corner to bring the score to two-one.
Maamria’s influence came to the fore again a minute later when he pounced on a Marsh through ball beating the Kingstonian offside trap, but on this occasion he was denied’ in what was to be Southport’s last chance of the half.
In the second half, Southport tried to use the advantage of the wind, like Kingstonian had in the first half. An early substitutuion for Southport with Whittaker replacing Furlong nearly paid dividends. Good work down the left by Whittaker played in Maamria who had his shot blocked.
Andy Gouck was lucky to stay on the field after 50 minutes. After a typically robust challenge, which saw him come off the worse. After a lengthy stoppage, the referee decided to take no further action just as well as he had been booked earlier in the game.
For all Southport’s second-half pressure, they failed to capitalise on the possession they enjoyed. At times the final ball was not forthcoming and there was a tendency to over elaborate with their passing. The second-half was a more stop start affair which suited Kingstonian more than Southport who found it difficult getting any tempo to their play as they chased the game.
Kingstonian coped resolutely with everything that Southport threw at them and only allowed the home side half chances. When the visitors did attack they were prompted by the impressive former Watford and Colchester player Geoff Pitcher, who played a part in both goals and most of their attacks.
Southport nearly found away through on 76 minutes. When Maamria kept possession well to put in Andy Whittaker who fired over the bar. Despite constant pressure from Southport, they were unable to turn this pressure into goals. When they did find a way through poor finishing or the impressive young keeper Gavin Kelly was to blame. Kelly was making his debut today for Kingstonian following a recommendation from Tottenham’s goal keeping coach Hans Segars.
With four minutes to go Southport were further denied when a goal bound effort from Mike Marsh was cleared off the line. Kingstonian nearly put the game beyond Southport when substitute Nyamah forced Southport keeper Dickinson into an error. When he put his clearance straight to the advancing striker, fortunately for Dickinson, Nyamah could not steer his shot goal wards.
With time up the fourth official indicated that a further four minutes would be added on. Southport had every chance of bringing about an equaliser, which they nearly did. Again Maamria was at the heart of the action. His pass found Ian Arnold at the post, from five yards Arnold blasted over the advancing keeper and more importantly over the bar.
After the giant killing exploits of the previous round Kingstonian live to fight another day. As Southport ponder what might have been. Kingstonian’s manager Geoff Chapple thought’s turned to the next round.
“ Although I’m a Chelsea fan, I would like an away trip to Manchester United-for the financial reward as well as the chance to play at a great stadium.”
Southport’s manager Mark Wright was gracious in defeat and was in disbelief as how Kingstonian were languishing in the bottom three of the conference. But he did bemoan his sides bad luck.
“We created five easy chances but we didn’t put them away. We missed leading scorer Simon Parke and Andy Gouck played with flu”
Attendance - 3,659
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Saturday, September 30, 2000
Marine 4 Colwyn Bay 3
Saturday 30th September 2000, FA Cup Second Qualifying Round
A dramatic last-minute header from Mark Schofield prevented a mid week trip to North Wales for Marine. In age when the traditions of the FA cup have been called into question, this game certainly had all the attributes of a classic encounter from a bygone age.
It was a game that Marine should have comfortably won. After taking a 2-0 lead through first half goals from Rick Bainbridge and Karl Robinson. On pressure and chances alone Marine deserved their half-time advantage.
The second half was a different story. Marines early season indecision came to the fore again. Three goals in three minutes altered the complexion of the game. After 48 minutes Frank Gibbon brought Colwyn Bay back into the game. A minute later Karl Robinson restored Marine’s two-goal advantage, but this was short lived. Ex-Manchester United player Deniol Graham a minute later went down the field scored and prompted Bay’s best spell of the game.
Marine went from a position of looking comfortable, to having to resort to resolute last ditch defending. Nerves were certainly frayed amongst the home crowd and Graham’s rattling of the cross bar on 60 minutes, certainly did not did not help matters.
The inevitable equaliser came, when Marine, unable to clear their lines conceded a penalty with three minutes to go. Graham converted the penalty with ease and a replay looked likely. But the drama did not end there. Villain turned hero when Mark Schofield, who 2 minutes earlier had conceded the penalty, which gave Colwyn Bay an equaliser, rose to meet Dave Gamble’s precision last minute free kick to send Marine through to the next round.
In a game in which Marine enjoyed the sort of luck that would instigate a Premiership manager to declare that his side’s name was on the cup. Marine are grateful that theirs is in the next round, a feat, which seemed unlikely at three all.
Marine: Clarke, Baines, Formby, Bainbridge, Schofield, Gautrey, Robinson (Smith 84), Gamble, Black, Thompson, Douglas (Nulty 70).
Colwyn Bay: R Roberts, O Roberts, Jones, G Roberts, (Caton 22) (Price 84), Fenton (Gibbons 45), Woods, Limbert, Cross, Graham, Evans, Gelling.
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
A dramatic last-minute header from Mark Schofield prevented a mid week trip to North Wales for Marine. In age when the traditions of the FA cup have been called into question, this game certainly had all the attributes of a classic encounter from a bygone age.
It was a game that Marine should have comfortably won. After taking a 2-0 lead through first half goals from Rick Bainbridge and Karl Robinson. On pressure and chances alone Marine deserved their half-time advantage.
The second half was a different story. Marines early season indecision came to the fore again. Three goals in three minutes altered the complexion of the game. After 48 minutes Frank Gibbon brought Colwyn Bay back into the game. A minute later Karl Robinson restored Marine’s two-goal advantage, but this was short lived. Ex-Manchester United player Deniol Graham a minute later went down the field scored and prompted Bay’s best spell of the game.
Marine went from a position of looking comfortable, to having to resort to resolute last ditch defending. Nerves were certainly frayed amongst the home crowd and Graham’s rattling of the cross bar on 60 minutes, certainly did not did not help matters.
The inevitable equaliser came, when Marine, unable to clear their lines conceded a penalty with three minutes to go. Graham converted the penalty with ease and a replay looked likely. But the drama did not end there. Villain turned hero when Mark Schofield, who 2 minutes earlier had conceded the penalty, which gave Colwyn Bay an equaliser, rose to meet Dave Gamble’s precision last minute free kick to send Marine through to the next round.
In a game in which Marine enjoyed the sort of luck that would instigate a Premiership manager to declare that his side’s name was on the cup. Marine are grateful that theirs is in the next round, a feat, which seemed unlikely at three all.
Marine: Clarke, Baines, Formby, Bainbridge, Schofield, Gautrey, Robinson (Smith 84), Gamble, Black, Thompson, Douglas (Nulty 70).
Colwyn Bay: R Roberts, O Roberts, Jones, G Roberts, (Caton 22) (Price 84), Fenton (Gibbons 45), Woods, Limbert, Cross, Graham, Evans, Gelling.
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
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