F.A. Umbro Trophy Sixth Round, Saturday 10th March 2001
Southport manager Mark Wright blasted the referee of today’s encounter. As Chester snatched a late victory, following the award of contentious free kick, which resulted in Matt Woods 87th minute goal, which put them into the semi finals of the F.A. Trophy.
Mark Wright was clearly incensed by the performance of the referee, a referee who is no stranger to controversy involving Southport. Wright claimed after the match, “ How a local man can be appointed for this fixture is beyond me. This referee was a disgrace, he has now cost us twice this season”
The previous performance that Wright refers to was earlier this year, against Rushden & Diamonds, which prompted Southport to put in a complaint regarding his appointment for this clash. Mark Wright further claimed that the local county F.A. had some sort of anti- Liverpool bias by the appointment, of the Evertonian Pollack.
Wright was fully aware that his comments may land him in hot water with the authorities and that they might smack of sour grapes, but he did give credit to a battling Chester performance.
The game itself was a typical cup-tie, which was given added spice by the proximity of two sides both geographically and with regards to their positions in the Conference table.
The 3,000 strong crowd did not have long to wait for any meaningful action when after only 20 seconds Southport’s Ian Arnold, flashed an effort wide of the City upright. A minute later, the play switched to the opposite end of the field, City’s former Southport player Steve Whitehall hit a twenty-yard free kick wide following a foul by Phil Bolland.
Referee Pollack, did not do anything to endear himself to Southport manager Mark Wright when he waved away claims for a penalty after 16 minutes, following Woods challenge on Simon Parke. Four minutes later, the referee turned a deaf ear to Southport appeals for another possible penalty. After Ian Arnold’s cross-appeared to strike the hand of the Chester defender.
The half was drawing to a close, as Southport found four players booked in the final five minutes. Phil Bolland was cautioned for persistent foul play; while Chris Lane, Mike O’Brien and Mark Marsh were all booked for fouls on wing back Matt Doughty. It was not a dirty encounter, more keenly fought than anything else, as was highlighted by the midfield battle that was more robust than malicious.
It was Southport who had the greater share of the possession in the first half, but could not seem to get the end result their approach play deserved.
Chester battled on manfully having been denied the services of centre backs Paul Beesley and Martin Lancaster through suspension.
Three minutes into the second half, Southport keeper Steve Dickinson had to be alert when he saved a well struck effort from Mark Beesley.
On the hour mark, following good work down the left by Beesley, Matt Fisher fired over from twenty yards. On 66 minutes, Southport’s Simon Parke tried a speculative effort from the left hand corner of the box that, Wayne Brown, Chester’s England semi-professional international goalkeeper was more than equal to.
City’s best chance of breaking the deadlock came on 68 minutes, after Matt Fisher’s in swinging cross-found Steve Whitehall, who flashed a diving header just wide of the upright. The chances came and went for both sides, so to did the bookings City’s Matt Woods and Southport’s Ian Arnold and Simon Parke were added to the five names from the first half.
Chester had another opportunity on 71 minutes when Whitehall shot just over the top after the visitors’ defence had failed to clear a cross from Doughty.
The game was seemingly heading for a draw and a replay on Tuesday night; when on 87 minutes the referee awarded a free kick, to City following a foul by Southport substitute Lee Furlong. From Doughty’s free kick Whitehall headed over the Southport crossbar.
It was almost a sense of déjà vu a minute later when the referee awarded a free kick in a similar area of the field; the Southport players remonstrated with this decision but to no avail. On this occasion Doughty’s free kick caused no end of problems in the Southport defence, Matt Woods managed to plunder the winner with three minutes to go and break the hearts of Southport’s large travelling contingent. The final whistle saw Southport manager vent his frustrations at the official before he tried rallying his battle weary troops.
After the game Chester manager Graham Barrow reflected on the referee’s performance as being “Six of one and half a dozen of the other” before further adding, “People will now probably expect us to go on and win this trophy, which we probably should do. We wont be taking nothing for granted in the semi finals.”
Chester’s impressive run continues, with out a doubt Chester should be too strong over a two-legged semi final, for their next opponents but this is cup football as has been highlighted in other cup fixtures today. For Southport though it has been a depressing seven days for the club after today’s Trophy exit and last weeks loss at home to lowly Kettering Town. Southport must now pick themselves up for Tuesdays League encounter with none other than Chester City.
ATT: 3,204
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Sunday, March 11, 2001
Sunday, February 25, 2001
Marine 1 Frickley Athletic 0
Unibond Premier League, Saturday 24th February 2001
A 67th minute goal from the influential Gerard Courtney was enough to give Marine the three points, in this evenly fought Unibond relegation encounter.
Frickley, after a woeful start to the season, have been showing a reversal fortunes of late, in their bid to avert relegation from the Unibond league. This was highlighted by the five-nil away victory in midweek at bottom of the table Spenymoor United. Marine were in the midst of another one their indifferent patches that have blighted their season. They also went into the game on the back of an embarrassing five-nil reverse, to neighbours Southport, in midweek in the Lancashire cup.
As you would expect in a game with so much at stake, the game got of to a slow start. The first real chance of the game fell to the visitors, when after six minutes, Frickleys, Gary Duffty found himself through on goal on the right hand corner of the box but he could only steer his shot into the terrace behind the Marine goal.
Such was the nature of the play both sides were restricted to half chances. Marine’s first meaningful attack of the game saw Courtney send a looping header over the bar that did not have the pace to trouble the Frickley goalkeeper. This attack was a prelude to concerted spell of pressure for Marine.
Under pressure from the home side, the Frickley defence stood firm restricting Marine to speculative long-range efforts. An invitation that Marine’s top scorer and long-range specialist Dave Gamble does not normally shirk and on nineteen minutes he sent a shot wide of the Frickley goalkeeper’s upright. Four minutes later, Gamble tried another shot from a similar distance, on this occasion he went closer.
Gamble, showed that he was also adept to something a little more subtle on the half hour, when in front of his own box, with the Frickley attackers baring down on him rolled his foot over the ball and with space and time he had created, he found Randles who then played in Courtney. Who could only steer his shot straight at the Frickley goalkeeper.
Again, five minutes later the same combination of Randles and Courtney carved out another chance, but Courtney’s effort did not have enough power to beat the keeper.
Anton Lally then went close with a long-range effort that curled over the bar. Three minutes later Lally was ready to unleash a shot but was denied by the interventions of the Frickley defender.
With a minute to go before half-time Marine, had their best chance of the game so far. Dave Gamble's in swinging corner evaded the Frickey defence and even the Frickley goalkeeper, who was left sprawling by the Marine forward’s challenge, but he managed to recover himself sufficiently to save from Courtney on the goal-line.
Marine were certainly the better side in the first period, but after the interval they took some time to get back into their stride and Frickley started the better side. The Mariner’s back line had to be as equally resolute as their Frickley counterparts had been in the first period. On 52 minutes, goalkeeper Clarke had to be alert when he gathered the ball at his feet from a Leroy Chambers shot, with Gary Duffty close at hand, waiting for a slip from the Marine goalkeeper.
Frickley were enjoying their best spell of the game and Marine’s manager Roly Howard had obviously seen enough. After 58 minutes He decided to introduce the combative central defender Mark Schofield, although only half fit, in a bid to stem Frickley’s spell of pressure.
Ten minutes later, as the game looked to have been heading towards a draw. A through ball by David Gamble, found Gerard Courtney one on one with the goalkeeper, with great composure Courtney fired Marine into the lead
The result was almost put beyond doubt three minutes later, but Gary Randles fired across the face of goal and wide. Frickley tried in vain to get back into the game, but try as they might, they found it hard to break down a resolute Marine back line and they had to make do with half chances.
With game in injury time and with Marine seemingly set to take the three points. Frickley’s number nine spurned a guilt edge chance that could have given Frickley a share of the points. Gamble was dispossessed in midfield and Duffty threaded the ball through to Leroy Chambers who with the keeper to beat placed his shot wide of the post.
Marine fans can now breathe a little easier after this result. A result that, gives them an eight-point cushion between themselves and Frickley who occupy the second from bottom relegation position.
ATT - 267
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
A 67th minute goal from the influential Gerard Courtney was enough to give Marine the three points, in this evenly fought Unibond relegation encounter.
Frickley, after a woeful start to the season, have been showing a reversal fortunes of late, in their bid to avert relegation from the Unibond league. This was highlighted by the five-nil away victory in midweek at bottom of the table Spenymoor United. Marine were in the midst of another one their indifferent patches that have blighted their season. They also went into the game on the back of an embarrassing five-nil reverse, to neighbours Southport, in midweek in the Lancashire cup.
As you would expect in a game with so much at stake, the game got of to a slow start. The first real chance of the game fell to the visitors, when after six minutes, Frickleys, Gary Duffty found himself through on goal on the right hand corner of the box but he could only steer his shot into the terrace behind the Marine goal.
Such was the nature of the play both sides were restricted to half chances. Marine’s first meaningful attack of the game saw Courtney send a looping header over the bar that did not have the pace to trouble the Frickley goalkeeper. This attack was a prelude to concerted spell of pressure for Marine.
Under pressure from the home side, the Frickley defence stood firm restricting Marine to speculative long-range efforts. An invitation that Marine’s top scorer and long-range specialist Dave Gamble does not normally shirk and on nineteen minutes he sent a shot wide of the Frickley goalkeeper’s upright. Four minutes later, Gamble tried another shot from a similar distance, on this occasion he went closer.
Gamble, showed that he was also adept to something a little more subtle on the half hour, when in front of his own box, with the Frickley attackers baring down on him rolled his foot over the ball and with space and time he had created, he found Randles who then played in Courtney. Who could only steer his shot straight at the Frickley goalkeeper.
Again, five minutes later the same combination of Randles and Courtney carved out another chance, but Courtney’s effort did not have enough power to beat the keeper.
Anton Lally then went close with a long-range effort that curled over the bar. Three minutes later Lally was ready to unleash a shot but was denied by the interventions of the Frickley defender.
With a minute to go before half-time Marine, had their best chance of the game so far. Dave Gamble's in swinging corner evaded the Frickey defence and even the Frickley goalkeeper, who was left sprawling by the Marine forward’s challenge, but he managed to recover himself sufficiently to save from Courtney on the goal-line.
Marine were certainly the better side in the first period, but after the interval they took some time to get back into their stride and Frickley started the better side. The Mariner’s back line had to be as equally resolute as their Frickley counterparts had been in the first period. On 52 minutes, goalkeeper Clarke had to be alert when he gathered the ball at his feet from a Leroy Chambers shot, with Gary Duffty close at hand, waiting for a slip from the Marine goalkeeper.
Frickley were enjoying their best spell of the game and Marine’s manager Roly Howard had obviously seen enough. After 58 minutes He decided to introduce the combative central defender Mark Schofield, although only half fit, in a bid to stem Frickley’s spell of pressure.
Ten minutes later, as the game looked to have been heading towards a draw. A through ball by David Gamble, found Gerard Courtney one on one with the goalkeeper, with great composure Courtney fired Marine into the lead
The result was almost put beyond doubt three minutes later, but Gary Randles fired across the face of goal and wide. Frickley tried in vain to get back into the game, but try as they might, they found it hard to break down a resolute Marine back line and they had to make do with half chances.
With game in injury time and with Marine seemingly set to take the three points. Frickley’s number nine spurned a guilt edge chance that could have given Frickley a share of the points. Gamble was dispossessed in midfield and Duffty threaded the ball through to Leroy Chambers who with the keeper to beat placed his shot wide of the post.
Marine fans can now breathe a little easier after this result. A result that, gives them an eight-point cushion between themselves and Frickley who occupy the second from bottom relegation position.
ATT - 267
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Sunday, February 4, 2001
Marine 0 Rushden & Diamonds 6
Saturday 3rd February 2001, Umbro FA Trophy 4th Round
A potential FA Trophy banana skin was avoided for Conference favourites Rusden & Diamond, as they overcame spirited performance by Unibond League side Marine.
The game was definitely a case of two worlds colliding, although the teams may only be separated one division, in reality the difference between the two teams is much greater. Rusden with their pretensions of greater things, have in their ranks two strikers who would not have left much change out of £300, 000, funded by the ambitious local businessman Max Griggs and Marine who have spent a similar amount on a new 400 seater stand, funded by the concerted efforts of the clubs supporters association and from grants, over the last few years. This is one of many aspects that could be used in evidence to highlight the divide. The new stand was certainly put to good use today, when it housed the vast majority of the 965 crowd, Marines best attendance this season by far, swelled by the mass ranks of travelling Rushden supporters.
The combination of Marine’s tightly packed three sided ground, a pitch that would have given Alex Ferguson palpitations, an upset could well have been the order of the day. Marine were no doubt looking to better their one-nil defeat in the fifth round of last years competition by Rushden, but it was Rushden who took the early initiative in the opening exchanges. Most of Rushden’s early attacks went through their experienced striker, Duane Darby. Sadly, for Marine the equally combative Mark Schofield, was ruled out of this game through injury, they needed him to thwart the influence of Darby.
Rushden, enjoyed most of the early possession and made good use of the wings, Andy Burgess made good ground down the left and found Gary Butterworth who fired his shot straight at the Marine goalkeeper Clarke. Again on ten minutes Darby used his strength and height to play in Burgess outside the box, who fired over from close range.
It was certainly the Marine defence in the first quarter of the game who earned the plaudits, with their resolute defending in the face of constant Rushden pressure. Rushden’s opening twenty minute spell brought about no less than six corners. It was with the seventh that Rushden scored, on 21 minutes, when Jon Brady’s perfectly flighted corner found Duane Darby, who rose above keeper Clarke and the Marine defence to put Rushden one-nil up.
This could have been the signal for Marine to capitulate, but to their credit they composed themselves and dug in to try and repell the Rushden attacks and even carved out an opening of their own, when Gerard Courtney broke free down the right, and found fullback Ian Baines who fired his shot across the face of goal.
This move was a respite for Marine, who could have found themselves two goals down on 27 minutes. Shawn Carey, found himself through on goal but miscontrolled the ball to Justin Jackson who could only steer the ball past the right hand post. Though this would not have counted as the referee had adjudged Jackson to be off side.
The corner count increased for Rushden as the half wore on and when the half time whistle sounded, it was certainly Marine who were glad of the chance to re group. The first half certainly was a one sided encounter but they emerged with some credit for being able to hold Rushden to a one nil first half lead.
Marine started the second half brighter and managed to fashion a couple of chances. A long kick by Marine keeper was not dealt with by the Rushden defence, Dave Thompson managed to break free down the right, he fired a cross over which found Kevin Formby who flashed a shot wide of the post. Then three minutes later more good work down the right by Thompson, tried to play in the on rushing Karl Robinson but he could not connect and the ball rolled out for a goal kick.
Again Rushden stepped up the play and on 54 minutes Jackson was put through on goal, he could only steer his shot wide of the post. Three minutes later, Jackson was again at the heart of the action, when he was fouled ten yards out side the box by Ian Baines. From the resulting free kick, Jon Brady’s effort was spectacularly tipped over the bar by Marine keeper Clarke.
In a repeat of an earlier chance, Rushden’s Jackson found himself one on one with the Marine keeper, Clarke, this time though he made no mistake and on the hour mark he made it two-nil.
Marine tried to hit back almost immediately, when from Courtney’s knock down Robinson fired over the bar. Marine felt hard done to as they believed that the goalkeeper had got a fingertip to the ball. The referee did not do anything to win over the home faithful two minutes later, when he waved away appeals for a blatant penalty, when the Rushden defender Carey blocked the ball with his hands following a shot by Bainbridge.
Again Rushden were denied by the brilliance of Clarke on 73 minutes but the Marine keeper could do nothing to stop Duane Darby’s shot from eighteen yards, three minutes later, which effectively killed off this cuptie as a contest. Set piece specialist Burgess added a forth on eighty minutes. Two further goals in stoppage time by substitutes Roy Essendah and Jim Rodwell sealed a comprehensive victory for the Conference side.
Though Rushden did control the majority of this game, the score line was a little harsh on Marine who had tried to stem the tide of their illustrious opponents attacks, but for two sloppy goals in injury time may have given the score line a more respectable look.
ATT: 965
A potential FA Trophy banana skin was avoided for Conference favourites Rusden & Diamond, as they overcame spirited performance by Unibond League side Marine.
The game was definitely a case of two worlds colliding, although the teams may only be separated one division, in reality the difference between the two teams is much greater. Rusden with their pretensions of greater things, have in their ranks two strikers who would not have left much change out of £300, 000, funded by the ambitious local businessman Max Griggs and Marine who have spent a similar amount on a new 400 seater stand, funded by the concerted efforts of the clubs supporters association and from grants, over the last few years. This is one of many aspects that could be used in evidence to highlight the divide. The new stand was certainly put to good use today, when it housed the vast majority of the 965 crowd, Marines best attendance this season by far, swelled by the mass ranks of travelling Rushden supporters.
The combination of Marine’s tightly packed three sided ground, a pitch that would have given Alex Ferguson palpitations, an upset could well have been the order of the day. Marine were no doubt looking to better their one-nil defeat in the fifth round of last years competition by Rushden, but it was Rushden who took the early initiative in the opening exchanges. Most of Rushden’s early attacks went through their experienced striker, Duane Darby. Sadly, for Marine the equally combative Mark Schofield, was ruled out of this game through injury, they needed him to thwart the influence of Darby.
Rushden, enjoyed most of the early possession and made good use of the wings, Andy Burgess made good ground down the left and found Gary Butterworth who fired his shot straight at the Marine goalkeeper Clarke. Again on ten minutes Darby used his strength and height to play in Burgess outside the box, who fired over from close range.
It was certainly the Marine defence in the first quarter of the game who earned the plaudits, with their resolute defending in the face of constant Rushden pressure. Rushden’s opening twenty minute spell brought about no less than six corners. It was with the seventh that Rushden scored, on 21 minutes, when Jon Brady’s perfectly flighted corner found Duane Darby, who rose above keeper Clarke and the Marine defence to put Rushden one-nil up.
This could have been the signal for Marine to capitulate, but to their credit they composed themselves and dug in to try and repell the Rushden attacks and even carved out an opening of their own, when Gerard Courtney broke free down the right, and found fullback Ian Baines who fired his shot across the face of goal.
This move was a respite for Marine, who could have found themselves two goals down on 27 minutes. Shawn Carey, found himself through on goal but miscontrolled the ball to Justin Jackson who could only steer the ball past the right hand post. Though this would not have counted as the referee had adjudged Jackson to be off side.
The corner count increased for Rushden as the half wore on and when the half time whistle sounded, it was certainly Marine who were glad of the chance to re group. The first half certainly was a one sided encounter but they emerged with some credit for being able to hold Rushden to a one nil first half lead.
Marine started the second half brighter and managed to fashion a couple of chances. A long kick by Marine keeper was not dealt with by the Rushden defence, Dave Thompson managed to break free down the right, he fired a cross over which found Kevin Formby who flashed a shot wide of the post. Then three minutes later more good work down the right by Thompson, tried to play in the on rushing Karl Robinson but he could not connect and the ball rolled out for a goal kick.
Again Rushden stepped up the play and on 54 minutes Jackson was put through on goal, he could only steer his shot wide of the post. Three minutes later, Jackson was again at the heart of the action, when he was fouled ten yards out side the box by Ian Baines. From the resulting free kick, Jon Brady’s effort was spectacularly tipped over the bar by Marine keeper Clarke.
In a repeat of an earlier chance, Rushden’s Jackson found himself one on one with the Marine keeper, Clarke, this time though he made no mistake and on the hour mark he made it two-nil.
Marine tried to hit back almost immediately, when from Courtney’s knock down Robinson fired over the bar. Marine felt hard done to as they believed that the goalkeeper had got a fingertip to the ball. The referee did not do anything to win over the home faithful two minutes later, when he waved away appeals for a blatant penalty, when the Rushden defender Carey blocked the ball with his hands following a shot by Bainbridge.
Again Rushden were denied by the brilliance of Clarke on 73 minutes but the Marine keeper could do nothing to stop Duane Darby’s shot from eighteen yards, three minutes later, which effectively killed off this cuptie as a contest. Set piece specialist Burgess added a forth on eighty minutes. Two further goals in stoppage time by substitutes Roy Essendah and Jim Rodwell sealed a comprehensive victory for the Conference side.
Though Rushden did control the majority of this game, the score line was a little harsh on Marine who had tried to stem the tide of their illustrious opponents attacks, but for two sloppy goals in injury time may have given the score line a more respectable look.
ATT: 965
Sunday, January 14, 2001
Marine 2 Stalybridge Celtic 0
Saturday 13th January 2001, Umbro FA Trophy 3rd Round
Marine continued their impressive winning run in 2001, with a comprehensive victory over high flying Unibond league side Stalybridge Celtic.
Marine certainly were not overawed by their opponents and why should they, having seen off Everton in midweek in the Liverpool Senior Cup.
Stalybridge, who prior to today had only lost one league game all season, put Marine under pressure from the opening moments of the game. Marine’s goalkeeper Chris Clarke, had to be alert when Stalybridge’s Matthew McNeil was put through on goal after two minutes. The Marine keeper saved bravely but could not keep hold of the ball, luckily it fell to Marine’s Gary Randles, who managed to clear his lines.
Marine managed to contain the early Stalybridge spell of pressure and even started to carve out chances of their own, prompted by the impressive Gerrard Courtney, who was at the heart of most of Marine’s attacks. Marine tried to pass the ball, despite playing on a pitch which had been hardened by the overnight frost.
Twelve minutes into the game, Marine had an appeal for a penalty waved away by the referee much to the annoyance of the home fans, after Kevin Formby was brought down inside the box. Moments later the Home supporters patience was tested further, following a two footed challenge by Stalybridge’s Matthew McNeil which went undetected by the referee.
On the half hour mark, Brian Burns broke down the left and put in Gerald Courtney who fired over the bar. Two minutes later, an identical move saw Courtney cushion a header just past the left hand post after a cross by Kevin Formby.
Stalybridge’s response was swift when on 34 minutes Tony Sullivan found himself one on one with the Marine goalkeeper but Sullivan put his shot over the advancing keeper and the bar.
Down the other end of the field, Marine fullback Ian Baines found himself in unfamiliar territory when he was put through with the keeper to beat. Stalybridge’s Stuart Locke appeared to clear the ball off the boot of Ian Baines, just as he was about to shoot goal wards. The referee inexplicably never saw the interception and only awarded a goal kick to Stalybridge.
The second half started in a subdued manner with both teams midfields stamping their authority on the game, this lull was soon banished, when on 57 minutes Marine took the lead following a spectacular lob by Marine’s top scorer Dave Gamble. The shot came out of nothing and in all probability it was a cross for the advancing Marine striker at the back post.
The goal sparked Stalybridge back to life and on 60 minutes, Marine goalkeeper Chris Clarke showed his bravery again when he denied Tony Sullivan who was again put through on goal. From the resulting corner substitute Nigel Evans, who had only been on the field a minute sent a header goal wards only for Marine’s Ian Baines to clear of the line.
The Marine defence stood firm in the face of constant Stalybridge pressure but still Stalybridge could not find an equaliser. Even though since Marine’s first goal, Stalybridge had been camped inside Marine’s half.
Dave Gamble looked to add to his earlier strike on 78 minutes with an equally impressive strike from long range but on this occassion he fired high and wide of the cross bar. Marine finally killed off the tie with six minutes to go, after good work by Marine number Seven Courtney who fed in Gary Randles who rifled a shot into the corner of the net.
Though Stalybridge were a disappointment considering their high flying position this is taking nothing away from Marine who at last seem to be putting a decent run together and put behind them the inconsistencies and the last few months. Marine were certainly good value for their two goal victory today.
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Marine continued their impressive winning run in 2001, with a comprehensive victory over high flying Unibond league side Stalybridge Celtic.
Marine certainly were not overawed by their opponents and why should they, having seen off Everton in midweek in the Liverpool Senior Cup.
Stalybridge, who prior to today had only lost one league game all season, put Marine under pressure from the opening moments of the game. Marine’s goalkeeper Chris Clarke, had to be alert when Stalybridge’s Matthew McNeil was put through on goal after two minutes. The Marine keeper saved bravely but could not keep hold of the ball, luckily it fell to Marine’s Gary Randles, who managed to clear his lines.
Marine managed to contain the early Stalybridge spell of pressure and even started to carve out chances of their own, prompted by the impressive Gerrard Courtney, who was at the heart of most of Marine’s attacks. Marine tried to pass the ball, despite playing on a pitch which had been hardened by the overnight frost.
Twelve minutes into the game, Marine had an appeal for a penalty waved away by the referee much to the annoyance of the home fans, after Kevin Formby was brought down inside the box. Moments later the Home supporters patience was tested further, following a two footed challenge by Stalybridge’s Matthew McNeil which went undetected by the referee.
On the half hour mark, Brian Burns broke down the left and put in Gerald Courtney who fired over the bar. Two minutes later, an identical move saw Courtney cushion a header just past the left hand post after a cross by Kevin Formby.
Stalybridge’s response was swift when on 34 minutes Tony Sullivan found himself one on one with the Marine goalkeeper but Sullivan put his shot over the advancing keeper and the bar.
Down the other end of the field, Marine fullback Ian Baines found himself in unfamiliar territory when he was put through with the keeper to beat. Stalybridge’s Stuart Locke appeared to clear the ball off the boot of Ian Baines, just as he was about to shoot goal wards. The referee inexplicably never saw the interception and only awarded a goal kick to Stalybridge.
The second half started in a subdued manner with both teams midfields stamping their authority on the game, this lull was soon banished, when on 57 minutes Marine took the lead following a spectacular lob by Marine’s top scorer Dave Gamble. The shot came out of nothing and in all probability it was a cross for the advancing Marine striker at the back post.
The goal sparked Stalybridge back to life and on 60 minutes, Marine goalkeeper Chris Clarke showed his bravery again when he denied Tony Sullivan who was again put through on goal. From the resulting corner substitute Nigel Evans, who had only been on the field a minute sent a header goal wards only for Marine’s Ian Baines to clear of the line.
The Marine defence stood firm in the face of constant Stalybridge pressure but still Stalybridge could not find an equaliser. Even though since Marine’s first goal, Stalybridge had been camped inside Marine’s half.
Dave Gamble looked to add to his earlier strike on 78 minutes with an equally impressive strike from long range but on this occassion he fired high and wide of the cross bar. Marine finally killed off the tie with six minutes to go, after good work by Marine number Seven Courtney who fed in Gary Randles who rifled a shot into the corner of the net.
Though Stalybridge were a disappointment considering their high flying position this is taking nothing away from Marine who at last seem to be putting a decent run together and put behind them the inconsistencies and the last few months. Marine were certainly good value for their two goal victory today.
* 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
Saturday, December 23, 2000
Marine 0 Worksop 2
Saturday 23rd December 2000, Unibond League Premier Division
An early Christmas gift by Marine full back Phil Johnson, saw Worksop take the points in this evenly contested encounter. Marine went into the match, trying to reverse an alarming slump in form, which has seen them slip perilously close to the relegation zone of the Unibond League.
It was Marine who started the brighter of the two teams and after going close with two long range efforts from Dave Gamble and new signing Anton Lally. Marine should have taken the lead as early as the eleventh minute. After good work down the right, Johnson sent over a cross to the back post which found Karl Robinson, who glanced his header wide from two yards. It certainly would have been easier for Robinson to score but on this occasion he put his header wide.
Marine continued to pressure the Worksop goal but had the miss-fortune to find Worksop’s goalkeeper equal to everything they could throw at them.
After the early scares for Worksop, we saw the first real glimpse of ex-England international Chris Waddle. After 18 minutes, Waddle whipped in a cross from his right wing position, for Gary Townsend who evaded the attentions of the Marine defence, but saw his header placed straight at the Marine goalkeeper Chris Clarke.
A minute later the referee frustrated the home side, when appeals for a penalty were waved away. Worksop’s defender, Gavin Smith held back the onrushing Brian Burns, the referee waved play on. Nearly adding insult to injury Worksop went down the opposite end of the field and scored but Johnson fired just wide.
It was soon Worksop’s turn to bemoan the referees influence, when Waddle was seemingly brought down in the area but saw the referee award a corner instead, a decision not well received amongst the travelling Worksop supporters.
Worksop were enjoying a period in which they pushed Marine back and they nearly capitalised on this pressure by scoring after 35 minutes. After a long goal kick by Worksop goalkeeper Jamie Holmshaw, which caused uncertainty in the Marine defence. Marine’s Chris Fitzsimmons headed past his own goalkeeper and nearly into the path of Worksop striker Kirk Jackson.
Marine were frustrated further by the referee, when claims for another penalty were turned down three minutes later. The referee adjudged the Worksop defender had not intentionally handled the ball.
In the second half, the game followed a similar pattern to that of the first half. The increasingly effective Chris Waddle was chief instigator of the best chances for Worksop. Though the pace and stamina might not what it might have been, he can still be effective with a dead ball or a set piece. This he proved on 48 minutes when a corner caused trouble in the Marine back line but Marine defender Mark Schofield was able to head away to safety.
Marine tried to get that important goal, but again and again they were frustrated by Holmshaw in the Worksop goal. After another long range effort from new signing Anton Lally, who on this performance, shows he has certainly got an eye for goal and probably would have had one, if it were not for the performance of the Worksop number one.
With the game drifting away for a draw, which probably would have been a fair reflection of this game. With nine minutes to go. Phil Johnson under hit a back pass to Marine goalkeeper Clarke, which found Gary Townsend. Who rounded Clarke, to snatch the points from Marine.
Worksop nearly doubled their lead a minute later when goalkeeper bravely challenged goal scorer Gary Townsend after another well worked Waddle corner.
Another defeat for Marine and the prospect of three difficult encounters over the Christmas period. One consolation for Marine though, was that many of the teams below Marine lost today but with many of these sides with games in hand, Marine need to get a win from somewhere and reverse this poor run.
ATT. 351
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
An early Christmas gift by Marine full back Phil Johnson, saw Worksop take the points in this evenly contested encounter. Marine went into the match, trying to reverse an alarming slump in form, which has seen them slip perilously close to the relegation zone of the Unibond League.
It was Marine who started the brighter of the two teams and after going close with two long range efforts from Dave Gamble and new signing Anton Lally. Marine should have taken the lead as early as the eleventh minute. After good work down the right, Johnson sent over a cross to the back post which found Karl Robinson, who glanced his header wide from two yards. It certainly would have been easier for Robinson to score but on this occasion he put his header wide.
Marine continued to pressure the Worksop goal but had the miss-fortune to find Worksop’s goalkeeper equal to everything they could throw at them.
After the early scares for Worksop, we saw the first real glimpse of ex-England international Chris Waddle. After 18 minutes, Waddle whipped in a cross from his right wing position, for Gary Townsend who evaded the attentions of the Marine defence, but saw his header placed straight at the Marine goalkeeper Chris Clarke.
A minute later the referee frustrated the home side, when appeals for a penalty were waved away. Worksop’s defender, Gavin Smith held back the onrushing Brian Burns, the referee waved play on. Nearly adding insult to injury Worksop went down the opposite end of the field and scored but Johnson fired just wide.
It was soon Worksop’s turn to bemoan the referees influence, when Waddle was seemingly brought down in the area but saw the referee award a corner instead, a decision not well received amongst the travelling Worksop supporters.
Worksop were enjoying a period in which they pushed Marine back and they nearly capitalised on this pressure by scoring after 35 minutes. After a long goal kick by Worksop goalkeeper Jamie Holmshaw, which caused uncertainty in the Marine defence. Marine’s Chris Fitzsimmons headed past his own goalkeeper and nearly into the path of Worksop striker Kirk Jackson.
Marine were frustrated further by the referee, when claims for another penalty were turned down three minutes later. The referee adjudged the Worksop defender had not intentionally handled the ball.
In the second half, the game followed a similar pattern to that of the first half. The increasingly effective Chris Waddle was chief instigator of the best chances for Worksop. Though the pace and stamina might not what it might have been, he can still be effective with a dead ball or a set piece. This he proved on 48 minutes when a corner caused trouble in the Marine back line but Marine defender Mark Schofield was able to head away to safety.
Marine tried to get that important goal, but again and again they were frustrated by Holmshaw in the Worksop goal. After another long range effort from new signing Anton Lally, who on this performance, shows he has certainly got an eye for goal and probably would have had one, if it were not for the performance of the Worksop number one.
With the game drifting away for a draw, which probably would have been a fair reflection of this game. With nine minutes to go. Phil Johnson under hit a back pass to Marine goalkeeper Clarke, which found Gary Townsend. Who rounded Clarke, to snatch the points from Marine.
Worksop nearly doubled their lead a minute later when goalkeeper bravely challenged goal scorer Gary Townsend after another well worked Waddle corner.
Another defeat for Marine and the prospect of three difficult encounters over the Christmas period. One consolation for Marine though, was that many of the teams below Marine lost today but with many of these sides with games in hand, Marine need to get a win from somewhere and reverse this poor run.
ATT. 351
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Sunday, December 17, 2000
Marine 0 Emley 2
Unibond League, Saturday 16th December 2000
Emley consolidated their position at the top of the Unibond league with a win over struggling Marine. A goal in each half from Darren Day and Simeon Bambrook was enough to see Emley pick up the points. This was despite playing out the game with ten men, after Simon Jones was sent off after an off the ball incident after 35 minutes..
Marine were looking to bounce back following a 5- 3 reverse in midweek to neighbours Burscough and hoping to reverse a run of form, which has seen them win only once their last 6 games.
The Mariners coped well with the early Emley pressure and carved out a number of chances of their own. Emley were looking good value for their ascendant position in the table and to their credit tried to play a patient passing game despite conditions that, were more favourable for something less cultured.
The game came to life on 23 minutes, when an Emley penalty appeal was turned down, much to the annoyance of the travelling Emley supporters. Garry Hatto went down under a challenge from Marine’s Phil Johnson. The referee adjudged that Hatto had dived and awarded a goal kick to Marine. The officials caused further consternation, a minute later amongst the Emley ranks when Nazha was adjudged to be offside. Lebanese international Nazha was a constant thorn in Marine’s side with his powerful running mirrored with nimble footwork nearly paid off again with Emley’s next attack.
Marine enjoyed a decent spell of pressure, Gerald Courtney and Ricky Bainbridge both went close for the home side .But Marine were left to rue these chances soon after when Emley made their pressure count. After good work by the Emley full back Nicholson who played a long ball out of defence which found Bambrook who switched the ball to the on rushing Day, who fired home after 33 minutes to make it one-nil.
Emley nearly made it two-nil a minute later, when Nazha was put through but was thwarted by the pitch as much by the interception by the Marine defender.
Then on 36 minutes Emley were reduced to ten men, when Simon Jones was sent off. First he was booked for the initial tackle and then while Emley were arranging the wall, the linesman alerted the referee to an incident that had taken place off the ball involving Marine’s Dave Thompson. The referee had no hesitation in showing Jones a second yellow card and sent off the Emley number 3 off. From the subsequent free kick by John Gautrey fired over from 30 yards.
Emley still tried to increase their one goal advantage despite being down to ten men. Again it was Nazha who was again at the heart of the action. After some good work down the left he turned the Marine full back inside-out but could not end the run with a shot that was equally impressive, on the stroke of half time.
The second half saw Marine trying to push their numerical advantage. In the opening minutes of the half Marine won two corners in quick succession but were unable to finish on either occasion.
Marines push for the equalising goal cost them dear. Day turned provider in the 61st minute when his far post cross found Bambrook unmarked, he rifled home past the unfortunate Marine keeper Chris Clarke.
Marine tried to push forward in search of the goal that would bring them back into the game. Any hopes that Marine had of getting back into the game evaporated, after 70 minutes, after Mark Schofield’s dismissal for a professional foul on Nazha, who was through on goal not for the first time today.
While Emley’s pursuit of the title then continues with another three points, Marine are left to ponder another defeat. A defeat that sees them being pushed into the lower half of the Unibond league. On this performance Marine probably have enough quality in their ranks to stave off relegation but they need to string some results together quickly to banish such talk of relegation and they need to do it fast. It could not get any worse for the Mariners at the moment. Next week they are at home to high flying Worksop, who boast the talents of one Chris Waddle. Lets hope he takes the penalties.
ATT- 268
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
Emley consolidated their position at the top of the Unibond league with a win over struggling Marine. A goal in each half from Darren Day and Simeon Bambrook was enough to see Emley pick up the points. This was despite playing out the game with ten men, after Simon Jones was sent off after an off the ball incident after 35 minutes..
Marine were looking to bounce back following a 5- 3 reverse in midweek to neighbours Burscough and hoping to reverse a run of form, which has seen them win only once their last 6 games.
The Mariners coped well with the early Emley pressure and carved out a number of chances of their own. Emley were looking good value for their ascendant position in the table and to their credit tried to play a patient passing game despite conditions that, were more favourable for something less cultured.
The game came to life on 23 minutes, when an Emley penalty appeal was turned down, much to the annoyance of the travelling Emley supporters. Garry Hatto went down under a challenge from Marine’s Phil Johnson. The referee adjudged that Hatto had dived and awarded a goal kick to Marine. The officials caused further consternation, a minute later amongst the Emley ranks when Nazha was adjudged to be offside. Lebanese international Nazha was a constant thorn in Marine’s side with his powerful running mirrored with nimble footwork nearly paid off again with Emley’s next attack.
Marine enjoyed a decent spell of pressure, Gerald Courtney and Ricky Bainbridge both went close for the home side .But Marine were left to rue these chances soon after when Emley made their pressure count. After good work by the Emley full back Nicholson who played a long ball out of defence which found Bambrook who switched the ball to the on rushing Day, who fired home after 33 minutes to make it one-nil.
Emley nearly made it two-nil a minute later, when Nazha was put through but was thwarted by the pitch as much by the interception by the Marine defender.
Then on 36 minutes Emley were reduced to ten men, when Simon Jones was sent off. First he was booked for the initial tackle and then while Emley were arranging the wall, the linesman alerted the referee to an incident that had taken place off the ball involving Marine’s Dave Thompson. The referee had no hesitation in showing Jones a second yellow card and sent off the Emley number 3 off. From the subsequent free kick by John Gautrey fired over from 30 yards.
Emley still tried to increase their one goal advantage despite being down to ten men. Again it was Nazha who was again at the heart of the action. After some good work down the left he turned the Marine full back inside-out but could not end the run with a shot that was equally impressive, on the stroke of half time.
The second half saw Marine trying to push their numerical advantage. In the opening minutes of the half Marine won two corners in quick succession but were unable to finish on either occasion.
Marines push for the equalising goal cost them dear. Day turned provider in the 61st minute when his far post cross found Bambrook unmarked, he rifled home past the unfortunate Marine keeper Chris Clarke.
Marine tried to push forward in search of the goal that would bring them back into the game. Any hopes that Marine had of getting back into the game evaporated, after 70 minutes, after Mark Schofield’s dismissal for a professional foul on Nazha, who was through on goal not for the first time today.
While Emley’s pursuit of the title then continues with another three points, Marine are left to ponder another defeat. A defeat that sees them being pushed into the lower half of the Unibond league. On this performance Marine probably have enough quality in their ranks to stave off relegation but they need to string some results together quickly to banish such talk of relegation and they need to do it fast. It could not get any worse for the Mariners at the moment. Next week they are at home to high flying Worksop, who boast the talents of one Chris Waddle. Lets hope he takes the penalties.
ATT- 268
* This report previously appeared on the now defunct website Pyramid Football
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