Resolutions Please!

It was a cold Boxing day crowd of 144 that endured the serving up of a home performance that did little to warm any bodies hands. Lee Unsworth and Si Kelly return to the back four with a debutant on the bench named Kieren Fletcher a central defender and former Chorley captain. Referee Kavanagh gets the game going and Roscoe shows first in a crunching tackle that leaves him injured but frees up Griff Jones to set off on a purposeful run towards goal, he can't find a gap and the move ends . Roscoe returns to his feet after treatment and continues. The red of Rossendale are closing players well to restrict Radcliffes football to the midfield. Boro have half chances in the first fifteen with little response from United . Dawson goes into the book for tripping the attacker who takes up the ball after Si Kellys pass doesn't reach Fitzpatrick. Rossendale push forward from the free kick and force a corner taken by Turner it clears the defence and is missed by Priestley who relies on Owen Roberts who clears from under the bar. The ball is moved quickly up field the best pass finds Mark Jones in the box who shapes and shoots to pull a good save out of Proctor who pushes the ball past his left post for the corner. The corner is tailor made for the rising Craig Dawson who heads the ball true past the keeper to make it 1-0 on 17 minutes and put himself at the top of the Boro goalscoring chart with 5 so far. Griff Jones persistant play opens up a chance for Fitzpatrick who turns and shoots, the ball deflects high and with the sting gone the keeper collects easily. The visitors captain John turner turns well in midfield to play in Phil Eastwood who curls a shot tamely past Boro's right hand upright on 20 minutes. Boro have the chance to double the lead when Dawson takes control and sends a long ball up field to Griff Jones finding the keeper a long way outbeats him to the ball and with him out of position unbalance strikes at goal from the edge of the box , the defender clears in the six yard box. Boro are looking to extend the lead when Roberts plays the ball down the left flank to Roscoe on half way he quickly finds Griff Jones who just cant control. Griff Jones works hard across the box to play in Roscoe on the left wing he elects to shoot when Fitzpatrick waiting would have been the better option. Roscoe crosses better minutes later to find Mark Jones whos volleyed pass doesn't find a team mate. Rossendale realise Boro are not taking chances and start to have a belief they can gain something from the game. United spot a good run between the Boro centre halves by Tom Williams who stretches but can only get a toe on the ball for an easy save for Priestley. Williams is involved again when is flick in the box finds Eastwood who can't finish when placed well. The last ten minutes of the half belong to the reds with a flurry of attacking moves with both full backs getting more involved. Turner comes close sending a shot 2 yards past the post. Full back Heywood attacks the box without a challenge and is allowed to shoot but sees it fly high above the bar. A free kick awarded to United sees their captain strike against the Boro wall who hold well before Roberts clears the danger.Boro take it forward with a good move started by Roberts and ended by him with a return pass by Roscoe he shoots weakly past the post. Rossendale have been knocking and the door opens on the stroke of half time, Heywood supplies a good cross that Williams connects well to bring a fine save by Boro's number one, it falls into the path of Clarkson who strikes , Priestley can only parry and Tom Williams is on hand to thrash the ball into the top of the net from the foot of the post 1-1 on 45 minutes. The interval is a welcome as the visitors grew in confidence and looked better as the half went on.
Griff Jones takes up the ball when Fitzpatrick can not control, he shoots harmlessly over to see another chance go. Roscoe flicks on to Griff Jones who plays in Fitzpatrick who shoots wide across goal. Graham Vaughan supplies a good cross that Brockley defends well , Rossendale are looking lively with Williams being the obvious threat with his ability to break at speed, he shows it on 55 when he as Priestley diving to his left to keep his low shot out, the ball is left invitingly for Zach Clark to drill the ball into the net and take his side into the lead. Boro make a change with Fitzpatrick unable to repeat his form of Monday night replaced Steve Howson. Quick breaks from Rossendale are forming the pattern of the game with Boro pushing to equalize. Dawson is required to be on his game after priestley smothers the ball well in a one to one with Clark, the united number 7 is lucky in the roll of the ball and is nearly in, dawson keeps his head to clear. Howson wins a corner after a long ball plays him in on the hour. The corner as no threat.Both sides are creating half chances but both require a better quality in the final ball. Boro have the greater possesion in the last quarter of the game with United playing a good counter attacking game that Boro need to keep tight reign on. Griff Jones is replaced by Michael Oates on 71. Rossendale look to break at every oppurtunity and do so with purpose on 75 minutes , Boro pause for the offside to be given, Tom Williams doesn't and finds room to pass in field to the waiting winger Graham Vaughan who side foots cleanly into the Boro goal for 3-1 . The red team are defending well that matches thier attacking game and it will be difficult for the home side to recover. With time running away Boro get chances through howson who should have scored with only the keeper to beat as a long clearance found him well. Michael Oates is rusty in front of goal and can not convert chances given to him in the box. With Kelly and Dawson in a more advance position they look the most likely to convert a chance. Mark Jones is fouled 25 yards out central to goal, Drew steps up to take and strikes it well past the wall , it is bound for the bottom corner before Williams gets a boot to it to clear for the corner. The corner comes in and is not cleared, the ball wont drop for Oates and is then cleared. Opportunities come the Boro way but some poor decision making with the final ball lets them down. Kieren Fletcher is introduced for Roscoe and he sits in Kellys place for him to move forward for the last 15 minutes. All the play is in the visitors last third but the hosts do not look likely to score and are being shut out well, united nearly make it four on ninety when priestley hits the ball against substitute Watson , it kindly goes for the goal kick. Rossendale use time to sub Eastwood for Dunnan before the final attack from Boro sees Mark Jones produce some good work to feed Howson who trys the shot, the keeper is strong and saves , and then again from Oates. A dissapointing home defeat after taking the early lead, Boro didnt take chances , the visitors did and it as become the common thread when reporting on home games. It is the time of year when we all make resolutions, a few for boro........
React quickly to oppurtunities
Make decisions early
Think quality with the last ball
Believe in your own ability

Dont let a centre half be the clubs top scorer come May! Shake the hands of Salford, we would be in trouble without them!
With the 27 players being used so far this season we need to find the right formula soon, the table below does not lie.

A safe, prosperous and happy new year to you all.

14	Curzon Ashton	16	7	4	5	27	15	12	25
15	Rossendale United	17	5	5	7	20	28	-8	20
16	Woodley Sports	19	6	2	11	27	38	-11	20
17	Chorley	20	5	4	11	29	41	-12	19
18	Radcliffe Borough	19	5	2	12	21	32	-11	17
19	Warrington Town	18	3	6	9	20	31	-11	15
20	Harrogate Railway Athletic	20	4	2	14	23	41	-18	14
21	Salford City	18	1	3	14	17	63	-46	6

Away day brace for Fitzy!

Reporting on a victory is of course always easier, the pen flows as you remember the football served up, the passes made and the goals scored, sad then there as not been many this season thus far to report on, however a spare pen is at hand after seeing Boro destroy a team one league notch above within 30 enjoyable minutes. The game as taken some time to come and it was a far kinder winters night than we had at Squires Gate in the last round. Leigh saw off Atherton Colls here at Stainton in the last round so it was a home tie for them. Playing up hill with a number of changes notably Tom Brookes at right mid and a sparce dug out hosting Howson & Manning.Boro showed early attacking intentions with a flowing move through the park involving Mark Jones , fitzpatrick and Griff Jones ending in Fitzys intended pass just not reaching the advancing Mark Drew on the edge of the box. Quickly Boro come again with Brooks starting the attack, he finds Fitzy well who delays before calmly pushing the ball inside the left back, Griff Jones coming in from the flank is just offside. The next wave of football arrives through a long punt up field that sees Leighs pearson mis judge, Fitzy eye on the ball doesnt, waits for the drop and steers it passed the hand of the diving keeper, the net ripples and its 1-0 the Boro with only 5 gone. Fitzpatrick is having the upper hand in the opening quarter. Roscoe is proving a handful and his first of many flick ons finds Fitzy who beats his man and looks at goal before the ref pulls it back for the foul. Boro fans have only 5 minutes to wait before they see a superb Mark Jones pass into the feet of Roscoe who attacks the box and when the keeper closes he rounds him well and shoots to see the left back Rodgers clear off the line, the ball lands nicely for Fitzpatrick who as the simplest of tasks for 2-0! Mark Jones on a typically confident run loses control of the ball and lunges, he collides with Parkinson, no malice just commitment, the ref agrees but as a word. Boro are committed in the tackle all over the park, the Leigh bench deliver loudly unnecessary questioning of the Boro players footballing qualities. Pure frustration due to Genesis simply having yet to turn up for the game.Mark Drew delivers the type of pass that will make him a favourite to find Oates he tees up Fitzy who wins the corner from his blocked shot. Up steps Dawson who heads superbly bringing a fine save from Porter in the Leigh goal. Brooks sharing the midfield with Mark Jones looks comfortable and helps set up Drew for a shot that goes down the throat of the keeper. Leigh have some respite as they win a free kick on the edge of the Boro box, they don't generate a threat , winning the ball back Parkinson as a good shot blocked by the boro centre half and should have won the corner, the ref gives it Radcliffes way. Leigh a league notch above cannot match Boro as they look threatening every time they cross half way.Oates and Fitzy working well in the corner allows Oates to deliver a lofted cross, the keeper climbs to collect but fumbles dropping the ball at the feet of Roscoe who alive taps the ball over the line 3 in 33 minutes, Christmas as come early! Leigh cannot believe the mountain they need to climb. Roscoe looks a better player when the ball is played into his feet and as the ability to beat players or set the ball well for advancing midfielders, Fitpatrick is benefiting from his aerial ability as is the rejuvenated Griff Jones. Leigh are limited to a few sniffs inside their opponents half whilst Boro are inventive and getting benefit from the two newest faces at the club. The half as gone by quickly and the last of the action is Griff Jones moving to the bye line supplied by the feet of Roscoe , his cross is blocked , the corner cleared and the dressing room looking inviting for the lads from Leigh. The second half starts as the first with Griff Jones ripping up the left flank played in by Fitzy he shoots early across the face of goal, relief for Leigh as it goes wide. The back four look focused and patiently assist balls into attacking areas, Dawson lends an hand to the attack after a corner is won and would have scored only for a better connection when well placed. Boro scythe through the Leigh midfield on 55 minutes and leave Leigh ball watching as they can only admire the Boro players passing and placement. It seems to be the wake up call they need as they start to play with the hour approaching Jordan Barnes plays in Phil Marsh playing on the shoulder of Brockley, Dawson assists and as the keeper advances Marsh goes down in the box, the ref gives the penalty but no cards. Marsh takes it and hits the left post , the ball pings out to Marsh who strikes the ball against Priestley as it rebounds back to him he pokes it over the line and in for 3-1. At the other end Roscoe volleys in but is clearly offside. Leigh are better and Marsh is the main threat, he cuts in from the left and as Priestley holding on to a good shot. Boro start to rush and the natural flow in the first half is slipping away. Good work on the right by Marsh and Chetcuti leaves Marsh to cross the ball is half cleared and falls well for full back Rogers who strikes the ball well across the grass from 25 yards the ball stings the fingers of Priestley and spins strangely back passed his arm and over the line for a second comeback goal to Leigh. Howson takes up centre half as brockley leaves the field. Radcliffe are playing well and Brooks as shown some intelligent passing, he links with Griff Jones who serves it back to him, he balloons the shot over the bar from a good position. Barnes leaves for Leigh with Thacker joining the game. Griff Jones as taken the game to Leigh and he skips passed his marker before being felled, he looks a different player in the role behind. Leigh look better than any other point in the game and will need to be marshaled well in the last ten. Griff Jones again skins his marker this time plays inside to Fitzy who turns well and shoots in the box for a good save. Radcliffe have built play well and continue with no final punch for the remainder of the game, a whirlwind first half would be hard to better, they have created much throughout but needed to defend the last two minutes as Leigh sent panic across the terraces when two good crosses are not dealt with. Oates takes it to the corner up field and helps see the exciting game out. A great result , more pleasing for me was the manner in which we played. The team played well notably Drew , Griff Jones , Fitzpatrick & Roscoe, Brooks is on the rails and improving fast.

I hope santa brings me a faster pen, the seasons second half will be a good un,

season greetings

Pain four Boro!

Boro fielded two debutants in left back Steve Brockley and midfielder Mark Drew. The visitors from Yorkshire FC Halifax Town, who fielded League Cup winning goalscorer Nigel Jemson the experienced journeyman. A fantastic following had travelled over the pennines to add a real buzz about the ground,the game starts in dark, damp conditions with drizzling rain making the surface quick.
It is obvious Brockley will be in for a tough debut as full back Cavell Coo shows his intentions to get forward at every chance. Brockley is block tackled well by Ashley Stott defending from the front but minutes later Brockley shows his steel by returning an equally impressive tackle. The game is set up as a real battle. First attempt goes to the Shayman when Damien Allen tees up Scott Phelan to drive one down the throat of Phil Priestley who holds confidently.Within a minute Coo goes by Brockley to cross in near post that is met by Craig Dawson to clear and concede the corner. Halifax are charged up and look dangerous. The linesman saves Boro by giving offside against Stott when the impressive Coo finds him in space. Adam Roscoe relieves early pressure by holding the ball well under close marking and feeds the ball to Griff Jones out wide , he as Lee Unsworth to hand who plays in Brockley advancing and hits the ball high and wide. Damien Allen is the first in the book on 9 minutes for not retiring 10 for a Boro free kick. The free kick sees Boro bounce the ball around the box taking ricochets as nobody can take control the ball is cleared leaving Si Kelly needing treatment. The mass of Halifax fans in the stand scream for a penalty as Dawson tackles well in the box to deny the Yorkshiremen. Boro have done well to take the sting out of the halifax threat and settle to play some good football to feet, Drew demonstrates some skill before being fouled out wide of the visitors box. He picks himself up and takes a testing free kick that the keeper John Kennedy takes well. Halifax over confidently move the ball across thier backs and lose the ball to Adam Roscoe who works hard to find space and as the lights flicker on Roscoe sees the gap and despatches his shot wide of Kennedy silencing the travelling fans on 23 minutes. Halifax respond and grasp a chance when Paul Gedmans deft touch sets up Allen who rounds Dawson but cannot find power in his shot. Roscoe continues his role of holding and feeding as he finds the feet of Unsworth who crosses perfectly toward Griff Jones who is beaten to the header, just. Mark Jones supplies the tackle of the game to retieve the ball in midfield but can,t set up a move. Halifax pick up the pace on the half hour. Good defensive work by Dawson and Kelly keep the attackers at bay. The game remains competitive, Drew as been committed but the ref says two previous tackles are enough and puts him in the book. Griff Jones takes up the ball and sets off on a good run ending in a cross that is defended well, he as had a good half and looks lively. Halifax are a quality side and they show why on 39 minutes , Jemson takes a quick free kick down the line to Coo who unchallenged plays in Allen his pass to the edge of the box allows Tom Baker to wallop a hard dipping shot from 25 yards over the planted Priestley to level the game. The fans have hardly stopped celebrating when Town come again down the same flank the Boro defence can only force the ball across the box in an attempt to clear , Paul Collins is waiting and brilliantly moves the ball around the advancing Priestley , picks his spot and gives his team the lead on 43 minutes, a blow to Boro just before the break. Boro will need more in the second half to restrain the visitors.
Griff Jones is replaced by Michael Oates for the second half. Halifax start as they finished the first half and force the first corner although defended well Phelan keeps the ball alive so that Allen can release the shot. Boro are struggling to get out of thier own half and are limited to playing in midfield. Debutant Drew brings down Damien Allen just inside the box leaving referee Durbin no choice but to point to the spot. Ashley Stott strikes the ball passes Priestley with a perfectly placed penalty kick 3-1, 57 minutes gone. The game is effectively over with little threat to the visitors goal , Jemson with all his experience as controlled his colleagues with encouragement and purpose. Gedman and Stott move with real purpose and they streak forward within minutes of the third, Gedman sends the ball wide to Stott who picks out the return pass toPaul Gedman who in full flight connects perfectly to volley passed the despairing Priestley. 4-1 59 minutes gone, game over. The scoreline could have become worse but Radcliffe did not lie down and produced some good football to keep some pride. Howson replaced Drew and he was in the thick of it straight away winning a free kick. Roscoe steps up and sends a great kick narrowly wide of the post. Jon Smith is on for Halifax with Allen leaving. Howson after some great Radcliffe football turns in the box shoots ad brings a greta save from Kennedy. Sustitutes by both sides towards the end of the game see Brookes on for Forrest, Hinsley on for the impressive Coo. Boro keep up the pride saving attitude and push for a consolation , Halifax remain dangerous. Jemson gives Howson a chance when he pushes him in the back in the box, penalty!, he takes the kick to Kennedys right and the keeper saves well. Tom Brookes should have got a home second when after another spell of good football finds himself with an empty net to hit from 5 yards , he sums up the afternoon and pushes the ball over. Fitzpatrick is the next to come close when a combination of Roscoe and Howson leaves him sprinting to meet the cross at the far post , he is inches short and the chance goes. The result would have been fairer at 4 -2 , but taking nothing away from Halifax they earned the victory through positive play.It was a great game of football and showed Boro can play good football against the top half teams. With the introduction of two new faces at Stainton Park competition for places will be good, players need to fight for thier places and produce on the day. Monday night may be the oppurtunity to get back to winning ways, the club need it soon.

see you Monday.

2 Killers in the Mist

A foggy cold November day will greet the players as they enter the field of play. Garforth Town are the visitors and start the game in a similar position to the Boro in the league. Boro need a win to keep sight of the top half of the table. The ref needs sight of the two goal posts from the half way line before the game can start. Mr Gittens is happy and Radcliffe kick off down the slope towards the Pilkington Road end. They will be missing their influential centre half Craig Dawson through injury. Adam Roscoe starts up front .
Town see the boro box when lee Connell fails to hold on to the ball in the centre circle and Garforth turn to release Dominic Blair but the ball is long and out. Boro defend in the first 5 with Michael Oates looking solid. The visitors start the game well but largely play in front of the backline. Radcliffe are in the game after Martyn Forrest supplying a good ball into the feet of Roscoe, he doesnt improve the chance but lays it up nice for Chappell he sends a great cross back in for Roscoe who meets the ball well with the head but sends it just past the angle and out. Town break well and Andrew Hayward will need to be restrained throughout as he looks the liveliest of all. Roscoe is winning everything in the air, his co- workers will not have much joy if they are not to his left or right , he will need to remain central and allow the scraps to be taken up by Chappell and Fitzpatrick. Blair is stronger than Chappell as Garforth set twice but can not find a path to goal. Si Kelly shows good composure to move the play forward and plays his way through the midfield to the edge of the visitors box, he as no outlet and the move ends. Phil priestley is handling well with crosses coming out of the foggy gloom. Jaston St Juste shows his pace and outstrips Oates and Kelly on the flank to find a good position, he crosses badly and the ball goes over the stand. Garforth are leading the charge. When Mark Jones is fouled by Blair , Sampsons free kick is too long and sums up Boro's lack of attacking ideas. Boro are playing patiently across the back to build up momentum but this often ends up with a ball launched to long by Unsworth. Mixing it up short into midfield or creeping forward looking for gaps may be an option. When it is possible to see open play it is restricted to a series of hopeful crosses and long range work that will see both sides going into the dressing rooms without chalking up any goals or clear cut chances.The only chance of note is when again playing across the back Martyn Forrest's intended pass to Unsworth is short and St Juste gathers lines up a shot that goes down the throat of Priestly. Fozzy is relieved. The half ends with the fog being the main talking point.

The second half opens with a free kick that Sampson floats on to Roscoe who heads to the keepers chest. From the club house terrace it is now very difficult to see the dugouts and following play closely is impossible. The game is now a spot the ball competition, Garforth win it and start to up their game. They are caught offside twice in five minutes and look dangerous. Roscoe wins another in the air the ball is cleared for the throw and Lee Connell picks up the loose to bring a good block out of Wilkinson on the edge of the d. Just before the hour Town half time sub Rowan is set free and drives to the edge of the boro box, he does well to get a strong shot away that Priestley matches and holds well. More action now from both sides , Garforth pressure Boro in the box and on 59 minutes Brett renshaw puts them in front with a pass into the net after a scramble in front of goal. Garforth fans warm thier hands. From the kick off they come again Kelly tests Unsworth who concedes a corner , the header just over the bar is the result. Howson joins the game for Chappell.He combines well with Sampson who sends in a cross that is cleared. Town move upfield quickly and with two good passes find Hayward on the D , he rounds Priestley easily and doubles the lead, two killer goals inside 6 minutes. Boro puff and pant but cant get the ball to move , Garforth want a clean sheet and look to get one as Boro see no sight of goal. Howson is making is mark and Roscoe continues to win in the air, but no clear cut chances to date. Fitzpatrick steps up to take a well positioned free kick on 75 minutes but hits the wall and the chance goes. The team have not played well showing little of the football we have seen so far this season. Griff Jones is introduced and as a go straight away, Oates is off and Boro need to attack. Gaforth look likely to increase the lead as Boro push. Midfield as largely been missing today with Mark Jones restricted to recovering tackles and marking rather than creating. He goes into the book harshly after he catches Nathan Kamara, who,s over the top reaction swayed the ref. Around the ground and in the clubhouse the day looked to be a success with a lot of new faces with kids accompanied by dads enjoying the best pie and peas in the unibond, the sponsors box was full , the pitch looked in great nick. It is often said success on the pitch is brought on by the efforts off it, today was not the case in what was a poor team outing, spoiled maybe by the fog it was a poor game in general. With only 5 wins from 15, out of all but one cup, a gathering of the Boro clan is needed to stay in the hunt for a top half finish. Too many players did not play to full potential today and home defeats are mounting. Salford look doomed after another heavy defeat at home today, them aside we would be in a relegation fight.

Next week is another game and being a football fan i believe it will be the start of a 15 game unbeaten run!
see you soon

A Game of cards

Todays journey is across the border of Lancashire and into Yorkshire to Station View, home of Harrogate Railway. The ground as been host to recent FA Cup success in reaching the second round in 2002 & 2007. No match of the day cameras will be at the game today. The day is surprisingly sunny and mild but it is obvious the pitch, even with its slant as been subjected to some serious downpours of late. Once the teams have shaken hands it is time to get underway with Harrogate looking for revenge on last weeks result at Stainton Park. Martyn Forrest lines up in a defensive role and all will be glad to see his return as Lee Unsworth and Mike Flynn are missing for the day. Owen Roberts returns on the left. The first action results in a corner for the rail who waste the chance and the ball is cleared well even with two pound of mud attached to each defenders boots. Roberts , Forrest and Mark Jones show the ball can still be passed well and do so with confidence. Mark Jones is unlucky not to win the tackle and Athletics Scott Ryan takes it up he sends the ball into the box with pace , it beats the defender and the diving header of Steve Smith. Second corner of the game to Harrogate and again its defended well the ball falls for the attacking side , the shot is well blocked. Early pressure from the home side is relieved by a great ball from his own half by Steve Howson to Chappell who gets bogged down but managers to play in Owen Roberts is route is cut out by the recovering Ryan. Howson defending in his own box makes good contact with the ball only to see it loop over Priestley and into the net, luckily the assistant flags off. Dawson and Kelly go under scrutiny as Rail feed in some good crosses, the defensive duo pass the test. Ryan and Smith are lively for the home side who have had the better start. Boro look to change that when Howson holds and sets up Connell to bring Sampson in from the flank he skins his opponent to send in a great ball back to Connell who well placed fires over , a promising piece of football. Kelly uses great feet to find space in his own half but his pass doesn't match his footwork and the break ends. The rail captain Riley climbs all over Fitzpatrick at the edge of the D . The fouled forward picks himself up to take the kick and narrowly sends a curling left footer just wide. Priestley hesitates and just manages to clear uncomfortably just outside his box, the ball lands for Craig Smith who scuffs a shot, Ben Jones picks up and brings a good recovery save from Priestley, although throughout the start of this campaign Phil as had a few howlers his shot stopping as been magnificent when called upon. As the half hour approaches Boro show some great neat passing in front of the dugouts, Mark Jones chests the ball under pressure and sets up neat simple passing that Rail can only watch, the ball stalls in the mud and the final ball is not found.

Enter Mr Hart of Darlington, i often give referees and assistants a miss in match reports as i believe it is about the 22 on the park, Mr Hart clearly believed he should have the limelight today. After Ryder is slightly late on Owen Roberts , his first tackle on a very difficult surface , he is booked. The yellow card stays out in the cold for the rest of the game as he chooses to show it at every tap, niggle , barge and chat the players deliver. His assistance on the dugout side joins in throughout the game with real pettiness and as a pop at Ronnie Evans for giving tape to Stevie Howson! The game from then on is peppered with dubious and illogical decisions. I am confident a report will be on the table. Lets hope the joker in the pack of cards reads it.

Boro believe they have took the lead when after a scramble in the box the ball is poked over the line by Howson with the ball clearly in the back of the net ,the lino seeing Fitzpatrick celebrate by kicking the ball in to the net further gives offside. Fitzpatrick is fuming and although rightly, needs to curb his response , he is booked. A player of Fitzys calibre needs to be with us all season and not on the suspension list. Dawson is next in the book as the ref will need to sharpen his pencil at half time. Howson is set free and pushes the ball passed the keeper in the box , the keeper takes down the striker but does get a touch of the ball to send for a corner. The ball is cleared long from the corner and Boro hold the ball well at the back and build patiently, Dawson waits for the gap and delivers a great ball for Sampson to take up and charge the rail defence with a determined run , his pass finds Connell who's shot is blocked well. Mark Jones picks up and his shot is charged down , Rail counter Boro frantically close down in midfield , Boro spend the last five keeping the hosts out of the last third and restrict them to a wide header from a corner. Tired legs will welcome a break, the half ends 0-0.

No changes and Boro make a good start with Kelly finding Connell well on the edge , he doesnt make up his mind and the chance to bring others into play is lost. Mark Jones finds space and runs at the back four, Craig Smith catches him and yes, he is booked. Two penalty claims are waved away , the first after Howson and Chappell link well in the corner as the ball comes in the defender handles , the ref looks away. Some scrappy play in the boro box with Chappell clearing up suggests a push , ref looks away. Connell and Sampson link well and force a wasted corner. Rail play quickly and are capable of breaking fast, Chappell is unlucky not to break up the attack Jones & Smith look dangerous ,Kelly clears for corner.

The referee gets involved to split up Thirkell and Chappell as they draw handbags. 56 minutes gone and rail produce a great move Steve Smith sprints down the flank and beats Roberts easily to send in a fine cross that is met on the run by Ben Jones to nod past the Boro keeper. Boro respond and force a corner that is cleared too easily, Rail come again as Smith sends a great ball into substitute Henry his cross beats Priestley and reaches Thirkell who gets a foot to it, Priestley matches him and produces a timely block. Within 5 minutes the Boro are level, Howson peeling off the defenders shoulder gets to the ball first and flicks the ball into the path of Fitzpatrick who lifts the ball over the advancing keeper, 1-1. Priestley pulls off two good saves to deny rail taking the lead one with the hands and the other with the feet. Mark Jones is trying to unlock and uses Fizpatrick who delays and trys to beat the defender twice when the simple ball would have been more effective, it finds its way back to Jones who plays Chappell in who goes for placement , the effort goes wide. Boro change Howson for Roscoe on 75 he goes straight into action and releases a shot with options available. Henry is on the edge of the Boro box and looks to shoot but Chappell surprises him and wins the ball well, Chappells recent performances have been a breath of fresh air with a combination of hard graft and guile. Rail combine some good passing along the advancing line Henry to Ball and one more out to Jones , his shot hits the post after a good save again by Priestley , Ball is waiting and converts to make it 2-1, Boro scream for the offside but don't get it , Roberts continues the argument by kicking the ball away, Mr Hart is bored with the colour yellow and gives a straight red. The suspension will hurt Boro. Boro look for the equaliser but fail to penetrate. and are not convincing in front of goal with chances available but not took. The game runs out with a series of substitutions and Rail holding for time in the corners. The last action is..... a booking for Ball, i could not see why. Forrest was taken off on 85 after a good workmanlike run out. The squad will be stronger with him back. It now as to be the responsibility of players to keep their heads when decisions go against them and keep the squad together.

Chinese writing is easier to understand than the decisions made by officials today.

A frustrating defeat.

see you in the North East

Cometh the hour, cometh the Manning!

"I bet these fancy premiership foreigners would struggle at Grimsby on a wet Tuesday night" bemoan many a pundit and league manager alike. My challenge to them would be visit Squires Gate on a wet Tuesday night and come away with a win! The Cup competitions have haunted Radcliffe this season in stark contrast from last season. Tonight was last chance of 'cup glory' saloon. The ground in Blackpool is tidy and neat, the pitch considering the recent downpours was in prime condition and testament to the hardworking groundsmen. A cup of hot tea kept me company as I took up my position between the dugouts. The teams emerged and met a deluge of rain. Boro playing in black and red stripes started the better and spent the first ten probing the defensive backline of the hosts. Oates sends the first tempting cross in and Tom Philips spoons the ball over his own bar for a corner. The result is a scrambled clearance that is worked back by Boro it settles for Neil Chappell who from 22 yards hits it goalbound, it swirls and dips and nestles in the opponents net with the keeper bemused 1-0 , 2 in 2 for Chappers. The goal wakes the team in blue up and they get to grips with the conditions and try to play. Steve Howson attempts to play his support in but the ball goes passed and finds Squires Bennett who in turn finds Andy Richards (rico) in space his shot goes narrowly wide. Lee Connell soon follows in Howsons footsteps and is left holding his head as he frees Marc Beattie to shoot wide. Within minutes Boro respond with some slick passing in midfield that brings in both Samson & Oates. This standard of passing and probing will kill the North West Counties side off , Mark Jones leads the way and it would prove to be an easy game if only the men in the middle trusted thier ability, even on a filthy night. The next 15 sees Boro largely dominate with relief for the hosts when a good freekick finds the head of Cram who heads wide from a good position. The final ball cant be found by Boro and when they fall back the ball is on the left edge of Priestleys box when Rico hits a strong left footer that screams at goal, the ball hangs and dips in the air, but it hits target ,bang 1-1. Howson within minutes is working hard to find a gap on the edge of the box, Philips comes through him and the free kick is given. The lively Fitzpatrick is having this one and lines up his shot. His aim is true and a sweet left foot curls the ball into the angle of the net, great response 2-1. The end comes to a close with a half chance to Squires , the ref blows and the players wet and windswept hope the urn is hot.
The tea must of been enjoyed by Howson who doesnt come out and is replaced by Griff Jones. Howsons play looks frustrated which i believe is a sign of a player who is desperate for it to happen , quality comes to the top and Howson will fire again. The first test is for Priestley to hold the slippy ball and he does. The blues have a spring in thier step and look eager for the result. Adam Roscoe joins the weather beaten for Fitzpatrick and his early touches and passing looks positive. Boro are at it again , this time Chappells wayward pass as Kelly saving his blushes. Roscoe displays his holding technique and plays Oates in well , his snap shot is too high. Squires gate freshen the team with a double sub bringing on Catlow and Muscroft. Manning is on for the Boro and Chappell hits the hot shower. Mannings first real touch plays Roscoe in on the edge he runs for the byeline and looks for the six yard box, he is shadowed well and a promising move halts.The hosts double subs are combining well and when Catlow lets fly Priestley turns for a corner. Two come in the latter is a pinpoint cross to the head of Muscroft unchallenged in the six yard box, easy 2-2. Mr Evans may need to administer an injection of concentration from his medical bag!The home sides tails are up and they look to win the game, a corner is won that Priestley punches out to Roscoe who picks a great pass long to Sampson but the chance goes begging. Manning his using his throw ins well to gain ground down the left and when he delivers a cross Kelly is agonisingly short of meeting it. Another cross arrives in and looked a certain goal befor the hosts centre half clears from under his bar. The blues are gaining in confidence and believe they can win it , the whistle goes to send the teams into a further 30 minutes. Within 3 of the restart Boro get out of Jail when a great goal is ruled out for offside. The lino made the decision after the ref had indicated a goal, a lucky let off. The response is the best bit of the game when Oates endeavours on the flank and finds Griff Jones whos rapid pass into the near post is met and steered into the net by Roscoe, is first of many for the club. 3-2 the visitors. The concentration syringe needs to be full and used after the game. The 40 yard ball into the box to find the smallest man on the park should have been dealt with it wasnt and Stuart Horn finishes easily. 3-3!
The game opens up as the win is needed and either side could do it, a deflection that hits a post nearly gifts it to Boro. The hosts are not giving it up and i feel we need the whistle.
The whistle it is and time for Penalties.

Boro
1. Roscoe - saved
2 Oates - saved
3 G Jones - scores
4 M Jones -scores
5 Connell - Scores

Squires gate score the first two the 3rd is missed a wonder save by Priestley to his right and a further miss sets up Manning to seal it.
A young man steps up and .............bang he wins it!!
A win is a win and the next round is in the bag, a dogged hard working game by Squires gate nearly spoiled it , it didnt and i will be asking who is going to the next wet Tuesday night to see real footballers grin and bear it.

see you there.

Chappell arrives on time

First half 2 minutes - Howson fed Fitzy from the right wing who shot along the floor just wide of the lefthand post. 6 minutes - edge of the area Fitzy hard shot saved well and pushed away from danger. 10 minutes - First shot by Harrogate. Boro couldn't clear the box from a thrown in as both opposition strikers were fairly strong and hard to deal with when they had their back to goal. The shot itself rose wide over the bar. 31 minutes - First Goal. Ball through the middle of Harrogate defence followed by a layoff from Fitzy which Chappell got on the end of to bundle home from inside the area. 34 minutes - Chappell on left wing showed nice skill to work an opening on the edge of the box before hitting a shot way off target. 42 minutes - Barging run by Lee Connell as he shoulder charged one of the Harrogate defenders put of the way before hitting a shot way wide from the edge of the area. Second half - 6 minutes - Poor clearance from Liam Sutcliffe the Harrogate goalkeeper which found Chappell whose shot was blocked before it reached the goal. 11 minutes - driving run by Chappell after picking up possession in th centre circle before beating a challenge and feeding Fitzy who fed a low cross into the box but there was no Boro player to latch onto it. 20 minutes - ball over the top from Harrogate caught Lee Unsworth out of position who misjudged and missed a headed clearance which put Railway striker Ben Jones through on goal but Phil Priestly came off his line well to smother the opportunity. 2 minutes into injury time - ball flighted across the six yard box towards goal and Priestly only managed to deflect it onto his post which luckily didn't lead to an undeserved late equaliser. Notes on the game - Encouraging debut for Owen Roberts at Left Wingback who looked comfortable in possession and willing to get forward at every opportunity. Last 15 minutes of the game saw the welcome return of Adam Roscoe from injury and as per usual his hold up play and physical presence looked top drawer which is surely a good sign for what lays in store when he can play the full ninety minutes of games again. Pick of the defenders was Simon Kelly who was strong and authoritative throughout. Put in a flawless display against a side who had both power and pace in the forward line but his efforts and those of his teamates managed to nullify the threat throughout the game. Man of the match was without doubt Neil Chappell who looked to have recaptured the form of last season as he made numerous lungbusting runs both with and without possession which helped to keep the opposition on the backfoot for the majority of the game. Nearly every scoring opportunity that Boro had came through his effort and endeavour. Throughout the ninety minutes he made a massive impact on the game.

Cup Curse

Opening ten mins dominated by Woodley with Boro penned in their own half but the home team failed to create any scoring chances early on.
12 mins - Chance for Woodley. They were able to counter attack from midfield and get to the edge of the area before steve hill intercepted and cleared.
13 mins - Woodley cross into box resulted in a header from close range (just outside six yard box) which Phil saved well.
20 mins - Boro no shots yet. Woodley shot from edge of area and hit post. Out for corner.
22 mins Boro first shot. Skill from Fitzy on the edge of Woodley area saw him create space before shooting across box where shot hit post before going in. Boro 1-0
34 mins Fitzy free kick. Bending into bottom right corner before keeper tipped it onto post.
42 mins - Boro unable to clear ball from penalty area. Close range shot from woodley well saved by Phil.
Just before half time poor punch from phil led to woodley volley from penalty spot tipped over by phil.
2nd Half

60 mins - Ball into box from Woodley Phil completely missed the line of it before it was tapped in at back post by Woodley's Michael Clarke. 1-1

75 mins - Chappell through ball to Fitzy who was clean through but he took too wide an angle to round the keeper and his shot hit a defender who blocked his line to goal.

87 mins - Poor backpass by woodley. Missed by keeper who kicked thin air and the ball went inches wide of the post.
90 mins - Boro unable to clear again ball tucked away from close range by Mark Haslam. Woodley 2-1.
Boro didn't deserve a point. It was a fair result on a freezing night where even Boro fans didn't want extra time.

Bay'led Out!

After some dismal cup results it was back to the league and the pursuit of points. Colwyn Bay fans already enjoying a pie and a pint in the club house would be looking for the same after thier journey from North Wales, a very friendly bunch that typify what following a non league club means. The sides change round and Boro will be up hill in the first half. New signing Ian Fitzpatrick goes straight in as Griff Jones is starting on the bench. Mike Flynn is in for the missing Kelly. Oates is playing at the back with Lee Unsworth absent. Connell returns.Mark Jones wears the armband and will lead this much changed side. Colwyn Bay will be assisted by the very experienced Graham Branch with over 400 league appearances to his name. The visitors start quickly and show some great movement in and out of midfield. Canning is tackled poorly by Chappel and the foul is given. Challinor takes and finds Black working a space before sending across the box for canning to fire in on goal that looks certain before Priestley pulls a wonder save as he stretches to his right to parry at close range. The save results in a series of corners that have Boro under pressure.Aspinalls best delivery finds the lively Hopley who heads against the bar. The pressure remains on as Priestley makes a mess of a clearance and the waiting Colwyn debutant Mc Graa pile drives the ball back just missing the target. Its all Bay football being played when Black catches the defenders flat and fails to hit the target when well placed to score. A lightening ten minutes action from the welsh visitors. Boro can only offer snippets of play with some decent touches by the new signing who looks to be mobile. A different side to his game is seen as he kicks out at Wood after catching a flailing arm in the mouth. Wood gives him some back a minute later and the ref is right to speak to them both to avoid using cards. Hopley is winning most things in the air for Colwyn and will prove difficult to beat. Boro start to play and manage to string the midfield together before Chappell is up ended and needs treatment to play on. Hopley and Garside are involved in most of the away teams attacking play. Colwyn rue their missed chances when on the half hour Fitzpatrick shows some good footwork and vision to find Sampson on the opposite flank, he cuts into the box and with the defender showing him goal he curls a peach of a shot beyond the keeper and into the top left of his goal. 1-0! The visitors look for a quick response and force the corner that is headed goal bound by the experienced Challinor, the ball is cleared from the line only to land for striker Black to drive low into the corner of the net. 1-1. The game opens up a little with chances starting to appear at both ends.Fitzpatrick plays a lovely dummy to allow Oates to get on the end of the move but the ball runs out of play, Mark Jones was fouled in the build up and referee King chose the wrong option by playing advantage. The welshman try again and Dawson clears well from the corner, Garside is waiting but strikes high over the bar. Howson is holding up when possible but is failing to find the pass . The last chance of the half goes to Fitzpatrick who finds himself free at the edge of the box only to fire woefully wide. The midfield struggled to win the contest although the captain Jones as worked tirelessly to get things going. The ball as been coming back too quickly forcing a tough day on the returning Flynn.
Colwyn Bay chose to replace Aspinall for Hughes at the start of the second half. Howson is trying to win up front and does so to play in Sampson his cross doesnt beat the first man . Howson is in a good position to shoot and does , it takes a deflection off Branch out of harms way. Colwyn are always a threat and are looking to set free the front two by feeding good passes to the edge of the boro box, the good work of Dawson and Oates is avoiding further scoring. The visitors push high and catch the Boro offside numerous times in the next quarter. High , long balls will not do the trick , key passes will unlock it but who will provide them? Bay look undecisive for the first time at the back as they pass along thier own box and Keeper Padry as to be tidy to snuff out Fitzpatrick. Canning is replaced by Mahoney and soon after Colwyn bay take thier chance, Lycett forces a run into the danger area and causes some panic in the Boro box, Howson is back to block a shot and the second shot is blocked by Dawson as Boro fail to clear Priestley decides to punch out instead of catching and the ball drops well for the starter of the Move Lycett to volley straight back and into the back of the net for 2-1. Howson sums up his day when he forces his way into the box but cant get the ball to run for him . Good players lose form and this can be said of Howson, he is substituted along with Chappell as Brookes and Griff Jones are sent on to look for a way back. Referee King loses his crown and topples over when Jones (G) first pass hits him to the pleasure of the crowd. The visitors are the better side today and look to increase the lead Black sends a shot goalbound but the foot of kelly deflects it safely over his own goal. The resulting corner sees a scramble develop in the boro box , two shots are blocked as priestley dives to cover , the final shot deflects to safety. All action is now in the home sides area with Priestlet on his toes to beat forwards to the ball. Hill doesnt clear well enough and Hopley brings a smart save out of Priestley. Boro cant get out of trouble and look like a fighter on the ropes , the odd jab up front relieves some pressure but it needs more. Bay nearly seal it with 5 to go when the corner comes in and McGraa's header smacks the post with Priestley beaten. the ball lands centrally for Challinor to drive the ball straight at Priestley chest. As the home fans consider another home loss Boro move up field and as Fitzpatrick pings the ball at the keeper he fails to hold and the waiting Griff Jones prods home from 6 yards , relief for Boro, devastating for Colwyn Bay. The whistle goes on a game that Boro where lucky to be allowed to come back in. The visitors should have been out of sight in the first and last twenty. Continuous forced changes are not helping the cause but that happens with all teams in this league. Fitzpatrick looked a promise of things to come, Howson will find form . Kelly and Unsworth will return , Roscoe will be back to full fitness,we just need a settled side. The keep going attitude was impressive and lesser sides would have thrown in the towel. The side have proven they can play some great Football, Lancaster away, Lancaster at home, Mossley in the league away. Belief is a big thing when results are not there. Griff Jones bailed us out today, when its not happening its every man to the pumps.

see you soon

Cup Conceded

Radcliffe Borough entertain Trafford as they will be looking to defend the trophy that stands proud in the trophy room. The trophy was magnificently won at Oldhams Boundary Park against favourites Hyde United last season. Recent cup form will require an upturn if Boro are to hold on to the Manchester FA Premier Cup.Trafford are delayed in kicking off as the corner flags are not in place, a firework is thrown over the stand and i hope the flags are not on the local bommy. Mark Jones is named as captain in the absence of Si Kelly. Boro line up as 5-3-2 with Sampson and Oates in high wider positions. It is good to see that Adam Roscoe as made the bench. The game gets under way and Trafford move forward first with some intent , the ball from Coppin to Lundy is just too long and runs to Priestley.The first five minutes belong to the visitors as they shape a corner that is headed wide from a near post position by Lundy. A deflected shot bound for the target is their next foray and when Unsworth gives a gift to the Trafford midfield the ball is set up for Wilkinson to drive into the box, as he is closed down he trys the chip but offers no real threat. Passing is inconsistent for both sides until on 12 minutes Trafford find the feet of Barnes who shoots quickly catching Priestley out he dives late to tip the ball for a corner, the first of three that are dealt with. Boro get the ball moving after 20 minutes with more purpose. Howson holding up well brings midfield into play Battersby moves the ball across the field well before it is cleared to Sampson, he delivers in well for Oates to send back across goal, Chappell finds the header but not the power or direction to worry the keeper. Some better football being played after 25 minutes of nearlys and not quites. Battersby as had a long chat with the ref, shortly afterwards the visitors appeal for the penalty as Wes Wilkinson goes down like a tramp on a kipper in the boro box, he was nudged but the referee Ogden is happy to wave away. Unsworth & Dawson go long to look for Howson, Oates is at the end of one but the race is won by Rooney the Trafford keeper , he heads clear from outside his box. Sampson looking lively after his recent injury links well with Chappell around the Trafford box and are unlucky not to benefit. Mark Jones workhorse mentality shows as he moves the ball across the centre circle inviting others to join in , he chooses a switch to Sampson who is looking a threat high right of the field. The ball is cleared and Mark Jones starts again and repeats the move this time Sampson works a great position but mis hits the shot across the box and out. Mackay of Trafford is pushed down Boro's left flank and is heading for goal Sampson shadows him well and forces him to shoot unbalanced, the ball flys over the stand. Steve Hill acts as a barn door as he cynically blocks the threatening run of Wilkinson, hill sees yellow. As the resulting free kick leads to nothing the ball is played clean through for Wilkinson who as Priestley to beat, Priestley stands strong and beats the chance away, great save. Trafford are pushing and are unlucky when Mackays cross sees Halligan head wide. Dawson is starting to look like Boros best attacking option as he finds himself on the end of two glorious chances to take the lead , the keeper is good for one and he thanks lady luck for the other. The game as opened up in the last 15 . Mark Jones tracking back across his box fouls the attacker, they take quickly before Boro set and the quick shot is saved and gathered well by Priestley. The ref adds two minutes and Dawson is called to action to stem the last chance of the half. Boro are lacking up front and any threat is coming from set pieces and defenders getting forward.

Teams remain the same as the second half gets under way. The home side are asked to defend first and do the task well, controlled passing between Unsworth Oates and Mark Jones sees the ball safe, Dawson again tackles perfectly on the edge of the box, defending is a strength of the team. Boro spend the first 15 of the half only clearing to the half way line. Nothing is sticking in the last third and comes back quickly. Dawson is the threat again when Battersby sends the free kick long for Dawson to be in the right place but uses the defender to climb. Foul given.Barnes in yellow plays in Wilkinson with a great touch in midfield as he races for the box Chappell brings him down , the free kick is smashes at the wall and deflects for a corner. The corner results in a foul on Priestley. Battersby shows a chink in his armour as too much chat after being warned in the first half gets him in the book. Battersby will be missed and another conjuring act by Kevin & Gerry will have to be performed. Sampson delivers a good cross for the head of Dawson who heads just over the bar. When Trafford panic boro on the edge of the box Hill lunges at Wilkinson and the free kick is given . Mackay lines the ball up in front of the assembled wall. The wall, Priestley are onlookers as the ball flys with curl into the top left of the net, wonderful strike. 1-0 64 gone. Once Traffords celebrations finish they double sub with Wilkinson & Hall replaced with Barlow & Woodford. The blues react with a great ball in from Hill , Dawson again meets well and heads to the foot of the post forcing a great save by the keeper to send for a corner. The unproductive duo of Howson and Griff Jones are replaced by Roscoe and Traynor. Howson and Jones G are not firing and some way off last years form, i dont know the answer but the team needs them on song. The pack is shuffled with the Boro going to a straight 4-4-2 ,Hill coming into the centre and Sampson & Unsworth going to full back positions. Traynor sits central and Oates partners Roscoe up front. Trafford are happy to pick up any player making a run and find the nippy Barlow who can only shoot wide across goal. Roscoe gets his first touch and shields well and wins a free kick ,the combination of Battersby to Dawson is used again but the defence wins this time. Manning enters he game for Chappell as the last 15 arrives. Barlow is at it again in the Boro half as the ball comes over is head and the chase is on , he is unlucky when in the box as the ball hits his knee and rolls to Priestley. Oates is looking lively with his switch from back to front and he wins the corner after attempting the cross. The corner as Unsworth heading on goal Keeper palms it onto Oates who bravely heads just wide and collides with the post, very close. The captain for the night Jones goes down in the centre circle with what looks like a twisted ankle , he plays on after treatment. Roscoe shows and looks like he could be an handfull with games under his belt. Trafford are still looking for the second and nearly get it after good work by Lundy who lays up Barlow his chip lands on the top of the bar and out. Boro push but with little threat , Trafford see barlow free again but he chooses the wrong option. The visitors Coppin is replaced by Metcalfe. Trafford use the two minutes added on and should have sealed it as Lundy pokes wide of goal with nobody to beat. Boro made a poor show of defending the cup they won last year, the substitutions added spark to the side but they usually do as subs always have a point to make. The defence look strong and have been beaten by a fantastic set piece. Midfield scrap but struggle to master and the forwards look sluggish and deprived of service. The last few weeks have been a hard slog for a small squad and injuries have caused a lot of pack shuffling. Financial magic wands are not available and we will be reliant on Kevin using trusted contacts to show up any potential gems. I will be there on Saturday because i believe we have the talent in the squad, I was impressed with the warm up conducted by Mike Flynn and would love to see more of him at the club.

see you Saturday.

Last Gasp Knockout

First Round Qualifying winners (72)
£2,300
In 1969 The Football Association introduced The FA Challenge Trophy, a knock-out competition for non-League clubs with the incentive of an appearance at Wembley for the finalists.
With amateur clubs still being afforded that opportunity in The FA Amateur Cup (until 1974 when the competition was last played), it was felt that clubs with professional players, who could only enter The FA Cup, should have a more realistic chance of making it to the famed Twin Towers. Entries for the first Trophy competition in 1969-70 included eight clubs who were destined to enter the Football League: Barnet, Cambridge United, Hereford United, Kidderminster Harriers, Macclesfield Town, Scarborough, Wimbledon and Wigan Athletic. Macclesfield beat Telford United 2-0 in the first final, watched by 28,000 at Wembley. Todays game was played at Gigg Lane, Bury loaned home of FC United of Manchester, some recent history between the two clubs should lead us to a good game. The right result will give the winners £2300 , the dirty word money makes the(non league) football world go around (survive). Chairmen will smile at the chance. Fc kick off in front of 1200 plus fans bringing a great atmosphere to the game. Ex Fc Priestley is called into action first and produces a fine save from Carden as Roca found him well. Chris Baguley is in the thick of most of the early play and Boro set out their stall with Dawson and Hill keeping the forwards at bay with some resolute defending. Boro find their way to the last third of FC but are struggling to free up support from midfield. Griff Jones and Howson are given very little. Lee Connell after a heavy challenge is treated in the centre circle. Howson is found off side and the plan of the game is already mapped out. Dawson is doing an excellent job on the Unibond Prem top scorer Kyle Wilson as he limits is chances and on 17 mins shows him what a well timed tackle is. Boro get a sniff when Griff Jones header from a throw falls for Mark Jones who strikes well enough but takes a deflection for the corner. Howson again is caught off as FC keep a tight line. Boro are throwing in some great last ditch blocks against a steady stream of United moves towards goal. The ball falls kindly for Griff Jones who toe pokes Mark Jones in on goal the keeper is quick and spoils the chance.
Priestley looking more commanding of late produces a fantastic save as Jerome Wright sets off on one of his mazy runs, he beats Unsworth , Kelly & Dawson before firing in. Fc move again when good football by Warrender , Carden and Simon Carden to set Wilson in for a shot that clears the hand of Priestley and the bar. The game as a lively spell when Wilson gets to the bye line and crosses for Simon Carden to demand more from Priestley. Boro are playing a good spoiling game and are only missing a that elusive chance . Some niggling tackles resulting in players needing treatment. Dawson is working hard and even though fouled three times, with the referee preferring advantage he loses Patience and sends the ball too long. As the end of the half closes the influential Chris Baguley leaves the field through injury and is replaced by Foster.
The boro team stay alert to the whistle and see off another great run by Jerome Wright who is brought down on the very edge of the box . Wilson ploughs the ball high from the free kick and hits high into the stand.
0-0 at half time Boro will be pleased with that and have had their defencive qualifications well examined by FC.
Oates is the only change as Connell stays in the dressing room. He goes to right back with Battersby taking a more central role. The half starts up as did the first with FC looking the more likely although some poor passing and the final delivery from both sides is evident.Frustration is growing with FC and with Battersby not being able to free up colleagues in midfield it boils over, Wilson who likes to have a niggle is man handled by Battersby and they square up , with Battersby raising his hand and Wilson looking for a part in Coronation Street, the ref puts Battersby into his book. Boro keeping FC at bay enter the best period of the game with Hill playing very well and looking to get down the flank when possible. Howson gets his first scent of goal as he pushes the ball past the defender who recovers well to force the ball away. Howson and Griff Jones combine well for the ball to be floated in for Oates waiting at the edge of the box, he volleys but receives jeers as the ball goes way over the stand. Hill plays a great dummy in midfield as he glides past is marker , Kelly gets involved and he intelligently finds a pass to Chappell who is unlucky as the ball runs to Ashton in the home goal. Its now a more even contest with Boro breaking free of defensive duties when possible. FC always looking capable of a goal. They show it to as Wright breaks down the left and feeds the ball into the 6 yard box Roca cant reach .Chappell does brilliantly getting his toe to it to clear when Wright is bearing down on goal. Battersby is lucky to stay on the field as his frustration in Boros lack of midfield ownership shows. The ref is sensible and calms him down. Simon Carden catches the boro back four flat and flashes a shot wide. Roca leaves the contest and is replaced by Williams. Jerome Wright remains a threat and runs from deep and is heading for goal when he is dumped by Kelly who gets a yellow. Boro respond and win 3 corners in a row but to no avail as FC show they can defend as well as attack. Chappell is replaced Traynor. Boros best chance arrives when Howson meets the cross only for his effort to be cleared off the line at the foot of the post.Battersby and Mark Jones combine well to leave Hill to cross out of play. FC look to finish the game as they enter the last five,Dawson and Unsworth switch off for the first time to give Wright another chance but he luckily wastes his shot. Poor final passes and crosses have been the trade mark of the game but with the referee adding 3 minutes and Boro looking towards a replay Adam Carden sends in a quality croos that is met well by Adam Turner to loop a great header over the impressive Priestley to spoil the Boro day and win the game. Disaster! After Boro playing a perfect first leg type game and the chance of a lucrative cup run gone all focus will be on the league. Boro have proven they can compete away from home against good opposition. The game wasn't beautiful but it was a dogged performance from Boro. Time added on is always a contested point against Manchester clubs, is it not?

I will see you against Trafford, another Manchester Club!