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* Russ McKenna scored the opener for his new club Squires Gate but Andy Clarkson’s men had to settle for a point after a thrilling 3-3 draw.
* Dennis Hill’s Darwen endured a nightmare first week of the season. Despite a goal from Richard Fogarty, they went down 2-1 at home to Holker Old Boys and made it three defeats in a row as they were thrashed 7-4 at the Anchor by minnows Penrith in the FA Cup. With Darwen losing 3-0, Ed O’Neil scored a spectacular goal to give them a life-line just before half-time and a Paul Lynch goal saw the home side fight back at 4-6 with four minutes to go but terrible defending meant no cup glory this time around. That defeat cost the Salmoners £500 ( paid to the winners) and with Clitheroe at home in the next round, another bumper pay day was lost. The Holker game was watched by a paltry ‘crowd’ of just 18.
* The NWCFL certainly isn’t the same without Harwood but there’s still plenty of excitement. AFC Liverpool scored another five goals, this time at Rochdale Town (Castleton Gabriels). They edged out their opponents 5-4 before a small attendance (although massive for Rochdale) of just 173. It’s become quite clear in the early part of the season that the Merseysiders aren’t going to be the massive club that FC United are, although they’re still the biggest club in the league.
* James Dean and Simon Garner were team-mates last year but found themselves on opposite sides when Hyde United met Fleetwood Town on the second Saturday of the season. Deano hit the post before Hyde took the lead and eventually ran out 5-3 winners after trailing 3-2. James has looked excellent in pre-season and has already scored two goals. Those three points were the Tigers’ first of the campaign after two defeats but Fleetwood now sit at the foot of the table after two heavy losses and the sooner Simon Garner returns to the defence (he was on the bench at the weekend) the better.
* Matt Derbyshire had to make do with a place on the bench in the Rovers opening day victory at Everton
* The following week saw Darwen stop their losing streak but even so manager Dennis Hill must have been disappointed with just a single point from the 2-2 home draw with perennial strugglers Rochdale Town (Castleton Gabriels). Indeed the Anchor side had to come from two goals down and the signs are that it’s going to be a long, hard season.
* Clitheroe may have lost their opening game of the season but they were soon on the right track with three successive victories. A 4-3 win at Garforth, with Ryan Fisher netting the winner, was followed by a 2-1 win at Ossett Albion. The home side were defending a 100% record and were soon in front but the Blues fought back although Ryan Fisher missed a sitter when he blazed over from just a few yards out. Two days later they hit another four as Salford City were put to the sword at Shawbridge.
* James Dean put Hyde in front in their local derby at Droylsden and almost made it two before the home side fought back to win 2-1.
Also in the Conference North, Fleetwood Town got their season up and running with a 2-0 home win against Vauxhall Motors in front of over 900 fans and followed that up on the Bank Holiday Monday with a 1-1 draw at leaders Southport. Still no starting place for Simon Garner who once again had to make do with a place on the bench.
* Andy Clarkson’s Squires Gate made it three games unbeaten with a 1-0 win at Atherton LR, Russ McKenna once again starring at left back.
* Meanwhile at the top of the tree, Matt Derbyshire was in the starting line-up for the Rovers’ first two friendly games, with the ‘first half’ teams made up of predominantly 1st choice players. In both games things went downhill after Matt was replaced.The ex-Harwood hero also made the headlines after new boss Paul Ince stated that he was a big part of his plans because of his obvious talent, youth and hunger to succeed. Matt himself stole the back pages with an article pleading for a starting berth as a striker, as opposed to the right wing slot that Mark Hughes often gave him. Those pleas obviously fell on deaf ears as the final Blues friendly game against Dutch side NAC Breda, saw him once again start on the wide right where he struggled to make any impact.
The non-league season began with Darwen fielding several ex-Robins in their ranks. Matt Woods, the Fogarty brothers, player/boss Dennis Hill, new signing Ed O’Neil, Dave Anwar now training with the Salmoners and John Eastham about to sign. Their opening game saw them travel to new club AFC Liverpool with Dennis hoping to catch them out at NWCL level. Sadly for the ex-Harwood contingent there were few teething problems as the Merseysiders ran out easy 5-0 winners and it would be a major surprise if they didn’t emulate FC United and win promotion at the first attempt. One surprising statistic was the attendance of ‘only’ 442, which, although ten times better than many clubs at this level, was surely only half of what might have been expected. Even more extraordinary was the reported crowd of 150 for the Daisy Hill v Leek CSOB game. Fifteen maybe, 150? NO WAY!
The Unibond hierarchy came up trumps again when they refused old Harwood adversaries Nantwich Town and Boston United permission to change the opening day fixture. The Dabbers pitch wasn’t ready so both clubs agreed to play the game at York Street but Duncan Bayley and his merry band of spoilsports reckoned that Boston would be given an unfair advantage by playing their first three games at home. Now the Pilgrims players and supporters will need to get time off work if they’re to appear at the re-arranged mid-week game-Nice one Dunc!
* Hurray! About a year since the GHTFC web-site’s inception, we’ve finally sold some souvenirs. Richard Gledhill, Harwood supporter from Wigan, got the ball rolling with an order which pushed our account to the dizzy heights of £430. It may not seem much but from little acorns etc. etc. Well done Richard!
* Another long-distance Robins follower, Paul Clark from Cove near Farnborough, was hoping to visit the Showground for the first time when he followed his other favourite club, Aldershot, for their opening Football League game at Accrington Stanley. Sadly for Paul, the bad weather meant delays on the motorway and a late arrival at the Crown Ground leaving him with no time for the short journey to Harwood. His disappointment was eased by the Shots 1-0 win despite the best efforts of ex-Robin Andy Proctor who forced Bull in the Aldershot goal to produce a fantastic save. Stanley supremo and ex-Harwood boss Eric Whalley must have been gutted by the pathetic attendance of 1800 despite a huge away following.
* AFC Fylde were rocked when one of their Vase heroes failed a drugs test, taken after the Final. He was immediately suspended by the club until the New Year.
* Meanwhile, our neighbours Darwen were in the news for the wrong reasons when former owner Kevin Henry stated that current owner Ted Ward had been removed from the board due to non-payment for the club. Mr. Henry also said that he’d applied for an injunction to ban Mr. Ward from the Anchor Ground. The turmoil won’t help with Dennis Hill’s efforts to recruit more quality players although Robins’ legend John Eastham is rumoured to be joining in the near future.
* NWCFL 2nd Division new boys Wigan Robins Park look to have a very professional set up and expect them to make a impact in their first season. They made the step up after winning the Manchester Premier League-no mean feat-and finished the season with a thirteen game unbeaten run.
* Meanwhile, long time league members Blackpool Mechanics are the second Fylde side to have changed their name this ‘summer’.
They’ve now dropped the Mechanics and will be known as AFC Blackpool although their Jepson Way ground will now be listed as ‘The Mechanics’.
* John Eastham has signed for Darwen and featured in a couple of their pre-season friendlies, while former owner Ted Ward has indeed been ousted and banned from the Anchor ground. His plans for a multi-million pound sports complex have been ‘pooh-poohed’ by new owner Kevin Henry who reckons that if Accrington Stanley can make it to the Football League then maybe Darwen can!!
* Simon Garner made an immediate impact with new club Fleetwood Town. He was named man of the match in the game against Championship side Blackpool but unfortunately, three days later, he was injured in the pre-match warm up at AFC Blackpool (Mechanics) and missed the game.
* Clitheroe looks to be the best bet for nomadic Harwood fans this season as their squad includes Pete Smith (now officially retired from the playing side), Russ McKenna, Liam McManus, Ryan Fisher, Jason Jones and Jonathon Smith. On a trip to Shawbridge about three years ago, the visiting team were less than impressive and a chant came from the home supporters- ‘Are you Harwood in disguise?’ We can now answer that-YES!
July 2008
Great Harwood Rovers held the fourth annual Dave Smith Memorial Tournament recently and an amazing 2000 people, including players, coaches and relatives, representing 68 teams took part. Many different age groups took part and the Rovers, who Dave helped to set up, won the under 8’s and under 11’s competitions. As well as being heavily involved with GHR, he was also our turnstile man and was well known to all Robins’ supporters. No doubt he’ll be looking down and be proud that his name and memory continue to live on in the town.
Clitheroe have made a great close season signing in the shape of ex-Robins star Liam McManus. Another ex-player, Simon Garner, has been surprisingly allowed to move from Stalybridge Celtic where he was one of their best players during last season’s promotion push. He’s signed for Fleetwood Town who continue to improve their playing squad each year as they climb the leagues.
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Surprise, surprise! The F.A. have overturned their decision to force AFC Liverpool to start their life at step 7 of the ‘Pyramid’. They’ve used their brains so that must be a first!
Giving hope to all Harwood fans is the rise and rise of Eastbourne Borough. One member of our Sussex Supporters Branch, who is also a very keen Borough fan, sent a very interesting account of the progress of his first love, so I’d like to share it with all Robins followers.
EASTBOURNE BOROUGH F.C. – route to the top
1964
Formed as Langley Football Club and entered the Eastbourne and Hastings League Division Two.
1970
Move to their own pitch at Princes Park after previously playing on local recreation grounds.
1974
Earn intermediate status after winning promotion to the Premier division of the Eastbourne and Hastings League.
1983
Elected as a founder member of the Sussex County League Division Three and move to Priory Lane.
1987
Become a senior team for the first time by winning Division Three and promotion to Division Two.
1988
Win Division Two title and promotion to Division One.
1999
Garry Wilson takes over as manager.
2000
Champions of the Sussex County League and promotion to the Dr. Martens League Eastern Division.
2001
Change name to Eastbourne Borough Football Club.
2003
Finish as runners up and win promotion to Dr. Martens Premier Division.
2004
Earn a place in the newly formed Conference South after finishing 11th.
2008
Narrowly miss out on title but earn promotion to the Blue Square Premier Division via the play-offs.
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The F.A. have plenty of appeals to deal with in the coming weeks as clubs up and down the length of the country aim to over turn decisions made mainly by their respective league.
One particular blunder though is all the F.A.’s own work. AFC Liverpool have been ordered to begin life at step 7 of the ‘Pyramid’ instead of the step 6 in the NWCFL 2nd Division. Special cases can be made, as for FC United of Manchester a few years ago, one of the main reasons being for crowd safety. Now in all probability, the Merseysiders will attract four figure crowds so why they haven’t been treated as a ‘special case’ is quite baffling, and if the decision is made to stand, it’ll be a huge blow to all NWCFL 2nd Division clubs. Let’s hope that for the sake of our local clubs, the Football Association see sense but I wouldn’t hold my breath. They wouldn’t help Great Harwood Town in their hour of need while they paid Sven a fortune even after he’d left the England set-up!
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Congratulations to Dennis Hill who has turned 35 this week. Much as he would have liked to apply for the vacant Rovers job, he needs to get some ‘credits’ on his managerial C.V. first but in ten years time, who knows?
End of Season
* In the play-offs, Stalybridge pulled back the one goal deficit to win 2-1 and take the tie on penalties, this despite the absence of James Dean. The final saw them take on Barrow at Burton Albion’s ground where a single goal defeat spelt the end of their promotion dreams. Simon Garner played and Deano came on as a substitute in the second half. Simon made 38 appearances scoring one goal and Deano started 26 games hitting the target 8 times.
* Neil Zarac scored both Bamber Bridge’s goals as they went out in the semi-finals, 3-2 at FC United. They were Neil’s first goals for the club in his seventh appearance. He’ll be hoping to play a big part in next season’s promotion push. FC United went on to gain their third promotion in a row as they beat Skelmersdale 3-1 in the final at Gigg Lane before a crowd of 3,500, leaving the record of 6,000 against the Robins safely in tact. Brig are one of the clubs with whom we enjoyed great rivalry in the early nineties and another was Fleetwood Town, although much more recently. The Harwood supporters must look at those two clubs with great envy - it could have been us!
* Although Ashton United, yet another of our fiercest rivals 15 years ago, secured their Unibond Premier League status, they had to do it without Liam McManus. He suffered a nasty head injury in the home game with Matlock Town at the end of April and failed to appear again this season.
* Clitheroe’s final game of the season at home to Bamber Bridge, saw their last goal of the season scored by Jonathan Smith and a substitute appearance form the evergreen Pete Smith.
* Chorley’s Keiran Fletcher looks to have established himself in the first team and he ended up making 20 league appearances this term.
* Cammell Laird, who passed us on the way up from the NWCFL 2nd Division, as we were heading in the opposite direction from the 1st, won another promotion although this time a tad fortunate. They finished 2nd to Unibond South champs Retford United, a massive 13 points adrift but the Notts. Side couldn’t complete their ground renovations by the deadline and were denied promotion. After amassing 99 points during a magnificent campaign, United must have been particularly gutted.
* The season’s honours go to another club who we sadly didn’t get to compete against at NWCFL level, Kirkham and Wesham. They completed a fantastic treble when they beat Lowestoft Town in the FA Vase final at Wembley. In one of the most amazing Vase comebacks of all time, they looked to be heading for heartbreak as they trailed 1-0 with just six minutes left when substitute, 17 year-old Matt Walwyn took centre stage. He equalised before scoring the winner in the last couple of minutes before a crowd of 19,500.
* Anthony Green is looking forward to meeting up with some old Harwood team mates at Darwen, amongst them Paul Mashiter and Dennis Hill. Mash scored Darwen’s final goal of the season and it secured a 3-2 win at Stone Dominoes. Den meanwhile was named man of the match.
* One player more than any other continues to keep GHTFC in the news and that’s Matt Derbyshire. He enjoyed another great season for the Rovers featuring in no less than 27 first team games. In the Premier League, he started four games whilst appearing on the bench a further nineteen times and in cup competitions he made two starts plus two more on the bench. His contribution was immense and helped his team to what amounts to a third place (given the fact that the top four play in a mini-league of their own!). His four shots on target yielded three goals which must surely make him the most accurate and deadly striker in the country. He also assisted for one cup and two league and goals while his ‘off-target’ efforts amounted to four in the league and two in the cups. The Rovers finished at the bottom of the ‘discipline table’ but Matt led by example ‘earning’ just a single yellow card in his 27 appearances and generally being a credit to himself, his family and the club.
* In the Conference, Altrincham, for whom James Dean starred earlier in the season, have had another great piece of luck. For the third season running they finished in the relegation places but incredibly the misfortunes of others has meant a last minute reprieve. This time it was the demise of Halifax Town, who not too long ago were playing against the likes of Blackburn Rovers in the old 3rd Division.
* The Football Association have once again covered themselves in glory by showing a complete lack of common sense when dishing out their ‘justice’. They insisted that Grays Athletic pay a player his wages whilst he was serving a prison sentence for armed robbery, despite him being unavailable to play!! Not surprisingly the Chairman of the Essex club refused to pay which looked like leading to their expulsion from the Conference. The money was in the end paid by a third party saving Grays from any further punishment but the F.A. should hang it’s head in shame for their disgraceful decision.
* Meanwhile, they appear to have broken their own rules by allowing Durham City promotion despite the club’s ground improvements not meeting the set regulations. Over the past couple of years many clubs have been refused promotion, or even worse, relegated due to ground criteria not being met-the F.A. and the various leagues really need to get their act together. Our neighbours Darwen and old adversaries Alsager Town have both suffered in recent years because of problems with their grounds.
* Nelson have parted company with their manager Nik Jackson-Cooney after relegation to the NWCFL 2nd Division. The new boss will have plenty to look forward to next season with several local derbies and the newly formed AFC Liverpool due to play their first ever game, against the Blues at Victoria Park.
Late April 2008
* With the season coming to an end, Andy Proctor helped Stanley retain their Football League status, although it was the deficiencies of their relegation rivals that finally saw them safe. Yet another home defeat, this time against Barnet, finished with smiles all round as Mansfield and Wrexham were left stranded at the bottom. Stanley’s next game was a trip to the already relegated Dragons and Coleman’s boys enjoyed an embarrassingly easy 3-1 win.
* James Dean scored the second and fifth goals, set up the fourth with a fabulous through ball, passed up the chance of his hat-trick by playing in his strike partner for the sixth, and was named man of the match as Stalybridge went into the play-offs on the back of a 6-0 home win. Deano’s first was scored when he cut in from the left and beat the keeper at the near post and his second saw him cut in from the right before curling a superb into the bottom corner of the net. Simon Garner was restored to the starting eleven and another great display will surely see him included in the big play-off games.
* Dropping down a league to the Unibond Premier, Liam McManus’ Ashton United saved themselves with a 3-2 win at Matlock Town to finish the season in 10th place, five points clear of the drop zone.
* At the other end of the table, Fleetwood Town, a club that was at the same level as ourselves just a couple of years ago, won the Championship despite being held to a 1-1 draw by Frickley Athletic. That draw meant that Witton Albion would take the title and the one automatic promotion place if they could beat Worksop at home. Thankfully for the Fishermen Witton’s nerves got the best of them and the visitors ran out easy winners 3-0. An incredible crowd of almost 3,000 joined in the post-match celebrations at Highbury, the kind of attendance which could easily sustain a club at Football League Two level.
* Going down the ‘Pyramid’ another level to the Unibond Division One North, Jonathon Smith scored again as local rivals Clitheroe and Bamber Bridge shared four goals at Shawbridge. Clitheroe were already safe and Brig already in the play-offs.
* Another of our most recent rivals, FC United have found the Unibond more of a challenge, losing nine games, but they’ve still managed to finish second just a single point behind champions Bradford Park Avenue.
In the Unibond South, a team who we passed on the way down from the NWCFL Division One, as they went up from the Second, and a team who hit us for seven in the FA Vase, Camell Laird gained yet another promotion by finishing runners up. Their final game saw them draw 2-2 at Brigg Town, another side who we’ve crossed in recent years in the FA Vase.
* Recent trips to Nantwich Town have seen Harwood gain some cracking results but our paths have gone shooting off in different directions since our last meeting about three years ago. They finished their league campaign in third position and despite the final game at home to Goole AFC meaning little to either side, a truly ‘mind-blowing’ attendance of 927 witnessed Town’s 5-1 victory. The first leg of the play-off semi-final saw another great crowd of over 600 as Town came from behind to beat Grantham 2-1.
* In the NWCFL, Nelson kept their slender hopes of survival alive when they beat Formby 2-1 with Ed O’Neil once again prominent, setting up the first goal. The final game was a tough one at Flixton and the home side ran out easy 4-1 winners leaving the Blues as wooden spoonists. With Alsager being thrown out of the Unibond because of new ground grading rules, and some new applicants to the NWCFL, there is still hope that Nelson will remain in the top flight. Bacup Borough, who kindly offered the use of their ground before we folded, also lost four-one and despite taking just one point from the final four games, finished third from bottom thanks to the deficiencies of Atherton LR.
* Ramsbottom United started the season with a host of ex-Robins in their line-up but as they left so did Rammy’s hopes of success and they finished with their lowest points total since joining the league in 1995. On the other hand, Colne enjoyed their best ever season since their formation in 1996-24 wins, 68 points, and fourth place.
* In the 2nd Division Darwen endured another heavy defeat, this time 4-2 at Oldham Town. If the Salmoners under-achieved then the campaign was even worse for Padiham. They finished in12th place, one behind their Anchor ground rivals. Kirkham & Wesham clinched their expected promotion finishing second to New Mills, the Fylde side also won the 2nd Division Trophy.
* Matt Derbyshire, although not starting for the Rovers in recent weeks, is still meriting a place on the bench, and this remember, is for one the top eight teams in the best league in the world!
* The last day of the month saw the play-offs begin and James Dean and Simon Garner both left Haig Avenue disappointed as Stalybridge were beaten 1-0. Deano looked to be the main threat to the Sandgrounders coming close to scoring on a couple of occasions but was surprisingly substituted early in the second half. Simon, despite his terrific display a few days earlier, spent the whole of the game on the bench. Maybe if the two ex-Harwood stars had played for the whole ninety minutes, Celtic would have got something from the game-you know that if a player has turned out for Harwood, he must be good!
* Ed O’Neil’s Nelson really have their work cut out if they’re to avoid relegation from the NWCFL 1st Division and Runcorn were the latest team to leave Victoria Park with all three points. ‘Corn manager Steve Wilkes reckoned that the visitor’s following numbered around 100, so the official attendance of 101 meant that Nelson had one supporter at the game!
Wembley finalists Kirkham and Wesham followed up their 6-0 win at Ashton Town with a comfortable 3-1 victory at Darwen just two days later. Despite the prompting from Dennis Hill on the touchline and fielding Matt Woods in defence, Richard Fogarty in midfield and Paul Mashiter up front, a Walwyn hat-trick put paid to Darwen’s hopes of an upset and in truth, some poor finishing and last ditch defending stopped the margin of victory from being much greater. A fine Kirkham following swelled the attendance to 126. Meanwhile Daisy Hill entertained Bootle and the visitors won 3-2 in front of a dreadful ‘crowd’ of just 15.
* That win kept Kirkham hot on the heels of leaders New Mills who show no signs of slipping up as Darwen were once again on the wrong side of a heavy defeat, this time by four goals to nil.
* Last month saw James Dean leave Bury to join Stalybridge on a permanent basis, until the end of the season, and he’ll be hoping to score the goals that take Celtic into the Conference. Recently ambitious Fleetwood Town made an audacious bid to sign the ex-Robin but their enquiry was immediately rejected.
* Arguably the most exciting relegation battle is taking place in the Unibond Premier League with Liam McManus’ Ashton Town having been in the thick of it all season. They currently occupy 11th position but just TWO points separate them from next to bottom Stamford.
* Neil Zarac’s Bamber Bridge are fighting it out with Ossett Albion for the final play off place in the Unibond North and the two met at Irongate. Ossett took the points thanks to a 2-1 win and in doing so moved above Bridge into 6th place.
* Jonathon Smith returned from suspension to help Clitheroe to a fine 2-2 draw at Championship chasing Curzon Ashton.
* Despite an Ed O’Neil headed goal, Nelson went down to yet another defeat, this time 3-1 at Glossop, and with two games remaining the Blues cause looks hopeless as they remain at the foot of the table.
* Not only has Dennis Hill taken on the extra responsibilities of management, both at Darwen F.C. and Royal Mail, he’s also currently helping his Postie colleagues in their quest to win the Orphanage Cup. The Police ‘B’ team had their cup run arrested as Dennis produced a devastating display to inspire Royal Mail to a 6-1 win, hitting two unstoppable penalties in the process. A few days later his Darwen team enjoyed a great 4-1 win over highly placed Bootle at the Anchor, Paul Mashiter amongst the scorers.
* Den is spending less and less time at home and rumour has it that while his better half Sonia was making tea the other day, son Thomas and daughter Britney asked her who the man with the tan was watching telly!
* Unfortunately for the Royal Mail team, the ex-Robin was unavailable for the next round, due to Darwen FC commitments, and they were easily beaten 4-1. Meanwhile Dennis was helping the Salmoners to another fine win, scoring a fabulous 25 yard scorcher.
Andy Clarkson’s Squires Gate continue to impress and a 3-2 win at Silsden meant that they will almost certainly finish in 4th place. Andy has recently recruited ex-Harwood manager Ian McGarry whose vast experience in non-league football should prove to be of great benefit. All items which could be thrown around, including chairs, tables and tea pots have been removed from the dressing rooms!!
* Stalybridge Celtic’s title ambitions failed as they were well beaten 3-1 at Boston United despite the best efforts of James Dean. A lively Deano kept the Pilgrims on their toes early on but a double blast from the home side put them in control. Deano was then fouled in the box to give Celtic a lifeline but the spot kick was missed and Boston ran out comfortable winners. Kettering’s home win clinched the title and meant that Celtic must now aim for play-off glory.
* Neil Zarac returned to Rossendale with new club Bamber Bridge and helped them to record an emphatic 5-1 victory, a scoreline which flattered Rossy. The three points all but sealed their play-off spot in the Unibond Division One North League and also kept alive their chances of the Championship.
* Another team to score five in an away game was Clitheroe who recorded their best result of the season. They came from two down at leaders Skelmersdale United to win 5-3 with another Harwood old boy, Jonathon Smith, scoring the fourth.
* Kirkham’s Chairman announced that the club would receive an initial allocation of 5,000 tickets for the Vase final but was hopeful that the club could take nearer 10,000 for the game at Wembley in May. No doubt many non-league fans from the North West, and in particular, the NWCFL, will lend their support on the big day.
* Ex Harwood full back Andy Clarkson continues to do a great job managing Squires Gate in the NWCFL 1st Division. Their 1-1 draw at home to Ramsbottom made it four games without defeat and consolidated the Fylde sides position of fifth in the table.
Late March 2008
* Andy Proctor continues to star for inconsistent Accrington Stanley and scored both goals as the Reds went two-up at Chesterfield, but the home side hit back with four of their own to send the Stanley faithful home in a miserable mood.
*Jonathan Smith was sent of for Clitheroe as they went down 1-0 at home to Bradford Park Avenue.
Meanwhile, Clitheroe’s Jason Jones has signed for Nelson in an effort to regain match-fitness and his impressive performances have helped the Blues to cut back the deficit at the bottom of the North West Counties 1st Division.
Stalybridge’s relentless march towards the Conference was halted when they lost 2-0 at Tamworth after seven wins on the ‘bounce’, but a 4-0 home success against Solihull soon had them back on track. James Dean was once again amongst the scorers.
Keiran Fletcher’s disciplinary record with the Robins was pretty abysmal and it shows few signs of improving as the lad gets older but no wiser. In the recent derby clash with Bamber Bridge, ‘a thoroughly reckless off-the-ball challenge’ saw Bridge’s Salmon taken to hospital with a shoulder injury. Chorley’s losing run extended to four games as the visitors won 1-0.
Kirkham and Wesham must surely be the lowest ranked team to make it to the F.A. Vase final after they won 3-2 at home then 1-0 away against Needham Market. Walwyn scored the only goal of the 2nd leg in the 90th minute to send the 200 travelling supporters into raptures. Their opponents in the final at Wembley will be another Suffolk side, Lowestoft Town who were involved in an amazing 2nd leg at Whitley Bay. Despite the tie being ‘done and dusted’ after Town’s 4-0 romp in the 1st leg, Bay fought back and were 3-0 ahead after just 20 minutes in the 2nd leg on Tyneside, and only a series of missed chances and last ditch defending denied them an historic come-back.
In the NWCFL 1st Division, Trafford recorded a fantastic crowd of 343 on Easter Monday when they entertained Flixton. Another win virtually guaranteed Trafford the title and promotion to the Unibond League. The same day saw a slightly poorer attendance at neighbouring Castleton Gabriels as a paltry 18 turned up for their league game with Ashton Town. The loyal few were about to go home happy before two goals in the last three minutes saw the visitors leave with a 3-2 victory.
Matt Woods took little time in getting off the mark for new club Darwen, scoring in the 3-2 win at Norton.
Dennis Hill certainly had a big job on his hands as soon as he took over the reigns at Darwen. Many players left the club after the departure of previous manager Wayne Watkins, and the ex-Harwood hero had to use his many contacts in the game to put out a decent squad for his opening game at Cheadle Town.
Ex-Robins Matt Woods, Paul Mashiter, Neil Kennedy and Liam Denning have all signed and Ed O’Neil and Paul Lynch could be on their way to the Anchor in the not too distant future. Matt only played for the Robins for a short while but he was a rock at the heart of the defence while Mash enjoyed a couple of spells with us before illuminating the Anchor in recent years. Kenny was, and always will be Harwood through and through, and he has pledged to help Dennis out whenever he can. Liam was one of the best midfielders to play for Harwood in recent seasons and his undoubted quality will help the Salmoners as they endeavour to build a team capable of winning promotion next year. Ed meanwhile, will hopefully link up again with Den as he has been one of the few successes at Nelson this season. He scored many goals for Harwood in our last few seasons in the North West Counties League, most of them spectacular long range efforts. Paul Lynch was probably the best midfielder to turn out for Harwood over the last ten years and it was no surprise when he left to join Stanley. If not for injuries, he would now be playing in the Football League but as Dennis has proved, being over 30 doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road and Lynchy could be a great role model for the Darwen youngsters.
11-03-08
Dennis Hill has been named as the new manager of Darwen F.C. The ex-Robins star has been playing for 1st Division Nelson for the past few months but has returned to the Anchor where he began this season and from where Harwood signed him three years ago.
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* Contrary to recent reports, John Hughes has not become assistant manager but Dennis will be relying on the vastly experienced Hughesy for advice on his first managerial position. Cheadle Town provided the opposition for his first game and things looked bleak as they found themselves two down just before half time, but two goals in three minutes, the second from Richard Fogarty, drew them level at the break. Cheadle regained the lead but it was Den himself who salvaged a point with a last minute equaliser which came from a 20 yard free kick.
* One manager still looking for a job is Lee Sculpher, who left Ramsbottom in October. ‘Scully’ spent two and a half years in charge at the Riverside enjoying a fair amount of success including a 9-1 win against Atherton and two Cup Final wins, but resigned after the Rams stuttered a little following an excellent start to this season. After leaving the manager’s post at Clitheroe, he signed on for Harwood and made an immediate impact bringing stability and no shortage of quality to the defence.
* James Dean looks as though he’s going to enjoy an exciting climax to the season as his Stalybridge side won yet again, this time at promotion rivals Southport. Celtic came from behind to win 3-2 and although Deano didn’t get on the scoresheet, he twice came desperately close to adding to his total of five goals.
* Jonathon Smith returned to the Clitheroe line-up and helped them to keep a clean sheet and also record their third win in a row.
March 2008
* Although there aren’t any ex-Robins playing for Kirkham and Wesham, their magnificent season has to be worth a few mentions. In their F.A. Vase ¼ final at home to Coventry Sphinx, they twice took the lead and were just 6 minutes from winning before the midlanders forced the game into extra time. Then it took an equaliser of their own, 9 minutes from time to take the game to a replay. A 49th minute goal from Sean Paterson proved to be the only one of the game and it took Kirkham into a two-legged semi-final. The first game saw an incredible record breaking attendance of 1,093 and the following league game against Blackpool Mechanics saw the league attendance record broken, this time a more modest 131 saw the home side win 1-0. The Vase replay not surprisingly was watched by Coventry’s biggest ever crowd, 774, which was swelled by around 100 fans from Lancashire. Let’s hope that the club can keep hold of many of those supporters.
* One of our neighbours, Colne, know all about great cup runs having been to Wembley for the F.A. Vase final a few years ago but their support has dwindled away to leave them with their original ‘hard-core’ of around 75, the number who turned up for their recent home game against Formby which the Reds won 3-0.
* Talking of crowds, as Kirkham’s hoards headed south to Coventry, the remaining clubs in N.W.C.L. action drew some pitiful attendances with the highest being just 53 at Leek CSOB.
* Nelson remain bottom of that league despite once again taking the lead against Salford City, this time away. The home side replied with two goals although Dennis Hill’s late free kick was brilliantly saved by the Salford keeper.
* As if Kirkham’s exploits weren’t enough of a boost to the N.W.C.L., the imminent arrival of AFC Liverpool will mean another financial windfall for the clubs in that league.
* Further up the ‘Pyramid’ Liam McManus inspired Ashton United to a great comeback in the Unibond League against North Ferriby United. Trailing 1-0, Liam popped up with a magnificent header to draw Ashton level and they went on to win 3-1 to move up four places and out of the relegation zone.
* Even further up, James Dean came off the bench to seal the game for Stalybridge Celtic as they consolidated their play-off position in the Conference North. His towering header made it 2-0 and Celtic then scored again to make it four wins in a row.
* At the pinnacle of English football, Matt Derbyshire once again came off the bench, much to the delight of the 20,000 home fans, to inspire a lack-lustre Blackburn Rovers. His introduction soon after half time lifted the Blues who duly took the lead although unlike last week, their opponents came back to equalise.
* The end of February and beginning of March was another momentous period for 21 year-old Matt. He became the Father of twin boys, Callum and Braidin, and a couple of days later left 50,000 Geordies crying into their Newcastle Brown as he came on as a sub. to score the only goal of the game at St. James Park. He certainly thrives on the big stage as he’s already scored at Old Trafford and Wembley in front of huge crowds. Despite being on the pitch for only about half an hour, he’d already come close to scoring after waltzing round two defenders in the box before his goal-bound shot was blocked.
* A little further down the ‘Pyramid’ Simon Garner, now playing in midfield, and James Dean, helped Stalybridge gain their third win in a row and 4th place in the Conference North. Simon came close with two efforts while Deano had a ‘goal’ disallowed.
* Chorley made it five games without defeat as they drew 1-1 at home to Garforth thanks to an injury time equaliser. Keiran Fletcher hit the woodwork (again) for the Magpies with the score at 0-0, but the point keeps them moving in the right direction and away from the relegation zone.
* Kirkham & Wesham’s reward for their F.A. Vase heroics was a home tie against Coventry Sphinx on March 1st and the cup run doesn’t seem to be distracting them from their league commitments, with Castleton Gabriels being hammered 8-0. Sadly just 116 saw the game which must have been a little disappointing after all that’s happened so far this season.
* Many games have fallen foul of the weather this month and how Nelson wished that their game at Newcastle Town had gone the same way. Dennis Hill was made captain and he experienced a nightmare as the Blues were annihilated 10-1! Coming up to half time and already four down, Ed O’Neil set up Smith to make it 4-1 and raise hopes of a remarkable comeback, but those hopes lasted about 30 seconds until the home side’s fifth hit the back of the net. Nelson had a couple of chances to score early in the second half before Newcastle once again slipped into top gear and found the Nelson defence in very accommodating mood.
“It was the most embarrassing game that I’ve ever played in.” Said Dennis.
“Not only was it the heaviest defeat of my career, I can’t even remember losing by ten even in a five-a-side game! When the first goal went in after only three minutes I felt that some of the lads let their heads drop, although I must say that 10-1 flattered Newcastle as everything they hit seemed to end up in the net.”
The defeat sent Nelson to the foot of the table after Bacup Borough’s win and it all proved too much for manager Denny Khan who resigned a couple of days later. Maybe the time has come for Dennis Hill to step up from managing youngsters to taking on the reins at a semi-pro club? Watch this space.
* I took in Nelson’s next game, at home to local rivals Ramsbottom United, hoping to see a host of ex-Robins on show but despite the programme listing Ryan Dervish and Paul Walker amongst the visitor’s team sheet, neither appeared. Dennis Hill and Ed O’Neil started for Nelson who were greatly improved from the Newcastle debacle. Dennis in particular produced a man-of-the-match performance, displaying the full array of the silky skills which he learned at the Showground. Despite taking the lead in the second half, the Blues remain bottom after Rammy came back to win 2-1. A very poor attendance wasn’t helped by a dreadful ‘away’ following of around six. The Robins rarely took less than twenty no matter where or when they played.
* James Dean started for Stalybridge at Hucknall but it was Simon Garner who stole the headlines when he replaced Deano in the second half. With Celtic leading 1-0, a fantastic piece of wing play by Simon saw him make monkeys out of two defenders before setting up the clinching second goal. He almost scored himself after a great shot but helped his team to a 3-0 win Two days later Hinckley were the opponents and not surprisingly Garner started the game. Once again he was outstanding and set up the first goal in another 3-0 win. He continued to create chances throughout and even cleared a Hinckley effort off his own goal line. Deano came on as a late sub. but didn’t have enough time to make an impact.
* Ryan Fisher was the hero for Clitheroe as they drew 2-2 at Rossendale United. Fish scored the late equaliser to earn the Blues a valuable point.
* For the second successive home game, Nelson took the lead only to end up pointless, this time as Salford City won 3-1. Dennis Hill almost scored after just 10 minutes as his great shot missed by inches, but not to be outdone, he set up Nelson’s goal. The Blues had two players sent off and the imminent suspensions won’t help their cause.
* The Dave Smith Memorial Football Tournament will be taking place on Saturday June 7th. All Harwood supporters will remember Dave as a jovial turnstile man who loved nothing better than talking about the Robins past and present and often told me how he really enjoyed officiating at the Showground ‘turnstile’. A tree was in fact planted at the gate and it still thrives amongst the wreckage that remains. He was also highly instrumental in the huge success of junior football in the area and this summer’s tournament will be a fitting tribute to him. The seven a-side event has six boys and two girls groups up the age of twelve and the entry fee is £30 per team. The annual tournament is run by Great Harwood Rovers and will take place on the Lyndon House playing fields next to the Showground. For any more details phone Rovers’ secretary Andy Counsell on 07791 499365.
*Alex Marrow, an 18 year-old Ashton Athletic player is hoping to follow Matt Derbyshire into the Blackburn Rovers 1st team. He’s just signed a contract with the Premier League high-flyers until the end of the season after impressing in trials. If Alex can make the grade then it would be another great boost for all young non-league players, especially in the North West Counties League.
February 2008
* Martin Parkes has left Padiham to join local rivals Darwen. One of Harwood’s star strikers in recent times, Yaqoob Khan, has begun training with Nelson after spending about 18 months out with an injured knee-let’s hope that he gets back to full fitness soon and helps the Blues to safety. They let a two goal lead slip in their home game with fierce rivals Colne in an eventful game at Victoria Park on Saturday. Dennis Hill scored the home side’s opener from the spot and then set up the second before Colne hit back with two in three minutes, with the game also including a free-for-all in the back of the Nelson net as the away side went for the winner!
* The big game of the day was North West Counties League Kirkham and Wesham’s F.A. Vase tie at Crowborough Athletic who play in the Sussex County League Division One. Long distance Robins supporter Mike Barry from East Sussex went to see the game and was impressed with the Kirkham team who won the tie 2-0 in front of an amazing crowd of 772- the usual attendance being just above the 100 mark. Mike said: “Kirkham looked a good all round side and could even reach the final.” Let’s hope so. He was also good enough to send me the local newspaper report and the match programme which looks as though it belongs in the higher reaches of the Football League so well done to both clubs on their success this season.
* Andy Proctor continues to impress even though Accrington Stanley’s form is somewhat erratic. For the second time this season he was named as League Two’s player of the month.
* After defeat to Nuneaton, Simon Garner and James Dean were both relegated to the bench but Stalybridge still couldn’t win, losing 2-0 at Harrogate before drawing 2-2 at home to Southport. Deano was brought on in both games but Simon had to sit them out.
* Clitheroe lost 2-1 at home to Garforth Town despite the sterling efforts of the ex-Harwood brigade. The Blues equalising goal was set up by Ryan Fisher who also saw a goal-bound shot cleared off the line. Jonathon Smith and the evergreen Pete Smith also suffered the same fate thanks to two more goal-line clearances.
Matt Derbyshire was in the starting line up for the games at Aston Villa and at home to Everton. The Villa game didn’t go too well for him personally as his first half penalty was saved by Carson and he was then injured in the melee that followed. The Everton game saw him perform at right wing which is isn’t his favoured position and he struggled to make an impact. The following week would have seen him pick up another England under 21 cap but for the imminent birth of his twins!
* Ryan Fisher was again on target for Clitheroe as they gained a vital three points at Woodley Sports with Jonathon Smith once again a colossus at the back.
* The bad weather put paid to most of the non-league fixtures but one that survived was Chorley’s trip to Skelmersdale United-and how Chorley wished it had been snowed off! Despite having the excellent ex-Robin Keiran Fletcher in their defence, the Magpies were clobbered 7-0 to leave them floundering near the foot of the table. Keiran came closest to getting a consolation when his header crashed against the bar. Not surprisingly manager Gerry Luczka and the club went their separate ways after a meeting between himself and the Chairman.
* Stalybridge Celtic’s great run of results ended at home to Nuneaton Borough but James Dean and Simon Garner both came close to scoring twice.
End of January 2008
Jonathon Smith, Ryan Fisher and Neil Zarac helped Clitheroe to a vital 1-0 win against Ossett Albion to enhance their survival chances. The win ended a dreadful run of five defeats and a draw in the Blues’ last six league games.
*Away from the ex-Robins, congratulations must go to Kirkham and Wesham who continue to fly the flag for the North West Counties League in the F.A. Vase. They beat Studley 3-0 at Kellamergh Park before a tremendous attendance of over 400 and must now fear no one as they attempt to follow fellow Lancastrians Colne and Clitheroe to the final of the competition. Sadly for neighbours Squires Gate, Kirkham’s exciting run appears to have had an adverse affect on their attendances with a paltry 17 turning up for their League Cup tie against Norton United.
* He carried on in a similar vein as Celtic won yet again the following week, 3-1 at Barrow, with James scoring the second and clinching goal after being promoted to the starting line up. Simon Garner also started the game after being promoted from the bench but he starred in midfield as opposed to his usual left back position.
Jonathon Smith, Ryan Fisher and Neil Zarac helped Clitheroe to a vital 1-0 win against Ossett Albion to enhance their survival chances. The win ended a dreadful run of five defeats and a draw in the Blues’ last six league games.
*Away from the ex-Robins, congratulations must go to Kirkham and Wesham who continue to fly the flag for the North West Counties League in the F.A. Vase. They beat Studley 3-0 at Kellamergh Park before a tremendous attendance of over 400 and must now fear no one as they attempt to follow fellow Lancastrians Colne and Clitheroe to the final of the competition. Sadly for neighbours Squires Gate, Kirkham’s exciting run appears to have had an adverse affect on their attendances with a paltry 17 turning up for their League Cup tie against Norton United.
Wilkes was given a great chance to further his managerial career when Runcorn Linnets asked him to become their new boss and not surprisingly he took up the offer.
* Andy Proctor stated publicly before the game at Peterborough, that Accrington Stanley needed to be pushing for a play-off place in League Two. Maybe Eric Whalley’s boys will have to wait a little longer as their promotion ambitions looked to be ‘pie in the sky’ after an 8-2 mauling. The Reds were 4-0 down at the break but fought back with two goals of their own to set up what could have been an exciting finish, but four goals in the last 15 minutes made it a nightmare trip home for Andy, his team-mates and the thirty supporters who travelled for the midweek clash.
* Jonathon Smith has signed for Clitheroe from Fleetwood Town joining ex-Robins Pete, Ryan, Jason and Neil. Smithy was a cracking player for Harwood before being ‘pilfered’ by Accrington Stanley, performing brilliantly both at centre half and up front for set pieces. He made his debut for the Blues in the Lancashire derby at Lancaster City but found the Dollyblues in terrific form which saw them win 2-0 and complete their seventh game without conceding a goal.
* Middleborough must be sick of the sight of Matt Derbyshire. He came on as a substitute on the opening day of the season to score a spectacular winner and on the 19th of this month repeated the trick although his goal was only worth a point for the Rovers this time, as the sides played out a 1-1 draw.
* In the Conference North, two teams, Harrogate Town and Kettering Town have led the table all season yet in the last couple of weeks Stalybridge Celtic have beaten both. Helped in no small way by Simon Garner and James Dean, Celtic have won eight games in a row to reach the play-off positions. Saturday’s win at leaders Kettering was only the home side’s second defeat of the season and Deano took the plaudits after coming on as a sub. and scoring a great winner in the closing minutes.
* Nelson continued with their mini-revival with Dennis Hill and Ed O’Neil once again behind most of their good work. Den made the first goal as the Blues took an early lead at Abbey Hey before the home side equalised. Constant second half pressure resulted in Roscoe giving Nelson the lead before Abbey made it 2-2. Ed then had a chance to seals the points from the penalty spot but a great save from the keeper denied the ex-Harwood forward.
* Clitheroe’s defence looks in need of an overhaul as they ship goals at an alarming rate. Five more on Saturday made it 15 in the last four games with Ossett Albion going nap despite trailing 1-0 at the interval. The Blues are now third from bottom and also had two players sent off on another day to forget, especially for the ex-Harwood contingent. Jason Jones was dropped, Neil Zarac substituted and Ryan Fisher scored an own goal!
Another team to have two players dismissed was Castleton Gabriels where the visitors, John Eastham’s Padiham won 3-0. Steve Wilkes’ side obviously don’t have the kind of following that the Robins enjoyed, with just 14 supporters (from both sides!) turning out for the game-around half of what we took to most away matches.
* The long suffering Nelson supporters finally had something to cheer about as a masterly midfield display by the mercurial Ed O’Neil and the magnificent Dennis Hill helped the Blues to a 5-1 win over fellow strugglers Atherton L.R. The win was easily their best of the season with the previous two victories being by the odd goal. The three points lifted them out of the bottom two and to within three points of L.R.
* Clitheroe travelled east to take on Bridlington Town hopeful of three points against their struggling, managerless opponents, but a 4-0 drubbing meant that the clubs changed positions in the table and now the Blues look to have a real battle on their hands to avoid the drop. Jason Jones’ debut couldn’t have ended much worse despite the inclusion of fellow ex-Robins Neil Zarac and Ryan Fisher. Russ McKenna has been missing from the defence for the last two games in which the Shawbridge side have conceded seven goals. Indeed, Bridlington were the league’s lowest scorers before Saturday.
Liam McManus has certainly helped steady the ship at Ashton United, just a single defeat in their last five games has seen them climb steadily up the Unibond Premier League table.
* The holiday fixtures brought little joy for Nelson despite now having Hill, Denning, O’Neil and Morley amongst their ranks. Dennis had a particularly good game in midfield but the usually excellent keeper Billy Carrington had a day to forget, fumbling two efforts into his own net as the visitors were hammered 4-1 at lowly St. Helens. Paul Mashiter and Martin Parkes helped to steady the ship for Darwen as they played out a 1-1 draw with Padiham before a bumper crowd. Paul Walker and the evergreen Steve Pickup helped the Blues mount a strong second half comeback with the latter heading narrowly over in the final minutes. Jason Jones was snapped up in double quick time as he returned to Clitheroe. The Blues drew over 300 for their New Years Day clash against Rossendale United which must have been a relief for the officials at Shawbridge after they registered a paltry 119 for a league game just a few weeks earlier. When Neil Zarac scored against his former club late on it seemed like the points were secure but despite being down to 10 men, the Stags scored twice in the last few minutes to share the spoils.
* James Dean set Stalybridge Celtic on their way to a 4-0 victory at Solihull with the first goal after just 6 minutes. Simon Garner found himself out of favour at Bower Fold, alerting a host of clubs with Buxton leading the way. The Derbyshire club put in ‘seven days’ notice but Simon decided to stay and fight for his place and not surprisingly was soon back in the starting line up.
December 2007
* December’s frozen pitches meant little activity for our ex-stars but Paul Mashiter did manage to find the net for Darwen in their 2-0 win at Blackpool Mechanics. Vasilis Theophanous has left Salford City to join Brent Peters at Bacup Borough and his quality will be required as his new team struggle near the foot of the table. They were in fact rock-bottom before their Boxing Day win at Nelson, a game which saw ‘Vaz’ make his debut as a second half substitute and Liam Denning sent off for the hosts. Sadly the bank holiday fixture attracted a paltry 75 spectators.
The Victoria Park club put in ‘7 days’ notice for Dennis Hill and Darwen appeared quite happy for him to go-so he did! Speaking exclusively to the GHT website, he said that he was looking forward to the challenge of helping the Blues remain in the 1st Division and was surprised at Darwen’s apparent apathy to his departure. The Salmoners were also rocked by the decision of Jason Jones to leave the club at around the same time and having lost two of their most experienced players, their outside chance of promotion seems to have all but gone.
* Liam McManus climbed the ‘football ladder’ a couple of rungs when he left Ramsbotom to join struggling Ashton United in the Unibond Premier League. Many Harwood supporters will remember our epic battles with Ashton while both teams were chasing promotion around fifteen years ago. Liam made his debut in the 3-1 defeat at Hednesford Town and by Christmas had yet to be on the winning side.
* Ed O’Neil hit the target for Nelson but couldn’t stop them losing yet again whilst Jason Jones continued his excellent goalscoring this season by hitting one of Darwen’s two without reply against Holker Old Boys. Neil Zarac has turned Clitheroe from a team looking behind them near the bottom to one which is looking to make an impact near the top. He was surprisingly dropped to the bench for the trip to Mossley after the Blues Lancs. Cup exit at Leigh earlier in the week (a game in which Keiran Fletcher scored), but with Clitheroe struggling he came on to score twice late on and clinch all three points.
* James Dean didn’t hang around Gigg Lane for long and was sent out to Conference North outfit Stalybridge Celtic to gain more first team experience. His debut was against Boston United, a game which I took in, and he ran the Pilgrims defence a merry dance throughout. Only bad luck prevented him from hitting a hat-trick but his ‘new’ team still won at a canter 3-0. Deano’s dynamic display helped to end a run of 5 successive defeats for Celtic and while he’s there for the next month, expect them to shoot up the table. His man of the match performance was equalled by Simon Garner at left back who also enjoyed a great game and helped to shore up a defence which had been conceding far too many goals in recent games.
* The beginning of November saw two ex-Robins miss out on huge games. James Dean was recalled to Bury after his loan period and missed Altrincham’s televised FA Cup 1st Round game at home to Millwall, although the Shakers would probably have stopped him from appearing. Things were even worse for Keiran Fletcher at Clitheroe. Although still banned because of a sending off against Lancaster, he played in the FA Trophy draw at Rushall Olympic. The replay was postponed while the FA investigated, but it looks as though the Blues will be expelled from the competition. The suspension also cost Keiran a place in the starting line-up against FC United at Shawbridge but Clitheroe managed without him to record a famous 2-1 victory. After the fun and games at Gigg Lane a couple of years ago, the ex-Harwood stars absence was probably a blessing in disguise!
* Paul Walker has left Ramsbottom to team up once again with ex-Robin John Eastham at Padiham.
* Neil Zarac has left Rossendale United to join Clitheroe but couldn’t find the net on his debut in the FA Trophy game at home to Lancaster. The evergreen Pete Smith came on as a second half substitute but even he found the Dollyblues defence too good as the sides played out a goalless draw.The replay brought better news for Neil as his double saw his new team through to the next round. Next up was the ‘six-pointer’ relegation battle against Chorley and despite missing a couple of gilt-edged chances, the ex-Harwood forward scored again during a man of the match performance. Ryan Fisher also scored during the 5-1 win.
* James Dean left Bury to join Conference club Altrincham on loan and duly scored on his debut as his new team rocketed into a three goal lead at Salisbury. Sadly the struggling Reds leaked three goals in 18 minutes to leave with just a single point. The following game saw the defence concede three goals in just 9 minutes to visiting Ebbsfleet and although Deano was prominent in most of Alty’s best moves, the deficit proved too much. Alty then made it through to the FA Cup 1st round after a single goal victory at Pete Smith’s old club Kendal Town but unfortunately Bury forbid Deano form taking part
* Another player whose potential seems to have no limits is Matt Derbyshire who made it 4 goals in 8 England Under-21 appearances with the only goal of the game against Montenegro. That victory put Stuart Pearce’s side top of the group but even better news was that Matt’s girlfriend is expecting twins-congratulations Dad! The next game saw him once again lead the line and help the under-21s to a 3-0 win against Eire although his game was cut short when he went off with an injury after an hour.
Although on the bench for his next Rovers game, Matt still had a big impact on the game against Reading. With the visitors threatening a come-back, he was on the field for around two minutes before dribbling his way through the defence and being tripped as he was about to slot home his teams fourth goal. The resulting penalty conversion clinched the three points although sadly for Matt it was Benni McCarthy who took it.
* Andy Procter’s season just gets better and better and he scored yet again in the great 3-1 victory at Dagenham. If he continues with his present form, Stanley will do well to hang on to him.
* Yet another former Harwood player to leave the club recently was Paul Mashiter who joined Darwen. It took ‘Mash’ just two games to get off the mark and his goal against Ecclehall helped the Anchor side to a 4-2 victory. Earlier in the week manager Steve Mullen had left the club along with several first-teamers but the youngsters, along with a few senior players made short work of their opponents from Staffordshire. Martin Parkes, Jason Jones, ‘Tricky Dickie’ Fogarty and the afore mentioned Paul Mashiter were all outstanding.
* If losing John Eastham wasn’t bad enough, Whinney Hill suffered a further set back when manager John Hughes departed the club soon afterwards. Hughesy proved himself to be a great manager whilst at the Showground and his phone is sure to be ‘red hot’ with eager chairman vying for his services.
* John Eastham has left Whinney Hill to link up with Steve Pickup at Padiham. Undoubtedly the finest and most consistent forward in the NWCFL since the turn of the century, Easty had been head-hunted by several clubs this season but chose the Storks after boss Steve Wilkes used all his powers of persuasion. Speaking exclusively to www.greatharwoodtown.co.uk John said:
“I trained with Padiham pre season and was very impressed with the whole place.” Despite his presence the Storks have failed to win in the 3 games since he signed but class will always shine through and expect the Blues to go climbing the league in the very near future. Two of Eastie’s ex-team mates helped put an end to his hopes of Lancs. Cup glory when Clitheroe won 3-0 at the Arbories in front of a crowd of 230. Ryan Fisher and Keiran Fletcher starred for the Shawbridge side with Fletch setting up the second goal for the prolific Gary Jackson.
* Andy Procter not only scored to help Stanley to their best Football League result since their promotion, a 3-0 win at Bradford City, he also scooped the PFA fans player of the month award for August/September. He followed that up with a man of the match performance against Wrexham in what was his 200th appearance for the club.
* Away from the pitch, our new web-site has been receiving some great publicity from the local media and plenty of feedback is coming in. Many thanks go to all those involved in making it such a huge success, 12,000 ‘hits’ in the first 6 weeks is phenomenal.
* Lee Sculpher resigned as manager of Ramsbottom United soon after their 2-1 home success over St. Helens, courtesy of Liam McManus’ winner. After a poor run of results Scully felt under too much pressure although the Rams seemed to have turned things round after Saturday’s win followed a 2-0 victory against Bacup Borough.
* Jason Jones turned from hero to villain in Darwen’s 3-2 FA Vase home reverse against Atherton LR. He twice gave his side the lead before getting himself sent off for elbowing an opponent with the Salmoners leading 2-1. With Dennis Hill also leaving the field through injury around the hour mark, the task proved too difficult and Rovers took the tie in extra time.
* Matt Derbyshire was preferred up front to European Cup winner Benni McCarthy as the Rovers took on Sunderland at the Stadium of Light and his inclusion was totally justified as he helped the Blues to a 2-1 win in front of a crowd of more than 41,000.The following week Matt started once again this time in the UEFA Cup against Larrisa of Greece. Matt’s twice taken penalty gave the Rovers a lifeline but the 2-1 win proved to be insufficient to take them through to the group stages. Life is getting better all the time for the Harwood hero as he and his lovely girlfriend are expecting twins in the not too distant future.
* Ryan Fisher scored the final goal for Clitheroe in the amazing 8-2 FA Cup victory over Spennymoor Town and also hit the net in the previous league game against Harrogate Railway Athletic.
* Padiham’s away support can’t match that of Harwood’s if the gate at Blackpool Mechanics is anything to go by. Just 28 turned out for the league game there although Castleton v Bottle ‘attracted’ a paltry 17! We couldn’t make ends do with an average attendance of over 100.
* Many of our old foes were involved in Vase action including two who met at Norton and Stockton Ancients, where visitors Thornaby, Harwood’s last Vase opponents, matched the Robins 4-0 win at the same venue two years ago.
Seaham Red Star thrashed us 7-0 a few seasons ago and Sunderland CA received the same treatment in this year’s competition. Winterton Rangers found Bishop Auckland an easier proposition than the Robins and dispatched the North Easterners 4-2 while Guisborough and Crook Town both lost at home.
* Dennis Hill turned yet another man-of-the-match performance in Darwen’s home FA Vase tie with Penrith and also scored what proved to be the winner in a 2-1 victory. Jason Jones scored once for ‘Darren’ in the 4-0 thrashing of Oldham Town in the Vodcat North West Counties League.
September 2007
* The end of September saw an avalanche of strikes from our old heroes. Liam McManus scored for Ramsbottom to put them two up in their FA Vase tie at AFC Emley, conquerors of Darwen in the FA Cup, and despite hitting the woodwork twice after that, the home side ran out 4-3 winners. Steve MacDonald scored Rammy’s third in the 68th minute to set up a grandstand finish.
* Another of our ex-players to make it to the Football League is Andy Procter and despite Accrington Stanley’s poor start to the season, he’s turned in several man-of-the-match performances as well as scoring a number of goals from midfield.
* The evergreen Pete Smith and Russ McKenna were early season scorers for Clitheroe as was Keiran Fletcher but the ex-Robins defender hit the back of his own net in the FA Cup tie at Chorley. Luckily Smithy spared his blushes with a 2nd half equaliser. The Harwood legend had already ensured the Shawbridge club’s passage in this round with the winning third goal in a 3-2 victory over St. Helens. Ryan Fisher scored against Wakefield before being injured and his absence from the team won’t help them improve upon their poor start to the League campaign.
Clitheroe hosted their biggest match since the FA Vase semi-final a few years ago when FC United arrived for a Unibond game. They must have been disappointed to draw less than 1,000 to the game and even more disappointed when the floodlights failed just before the hour mark. The game was abandoned with the scores locked at 1-1.
* Despite Steve Pickup starring for Padiham, their early season form has been disappointing with just a single win from their first three games. The Storks were another of our local clubs to make a quick exit from the world’s greatest cup competition when they let leads of 2-0 and 3-1 slip before going down 6-3 at Salford City.
Mind you, the Blues soon made up for it as they hammered Castleton Gabriels 9-0 with Steve amongst the goalscorers.
* Neil Zarac started off this season as he finished the last one-scoring goals. He hit a last gasp penalty at Chorley to give Dale a share of the spoils in their Unibond League game.
*Liam McManus and Steve MacDonald continue to impress at the Riverside and were both quickly off the mark for Ramsbottom this term.
* Liam Denning must be on course for some kind of record for the number of clubs which he’s played for. He’s now at Nelson but despite his excellent contributions, the Blues registered just one point from their opening four games and also exited the FA Cup at home to Hallam.
* Meanwhile, in the 2nd Division of the Vodcat North West Counties League, Dennis Hill and Richard Fogarty combined well to get Darwen’s season going after a heavy opening day defeat against new boys Kirkham and Wesham. Den crossed for ‘tricky Dicky to open the scoring in a 5-1 home win over Ashton Town at the Anchor. Disappointment soon followed as they went down 3-0 at much-fancied AFC Emley in the FA Cup.
*Matt Derbyshire continues to live the dream at the Rovers. Coming on as a substitute in the Inter Totto Cup in Lithuania, he scored from long range to put the Blues two up and all but clinch the tie.
Back on the bench for the opening Premier League fixture at Middlesborough, he once again came on during the second half and took 30 seconds to open his league account. A fantastic piece of control, turn and shot into the top corner had the Boro defence and keeper bamboozled and also gave Rovers the 3 points. Match of the Day pundits were drooling about the strike as was the BBC radio commentator.
Matt was then on the goal trail for England under-21’s at Ashton Gate. He scored the home sides only goal after just 8 minutes but unfortunately Romania hit back with an equaliser.
*James Dean signed on for Clitheroe not long after leaving Harwood and they moved him to centre forward with great results. He earned himself a dream move to Northwich Victoria in the Conference and made his debut on January 20th. By the end of the season he’d made 15 appearances for the first team plus 5 more as a substitute, scoring 4 goals and clocking up 5 yellow cards. A change of manager in the summer saw him released but things soon began to look up as he penned a one year deal at League Two Bury.
Shakers manager Chris Casper said:
“James is an old fashioned centre-forward, he’s good in the air and holds up play well.”
James made the bench for the opening game of the season at fancied MK Dons although he didn’t get on. He made his full League debut in the first home game of the season against Carlisle, keeping local hero Andy Bishop on the bench, and kept his place for following game.
Let’s hope that ‘Deano’ can establish himself in the first team at Gigg Lane.
Summer 2006
*During the summer, plans were announced of a plan to build houses on the Showground.
AJH associates of Clitheroe submitted a plan to Hyndburn Borough Council to build 32 two-storey houses and 6 bungalows.
The covenant which states that the ground must be made available for the Great Harwood Show appears to be worth nothing and the Show organisers are looking for another site.
*About two months later the Council rejected the plans.
*Meanwhile, local scum continue to cause vandalism in the area and part of the main stand was destroyed by fire. The fire station crew manager put the blame on ‘kids’ messing about. The fire was reported at 4 o’clock in the morning so just how old were these kids?
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