Eccleshall made several changes to line-up handing debuts to Chris Heard, Tom Ranford with Chris Selsby and Tom Gibson making their first appearances on the bench. Oldham had the better of the exchanges in the opening 20 minutes but only creating one real chance which fell to James Curley who shot well wide. Near the half hour Elstron Die beat Rob Hackney, in the Eccleshall goal, to the ball but put his shot the wrong side of the post. Eccleshall battled hard against third placed Oldham but were rarely challenging their goal. Two chances fell to the visitors in the final 5 minutes of the half, both to Darren Scalon and both were saved by Rob Hackney. Half-time 0-0.
In the second half Oldham were again frustrated by a resolute Eccleshall defence. Jon Phillips, for the visitors, forced Rob Hackney to save. Then Oldham appealed for a ball which they thought had crossed the line but the referee's assistant with a better view ruled the ball had not crossed the line. Eccleshall's endeavour nearly paid off on 75 minutes when they had the ball in the net but the goal was disallowed for a foul on the keeper. Oldham took the lead on 79 minutes from a Tom Hughes free kick. Ben Buckley nearly equalised for Eccleshall, his shot going narrowly wide. Oldham increased their lead with two minutes remaining when Darren Scanlon beat the offside trap to fire low past Hackney. Eccleshall pulled a goal back with virtually the last kick of the game when Josh Nugent scored from an Alex Hutchinson free kick.
15/03/08 (Saturday) VL Eccleshall 2 Ashton Town 1
Eccleshall made it three wins in four games after a strong second half performance. Fielding a much changed side, manager Mark Askey gave debuts to Peter Bromley, Ben Buckley and also Joe Abedini who was on the bench. Alex Hutchinson also started his first game of the season. Ashton were the first to show with Andy Turner firing high and wide after 8 minutes. Martin Rigby then headed wide, for the visitors. Eccleshall's first chance came when Ben Buckley's free kick was headed across goal but Rob Adlington fired over. Ashton should have taken the lead on 25 minutes when Danny Smith's free kick took a deflection, the ball hitting the bar and falling on the line with Richard Johnson then tipping away the loose ball from the advancing forwards. Johnson again kept Eccleshall in the game when a through ball to Alex Dunne saw the keeper move quickly off his line to save at the player's feet. Half-time 0-0.
Eccleshall made a better start in the second half and it was the turn of the Ashton keeper to keep his side in the game. Russell Dematteo forced a fine save from Danny Vickers, the rebound falling to Ian Maitland who forced another good save from the keeper. Ashton Town responded and Richard Johnson was forced to punch clear from Danny Smith. Eccleshall took the lead on 62 minutes when Ben Buckley hit a free kick into the top corner of the net. Ashton came back and equalised four minutes later when Martin Rigby headed home a free kick. Eccleshall pressed forward and were rewarded on 77 minutes when they retook the lead. Peter Bromley free on the left saw his shot crash against the post, the rebound falling to Ian Maitland who crashed his shot home from 10 yards. Ashton didn't give up and again forced Richard Johnson into several saves, one a superb save from Scott McGowan in the final minutes. Eccleshall's recent good form has moved them out of the bottom two and now look forward to a local derby against Leek next Saturday.
Eccleshall went to 2nd placed Ashton with a changed side from the previous two games. Eccleshall started well but were failing in the final third. Much of the game was being played in the Ashton half. Ashton were lucky not to be down to 10 men when Joshua Nugent was taken out with a high tackle which left the player on the ground. Eccleshall came close when Russell Dematteo sent in a free kick but Paul Brice just failed to make contact, as the ball flew across the goal. Steve Brunt then tested Joe Clayton, the Ashton keeper, with a long range effort. Eccleshall were reduced to ten men on 28 minutes when Dwayne Spence needlessly kicked out at an opponent. Two minutes later Ashton took the lead when Steve Bennett, out on the right, sent in a cross for Paul McVeigh to head powerfully home. Ashton increased their lead just before half time when Rob Hackney initially failed to hold Dave Sherlock's shot, the ball spinning to Steve Bennett who made no mistake. Half-time 2-0.
Eccleshall again started well and were again out of luck when the Ashton keeper made a fine save at Russell Dematteo's feet, the ball rebounding off the keeper out to Liam Kerrigan whose shot hit the bar and the ball was cleared. Ashton made it 3-0 on 63 minutes when Ashton pinched several yards on a throw-in and with the Eccleshall defence out of position Paul Townsend hit an unstoppable shot into the top corner. Eccleshall battled hard but 10 men against good opposition the game was never going to be pulled back. Luke Askey came on to make his debut for Eccleshall and Matt Hammonds then tested Joe Clayton, who saved well. Rob Hackney was then forced to make a brilliant saved from Mike Burke, the keeper turning the header away. Eccleshall again tried for the last time for a consolation but Clayton made a superb save from Mark Mapperson.
23/02/08 (Saturday) VL Eccleshall 2 Cheadle Town 1
Veteran Richard Johnson was selected in the Eccleshall team when injured keeper Rob Hackney declared himself unfit. Eccleshall start to the game was marred when Rob Adlington had to be substituted through injury after just five minutes. The visitors from Stockport took the game to Eccleshall with Johnson saving well from Scott Flanagan. Both teams battled hard but few chances were created in the first half hour of the game. Dwayne Spence was the first to test Steve Moores in the Cheadle goal, the keeper tipping Spence's shot over for a corner. Eccleshall took the lead right on half-time. With time added on being played Jack Thorley finished off a move he started. Thorley sent Steve Brunt away and having beat his marker pulled the ball back to Thorley who neatly placed his shot into the corner of the net. Half-time 1-0.
Eccleshall had the first chance of the second half with Liam Kerrigan firing just over from a corner. Eccleshall increased their lead on 59 minutes when Steve Brunt and Jack Thorley combined well with Thorley's cross being met by Ian Maitland who finished off the move. Eccleshall came close the adding more this time through Brunt but Moores saved well from a free kick. In the last ten minutes of the game Spencer Gunnell just failed to connect with his head, as Eccleshall pushed forward. A free kick for Cheadle on the edge of the Eccleshall box with five minutes remaining led to a Cheadle goal, Rob Brocklehurst driving the kick low and inside the post to give Johnson no chance. This led to a nervy last few minutes for the home side but they managed to control the ball much to the frustration of Cheadle.
16/02/08 (Saturday) VL
Daisy Hill 0 Eccleshall 3
Eccleshall finally managed to control 90 minutes of a game and earned three valuable points to climb of the foot of the table. Eccleshall took the game to the Bolton outfit and were rewarded on within 5 minutes when Matt Hammonds made a great surging run to feed Dwayne Spence who cut inside the box to unleash an unstoppable shot into the top corner. Eccleshall nearly increased their lead when a well worked free kick saw Spencer Gunnell shooting narrowly wide. Eccleshall cancelled out Daisy Hill's efforts to get back into the game. Just before half time another Eccleshall attack was thwarted when a good through ball from Joshua Nugent enabled Steve Brunt to advance on goal, his effort being brilliantly saved by Daisy Hill's keeper, Danny Smith. Half-time 0-1.
Eccleshall kept their momentum going at the start of the second half when Smith was again called on to save, this time at Spencer Gunnell's feet after Steve Brunt had created an opening. Eccleshall increased their lead on 55 minutes when Matt Hammonds took advantage of a defensive blunder to score. With three points starring them in the face Eccleshall made sure on 66 minutes when Spencer Gunnell beat two defenders and waltzed round the keeper to score. Daisy Hill made an effort to retaliate, a minute later, but Danny Williams was left frustrated as Rob Hackney made a tremendous save. Rob Adlington then had a shot cleared off the Daisy Hill line, from a corner. With fifteen minutes left Eccleshall were in complete control and nearly added to their score but Andy Garrett headed inches wide just before the final whistle.
09/02/08 (Saturday) VL
Eccleshall 2 Darwen 3
Eccleshall threw away a half-time lead to remain at the foot of the league. Both sides cancelled each other out in the early stages with the first real chance falling to Darwen's Jordan Hulme, after 15 minutes, but he fired his free kick just over the bar. Eccleshall then completely dominated the rest of the first half but squandered chances galore. A mistake in the Darwen defence allowed Dwayne Spence time to shoot but he ballooned his effort over the bar. Minutes later Russell Dematteo had a chance which went the same way. Andy Garrett then had a chance to put Eccleshall ahead, but missed the target from three yards out. Eventually all the pressure on the Darwen goal paid off when on 33 minutes a Dwayne Spence shot took a wicked deflection to leave Joe Darwin in the Darwen goal, stranded. Five minutes later Eccleshall went two up when a long ball from Danny Stevens found Rob Adlington who drove his shot hard and low into the corner of the net. Dwayne Spence then forced Joe Darwin into an excellent save, just before the break. At the break the half-time score of 2-0 flattered the visitors.
Darwen pulled a goal back four minutes into the second half when a mix-up in the Eccleshall defence allowed Reece Rowinski to head over Rob Hackney and into the net. Eccleshall forced a corner which resulted in Darwen clearing off the line from a Dwayne Spence header. Darwen equalised on 58 minutes when a cross from Jordan Hulme was clinically headed home by Reece Rowinski. Darwen had changed the game round and were the in the driving seat with Rob Hackney being forced to save well from Jordan Hulme. Eccleshall had another chance but the effort was foiled by keeper Joe Darwin. Darwen took the lead with ten minutes remaining when Rowinski completed his hat trick when he poked the ball home in a goalmouth scramble. An exciting game for the neutral but Eccleshall again threw all their good work away to leave their management in despair.
02/02/08 (Saturday) VL
Norton United 1 Eccleshall 0
Enforced changes were made to the Eccleshall line-up following their midweek defeat to Roceater with veteran Richard Johnson taking his place between the sticks. Norton were the first to show with Danny Hughes firing narrowly wide. Norton took the lead on 20 minutes when sloppy defensive play by Eccleshall allowed Wayne Teague to score. Eccleshall tested Norton keeper on the half hour with Russell Denmatteo seeing his shot well saved. Richard Johnson then mad a great save, at the other end, from a Norton free kick. Half-time 1-0.
Rob Adlington, for Eccleshall, went close with the Norton defence clearing after the keeper had saved well. Adlington again made the keeper save again, with fifteen minutes left. Eccleshall had the ball in the net minutes later but the move was adjudged offside. Good play by Norton saw Richard Johnson brilliantly save from Liam Shotton. With time ticking out Sean Brown saw an effort scrambled away as Eccleshall pressed for an equaliser. Time eventually ran out and defeat meant Eccleshall remain at the foot of the table.
30/01/08 (Wednesday)
Staffs Senior Cup Semi-final Eccleshall 0 Rocester 1
Eccleshall's chance of cup glory was dashed by a single goal scored from the penalty spot in the first half. Having defeated Stoke and Port Vale in previous rounds Eccleshall had hopes of reaching the final of this competition to keep their season alive. Eccleshall had the better of the play in the early stages but Rocester's dogged defence held firm and reduced Eccleshall's effort to a Russell Dematteo free kick which flew over the bar. Rocester then started to make moves but Eccleshall's defence was equal to it. Luck turned against Eccleshall in the 16th minute when Ashley Sheridan made a move down the left, for Rocester, the ball played to Tom Smith who appeared to be brought down in the box. Dave Shaw took the spot kick which saw Rob Hackney in the Eccleshall goal just inches away from saving it, but the ball sneaked into the net just inside the post. Eccleshall pressed and Mark Mapperson had a shot blocked before Karl Bayley tested Latham, in the Rocester goal. Rocester put some good moves together with Martin Gadsby heading over and Tom Smith firing wide. Rob Adlington, for Eccleshall, fired over and Darren Spence shot just wide as Eccleshall tired for the equaliser. Eccleshall were struck another blow just before half-time when Dan Smith from Rocester and Eccleshall's Danny Stevens were involved in an incident which saw the Eccleshall player sent off and the Rocester player remain on the pitch. |Half-time 0-1.
After the break Eccleshall's 10 men worked hard and nearly went two down but Rob Hackney tipped a Mark Hobson effort over the bar. Eccleshall pressured Rocester with Dematteo and Spence combining well to win a corner but they failed to take advantage. Hackney then made good saves from Lee Bagley and Ishmale Reid to keep Eccleshall in the game. Karl Bayley then missed a great chance to equalise and take the game into extra-time. Eccleshall efforts in the final minutes mounted to nothing and their cup run with them. Eccleshall manager, Mark Askey was disappointed: " It was a dubious penalty and then Stevens did not deserve to be sent off. It was 10 against 12. Those decisions made our task harder. We have worked hard in this competition and to have the chance of reaching the final whipped away like that is very disappointing. However, I am proud of the way we played."
A welcome return to football after an enforced three week break saw Eccleshall manager, Mark Askey, again forced to ring the changes with Karl Bayley making his debut and Ian Maitland taking his place on the subs bench. Both teams started well but it was Eccleshall who took the upper hand which showed when they took the lead on eleven minutes. Dwayne Spence having two efforts on goal cleared before the ball fell to Russell Dematteo who made no mistake. Eccleshall were now dominant and Blackpool failed to make headway until the twenty fifth minute when Steve Gibson headed narrowly wide. Minutes later a curling drive from Kenny Cram was brilliantly turned away by Rob Hackney, in the Eccleshall goal. Both sides battled away with no further progress in the half. Half time 1-0.
Eccleshall nearly increased their lead but Karl Bayley's downward header was well held by Blackpool keeper, Jamie Cook. Blackpool sub Lydon Hodgekess had a good chance but he sent his volley just over. Blackpool equalised on 75 minutes when Hodgekess sent in a spectacular drive from way out on the left wing, the ball flying over Rob Hackney's head and into the corner of the net. Eccleshall then went down to ten men when Liam Kerrigan was sent off for a second yellow, on 80 minutes. A minutes took the lead when Chris Cairns finished off a good move. Another was added on 83 minutes when Chris Cairns crossed to find Kenny Cram to head home. A familiar story at Pershall, playing well and looking the better side until the final third of the game. Blackpool moved towards the promotion spots and Eccleshall dropped to bottom due to alphabetical order.
05/01/08 (Saturday) VL
Eccleshall 0 Padiham 1
Eccleshall fielded new signing, goalkeeper Rob Hackney, against their visitors from Burnley. Both teams made a bright start with the first real chance falling to Eccleshall after 15 minutes when they were awarded a free kick outside the box but Paul Brice fired over. Padiham tested new keeper Rob Hackney when Vinnie Braine was put through but Hackney foiled the forward with a dive at his feet. Eccleshall again on the attach when a good move sent Dwayne Spence away but he saw his delicate chip shot turned away for a corner by Gavin King, in the Padiham goal. A cross from Jack Thorley caused the Padiham keeper concern but the ball floated agonisingly over the bar. Padiham took the lead a minutes before half time when the referee awarded a penalty for an alleged push, Vinnie Braine making no mistake from the spot. Half-time 0-1.
Padiham should have increased their lead shortly after the break but Vinnie Braine ran the ball out of play when in a good position. Eccleshall worked hard and were unlucky when Dwayne Spence saw a shot just headed off the Padiham line. Padiham hit back and Neil Almond came close with a shot that went narrowly wide. Dwayne Spence had a great chance on 68 minutes when he was presented with an easy chance to score but he failed to hit the target. Rob Hackney brilliantly turned a shot from Dave Holt away to keep Eccleshall in with a chance. The final 15 minutes were even and unfortunately for Eccleshall they failed to find the equaliser.
The game was started on a rain sodden pitch which was deemed playable by the referee. Eccleshall enjoyed good spells in the first 25 minutes against promotion chasing Ashton. The visitors had their fair share before half time but Barry Weston, regaining his place between the sticks made some fine saves.
With the rain coming down the pitch became worse and the referee called it off just before half-time.
26/12/07 (Wednesday) VL
Eccleshall 1 Stone Dominoes 3
Dominoes completed the double over luckless Eccleshall. Eccleshall Fielded new signings Adrian Baggaley and Ben Nixon with Luke Askey making his debut on the bench. Stone took the lead on 10 minutes when Alex Baird headed home, unchallenged, from a corner. Eccleshall equalised on 18 minutes, in similar fashion, Dwayne Spence powerfully heading home from a Ben Nixon corner. Eccleshall had a chance to take the lead but James Hall, in the Dominoes goal, spread himself to deny Spence his second. Half-time 1-1.
Eccleshall were dealt a double blow with ten minutes of the restart when Stone sealed their win. A move down the left and an Andy Matthews cross finding James Curley's head, to score, after 54 minutes and a minute later James Curley finishing off another good Stone move. The game the went into neutral with both sides trying hard but finding no form.
29/11/07 SSC (Weds) Eccleshall 3 Port Vale 2
PORT VALE: LATE SPENCE STRIKE SEES VALE BOW OUT
A Strong looking Port Vale side were humbled by non-league outfit Eccleshall, who progressed to the semi-finals of the Staffs Senior Cup with a dramatic last-minute winner.
Vale twice went ahead in the first half thanks to strikes from Simon Richman and Marc Richards, but Eccleshall refused to lie down and Dwayne Spence's well taken goal in the 90th minute secured a memorable victory for a team languishing in the bottom three of the Vodkat North West Counties League Division Two.
Richards was joined in the starting line-up by fellow senior players David McGoldrick, Colin Miles, Mark Goodlad and Justin Miller. And in truth Vale dominated their hosts for much of the first half, having taken the lead in the fourth minute.
Adam Copeland's long throw on the left found Danny Glover in the penalty area. Off balance, the young striker failed to connect properly with his shot, but the ball rolled to Richman, who calmly swept home from 10-yards into the bottom left-hand corner.
Richards was proving a constant threat, but was guilty of missing a number of chances before Eccleshall equalised in the 37th minute.
Spence chased what looked like a lost cause down the right, but running at full throttle he managed to hook the ball into Vale's penalty area.
The onrushing Robert Adlington beat Miles to the ball and went over the Vale defender's sliding tackle to earn a disputed penalty.
Adlington picked himself up and sent Goodlad the wrong way with his spot-kick, caressing the ball into the bottom right-hand corner.
Richards restored Vale's lead a minute before half-time with an eight-yard finish after Glover's good work down the left.
But Eccleshall's confidence grew in the second period and they scored a fortunate equaliser in the 75th minute when Vale conceded a free-kick 40-yards from goal.
Steve Brunt's set-piece was intended for the far post, but Goodlad could only stand and watch as the ball sailed over his head and into the far left-hand corner.
And in the dying seconds Vale's defence were guilty of ball watching as Spence ghosted into the box to convert Spencer Gunnell's free-kick from 12-yards, sending the Pershall Park crowd delirious.
Vale coach Andy Porter said: "We showed a good attitude, but when you are on top of a game like that you have to be knocking the chances in and we didn't. "It was 2-1 to us at half-time which gave them a bit of lifeline. They got a fluke second goal, but that is how it goes and their third was down to poor defending."
Posted on: Thu 29 Nov 2007 http://www.port-vale.premiumtv.co.uk
Staffs Senior Cup Quarter Final.
Port Vale: Mark Goodlad, Justin Miller(Jonathan Compton 64), Adam Copeland, Danny Edwards, Luke Prosser, Colin Miles, Simon Richman, David McGoldrick, Marc Richards(James Lawrie 73), Danny Glover, Luke Chapman. Subs Not Used: Paul Dixon, Chris Martin, Sean Pike.
Eccleshall: Ashley Picking, Steve Brunt, Jack Thornley(Mark Johnson 57), Liam Kerrigan, Mark Mapperson, Spencer Gunnell, Matt Mills(Shaun Brown 71), Russell Dematteo, Dwayn Spence, Robert Adlington, Danny Stevens.
Port Vale's Staffordshire Senior Cup campaign came to an end in the Staffordshire countryside as they went down 3-2 to Northwest Counties Division 2 outfit Eccleshall at PershallParkVale failed to take advantage despite dominating possession throughout and twice having the lead through Simon Richman and Mark Richards and they were to pay the ultimate price when they conceded a 90th minute winner.
Andy Porter fielded a relatively strong looking reserve line up with seven players in the squad who have made a first team appearance this season. Loanee David McGoldrick was captain for the night playing in an unusual centre midfield role. Vale were quickly out of the blocks and with their first meaningful attack they took the lead.Danny Glover held the ball up from Adam Copeland's throw in before laying it into Simon Richman's path who drove the ball past the keeper and into the left hand corner. The Valiants' continued to dominate proceedings with Mark Richards and the impressive Danny Glover both going close in the opening quarter. It took Eccleshall 21 minutes to mount their first serious attack when McGoldrick was forced to get back and block Liam Kerrigan's shot. Glover was again involved on 26 when he squared the ball for Richman who teed up Mark Richard but his shot was tame and straight at Ashley Picking in the Eccleshall goal. Picking was at his best just after the half hour to deny Luke Chapman a first goal for the reserves, the Eccleshall defence was beaten once more by Danny Glover who fed the left winger only for the custodian to brilliantly tip over his shot. Two minutes later Eccleshall levelled the scores with a goal completely against the run of play.A hopeful punt down the right was well kept in by Dwayne Spence and the loose ball caught Colin Miles unawares and with Robert Adlington beating him to ball, Miles dived in and brought the forward down in the penalty area.Adlington picked himself up to send Goodlad the wrong way with the spot kick.(1-1). Vale reacted well to the set back and McGoldrick curled a free kick inches wide before the Valiants regained the lead.Danny Glover beat his man on the left before squaring to Richman and although the youngsters shot was blocked it ricocheted into the path of Mark Richards who finished into the corner from 6 yards.(1-2)
The second half saw a more even contest, but Vale again looked the more likely with the industrious Mark Richards only denied a free shot by a last ditch tackle before Luke Chapman pulled a ball across the face of goal with the former Barnsley striker not far away from making contact. Vale looked to be seeing the game out as few chances came for a long period until Eccleshall were awarded a free kick 35 yards out on 78 minutes.Right BackSteve Brunt sent a long ball into the air that somehow dropped over Mark Goodlad's head and in off the under side of the bar (2-2). Vale once again looked to get straight back at the non-leaguers with substitute James Lawrie playing in Glover but his shot was well saved by Picking. Eccleshall looked revitalised at the other end and Gunnell looked odds onto blast home from close range but somehow contrived to scramble it wide, however Eccleshall weren't to be denied their 2nd league scalp of the Staffs Senior Cup as Vale failed to defend a 90th minute set piece and Dwayne Spence nipped in between Prosser and Miles to poke the winner past Goodlad(3-2). Vale still had a couple of opportunities to equalise as McGoldrick burst through but just as he was about to pull the trigger the ball was cleared and Richman seemed to have won a late corner after a mazy run but the referee inexplicably pointed for a goal kick as the game ended 3-2.
Eccleshall's season continued to falter when their second half fight back was killed off when their keeper, Ashley Picking punch the ball into his own net. With Paul Brice injured and Karl Williams leaving the club in mid-week manager Mark Askey had to reshuffle his side, not for the first time this season. High flying Kirkham put Eccleshall on the back foot in the early minutes with Phil Blackwell seeing his shot deflected for a corner. Eccleshall responded with a good ball from Matt Mills finding Dwayne Spence whose snap shot was well held by Kirkham keeper, Peter Summerfield. Rob Adlington then tested the keeper with a free kick but his shot lacked power and the keeper easily saved. Kirkham took the lead on 28 minutes when Sean Paterson opened up the Eccleshall defence with a good run to lay the ball back to Phil Blackwell to hammer home. KIrkham had another chance before half time but Ashley Picking saved well from Phil Thompson. Half-time 0-1.
Eccleshall took the game to Kirkham and applied the pressure. Steve Brunt came close but his shot cleared the bar to land on top of the net. Rob Adlington was then on target testing the keeper with a fine shot. Eccleshall playing some good football without that final bit of quality in and around the box. Just as Eccleshall thought they had an outside chance to salvage something from the game Kirkham gained a corner, with ten minutes left. Ashley Picking was first to the ball but punched the ball into his own net, to end a week of goalkeeping errors. This took all the life out of the game and Eccleshall again were left wandering when the gods will next smile on them.
17/11/07 (Saturday) VL New Mills 4 Eccleshall 0
Eccleshall took on leaders New Mills and for spells early on looked every bit the better side, but then ran out of steam in the second half. The first chance of the game fell to Eccleshall after 15 minutes but the New Mills keeper, Stuart Williams, showed good form to save well from Jack Thorley. Minutes later Rob Adlington forced Williams into a brilliant save, turning the ball away. New Mils gained two corners in quick succession both ending with headers which failed to hit the target. Williams in the New Mills goal was then tested by Dwayne Spence, saving well from the forward. However New Mills took the lead on 39 minutes when a good through ball from Joe Shaw found Anthony Bingham to place his shot wide of the diving Barry Weston. Half-time 1-0.
New Mills took the early initiative and should have increased their lead but Carlos Meakin missed a glorious chance, firing his shot wide. With 17 minutes left a long ball out of defence caught Eccleshall knapping. Gary Kharas latching onto the ball to fire his shot across Barry Weston and into the net. Two minutes later Anthony Bingham made it 3-0. Eccleshall relented once more and substitute Rhys Nevin finished the scoring on 85 minutes.
10/11/07 (Saturday) VLCC Eccleshall 1 Cheadle Town 2
Eccleshall's chance of progressing in the Challenge Cup came to an end deep into time added on after the Stockport based side had ridden their luck late in the game.
Cheadle were the first to threaten when after ten minutes Dean Martin hit a shot against the bar, the ball rebounding clear. Eccleshall playing some neat football, had the ball in the net minutes later but Rob Adlington's effort was ruled offside. The forward made amends on 20 minutes when he cut in from the right to hit a 20 yard shot high into the net, beating Peter Mellor in the Cheadle goal, all ends up. Dwayne Spence then had two chances to increase the lead but failed to capitalise. Unfortunately for Eccleshall these missed chances proved costly as Rob Brocklehurst hit a 35 yard unstoppable shot into the corner of the net to equalise for the visitors. Half-time 1-1.
Dwayne Spence had a chance early in the half but failed to beat the keeper who had quickly closed him down. Paul Brice failed to trouble the Cheadle keeper from a Rob Adlington cross when he should have done better. The game became a scrappy affair with both sides lacking a little quality during the middle stages of the half. Cheadle had a chance to take the lead but a brilliant save from Barry Weston denied John Hussian. As the game entered the last ten minutes, Eccleshall pushed forward and Dwayne Spence had a great chance - but failed to make good contact with his shot as he went through on the Cheadle goal, the keeper easily saving. Eccleshall should have sealed it but Dwayne Spence missed the target from two yards with a header. Eccleshall were forced to make a change when Mark Mapperson sustained a head injury. This unfortunately seemed to be the cause of Cheadle's winner. When added time was being played out, Danny Wilshaw who had just come on, lost possession in the midfield, the ball ending up with Cheadle's Dean Martin who made progress into the box to score.
Eccleshall fielded an unchanged side from their mid-week defeat to Norton United.
Playing good football Eccleshall were the first to threaten when Karl Williams shot narrowly wide after ten minutes. Paul Brice had a shot which was fumbled by Ashton's keeper Paxton but the ball was cleared as Dwayne Spence closed in. Rob Adlington then made progress into the Ashton Box but could only put his shot into the side netting from a narrow angle. With Eccleshall dominating most of the play Paul Brice, with five minutes left in the half, had a shot which deflected into the path of Dwayne Spence but the forward's shot went wide. Moments before the break Rob Adlington headed over when in a good position following a good build-up. Half-time 0-0.
Ashton came more into the game and took the lead on the hour when, with a suspicion of offside, Simon Gallanders got on the end of a good cross to score. Eccleshall battled hard put were lacking a little bit of class to finish off some good play. Spencer Gunnell fired a shot over with fifteen minutes left in the game. Barry Weston then pulled off an excellent save from a close range shot from Ashton's Simon Gallanders. Ashton then sealed their win on 85 minutes. Attacking down the left with Tom Potter in possession from deep, he sent in a high cross with seemingly no danger, Barry Weston lost the flight of the ball as it dipped between his hand and the bar.
The frustration in the Eccleshall team is there to see as they again competed well and played well against good opposition but failed to punish them when on top. The management team also are finding it hard but insist that with such a young side time is on their side and the results will come.
Eccleshall were missing two main strikers Dunn and Dematteo through injury and suspension and also had Warrender and Gunnell out injured from their previous two games. Eccleshall's recent return to form took a knock as Kirkham and Wesham maintained top spot with a workman like performance.
Kirkham and Wesham started well and controlled the first fifteen minutes. Eccleshall's real first move forward nearly gave them the lead through Dwayne Spence. Spence beating the keeper but his shot was cleared off the line. The home side took the lead on 19 minutes when Mick Horsfall wriggled his way into the penalty area to beat Barry Weston with a low shot to the keeper's right. Matt Mills replied for Eccleshall but his snap shot flashed over the bar. Eccleshall were dealt a blow on the stoke of half-time when Kirkham and Wesham made it 2-0. A good ball found Andy Taylor whose precise cross was met by Paul Eastwood, to volley home.
The home side turned the screw when they added a third on 58 minutes with Paul Eastwood the supplier this time for Andy Taylor who beat the offside trap to head home. Kirkham's fourth came ten minutes later when a short corner to Mick Horsfall led to him putting in a cross for Phil Blackwell to head home. Karl Williams for Eccleshall saw a 20 yard effort brilliantly saved by Pete Summerfield but it was Kirham and Wesham who finished the strong and should have scored again. Mark Wane putting the ball over the bar with an open goal beckoning.
20/10/07 (Saturday) VL Padiham 0 Eccleshall 0
Eccleshall made the trip to Burnley still buoyant from their 3-1 Staffs Senior Cup win against Stoke City in mid week . Paul Brice returned from injury but one of the mid week heroes Matt Mills was missing.
Eccleshall started the more active of the two sides with Jimmy Dunn forcing Padiham's Gavin King into a fine save. Dwayne Spence was then denied by King and as the ball ran loose made another brilliant save from Danny Stevens as Eccleshall piled on the pressure. Padiham's first real chance came after 20 minutes when they were awarded a corner from which Andy Hargreaves headed narrowly over. Barry Weston, in the Eccleshall goal, was then brought into action as he saved from John Eastham, the ball falling to Damien Morrison who completely miss-kicked and the ball was scrambled clear. Eccleshall again came back with Gavin King superbly saving from Jimmy Dunn. Half-time 0-0.
Eccleshall started well in the second half and again Padiham were kept in the game by Gavin king as he again made a good save from Jimmy Dunn. Oliver Warrender then came close for Eccleshall, his volley just going wide of the upright. Padiham responded but Ed O'Neil wasted a good chance, blasting over from a good position. With fifteen minutes left Padiham were reduced to ten men when Ross Barnham was sent off for a 2nd bookable offence. Eccleshall then went close as Padiham were forced back. Oliver Warrender being denied by Padiham's 'man of the match' Gavin king. Warrender again with a chance and with King well beaten saw his shot rebound off the post. Dwayne Spence was next to beat King but his effort thundered against the crossbar and clear. An excellent point which could have been three if not for the heroics of the home keeper.
16/10/07 (Tuesday) SSC Eccleshall 3 Stoke City XI 1
Eccleshall recorded their first victory in the Staffordshire Senior Cup with a comfortable performance in front of a bumper crowd at Pershall park. A fit and young looking Stoke City outfit were overwhelmed by a motivated and attacking Eagles' team which hit decisively in the first half to destroy the Potters' hopes in this year's competition. The Sentinel's reporter James Knowles penned:
17/10/2007 - Jack takes family honours as City youngsters crash
The pre-match headlines had centred around the Thorley brothers at Pershall Park - and it was Eccleshall's Jack who claimed bragging rights over sibling Tom as a young Stoke City were beaten 3-1.City's youth-team coach Adrian Pennock selected from the same squad that had lost 2-1 to their Manchester United youth rivals at the weekend, while Eccleshall boss Mark Askey opted to play Dwayne Spence up front, leaving Russell Dematteo on the bench.
That decision immediately paid dividends as Spence fired Eccleshall into a ninth-minute lead. Jimmy Dunn put a delightful through-ball into the striker's path and, after rounding City keeper Danzelle St Louis Hamilton, he tapped into the net.Stoke captain Mark Grocott was doing his best to spur on his side by putting in some crunching tackles in the centre of the park, but Eccleshall doubled their lead in the 23rd minute. A fizzing drive from Dunn evaded Spence in the centre, but Matt Mills, on the right wing, made no mistake.Eccleshall continued to dominate and it was no surprise to see them move 3-0 ahead. A long ball from the right saw a lack of communication between Stoke's St Louis Hamilton and Andy Owens, which allowed Spence to nip in and head his second goal of the evening on the stroke of half-time.
Dean McCormick had a couple of efforts comfortably saved by home keeper Barry Weston in the second half, but City never showed any signs of launching a recovery mission.Both wingers - Lathan Forrester and Salif Diao - were the best performers for Stoke, but it was Jimmy Phillips who scored the best goal of the game on 75 minutes. His curling effort, from 30 yards, gave Weston no chance, but it was no more than a consolation.
Eccleshall: Weston, Brunt, J. Thorley, Gunnell, Mapperson, Stevens, Mills, Warrender, Spence (Dematteo, 82), Dunn (Nugent, 77), Williams. Subs not used: Johnson, Kerrigan, Wilshaw
Stoke City: St Louis Hamilton, Keys, Watson, T. Thorley, Parsons, Owens, Phillips, Grocott, McCormick (McDonald, 66), Diao (Harrison, 90), Forrester, Sub not used: Ryan.
Attendance: 219
13/10/07 (Saturday) VL
Darwen 4 Eccleshall 2
Darwen started the better of the two sides and had two chances that went wide. They should have taken the lead after 12 minutes but a last ditch tackle by Mark Mapperson denied Jon Stephenson. It was Eccleshall who found the net first, after 16 minutes. Dwayne Spence seemed to be chasing a lost cause with Darwen keeper Nick Worrell, who made the mistake not to do the same and Karl Williams following up made no mistake. Darwen equalised on 20 minutes when Paul Walker crossed for Matt Howarth to score. Darwen increased their lead with ten minutes left of the half. Eccleshall's Barry Weston making a fine save from a Paul Crompton free kick but the ball spun away into the path of Paul Mashiter who made no mistake. Half-time 2-1
Paul Crompton, on the hour, nearly increased Darwen's lead but shot narrowly wide. Moments later Matt Howarth tried to finish off a good move but Barry Weston brilliantly turned the ball over. Darwen scored their third on 73 minutes when a ball from Jason Jones found Paul Mashiter who finished off the move. A minute later they made it four when Matt Howarth finished off a good move. Barry Weston then saved Eccleshall from further damage with another superb save, this time from Paul Mashiter. Eccleshall battled hard in the closing minutes and were rewarded with three minutes remaining when Dwayne Spence rounded the keeper to score in style.
06/10/07 (Saturday) VL Eccleshall 1-2 New Mills
Dwayne Spence made the starting line-up for Eccleshall following his suspected broken leg during last week's game against Holker. Dwayne received hospital treatment where it was found he was only suffering from a bruised shin.
Eccleshall dramatically took the lead within minutes of the start against the league leaders from Derbyshire. The game's best move left Russell Dematteo creating an opening for Matt Mills, who fired high into the net out of Barry George's reach. New Mills nearly equalised after 5 minutes but a superb save from Barry Weston denied Danny Hooper. The equaliser came after nine minutes when Carlos Meakin finished off a move. Eccleshall battled hard but New Mills looked the more dangerous. Dwayne Spence had a chance for the home side but Barry George saved well from the forward. New Mills took the lead on the half hour when a quick break lead to a shot from Gary Kharas, taking a wicked deflection to leave keeper Barry Weston no chance in the Eccleshall goal. Half-time 1-2
Most of the second half was 'even stevens' with both sides full of endeavour but lacking the finishing touch. In the last fifteen minutes of the game Eccleshall pushed forward and had chances that went begging. The best of these was when Jimmy Dunn threatened down the left to send in a low cross which just needed a finishing touch. Eccleshall were dealt a blow with ten minutes remaining when Russell Dematteo was sent off after allegedly striking the New Mills central defender. Eccleshall were left with no points but plenty of positives. the Eagles quickly need to find a consistent, winning formula if they are to progress up the league. Manager mark Askey must be left aggrieved after another excellent performance has left the Eagles without a point and smarting form a few peculiar decisions from the officials.
29/09/07 (Saturday) VL Eccleshall 3-1 Holker Old Boys
Following Eccleshall's disappointing performance in mid-week away at Stone Dominoes manager, Mark Askey, was looking for an improvement against the lowly team from Barrow. Eccleshall started well with Paul Brice involved in much of the action. Brice gave the home side their first chance when he put Dwayne Spence through but having eluded the keeper he put his shot wide. Spence again a minute later was through but he put his shot over. Paul Brice then set up Oliver Warrender and his shot went wide, whilst in a good position. New signing Josh Nugent came off the bench to replace Paul Brice, who suffered a hamstring injury. Holker made a rare move forward and nearly took the lead on 40 minutes when Jack Hargreaves was given room on the edge of the box, his volley hitting the top of the bar and going over. Half-time 0-0.
Holker had a clear chance at the start of the half but it was wasted as Chris Ottley shot wide. Josh Nugent sent Russell Dematteo away on goal but the forward stubbed his shot and was easily saved by Ben Sowerby. Eccleshall were in constant possession of the ball now and efforts from Danny Stevens and Jimmy Dunn were well saved by Sowerby. Eccleshall finally found the net on 75 minutes when Sowereby failed to hold a Danny Stevens shot and Russell Dematteo was on hand to score. Three minutes later Dematteo made it 2-0 when Stevens headed the ball into the forward's path, Dematteo scoring from just inside the box. Dematteo scored his hat trick two minutes later when Holker failed to clear a ball from inside the six yard box and the forward snapped up the loose ball to score. It should have been four only a few minutes later but a shot on goal struck Russell Dematteo on the goal line and went over for a goal kick. Eccleshall forward Dwayne Spence suffered an injury with a minute remaining, when he sustained was thought to be a broken leg following a tackle on him. Play was delayed and when restarted following Eccleshall's free kick Holker broke away and scored in the last seconds of the game through Jack Hargreaves. Following the game Spence was taken away in an ambulance and it was later found his leg was not broken and may return to action sooner than was thought.
The game frustrated the Eagles for much of the 90 minutes, assertive possession along with a string of excellent chances produced little end result to boost the Eccleshall points tally. Once the first goal was scored, everyones' nerves seemed to relax and a procession of 'Dematteo dominance' determined the outcome for the hosts. Manager Mark Askey will be hoping for a swift return to action for young Dwayne Spence as the forward line proved to be so successful. "It felt good for the lads to get another win under our belts, and I was pleased to finally get the rewards that our football has deserved in recent matches," the manager said, "but no number of points could over-shadow our fears for Dwayne as he was stretchered from the pitch."
22/09/07 (Saturday) FA Vase Norton 1-0 Eccleshall
Eccleshall were denied at the death by a dubious offside decision in a game which they dominated but failed to convert their chances. Eccleshall created an early chance when Dwayne Spence provided Danny Stevens with a chance but Norton scrambled the ball clear. Steve Brunt then set up Danny Beigus for Eccleshall but failed to hit the target with only the keeper to beat. Spencer Gunnell shot just wide as Eccleshall pushed Norton back. Norton then contrived to create a great move to take the lead on the half hour. Liam Rigby and Matt Kinsey combining well with Tom Laruso whose cross was headed home by Jon Jackson. Half-time 1-0
After the break Eccleshall were in complete control with Norton battling hard to defend their lead. Several free kicks were cleared from danger by Norton. Karl Williams was given a chance by Danny Stevens but he shot wide of the Norton post. Norton however came close to increasing their lead but Liam Shotton's free kick hit the bar and went clear. More Eccleshall pressure with Spencer Gunnell and Dwayne Spence seeing shots saved by Gary Goodwin as they searched for a deserved equaliser. In the dying seconds Eccleshall keeper Barry Weston sent a free kick in for Jack Thorley to head forward to Russell Dematteo to bang the ball into the net but his goal was disallowed for a disputed offside decision. The game left manager mark Askey pleased with a good performance but bitterly disappointed with the result.
15/09/07 (Saturday) VL Ashton Town 1-2 Eccleshall
Eccleshall travelled to Ashton Town seeking a first league win with manager Mark Askey again fielding a young side, average age 20. Both sides started defensively with each closing the other down and not allowing the game to flow. Barry Weston in the Eccleshall goal was brought into action on the half hour as Liam Wright tested him with a long range effort which Weston dealt with in fine style. Eccleshall forward, Dwayne Spence, then forced Ashton's keeper, Liam Wright, to make a good save tipping the ball over for a corner. Ashton then missed a glorious chance with Paul Prescott putting a chance over the bar with the keeper caught out of position. Ashton Town took the lead on the stroke of half-time through Paul Howard who put a left foot shot out of Weston's reach. Half-time 1-0.
Eccleshall started the second half wel,l and with determination were rewarded on 58 minutes with an equaliser. Mark Johnson making a good run down the left his cross finding Steve Brunt on the far post to head home. The game was now flowing and Dwayne Spence forced Liam Wright into two fine saves. Ashton Town replied with an effort from Alex Dunne but Barry Weston was equal to it, making a brilliant save turning the ball round for a corner. With fifteen minutes remaining Eccleshall took the lead with a goal which goalkeepers have nightmares about. Liam Wright in the Ashton goal received a back pass from his defence but the ball ran through his legs and into the net. Ashton Town had the ball in the net five minutes later but the referee had already blown with Eccleshall's keeper lying injured. Craig Ward headed against the bar for the home side as Ashton tried to gain something from the game but Eccleshall held out for the three points.
Eccleshall gave keeper Ashley Picking his debut in goal but were without leading scorer Russell Dematteo for their trip to second placed Blackpool. Eccleshall started well and were the first to threaten when Danny Stevens fired a shot in from 25 yards, forcing Blackpool keeper Jamie Cook into a brilliant save. Blackpool came close after ten minutes but Chris Cairns, clearly having been released form duty for the Kiwis, pulled his shot wide. A golden opportunity was missed by the home side when Martin Ogiers sent in a cross for Cairns but Ashley Picking pulled off a superb save to deny the forward. Blackpool took the lead on 20 minutes when Ashley Picking saved well but the ball ran loose and Mark Ashall took advantage to score. A minute later Blackpool added a second when the Eccleshall defence were caught cold, David Cram finishing off a move. Eccleshall gifted Blackpool a third on 37 minutes when a misunderstanding gave Wayne Gardiner an easy chance to score. More problems in Eccleshall's defending when Paul Ryan's cross was back-heeled into the net by Chris Cairns for their fourth, with five minutes left of the half. Half-time 4-0
The second half was more of an even contest but the home side nearly had another but the cross bar saved Eccleshall from further damage. The home side turned off the gas a little but Eccleshall couldn't take advantage and found themselves treading water. However they nearly went home with a consolation but bodies behind the ball for Blackpool scrambled off the line to deny Eccleshall, in the dying moments. This was no day trip to remember!
Eccleshall started well and were unlucky not to take the lead when Karl Williams fired a shot past Castleton keeper Mark Canning but his effort hit the post and went clear. Eccleshall took the lead on 15 minutes when Neil Edwards received a short corner and then thundered an angled shot into the far corner of the net. Eccleshall continued to play good football and were rewarded on 23 minutes with another goal. Karl Williams picked up the ball on the half way line, sent a glorious pass through the defence into the path of the advancing Adam Challinor on the right, who raced away from the Castleton defence to shoot low past the keeper inside the far post. Eccleshall looked in complete control until the 39th minute. A fine save from Barry Weston, in the Eccleshall goal, lead to a corner and from this Castleton gained a goal back when Steve McCann was allowed room to head home. Castleton gained possession from the kick off and Carl Winstanley advancing forward hit an unstoppable shot into the top corner for Castleton's equaliser. The one sided game had been tipped upside down within the space of two minutes. Half-time 2-2.
Still shell shocked Eccleshall found it hard to generate any telling moves and were further in trouble when Castleton took the lead on 63 minutes, Brad Barrington finishing off a good move. Eccleshall did respond and the game changed back into their favour. Russell Dematteo was given a clear chance by substitute Jimmy Dunn but the forward took his time and his shot was well save by the advancing Mark Canning. Eccleshall finally equalised on 77 minutes when Russell Dematteo latched onto a through ball over the defence to race on and fire past Canning. Pressure was applied but Eccleshall's winner never came. Karl Williams had the best chance when Russell Dematteo laid a ball back but Williams' close range shot hit the outside of the post. An entertaining game with Eccleshall wondering how they gave the visitors a share of the points.
25/08/07 (Saturday) VL Eccleshall 2-3 Chadderton
Eccleshall were caught cold by their high flying opponents from Oldham when slack defending allowed Paul Ashton to score within the first minute. Eccleshall who had rung the changes with three new signings, after a slow start to their season, were immediately under pressure. Chadderton looked lively and closed everything down. However new signing Dwayne Spence nearly gave Eccleshall a quick reply but his effort went narrowly wide. Chadderton increased their lead further after just 8 minutes when Paul Ashton was again given room and time to strike a left foot shot into the net. Chadderton gave Eccleshall no time to settle and went close when Alex Dodd sent a 25 yard effort just over. With ten minutes remaining of the half Barry Weston, in the Eccleshall goal, saved well from Alan Beckett's header and Weston again brilliantly saved as he turned a Carl Taylor shot over. Just before the half time whistle Eccleshall were reduced to 10 men when Jimmy Dunn was dismissed after he retaliated against a foul on him. Half-time 0-2.
It didn't get any better for Eccleshall in the early stages of the second half and went three down after 52 minutes when Chadderton were awarded a penalty. Carl Taylor making no mistake from the spot kick. Barry Weston then saved well from Paul Ashton. Ecclesshall pulled a goal back on 57 minutes when Karl Williams made a great run into the box to strike the ball out of the keeper's reach and into the net. Chadderton should have made it four but Barry Weston again saved brilliantly, this time from Danny Taylor. Eccleshall made Chadderton defend in the last fifteen minutes as they pushed forward to try and gain something from the game. Twice Chadderton cleared off the line before a last minute goal by Spencer Gunnell gave the home fans something to cheer.
Eccleshall will be looking for their fortune to improve on Saturday, when Castleton Gabriels are the visitors. A win for the Eagles will see them leap-frog their guests and hopefully kickstart the 2007/08 season.
18/08/07 (Saturday) FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round Glossop North End (NWCFL Div1) 2-0 Eccleshall
Eccleshall added Adam Challinor to their line-up and included Paul Ridley in the defence. Eccleshall started well with Steff Fielding, in the Glossop goal, saving brilliantly from Jimmy Dunn's first time shot, after good work by Mark Nicklin. However Glossop took the lead after nine minutes against the run of play. Darren Hamilton firing a ball into the box for Lee Evans to head home. This knocked the stuffing out of Eccleshall who found themselves on the back foot. Glossop gained encouragement from their goal and tested the Eccleshall defence. Lee Evans on 24 minutes forcing Barry Weston into a superb save and then Darren Hamilton headed just wide for the home team. Glossop increased their lead on the half hour when Hamilton, doing the damage, left the Eccleshall defence for dead before slotting his shot home. Eccleshall showed some resistance and fought back with jimmy Dunn forcing Fielding to save with his finger tips and force the ball away.
Half time 2-0 Eccleshall found themselves off the pace in the second half with Barry Weston making a series of good saves, firstly at the feet of Dave Morris and then from Lee Evans. Glossop were now in control with Weston proving to be Eccleshall's man of the match with another magnificent save, this time from Darren Hamilton. The game ended with Glossop easing their way through to the next round of the cup.
14/08/07 (Tuesday) VL Leek CSOB 2-0 Eccleshall
Eccleshall travelled to Leek for their first away league fixture of the season. Having been pegged back in the second half at home on Saturday, the Eagles were intent on returning to their first half form. Steve Brunt was unavailable, but was replaced by last year's surprise find, Mark Bailey. Two reserve team players were on the bench following impressive performances the previous evening against Rocester. Both sides opened brightly with some neat passing and movement in excellent conditions. Eccleshall were deploying 5 across midfield and the high work rate led to few opportunities for the Old Boys as the 5 sniffed-out and suppressed any play through the opposition midfield. By the same nature, Eccleshall were not creating the expected openings either.
The play took this pattern for much of the first half. Shortly before the break CSOB took the lead as a cross made its way to the edge of the 6 yard box and Tarr rose unchallenged to head home. The break arrived with the score 1-0 to the home side.
The second period followed on from the first. No lack of effort from any quarter, but the cutting edge and the final ball palpable gainst Daisy Hill, were missing from the Eccleshall arsenal tonight. A number of changes were made striving to alter the run of play. Almost mirroring the first half, a late goal came near the end of play. A telling through ball was not dealt with by a defender and Rowe took his chance well; advancing upon goal and dispatching the ball into the back of the net with the outside of his boot. 2-0 the outcome lifting Leek above Eccleshall having gained their first points of the season. Local manager Kevin Sheldon was seen at the game with senior player Adam Challinor and will no doubt return to Springbank Park with an array of interesting notes.
Eccleshall will take some positives from this game, but at no stage did they perform in the exciting fashion that had been evident on Saturday or in pre-season. This coming Saturday sees the Eagles in FA Cup action away at NWCFL Div 1 Glossop North End. Eccleshall will be expecting to return to their previous form against excellent opposition in what should be a thrilling encounter with a £500 prize and an away tie to Southern Premier (Div1 Midland) outfit Malvern Town awaiting the winners.
Lineup: Weston, Bailey, Gunnell, Mapperson, Thorley, Dematteo, Nicklin, Brice, Stevens, Williams, Dunn. Substitutes: Jones S, James, Johnson M, Garrett.
11/08/07 (Saturday) VL Eccleshall 1-1 Daisy Hill
Eccleshall started the new season with a new look defence which had youth on it's side, against the visitors from Bolton . First action of the game saw Jack Thorley, Karl Williams and Russell Dematteo combining well to give Jimmy Dunn a shot on goal which Julian Taylor in the Daisy Hill goal did well to save. Taylor again saved well from Thorley, as Eccleshall applied the pressure with neat football. Eccleshall took a deserved lead on 27 minutes when Mark Nicklin and Jimmy Dunn created an opening for recalcitrant striker Russell Dematteo to slide home passed the advancing Taylor. Eccleshall now pullulating with opportunities. With minutes left of the half Thorley ghosted into the box to fire just wide of the post. Half-time arrived with the score remaining 1-0.
Daisy Hill were on level terms within a minute of the restart. A push on Daisy Hill forward Ryan Jones in the box and a penalty awarded. Jones taking the kick himself sending Barry Weston the wrong way. Eccleshall had a great chance on the hour when Jimmy Dunn broke loose, his final shot being kept out by Taylor . The game lost it's edge for a while and it wasn't until near the end that more action took place. Eccleshall coming close with Spencer Gunnell heading over and Daisy Hill scrambling the ball away as Eccleshall tried to find a winner. The game ended with the points shared with the home side left more frustrated than their visitors.
Manager Mark Askey was very pleased with the first half performance, "I thought we were very impressive in the first half. I told the lads to push on after half-time as a second goal would kill the opposition off. My reminder to maintain concentration didn't seem to work as we came out and gave a stupid penalty! All-in-all, we played well and have one more point than when we kicked off!" A charged Steve Bradbury added, "The first half was the way we should start every match. If we can do that, this will be an exciting season for all the fans."
Tuesday sees the Eagles playing their first derby of the season, away at Leek CSOB, followed by their 1st round FA Cup tie away at Glossop North End on Saturday.
Lineup: Weston, Brunt, Thorley, Gunnell, Mapperson M, Nicklin, Brice, Stevens, Dunn, Dematteo, Williams. Substitutes: A Hadzik, Jones S, Garrett A, Mills J, Todd.
28/07/07 (Saturday) Eccleshall FC 1 - 2 Alsager Town
Big spending Alsager Town visited Pershall Park with a strong squad, good following and a few familiar faces. Eccleshall were denied a number of potential first team players due to other commitnments, but still put up an entertaining 'fight' against an in-form side who arrived having defeated Unibond Premier League Hednesford the previous week.
The opening exchanges were relatively even. Chances were coming but neither side had a true clear sight of goal. For the first time this pre-season, experienced keeper Edmondson made way for Todd and the youngster coped well with the early half-chances. A solid strike from the right hand flank did creep past a fully stretched left hand but rebounded off the post with the danger being cleared. Andy Garratt made his first appearance after returning from a back injury and will have pleased his manager with a succession of quality touches. Captain Danny Stevens continued his run of strong performances with another solid display at the heart of midfield. The deadlock was broken five minutes before the interval. An attack by Heler down the left flank was cleared, only for the resultant corner to be headed just inside Todd's left hand post by the Alsager centre back. The break came with Alsager slightly on-top and leading 1-0.
Eccleshall came out fired-up after the break but were shortly to find themselves two goals behind. A harsh scoreline but leaving the Eagles with a mountain to climb. The tireless Dunn was the player to lead the fightback. Picking the ball up in midfield, he ran at the Alsager defence before firing a crsip shot into the Town goal leaving the keeper stranded. Eccleshall continued to drive for the equalizer but it wasn't to come. Sean Brown's introduction gave a new dimension to the game. He was to pressure and harry a number of Town defenders, but to no avail.
Again manager Askey gave the youth teamers opportunities and they will have given their manager a number of options to consider this season. The game saw Charlie Reeves and Steve Millington returning to Pershall Park for the first time since their transfers during the close-season. Both played well and received warm applause from the Eagles fans.
Eccleshall came away happy despite defeat. "Alsager are a very good side who will do very well this season," manager Mark Askey explained, "They have a good manager and an equally determined board backing him." Resurgent Assistant Steve Bradbury insisted that these big matches are a "must-see" for all fans of the clubs. "Clubs like Alsager are what we aspire to be," he said travelling back from Manchester.
24/07/07 (Tuesday) Eccleshall FC 1 - 3 Rocester FC
Pershall Park was the centre of attention as a youthful Eccleshall entertained Midland Alliance outfit Rocester on a surprisingly seasonal summer's evening amidst weeks of rain and floods. Groundsman 'Bomber' had prepared a bowling green surface conducive to tehnical football. Both sides did not disappoint as the Romans came out on top in a 4 goal thriller. Mark Askey followed through on his promise to give youth every opportunity this season; the starting back four averaging only 17.5 years old. Both teams started energetically with a number of half chance efforts being saved by each keeper. Prior to kickoff, there was disappointment in the Eccleshall Camp as bad news came through that former crowd favourite (opposition) Cipolla could not attend. Never the less, Danny Edmondson provided his 3rd consecutive impressive performance while making claims for the #1 jersey.
Rocester were the first to break the deadlock. Having dealt well with all danger so far, debutant Spencer Gunnall used his pace to intercept a searching ball towards the Rocester right wing. On this occasion the young central defender had misjudged his tackle, over-stretching and allowed his man to continue towards goal. It proved to be an uncharacteristic error as he managed to put the misjudgement behind him and have a pleasing 1st match for the Eagles. A goal down, back came Eccleshall. Central midfielder and role model captain Danny Stevens was leading by example. Ably supported by Dr Paul Brice, the two started to dominate the midfield battle. Before the half-time break, the home side drew level. An incisive combo of passes led to stalwart Russell Dematteo racing clear and calmly stroking the ball past the wrong-footed Roman keeper's outstretched right hand to nestle in the bottom left hand corner. The striker turned to celebrate another pre-season goal in as many games, eagerly anticipating another challenging target and subsequent payout from the club's Director of football.
All square at the interval. The Eagles decided to make changes after the change-around. On came all four substitutes. The even battle continued with Rocester having the better chances and taking the lead early into the half. A free kick on the left hand edge of the area left keeper Edmondson with little chance. Eventually the Romans got on top, having the majority of the telling possession. A third goal was added near the final whistle. With 15 minutes still remaining, striker Dematteo was forced to leave the field. Fans will be pleased that the change was purely precautionary and the veteran sriker should still find his employment unaffected! A second casualty, defender Steve Brunt had to leave the pitch after suffering a blow to the face, but is not expected to be sidelined for long.
A match that ended in defeat gave manager Mark Askey much to be pleased about. The young defence coped well and though their inexperience may have been exploited on this occasion, many lessons will be learnt quickly. Assistant Steve Bradbury concurred, "An excellent evening for football on a truly splendid pitch. The young lads gave a good account of themselves. Pre-season games like this really fire me up for the coming season."
Match-day secretary Graham Moss was present, but unable to carry out his irreplaceable and complete match-day duties. "Not for friendlies," he insisted. No wonder, given his busy diary. The hard-working committee man has game-day entries for this match followed by the Arthur Eldon clash on Wednesday and Alsager Town on Saturday. Sunday sees him turn out in goal for the Red lion, and if that's not enough evidence that age is no barrier - a date with destiny in Ashton on Friday night. If any of the guests from the Swynnerton Arms are paying attention, Graham assures us that those troubles are over!
Lineup: Edmonson, Brunt, Thorley, Gunnall, Bailey, Gleave, Brice, Stevens, Johnson, Dematteo, Nicklin. Substitutes: Jones S, Mills M, Ridley, Hadjik
21/0707 (Saturday) (Friendly) Holt JCB 1-4 Eccleshall FC
A comfortable first friendly of the season saw Eccleshall take the spoils in an absorbing contest. The early exchanges were extremely even. Eccleshall came out of the blocks in their customary 4-4-2 formation with both Ball and Hadjik being given their senior debuts. Manager Mark Askey must have been pleased with the commitment levels exhibited, but the new additions took time to bed in and settle. An early one-on-one resulted in another tremendous save from the in-form Edmondson, diving acrobatically to his right to stifle a JCB break away. The battle in the middle of the park was taking shape with Brice and Bradshaw forming a combative partnership, yet not dominating in the constant drizzle. Though a number of classy touches and intricate touches were shown, the JCB defence seemed to cope with the cutting edge of the visitors and few clear cut chances were given. JCB took the lead mid way through the first half. Eccleshall had a number of chances to clear a pin-ball effort which eventually nestled in the back of the Eccleshall net. A disappointing outcome, given the excellent start to the pre-season by Edmondson. Eccleshall retaliated with a plethora of corners and long-range set pieces. A number of Dunn set pieces threatened to return the game to an even keel only to result in open play or JCB goal kicks. Eventually the visitors broke even. A thrilling move down the left flank was too much for the JCB defence; an incisive one-two by-passing the host's right back and striker Dematteo pulled the ball back for the ever salient Dunn to even the score from the centre of the area. Just 5 minutes before the break, questions were being asked of the JCB rear-guard.
The second half saw manager Askey make a number of changes. Johnson and Gleave replaced Hadjik and Bradshaw as another debutant - young Ben Lewis came on to replace right midfielder Jones. The substitutions changed the complexion of the game as JCB also made a number of alterations to their line-up. Two of those substitutes were to get their names on the score sheet. Dematteo gave Eccleshall the led and showed the debutants the way to goal crashing a shot into the roof of the net from the edge of the area - no more than he deserved after a number of pulchritudinous exchanges with Dunn had placed the JCB defence on the back-foot. Mark Johnson was showing the form that terrorized Thomas Vermaelen and Johnny Heitinga of Ajax Amsterdam while excelling at Stoke City Academy . He was rewarded when his rasping left foot drive left the keeper clutching thin air as the net bulged to send the visiting fans into rapturous applause. Eccleshall were in the ascendancy now, and youngster Ben Lewis capped an impressive debut with a well taken finish deep into the second period.
It was an entertaining performance from the Eagles and the score line may not truly reflect the efforts of a capable set of hosts. Make no mistake that the management team of Askey, Bradbury, Dale and Worthington will be endeavouring to improve the side from this solid position. "An excellent performance," Manager Askey said, "I was pleased with a number of the lads considering it was their first competitive match for 8 weeks. We still have other faces we are going to look at in the next 3 or 4 friendlies. This squad appears to have the making of the best the Eagles have seen during my time here!" An impetuous Bradbury echoed those sentiments, "This is exactly the sort of game that vivifies my outlook for this season more than ever. Full credit to the ground staff for getting the game on!"
Tuesday sees the Eagles at home; entertaining Midland Alliance's Rocester FC (gates open for 7.45 kick off). This fixture has seen a number of exciting encounters in previous seasons with this year's expecting to be no exception.
Lineup: Edmondson, Ball, Stevens, Brunt, Ridley, Jones S, Hadjik, Brice, Bradshaw, Dematteo, Dunn. Substitutes: Gleave, Johnson M, Lewis,
Manager Mark Askey was very pleased with the first half performance, "I thought we were very impressive in the first half. I told the lads to push on after half-time as a second goal would kill the opposition off. My reminder to maintain concentration didn't seem to work as we came out and gave a stupid penalty! All-in-all, we played well and have one more point than when we kicked off!" A charged Steve Bradbury added, "The first half was the way we should start every match. If we can do that, this will be an exciting season for all the fans."