Ladybridge Wolves v Aspull Jnr Rovers

Date:  2010-04-12
Author:  Bill C
Report:

Ladybridge Wolves 7 Aspull Jnr Rovers 3

Well Done to all the boys and Lilly our girl!! An excellent game that started off badly as we went 2-0 down after 15 minutes. After that things went our way.

We won a free-kick just outside the box which Josh Coplin fired in to make it 2-1 to them.

Next the ball zipped across the box to Josh again who placed a shot above the keeper to make it 2-2

Matty Gribbins won the ball down the line and made a firing run and then crossed the ball to the penalty spot where Josh Coplin volleyed it in to make is his and our third.

David price made an excellent tackle in midfield, and chipped the ball over the defenders which Josh Coplin got on the end of and passed it calmly into the right bottom corner of the goal  to make it 4-2 to us at half -time.

Aspull then scored a sloppy goal where the ball got fumbled around with in the box and eventually fell to their player who passed it into the net and made it 4-3 to us.

We then won a corner that was headed away to Sam Wardle who struck a brilliant shot that the keeper saved very well ,but then the ball fell to Josh coplin at the far post who hit the ball at the keeper and then passed the ball through the keepers legs to score his and our fifth of the game to make it 5-3.

The game finished with Cole Lonsdale scoring 2  out of the box shots making it  7-3 to us.

End Result Ladybridge Wolves 7 , Aspull Jnr Rovers 3.

Ladybridge Athletic CLJFL v Coppull United

Date:  2010-03-21
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

Ladybridge 10 Coppull 0

Firstly I would like to outline what a credit the Coppull lads are to there club, as they kept battling through to the final whistle, but today everything that the Ladybridge lads did came off today and when that happens there is very little you can do.

For the record Ladybridge were down to a bare 11 today as 2 lads cried off with sickness and onother of our players (Marren) was informed this week that he has been offered a trial at a professional club.

Thats 5 players we have now lost this season:

Jackson - Goals @ Blackpool
Papworth - Midfield @ Blackpool
Ball - Midfield @ Liverpool
Hulme - Defence @ Liverpool
Marren - Midfield @ Rochdale

I dont know if this is a record for one team in one season, but i cant stop smiling and am extremely proud of all of them.

I am also very proud of the lads that are left because against all the odds, eventhough they have had their ups and downs, they keep pulling out the performances when it realy matters. This season truely is a voyage of discovery!

As for the game, well Coppull started the better with 2 free kicks in quick succession, the first came off the top of the crossbar and the second sailed over.

8 minutes and Ladybridge woke up and from there on in there was no stopping them, as a quick break down the right flank, through to Dixon, who found Loftus with a neat pass and he stroked the ball towards goal which was finished off as it approached the line by poacher supreme Senior 1 - 0

2 minutes later and a wonderful defensive header by Eccles (capt) was collected by Winteringham, who quikly found Loftus and on this occasion he made no mistake 2 - 0

17 minutes and Ladybridge were awarded a free kick wide left which Flores took, and a slight deflection wrong footed the keeper and it was now 3 - 0

26 minutes and another inch perfect free kick by Flores, this time from wide right went straight to the head of Eccles and he doesnt miss from there 4 - 0

32 minutes Winteringham with space centre field stroked a loverly ball with the outside of his right boot which curled round the defender into the path of Lowe and he surged into the box before drilling a near post shot home 5 - 0

HALF TIME 5 - 0

2 minutes and Flores made a surging run from the left flank and was upended in the box for a certain penalty which he despatched with aplomb. 6 - 0

A minute later and Loftus this time came short to collect the ball before turning inside to find H.Booth who had made the perfect move into the 18 yard box and he slid the ball home. 7 - 0

13 minutes and Coppull put together some excellent interplay to cut there way through the ladybridge backline and a curling shot from the left hand side of the box was well saved by M.Smith. The resulting corner came to a Coppull striker and the shot went over the bar.

18 minutes and some wonderful football of the highest order from back to front. Winteringham released Flores who used great feet to beat 2 defenders, before unselfishly squaring the ball to Loftus and he finished with style 8 - 0

20 minutes even better football down the left wing as Dixon, Winterigham, J. Booth and Flores moved the ball quickly between them, before Flores dinked a lovely pass through to Senior who headed the ball home. 9 - 0

31 minutes and this time H.Booth found himself in space and curled a lovely shot round the keeper, but unfortunately for him it came off the right hand post

33 minutes a corner from Flores was half cleared by the Coppull defenders only for H.Booth to send it back from were it came with an unbelievable OVERHEAD kick! which smashed into the net. 10 - 0

A terrific performance from the boys, who continue to produce displays of the highest calibre. Flores was a revelation today and on any other day would have walked the Man of the match accolades, Eccles had his most commanding game of the season and Winteringham was.....Winteringham with his never say die give 110% attitude, but today the man of the match went to a lad who has never played in midfield for us before. He is a striker by trade, but today, he worked his socks off, used his height to great affect and drilled some lovely balls out to the wings for others to feed off. That lad is Dixon.

Well done Dixon and well done lads.

Tarleton Corinthians v Ladybridge Athletic CLJFL

Date:  2010-03-14
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

Tarleton Corinthians 0 Ladybridge 2

Last week the lads, by their own admission were poor, this time out was like chalk and cheese, because they were excellent, being first to the majority of balls, dominated possession and created a number of chances.

I have no doubt if it wasnt for the fact they were up against an excellent defence and keeper, they would have scored more.

I have to say though what an excellent bunch the Tarleton lot are, as this game was played in a superb spirit, by both teams, who gave there all, but remained honest and respectful throughout.

At the end of the game, Peter West (Referee) actually commented that the game was a joy to officiate and was one of the best games of junior football he had ever been involved in.

Both sets of supporters, coaches and players need to take a lot of credit for that.

For the record Tarleton had the first opportunity on 5 minutes with some good work down the left, a ball into the box, and a hurried clearance from the Ladybridge back line.

This though was the only real opportunity for Tarleton in the whole game as M.Smith in goals was otherwise untroubled.

The reason for this was the excellent work in midfield by Winteringham in particular, Flores on the left, Marren in the centre and when he came on due to an injury to J.Smith, H.Booth who had his best performance in a Ladybridge shirt.

Up front Loftus in particular was a constant threat, coming short for balls, holding up the ball for his midfielders and making many darting runs in the channels.

On 17 minutes FLores played a quick one, two with Winteringham, before hitting a terrific drive which the keeper held onto well.

On 28 minutes Flores and Winteringham linked up with Loftus before the ball was laid back to Marren and his shot was again well taken by the keeper.

2 minutes later and as Ladybridge pushed for the opener, a corner was forced which Flores took and the ball was half cleared only to H.Booth and his pile driver just went over the bar.

A tight first half with Ladybridge in the ascendancy ended 0 - 0

The half time team talk was all about quick pass and move, letting the ball do the work and creating space by dragging players all over the park.

Ladybridge again started the stronger and soon were camped in the Tarleton half, although a resolute defence and quality midfield, always posed a danger on the break, though at the back today Trow, who wass later replaced by J.Smith, Eccles, Turner and J.Booth looked solid and assured.

Then on 12 minutes J.Smith rolled the ball to H.Booth wide right near to the half way line. H.Booth was closed down so, used lightening quick feet to shift the ball inside and into Winteringham.

Winteringham found H.Booth again as he had no run beyond his marker with a first time pass, which H.Booth the made a quick one two with Marren before collecting the ball again and finding the feet of Loftus. Loftus sped past one centre back and ran towards goal and as he did so the second centre back upended him for a stonewall penalty which was rightly awarded.

The football was that good on the run up to this penalty that even some of the Tarleton contingent were clapping.

Up stepped Marren and he made no mistake, stroking the ball home. 0 - 1

Tarleton now stepped up there game for 5 minutes but still couldnt fashion a real goal scoring opportunity, and as the ball rolled out of play for a Ladybridge throw, I did have to remind the lads to relax, calm down and start passing and moving again.

Luckily for us, this is what they did and the 5 minutes of up tempo from Tarleton started to fizzle out and ladybridge took control again.

On 27 minutes ladybridge extended there lead with a well worked goal which started at the right back position with J.Smith who fed the ball into central midfield and Winteringham, who rolled it to his left to Marren, who darted forward and then stroked the ball to the left wing into the parth fo Flores who picked up pace and went by the right back before running into the 18 yard box and driving a bullet shot into the far right hand corner of the net. 0 - 2, and thats how it stayed until the final whistle.

As for the lads today, special mentions for H.Booth who like I said a tremendous performance and was the catalyst for our first goal, Marren who was assured in central midfield, Loftus who was a powerhouse centre forward and Flores who was a revelation on the left, but today the man of the match was Winteringham who covered every blade of grass and virtually single handidly took control of the important midfield areas.

Well done Winteringham and well done boys.

 

Ladybridge Lions v Worsley Jnrs

Date:  2010-03-06
Author:  Angela Hardman
Report:

WOW !!!!      What a match ... We played Worsley Jnrs today and we are  so proud of the boys they put on a great performance we played 2nd in the league and drew 2-2 it was outstanding..

This is the 2nd point they have got in 3 games and the team seem to be finally gelling together they have not had a good season but credit to them they battle on regardless and it's showing...

Worsley Jnrs are a great team and they played very well indeed good luck to them..Next match Bury away so lets hope the team are on a high from todays result,, Keep up the good work boys !!!!! 

Ladybridge Athletic CLJFL v Burscough Juniors

Date:  2010-02-28
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

Ladybridge 8 Burscough Juniors 1

Today was difficult for both sets of players, as it was there first game for many weeks due to the long lay off as a result of the bad weather, and the pitch was playable, but heavy under foot and as the game wore on became more tiring.

Ladybridge came out of the blocks all guns blazing as they took the game to there opponents with some crisp passing and terrific movement off the ball.

2 minutes and Marren collected the ball centre field and as he was closed down calmly stroked it back to J. Booth in the left back position. J. Booth stroked the ball down the left flank into the path of Flores who quickly picked up pace and ghosted past the right back, before whipping in a ball which Senior pounced on and slammed the ball home. 1 - 0

5 minutes later and Senior had the ball in the back of the net again, after making another darting run and taking the ball round the keeper, but as he turned away to celebrate he saw that the flag had been lifted and he was adjudged offside.

Ladybridge had all the play and pressed home their advantage on 14 minutes after a succession fo corners, which were sent over by the ever dependable Loftus. Each one caused mayhem in the Burscough defence and as the fourth was sent in, up rose Eccles to smash a header home. 2 - 0

3 minutes later and Ladybridge were puting on a wonderful show of passing football on a difficult surface, with Winteringham finding H.Booth who in turn picked out Loftus who hit a rasping drive but this was well saved by the excellent keeper.

19 minutes Smith who was having one of his best ever performances cut out play in the right back spot, fed the ball into H.Booth, who in turn played a first time pass inside to Winteringham. Smith had continued his run and colected a neat return, before picking out Loftus who turned and hit a terrific strike which was initially blocked, but he managed to pick up the loose ball and then lay it back to Flores who was waiting on the edge of the area. Flores then hit a wonder strike into the far corner of the net. 3 - 0

2 minutes later and it was a similar story as Smith broke up play, knocked it wide to J.Booth, who in turn picked out Flores who made no mistake. 4 - 0

A minute later and it was now five as Ladybridge were now stroking the ball around with ease and shifted the ball from left to right, to H. Booth who used quick feet to make space inside the 18 yard box and then smash home and unstoppable drive. 5 - 0

The next 4 minutes saw football of the like I have never seen before as Ladybridge retained possession for the whole period, moving it along the backline, into midfield and back to the back four. They probed and stroked the ball around with such ability that Burscough were left chasing shadows and then the killer pass as Flores wide left hit a diagonal ball which Senior darted forward and collected with ease, before skipping past the despairing dive by the keeper and sliding the ball into the empty net. 6 - 0. A truely wonderful team goal.

HALF TIME 6 - 0

As the first half was a wonder show of footballing ability, the second was a disappoinment as all 5 changes were made during the half, players were asked to take up positions they hadnt done before, the lads found it hard to live up to the same level of performance and the pitch was now becoming extremely tiring.

None of that though can take away from the fact that Burscough came out the second half playing for their pride, they were fired up, determined and committed and as such deserved to at least get one goal and ensure that our boys didnt rack up a cricket score.

For the record neither keeper was truely tested for long periods until 21 minutes and Burscough won a corner, which was whipped in and half cleared. The clearance though fell to a Burscough player (Blackwell) who was surrounded by 5 yellow shirts. He hit a snap shot which was initially blocked, but the block came back to him and all 5 yellow shirts backed off, and he did what I would expect anybody would do in that situation, he smashed the ball into the net at the second attempt. 6 - 1

This seemed to wake the Ladybridge boys up again and they started to play with a more upbeat tempo.

24 minutes and Trow played a ball out wide to Flores who whipped in a lovely ball which was collected by H.Booth and smashed home, but unfortunately top striker Senior was stood in an offisde position and the goal was chalked off.

1 minute later and Marren pushed a ball out to Flores who went for the byline and then dinked a terrific cross which was inch perfect for Dixon to nod home 7 - 1

27 minutes and Flores who was orchestrating play wide left, cut inside and hit a raspingd drive which the Burscough keeper dived to his left and tipped round the post.

The corner came in though and Eccles rose highest again and planted the header home 8 - 1

Another excellent performance from the lads, but special mentions must go to Smith who had a terrific first half and Eccles who controlled the backline for most of the game and popped up with 2 excellent headed goals from corners, but Man of the match has to go to Flores who was excellent throughout the game, with his running, crossing and shooting. Ohh yes and he scored a couple of cracking goals also.

Well done Flores and well done boys

Ladybridge FC Girls v Elton Girls

Date:  2010-02-28
Author:  Angela Hardman
Report:

What a great match today from the girls, they were consistant throughout the match . There passing of the ball was spot on and pass and move between the girls was outstanding.

I have watched the girls grow from strength to strength over the years and they have shown how they now work as a team and not as individuals and this showed today as they work hard together to come away with a 5-1 win and are now sitting in 4th place in the league... Well done girls

Ladybridge FC Girls v Elton Girls

Date:  2010-02-28
Author:  Angela Hardman
Report:

What a great match today from the girls, they were consistant throughout the match . There passing of the ball was spot on and pass and move between the girls was outstanding.

I have watched the girls grow from strength to strength over the years and they have shown how they now work as a team and not as individuals and this showed today as they work hard together to come away with a 5-1 win and are now sitting in 4th place in the league... Well done girls

Atherton Town v Ladybridge Lions

Date:  2010-02-20
Author:  Angela Hardman
Report:

This match just goes to show the improvment of the team when they pulled of a 2-2 draw against Atherton Town on Sat who at the start of the season won 7-0.

The match was delayed due to Atherton not being ready but the team had a good warm up as it was yet again another cold day.

We did roll on roll off subs to keep the kids warm and to make sure they all got the same amount of playing time.

Atherton went 1-0 up as the ball bounced out of the keepers hands  but it wasn't long before Ladybridge pulled on back thanks to Jack..

We also missed a sitter but we dont worry about things like that as the team carried on at 1-1 we then went 2-1 down with a great goal from Atherton, the teams heads never went down and battled back to pull out a mistake from Atherton with a little pressure from Ladybridge to force an own goal..Jacob stepped in as keeper for the second half and pulled off some great saves well done J..

2-2 was a fair result as both teams showed commitment and fair play and respect to one another .

Well done boys keep up the good work..

Ladybridge Athletic CLJFL v Gillibrand Warriors

Date:  2010-01-24
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

Another excellent passing and moving performance from the boys with all the squad contributing to football of the highest standards.

Huge credit to Gillibrand who played with heart and conviction to the final whistle.

For the record Ladybridge started strongly and opened the scoring after only 4 minutes when Winteringham cut from his central midfield position to wide right and whipped in terrific far post cross which was met with a low first time volley by Flores which smashed into the back of the net. 1 - 0

6 mins and a great break down the left by Marren and some quick feet, opened up a shooting opportunity and he didnt disappoint firing a keft foot shot off the post which was cleared by the defender for a corner.

The corner came in and Turner got up first to fire his header just wide of the mark.

Loftus used his strength to break clear and he found H. Booth whose early shot was well saved by the agile keeper for a corner.

The corner came in and one of the smallest players on the pitch timed his run to the near post with perfection and glanced a super header into the net for Seniors first goal of the game. 2 - 0

15 mins and Marren again set off with a mazy run down the left and then hit a strike which came off the keeper into the back of the net. 3 - 0

21 minutes and Winteringham started a move he also finished, collecting the ball centre field, surging forward and as he was closed down, pinged a terrific pass out wide to Loftus who headed for the byline before whipping in a strike which the keeper did well to push away, but this only fell to Winteringham who had continued his run and he slid the ball home. 4 - 0

31 minutes and Eccles collected the ball in his centre back slot, pushed the ball to J.Booth in a forward left back position. J.Booth pushed the ball down the line to Flores who curled an excellent ball towards the 6 yard box and there was Senior to fire home from close range. 5 - 0

34 minutes Ecellent play by Marren finds Loftus on the edge of the 18 yard box, Loftus turned a fired in a shot which the defender did well to block, although the ball rebounded out to Senior who was on the left edge of the 18 yard box and he looked up and curled a wonder strike into the far right hand corner of the net. 6 - 0

HALF TIME 6 - 0

Ladybridge started the second with some of the best passing we have seen this season as on one occassion they strung together 16 consecutive passes before the ball was cleared by the Gillibrand defence.

2 mins and Flores had a strike from outside the box which the keeper managed to get a strong hand to and push it away to his left and off the post, the rebound though fell to the striker supreme and Senior smashed it home emphatically. 7 - 0

8 mins and Dixon who had been brought on just after half time worked the ball well on the right and put in an excellent cross which Senior again was on hand to slide home for his fifth goal of the game 8 - 0

13 mins and Gillibrand had a free kick which was cleared by the Ladybridge defence to Flores on the left wing. Flores pushed the ball into space and took on the full back beating him for pace and as he entered the 18 yard box, coolly slotted the ball home 9 - 0

23 mins and Loftus had a super effort which smashed off the far post.

31 minutes and the keeper for Gillibrand made the save of the match as first H. Booth from the left wing came inside and drileld a shot which came off the far post into the path of Loftus, now the keeper had dived to his left for the initial shot but had the piece of mind to get straight back up and push away a hammer striker by Loftus with a strong right hand, shoving the ball over his head and over the bar for a corner. WHAT A SAVE!

33 mins and more good feet by Marren brought him into the box and this time he made no mistake firing a left foot strike into the bottom corner of the net. 10 - 0

Another excellent performance by the lads, who are now passing the ball better than ever and looking stronger than ever, which all bodes well for the rest of the season.

As for Man of the match, there were some good performances all over the park, but for his 5 goals and none stop workrate the accolade today goes to Senior.

Well done Senior and well done boys

Ladybridge CLJFL v Bamber Bridge

Date:  2009-10-11
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

COUNTY CUP - RD 2 Ladybridge 10 Bamber Bridge 2

Ladybridge are struggling for players at the moment as Papworth signed a 2 year contract with Blackpool at the beginning of the season and went with our blessings. Jackson has been on trial at Blackpool and Hulme and Ball have been invited down for trails at Liverpool.

We have been losing players literally left, right and centre and that doesnt include those missing due to illness.

It though is with great credit to the coaching these lads have received at Ladybridge that they are still one of the top teams in the Lancashire area and that clubs like this are interested in them.

So today we had 9 outfield players, and our reserve keeper playing outfield and our regular keeper between the sticks, to make a straight 11.

So it is testamount to the lads ability that they played some wonderful football today against a team that gave there all, and never stopped trying.

For the record Loftus bagged 5 goals, one a nice finish from close range. The second a super header after a terrific cross from Flores. The third came as a result of a terrific run by Lowe down the right wing and a whipped in cross which was slightly behind Loftus, but that didnt phase him as he swivelled and hit a terrific turning volley into the net.

His fourth came as a result of some more good work by Flores and Lowe, with the latter finding Loftus lurking 30 yards out and when others would have expected a high curling shot, Loftus thought different hitting a low crisp shot with his laces whih kept 6 inches off the ground as it drilled into the far corner of the net.

His fifth and final goal was the goal of this and many a match as Ladybridge passed the ball around from back to front, from left to right, back again and then forward with no less than 20 consecutive passes being made keeping the ball and dragging the opposition all over the park, until Senior dropped the ball short for Loftus who again hit a crisp shot into the corner of the net.

His striker partner Senior grabbed a well deserved hat trick to keep the score board ticking over , his first after only 4 minutes when Lowe fed Loftus down the right channel and he whipped in a cross to his partner who tucked the ball home with ease.

His second came after Trow had played a delightful ball through to Winteringham who ghosted past the left back and cut the ball back to Senior who finished with style.

The hat trick goal came with 10 minutes left on the clock as a through ball by Smith found Senior with time and space to slide the ball home.

4 other lads got on the score sheet today 2 for Bamber bridge prior to half time, the first after Ladybridge failed to clear a corner at the third attempt, and a nice finish ensued and the second came just before half time when a dink over the top found the striker who hit a looping effort over the keeper into the net.

The other 2 goals came from Turner with an excellent header from a Lowe corner, and the other from Captain Eccles with another ecxellent header from a Flores cross.

All in all a good days work, and big thanks to Buchanan who is our reserve keeper, but today took up a midfield birth and held his own with some excellent tackles and crisp passing.

As for Man of the Match well that went to Loftus who scored 5 set up another and worked the line like a veteran. Well done Loftus and well done boys.

Ladybridge CLJFL v BAC / EE PRESTON

Date:  2009-10-04
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

LADYBRIDGE 9 BAC / EE PRESTON 4

A feast of goals, some exceptional football and leaves on the pitch which nearly caused an abandonment!!

The bad weather of late had deposited a tonne of leaves onto the pitch and Warren, Phil and Mark spent 30 minutes before the game ensuring that the penalty areas were cleared to the satisfaction of the referee, so when it came round to organising the team for the game it was basically a quick chat and get out there!

We will have to try that again though as he lads played some of the best football of the season, scoring 9, but creating many more chances and it was only due to some exceptional defending and some great goalkeeping which stopped the lads from doing so.

Dont think that BAC were overun today and didnt turn up, because that was just not the case as the lads from Preston played some excellent football of their own and no doubt will take points off a number of teams in this league as they have ability going forward which will cause quite a few teams problems and no doubt will hold their own in the Premier division.

Ladybridge started fast, especially down the left with Hulme, Winteringham, Senior and Flores causing all sorts of problems, and it was Flores who opened the scoring on 4 minutes when he collected the ball wide left, cut inside and showed fast feet to bamboozle the BAC defence, and then slam the ball home. 1 - 0

2 minutes later and back came BAC down their left and it was Hulme who read the danger well coming cross to clear the danger.

A minute later and the scores were level, this time BAC had the ball 20 yards out centre field and Smith dived in when all he had to do was jockey the player away from danger, this let the player have a free run on goal and he made no mistake smashing the ball home to give his namesake Smith in goals no chance. 1 - 1

9 minutes and the lead was restored as Hulme who was majestic at left back ghosted past 2 players and then dinked a lovely ball through to Senior who stepped past the outrushing keeper and rolled the ball into an empty net. 2 - 1

12 minutes and Flores this time worked the ball well using Trow and Winteringham to drag defenders away, and hit a sweet strike which was well saved by the BAC keeper.

13 minutes and with BAC pushing forward, Eccles came out of his central defensive position to cut out a pass and then rifled a lovely ball forward to Loftus who used his pace and strength to break clear and then tucked the ball under the despairing dive of the BAC keeper 3 - 1

What followed was a midfield battle were both teams put in some excellent moves but neither keeper was truely tested as both teams snuffed out the other.

23 minutes and Smith (keeper) with ball in hand saw Flores in space and so hit a great ball over to the left wing, which Flores collected in one with excellent control, cut inside and then fed the ball to Loftus who was centre field 22 yards out. Loftus turned his marker who had got too tight and then fed the ball back out to Flores who had continued his run. Flores then hit a tremendous strike which the keeper could only parry back into play, where the sniffer supreme was waiting and Senior slid the ball home. 4 - 1

25 minutes and back came BAC and as the tsriker was closed down he hit a curling shot which came back off the bar.

A minute later and some intense pressure by Ladybridge brought one of the saves of the game as the ball found its way to Smith in the 18 yard box and he hit a tremendous strike which the keeper flung himself full length to his right to push the ball away for a corner. The corner was easily cleared.

27 minutes and this time BAC won a corner which was cleared by Flores, then 3 minutes later they were awarded a free kick just outside the box. Ladybridge had about 3 opportunities to clear but were unable to do so and the ball found its way to a BAC striker 8 yards out with a crowd of players in front of him he picked his spot and fired in what surely would be a goal, apart from Turner who slid in to clear the ball off the line and the danger was gone.

31 minutes and a long ball forward found Loftus with one defender and keeper to beat and he used his pace and strength to get to the ball first and then even more strength to fire a ball through a tackle and beyond the keeper. 5 - 1

2 minutes later and BAC showed why they are so dangerous as whilst the BAC assistant was complaining that a ball had gone out for a throw. The referee waved play on, the ball was whipped into the box and the striker made no mistake firing the ball home. 5 - 2

HALF TIME Ladybridge 5 - BAC/EE Preston 2

Ladybridge have a squad of 15, but due to various injuries, illnesses and commitments were down to a bare 11, so the lads were just told to go back out their and continue in the manner in which they had played the 1st half as at times there passing and movement was above and beyond their years.

Only a minute had gone when BAC won a corner. The corner was easily cleared to Flores who drifted out to the left before dinking a delightful ball over the top to Loftus, who pushed the ball forward in the confidence that he could outpace the defender and thats what he did, racing clear, and tucking the ball under the keeper into the net. 6 - 2

2 minutes and one of the moves of the season, as Smith collected the ball centre field, looked up and hit a cross field pass to the right wing which Lowe met on the run, went to the byeline and then drilled a cross to the far post which was met by a bullet header by Loftus to give the keeper no chance. 7 - 2

Now Senior scored 50 goals for us last season and is renowed in the league for his 6 yard box finishes, runs off the ball and and cool head. He is tiny and he is our Michael Owen. But on 15 minutes he showed he has another part to his game and that is his heading ability and his bravery. Hulme colelcted the ball in the left back position, and strode forward, the midfielder came to clsoe him down and he jinked inside and picked up pace before clipping a lovely ball out to the left into the path of Flores who was hugging the touchline. Flores went for the byline and then whipped in a tremendous cross which was heading for the far post. Senior made alate run towards the far post and rose highest to plant an unstoppable header into the net under 2 challenges in the style of Kevin Davies! 8 - 2

2 minutes later and BAC were awarded a free kick as Turner was adjudged to have tugged at his player wide right. Everybody set themselves waiting for the cross due to the tight angle and the striker thought otherwise drilling a low shot into the far corner of the net. 8 - 3

19 minutes and Senior was brought down in the penalty area for a stonewall penalty, and up stepped captain Eccles with is trusty right boot. He hit the ball as true as he could and looked a certain goal, but they had not counted on the tremendous dive to his right by the BAC keeper who pushed the ball round the post for a corner. Great save!!

26 minutes and Flores got a 2nd goal that his endeavours deserved as he played a quick one two with Winteringham and then drove towards the near post, as defenders and keeper looked for the runners, flores had other ideas and drilled an unstoppable shot low into the corner of the net. 9 - 3

On the final whistle BAC got their fourth goal which their play deserved as the striker hit a sweet effort over the head of Smith into the net. 9 - 4

Excellent game with notable performances from all 11 players, but today the midfield was won and that allowed the boys to express themselves in the manner in which they did, so all the midfielders deserve extra special mention, but due to his tireless running, great tackling, excellent passing and motivation Winteringham walked away with the Man of the Match accolades.

Well done Winteringham and well done boys

Myerscough v Ladybridge CLJFL

Date:  2009-09-27
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

MYERSCOUGH JUNIORS 2 LADYBRIDGE 4

Myerscough started well pushing into the Ladybridge half, but their raids were well defended by the back three of Ladybridge who welcomed back Hulme after his injury lay off.

Ladybridge then gradually started to take control of the half and on 3 minutes a Loftus corner was punched away by the Myerscough keeper who was no doubt their man of the match due to some excellent saves in the game to keep the scores close.

Ladybridge were at their best raiding down both flanks and controlling the middle of the park, whilst Myerscough were playing some nice tidy football, but without troubling the goals.

10 mins and Flores whipped in a free kick wide right which Turner got to with a header which drifted wide of the far post.

A minute later Ladybridge pushed down the right flank with some good work by Ball who surged towards the edge of the 18 yard box before hitting a tremendous strike which flashed past the far post.

14 minutes and Myerscough were awarded a free kick centre field due to an unnecessary push by Trow, the high ball came in and Smith collected it with ease for his first work of the game, before throwing the ball out quickly to the right to Turner, who fed it down the line to Smith. Smith went towards the byeline and whipped in a terrific cross which Loftus headed wide of the mark.

A minute later and Ladybridge pressure told as a high ball forward by Myerscough was met by a thunderous header by Eccles at centre back to Ball, centre field and he lobbed the ball over the backline to Senior who got in round the back and slid the ball past the keeper into the net. 0 - 1

2 minutes later and the lead was almost doubled as a well taken free kick by Flores was superbly collected by the Myerscough keeper through a crowd of players.

24 minutes and Loftus was tripped centre field 20 yards out and up stepped captain Eccles and he made no mistake curling the ball round the wall into the right hand corner of the net. 0 - 2

30 minutes and the best move of the match as Myerscough brought the ball out from the back, down the left flank through 3 or 4 passes, via midfield and out to the right flank, the cross cam in and Smith appeared to collect it but as he went to ground the ball popped out and the alert striker rolled the ball towards an empty net, although Trow was on hand to clear the ball for a corner.

The corner came in and the boys were found ball watching as it fell to the feet of the striker at the back post and he had the easy task of sliding the ball home. 1 - 2

The last 5 minutes belonged to Myerscough as Ladybridge became tense, their tackles half hearted and the boys in red had their tails up and were pushing for an equaliser, thankfully the boys held out till half time.

HALF TIME Myerscough 1 Ladybridge 2

The last 5 minjutes just showed the lads what can happen if you give a team with the quality of Myerscough a sniff in a game of this nature, as we had controlled the half, but could have ended up all square due to a lack of concentration in the last 5 minutes.

The boys were sent out with the instructions to start again as if it were nil apiece and look to take control of the second half and win it.

Myerscough started the better as they obviously still had their tails up and belief from the first half finish.

On 2 minutes though it was Ladybridge that forced the first save of the half as Flores put in a terrifc cross which the keeper managed to push away and the defenders cleared at the second oportunity.

8 minutes and the Myerscough midfielder a hit a ball towards our goal and Eccles inexplicably ducked and let the ball bounce over his head, to which Smith just managed to get his fingertips to it to push it over the bar for a corner. The corner came in and Smith managed to collect it second time round after the ball bounced of his shoulder onto the post and back into his hands.

11 minutes and ladybridge started to force Myerscough back with a lot of pressure on the ball and some incissive play mainly from Ball who was playing one of his best games of the season.

15 minutes and Myerscough whipped in a terrific corner which was met with an even better clearing header by Turner.

2 minutes later and Fallows needlessly gave away a free kick which was well struck but easily taken by Smith.

20 minutes and the 2 goal cushion was restored after some great work by Lowe down the right flank, first of all to actually get to the ball, then win it, and ride 2 tackles before busting clear down the right and firing in a superb cross which Ball collected with style and slid into the net with ease. 1 - 3

Ladybridge continued to push, with most of the best work now coming from Flores and Ball, the latter of which had been pushed up front and was causing alsorts of mayhem in the Myerscough backline.

Just as it looked like Ladybridge would push home their advantage, Myerscough showed their class and Ladybridge showed their failings in this unusual of seasons!!!

The midfielder for Myerscough collected the ball centre field with not a yellow shirt in sight. He then started to pish forward and our boys dropped and dropped and dropped inviting him to shoot, which is just what he did rifling the ball over the head of Smith into the net. 2 - 3

This though only spurred Ladybridge on and the Myerscough keeper brought off 2 fantastic saves only 3 minutes later, the first from Ball who thought he had scored and the second from a driven shot by Trow only 6 yards out which the keeper got a firm hand to and pushed the ball away.

33 minutes and Myerscough made one last push down their left but Hulme was on hand to clear the danger, then as the clocked ticked down a clearance by Eccles found Ball who had turned his man and used his long strides to surge clear, before clipping home a terrifc goal to put the game beyond reach 2 - 4

Another excellent game which deservedly went to Ladybridge, but showed how close al the teams are in this excellent under 14s league. No doubt their will be many twists and turns before the trophies are handed out at the end of the season.

As for the boys, they all contributed to a much improved performance, showing their quality on the ball and when required their battling qualities too. Special mention to Captain Eccles who was a rock at the back, but todays Man of the Match has to go to Ball who was just different class and must be pushing for a strikers berth in the next game....................

Well done Ball and well done lads.

Ladybridge CLJFL v Tarleton Corinthians

Date:  2009-09-13
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

Ladybridge 3 Tarleton Corinthians 4

Ladybridge started the better passing and moving the ball well and forced 2 early corners, though TC defended well, were organised and determined today and it would take something special or lots of patience on the part of Ladybridge if they were to continue there wining start.

unfortunatley patience was sadly lacking as the bosy pushed forward in a gung ho fashion, lost their shape and were punished by lethal attacking from the TC frontline.

7 minutes a long ball out of their own half, and the striker got the march on our defenders who had pushed too far up the field and he didnt need a second invitation as he smashed the ball home with a terrific strike which gave Jackson no chance. 0 - 1

The next 10 minutes was a feast of battling football as both teams went hammer and tongue at each other, but each of the respective midfields cancelled each other out and as such neither keeper was truely tested.

On 23 minutes it was nearly 2 - 0 as the ball found its way to the feet of the striker left of goal and his looping shot came back off the crossbar.

A minute later and Smith and Fallows worked the ball well down the right flank bringing a super save from the TC keeper.

26 minutes and Ball made an excellent run down the right wing and whipped in a terrific cross which the keeper parried away for a corner. The corner came in and Eccles met it with a trademark header to bring the scores level 1 - 1

Today the big differnece between the sides was that TC were well organised they kept their shape and discipline, whilst the Ladybridge players were all over the park, going forward in numbers, but whenever play broke down they found that the opposition broke with pace and precision as massive gaps had opened up in the centre of the pitch with most of the Ladybridge players ahead of the ball.

On 29 minutes thats what happened, another long ball after sustained possession by Ladybridge , without opening up the TC defence, the ball was cut out, hit long, the striker got between centre back and full back, the keeper came off his line when he didnt have to, and the striker had one option open to him, and he took it with style, lifting the ball over the keepers head and it rolled into the back of the net. 1 - 2

32 minutes Lowe pushed down the right and hit a terrific shot which just drifted wide, and 2 minutes later Flores put in a super cross from the left which fell to our striker supreme 3 yards out all alone in front of goal and when he had all the time in the world, instead of trapping the ball and tapping it home he lashed at it and it went wide of the mark. I was starting to feel that today, might not be our day.

Right on half time, we were undone again as Tc hit a long racking ball forward and their striker got behind the fullback, turned inside and smashed the ball home 1 - 3

3 super strikes and a well deserved lead, as TC had been organised and disciplined, were we had been all over the place expecting to score!!

HALF TIME 1 - 3

2 minutes into the half and Flores went on a mazie run down the left flank and into the centre, before hitting a shot which was well taken by the keeper.

5 minutes with no danger whatsoever Fallows at full back, trod on the ball, fell over and the striker nipped in, ran clear and slotted the ball home. 1 - 4

The wheel had come off!!

Ladybridge were up against it now and all we asked is that they kept their discipline, supported each other and if they were to lose they would do so with dignity, fortunately that is what they did, as they kept going forward, looking for the openings, and giving there all.

Unfortunately one of the parents on the sidelines could not do the same, and threw the flag down after an argument and I had to take over with the flag.

The coaches all agree and offer this advice to all the parents, which is by all means come down and support your son, but do not coach the players and do not shout at them. If you cant do that, please dont bother coming down.

21 minutes and Ladybridge thought they had got back into the game, but unfortuantely it wasnt to be as the linesman had adjudged that he was in an offisde position.

The boys started to push and the hard work TC had put in started to tell as chances started to come, but ghe breakthrough didnt materialise until the 31st minute as Lowe collected the ball on the left cut inside and rifled home a shot. 2 - 4

The pressure was really on now as throw in and corner came flying into the TC box, one after another, the nerves started to jangle, but I beleived it was all a little too late, then on 35 minutes Ball chased a high bouncing ball and managed to get a strong header on it to send the ball into the corner of the net 3 - 4

Ladybridge continued to press, but it was a little too late and the final whistle came a short time later.

A terrific game played by two excellent teams, which I believe deservedly went the way of TC today due to more than anything else, their discipline in that they remained in the possitions they were told to play and did the job they were asked to do.

ladybridge on the other hand were, well, err.... fluid!!!

I think the boys will have learnt a lot from this game and no doubt will be stronger next time out, for it.

As for Man of the match, that today in my view went to the captain Eccles who was solid in his central defensive position, headed an excellent goal, and kept the boys going when they could let their heads drop.

Well done Eccles and well done boys

 

Gillibrand Warriors v Ladybridge CLJFL

Date:  2009-09-10
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:


GILLIBRAND 1 LADYBRIDGE 6

This was ladybridge at their very best, and certaainly dont think that Gillibrand werent a threat, because they were and if they continue to play as they did against us, they will start to pick up points soon.

As for the game details, ladybridge started quickly with Loftus gtting a shot away in the first 5 minutes, but it went wide of the mark.

11 minutes and LFC won a corner which was half cleared to Winteringham on the edge of the 18 yard box and he quickly surged forward riding tackles as they came in dancing left and right before finding himself on the 6 yard line with only the keeper to beat and he didnt disappoint slamming the ball into the corner 0 - 1

The calmness and coolness of the play was opitimised on 15 minutes when Eccles and Hulme passed the ball between them with skill and creativity to work the ball out from the back.

A minute later and Ball found himself 12 yards out with the ball at his feet but he lent back and his shot sailed over the bar.

19 minutes and Gillibrand (GW) woke up to the game and pushed down their left to force a numnber of corners, but LFA were resilient and calm at the back, clearing the danger with ease.

23 minutes and one of the moves of the match as Hulme cut out a cross on the edge of his own area, he pushed forward down the right wing before cliping a ball down the line to Loftus who headed for the byline before putting in a peach of a cross to Senior who got to the ball first with an excellent header, but it went agonisingly over the bar.

A minute later and he had his goal though as a throw by Ball was headed on by Loftus and Senior made no mistake finishing from close range. 0 - 2

Flores was playing his best game of he season linking up play down the left, especially with Hulme, Ball and Winteringham and he appeared to be the catalyst for everything good that was done in the first half.

33 minutes and LFC won a corner which Loftus took and Eccles met with one of his trademark headers which fired into the net. 0 - 3

HALF TIME 0 - 3

The first half belonged solely to LFC but, in the second GW really gave it a go and as such Jackson in goals really had his work cut out pulling off some terrific saves.

1st minute though Loftus put in a header which the keeper managed to push over the bar.

3 minutes and GW created their first chance of the half cutting through the defence and getting the shot away which Jackson pushed to oneside and as the striker came in to fire the rebound in, Jackson was up again and punched the ball clear

5 minutes and a cross came in to Balls feet, 5 yards out and he again got under the ball and it sailed over the bar.

12 minutes and a fluke goal was scored as Loftus drove down the right wing he whipped in a lovely cross, which curled towards goal and sneeked into the far corner of the net. 0 - 4. (NO I AM NOT HAVING IT YOU MEANT THAT!!!)

A minute later and GW got what their second half efforts deserved has they muscled there way through the midfield and 2 of our lads ended up in a heap on the floor as they capitulated under the powerful surging run of the midfielder and he then played a delightful ball through to the striker who calmly slotted the ball into the corner of the net. 1 - 4

17 minutes and Smith was put through and his excellent shot was well saved by the keeper

23 minutes Loftus corner found the feet of Winteringham who rolled the ball into the net for as tidy finish in a crowded penalty box. 1 - 5

GW still caused problems though and Jackson was called to pull off two fine saves as the boys in red gave it their all to get back into the game.

3 minutes later and Flores collected the ball and flicked it over his marker before surging forward and hitting a lovely ball through to Loftus who hit a great strike which the keeper did well to save first time, but he could only push it back out into the path of Loftus who had continued his run and he made no mistake second time as he nearly broke the net smashing it home. 1 - 6

33 minutes and Loftus had a chance to get his hat trick but only a wonder save by the GW keeper prevented him from doing so.

FINAL SCORE GW 1 - LFC 6

How poor our last match was in the quality of play, well this was chalk and cheese because this was a terrific performance, which few sides would have been able to cope with.

The quality of play throughout the team was there for all to see, as the boys found their passing boots and shifted the ball with a coolness and skill which hey had not shown yet this season.

As for the accolades Flores was exceptional especially in the first half and Jackson in goals pulled off at least 3 wonderful saves in the second half as GW pushed for something out of the game. so both share the accolades today.

Well done Flores and Jackson, but even more so well done all the lads as you have now set the standard for the season and we hope you will maintain it

Cadley v Ladybridge CLJFL

Date:  2009-09-06
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

Cadley 6 Ladybridge 7

After this match I will make a confident prediction. Ladybridge will NOT win the title this year if they continue to play like they did today!

Cadley at the very least deserved and draw and the muffled applause for the last goal of the game showed how much the Ladybridge support believed they had stolen a victory that they did not deserve.

As for the game, Ladybridge started well with Ball putting in a cross after only a minute, which Senior tried to collect, but the agile keeper got their first and the chance was gone.

2 minutes later and Flores playing centrally dinked a lovely ball over the top to Smith who put in a tremendous chip which left the keeper rooted to the spot. 0 - 1.

5 minutes later and the game was all square as Fallows dived in when he should have stayed on his feet and the free kick was awarded 20 yards out and the finish was sublime. 1 - 1

Ladybridge and Cadley both had there chances but it was ladybridge who took the lead as a shot by Winteringham was not collected and Senior picked up the pieces sliding the ball into the empty net. 1 - 2

3 minutes later and we were level again as Ladybridge attacked the ball was played to Lowe and he waited for it as the defender went to the ball and got in front of Lowe, pushed the ball forward and the midfielder hit a long ball which our backline couldnt cope with and the striker made no mistake 2 - 2

23 minutes and cadley took the lead as again our midfielders were found wanting and fast decisive movement created the space, and the striker took his opportunity with style 3 - 2

28 minutes and it was all Cadley as the Ladybridge players had lost their shape and discipline, a corner came in cleared at the first attempt but not the second and the pressure told as the striker found acres of space to smash the ball home. 4 - 2

The Champions were reeling and Cadley were by far the better side, both in quality of play and application on the field.

HALF TIME 4 - 2

Changes were made and Loftus was brought on with Eccles with a hope that the boys could lift there game and play with their heads instead of as the 11 individuals they had shown in the first half.

Ladybridge started the better and soon started to push Cadley back to there own line. This was the Ladybridge that the Management knew passing the ball around with aplomb and creating chances at will.

On 2 minutes ladybridge won a corner which was well delivered by Loftus, and a super header by Eccles was cleared from the line by an even better header by the Cadley defender.

A minute later another Loftus corner was sent in and Hulme rose the highest to plant and unstoppable effort into the top corner of the net 4 - 3

Ladybridge continued to press and Winteringham collected the ball on 13 minutes in the right back slot before pushing forward and then putting a lovely ball down the right wing to Loftus who had made an excellent run. Loftus whipped in a terrific cross which was parried to the 6 yard box and Smith made no mistake slamming the ball home 4 - 4

The teams were all square and Ladybridge where in the ascendancy so there would be only one winner!!!! Well if you think that you werent at this game!!!

Ladybridge looked the better side, but still Cadley looked dangerous and it was not until the 24th minute that the scoring was troubled again and this time it was the half time substitute Loftus who met a ball 25 yards out centre field and used his strength to create space and then dinked what can only be described as the most nonechenat chip of all time, over he keeper into an enpty net 4 - 5

We were now leading so the game was over!!!!! NOT!!!!!

This appeared to waken cadley and they then started to push again, and 5 minutes later a long ball forward caugth the Ladybridge backline square and the striker made no mistake smashing the ball home 5 - 5 (GAME ON)

Ladybridge had to start again with only 5 minutes left in the game and it was striker supreme who had only come on at half time Loftus who made the difference picking the ball up at the edge of the box jinked left and then smashed and unstoppable shot into the net 5 - 6

33 minutes where on the clock so it must be game over..................NO

Cadley were rightly awarded a free kick straight from the kick off as our boys had dived in again!!!!!

The Cadley number 18 curled a wonderful strike over he head of the keeper into the back of the net 6 - 6

So it was now game over.........................NO

Straight fromthe kick off, you could feel the hunger in the ladybridge players as they drove forward and the ball was fed to Loftus who surged into the 18 yard box and slammed a ball towards the near post whci was deflected into an empty net 6 - 7

Footballing wise this was an awful performance from our boys.

Battling wise, to be 4 - 2 down and then 6 - 6 with a minute left on the clock, to win the game shows the determination which is needed by the very best teams.

I truely believe Cadley did enough to earn a draw at the very least, but it was not to be. On a positive note, we will get better and we have shown we have scoring ability in abundance.

We rested our captain Eccles and striker Loftus for a half each, Eccles was solid and almost scored with 2 great efforts on corners. Loftus got a hat trick and rightly walked away with eh man of the match accolades

We wont be resting them in our next match!!!

well done Eccles and Loftus and well done boys!

Ladybridge CLJFL v Brinscall Village

Date:  2009-09-03
Author:  Warren Barlow
Report:

Ladybridge 5 Brinscall Village 3

An excellent game in appalling conditions as the heavens opened up for the first game of the season.

The game started slowly with both sides finding their feet early doors, and it was Brinscall who got their first shot away on 5 minutes from the left hand wing, but this went wide of the mark

Chances came few and far between as both sides cancelled each other out on a quality pitch which was holding up well to the torrential rain.

Ladybridge slowly started to take control of the game and spend most of the next 20 minutes in and around the Brinscall box, with the Village team content to try and catch the Bolton lads on the break.

Then on 30 minutes Flores turned his marker on the left wing and cut in towards goal, as most expected a cross, Flores had other ideas slamming a shot into the top of the net to give the keeper no chance 1 - 0

Ladybridge tails were up and pressed for he second which didnt take long to come, as 4 minutes later Winteringham fired in a pass to Ball who was back to goal, but his marker was right behind him, so Ball spun letting the ball run through, this turning his marker and running throuh on goal. Ball made no mistake slotting the ball home with a sublime finish. 2 - 0

Half time 2 - 0

The second half belonged for the first 20 minutes to Ladybridge as they probed for more goals and on 6 minutes our "Johnny on the Spot" Senior found space 2 feet out and slid the ball into the net 3 - 0

A minute later and a Flores cross found Senior 1 foot out and again he made no mistake 4 - 0

Then on 20 minutes Brinscall pulled one back as our boys slid in for the tackle, instead of staying on their feet the lad wide left stepped to oneside and then drilled a terrific effort into the far corner of the net 4 - 1

2 minutes later and more good work restored the 4 goal lead as Senior found space on the edge of the box, jinked left and right and just as everybody thought he had missed his chance he coolly slotted the ball past the keeper into the corner of the net 5 - 1

The downpour became more intense and how both these teams kept trying to play football is beyond me.

Then on 32 minutes Brinscall won a corner and their striker made a run from the edge of the box and attacked the ball firing in a wonderful bullet header as our boys watched and admired! 5 - 2

A minute later and it was 3 to Brinscall as 2 of our boys went for the same ball, no shout was heard and we got what we deserved, as it popped out to the striker on the right and he hit a terrific shot into the far corner of the net. 5 - 3

3 terrific goals by Brinscall which lit up their performance on the night, but each goal started as a result of a mistake by our boys.

Short time later the final whistle was blown

An excellent performance by all the boys from both teams who showed what quality their is in the Premier section.

Solid displays by Buchanan in goals and our backline. Some good work by Flores, Lowe and Ball in midfield and some good work by Loftus up front but for following up his 50 goals last season with an opening day hat trick there was only one Man of the Match and that was Senior.

Well done Senior and well done boys