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WEST
DIDSBURY & CHORLTON A.F.C.
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| West Didsbury + Chorlton line up for the seasons first game. |  |
Click on the image to see a full size picture and details |  |
| 26/08/08 |
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Wests
first entertained Heywood St James in a midweek fixture
and, gave their visitors, who will find life hard in this division,
a sound drubbing. Carrying on from Saturday they turned in a good
performance to take all three points from them, winning 3-1
with the goals shared by Pennels, Farren and a Lilley
pen. Saturday saw them travel to recently relegated Whitworth
Valley. With Wests once again getting to grips early on the
hosts saw themselves 2-0 down. Whitworth already struggling to cope
with Wests play and, with tackles flying in, then had a man sent
off. This was the cue for west to run their bedraggled opponents
into the ground and they eventually ran out 8-0 victors,
with goals from; Phoenix 3, Pennels 2, Lilley 2
and Pearce 1. Tuesday evening saw West involved in another
midweek game this time away to last seasons beaten cup final opponents
Monton Amateurs. West again turned in another good performance,
with keeper Ben Simpson having a great game, making good
saves at crucial times in the game and, keeping another clean sheet.
Another fine performance came from Mike Pennels who finished
the game with a hat-trick as west eventually subdued a team who
were determined to avenge their final loss. On west current form
though it was a losing battle. The Second team opened their
season on Saturday with a home game against AVRO and also
turned in a good show to take all the points with a 3-1 win
|
| 1/09/08 | ||||
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West Didsbury
+ Chorltons first team notched up their 5th successive
win in 15 days with a convincing home victory over previously
unbeaten rivals Old Alts. Phoenix opened the
scoring in the first 10 minutes and the visitors keeper performed
heroics to keep the score down to 1-0 at the interval. Phoenix
increased the lead in the early stages of the second half after
good work by Lilley, who then converted from the penalty
spot after Mike Pennells was brought down after an hour. West
missed several more good chances to increase their advantage
during a 53 minute second half, but the final 3-0 score
saw manager Danny Iredale well pleased with the results from
a hectic August pre-season and league programme and, resisted the
temptation to play himself and put another clean sheet at risk! Wests
second team slumped to a disappointing 4-1
away defeat at the hands of Bury Amateurs in their second
outing of the season |
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| 8/09/08 |
| Despite
the adverse weather conditions throughout the week, wests were able
to stage the Lancashire Shield game scheduled for their first team
on Saturday. The match itself against visitors Poulton Town
was played in more summery conditions with bright sunshine throughout,
which lifted everyone's spirits. Wests coming off the back of a five
game winning streak were hoping to continue in the same vein and,
go further in this competition than last year, when they went out
at the same stage. This being a major cup competition, west expected
a tough encounter and, they got just that, having to pull out all
the stops to eventually overcome their spirited opponents, however,
at the final whistle west had preserved their unbeaten run by out
scoring the visitors in a five goal entertaining match winning 3-2
after extra time. An opening goal from leading scorer Phoenix
and, a second from Pennels took the game into the extra period.
A defensive reshuffle from wests to combat the extra pressure from
the visitors saw them contain and, hit back to snatch the decisive
fifth goal of the game, once again put away by Phoenix. Again
another good all round performance from wests. The second team didn't fare as well though and, after a good start to the season have struggled in both their games since, this time they crashed heavily away at early pace setters Elton Vale 7-1. The third team opened their campaign this week and, it seems they are going to continue where they left off last season, featuring in veritable goal fests. Unfortunately, this week their game was the only one played in the division, thus, despite bashing in four goals at home to Beechfied United, they suffered the indignity of picking the ball out of their own net on six occasions. Which left them, at least being able to say, they had only lost to the divisions leaders and, are only bottom on goal difference. Some small comfort lads. Final score 4-6 .
|
| 15/09/08 |
| Wests
first team entertained mid table Stand Athletic in confident
mood after their excellent win last week and, looked to consolidate
their place in the early pace setters. Unfortunately, their opponents
hadn't read the script and, adopted tactics that frustrated wests
all afternoon. After dominating most of the play in the first half,
a defensive slip saw west go at the break 1-0 behind. A determined
effort saw west again have the lions share of the half and got their
due rewards when leading scorer Phoenix once again netted for
west. With west on top they looked likely winners and, only the post
and a goal-line clearance stopped Cook putting them in front, but
once again defensive frailty saw west concede a second goal. Although
they pressed their opponents to the final whistle they were unable
to snatch an equaliser, final score 1-2. The second team had
no fixture. The thirds were in home action and, seemingly no
worse off for last weeks defeat. They didn't manage to match last
weeks amount of goals but, the three they did put away were more than
enough to see off opponents Leigh Athletic, who could only
muster a single one in reply and, gave them their first win. Final
score 3-1 |
| 22/09/08 |
| Wests
first team were on their travels this week at mid table Standians,
as they looked to put their last performance behind them and, get
back on the winning trail. The home side though presented them with
a postage stamp sized pitch and, to make matters worst it was at best
described as, agricultural. This gave the hosts, who are barely on
nodding terms with the 'beautiful game' a decided advantage. To this
end they capitalised early on as west struggled to get to grips with
the conditions and, their opponents style of play, unsurprisingly
it was the hosts who took the early lead. As west slowly came to terms
with what was on offer they began to assert themselves over their
limited opponents and, forced themselves back into the game before
half time when, once again leading scores Phoenix grabbed a
deserved equaliser. As the second period progressed west became more
and more the dominant force, and it was no surprise to see Lilley
put west 2-1 ahead, when he drove in a twenty five yard dipping shot.
Phoenix. looked to have finished off the game, with a solo
effort, notching up his twelfth goal of the campaign to put west 3-1
to the good. With the hosts having a man sent off, west seemed to
turn off and, allowed their opponents to grab a last gasp second to
make the final score 3-2. The second team suffered another
horrendous defeat, this time at home to the hands of high flying Rochdale
SH, going down 8-2. The thirds were also in losing
mode as they slipped to a 2-0 away defeat at Pennington.
|
| 29/09/08 |
| Wests
first were on their travels for the second week running, this
time though they were in action once again in the Lancashire Shield.
Their opponents, Pennington,
are
from the same league, but, they strut there stuff in the premier division.
West were in bouyant mood though and from the off they were the better
team, but ther superior play was unable to provide a goal and, as
is usually the case they were caught out by a long ball from defence
that was lobbed on over the keeper to put the hosts 1-0 ahead. A fine
solo effort from Cook deservedly put west level as they continued
to play the better football. Unfortunately lady luck didn't shine
on them as the woodwork and, desperate defending contrived to keep
them from adding to their tally. This was to cost them dear, as the
clock ticked past the ten minutes to go mark, once again the long
ball from defence cost them a carbon copy second goal, to put pennington
ahead again at 2-1. From this point west threw caution to the wind
and, almost everybody forward in a desperate search for an equaliser,
although they battered their opponents they couldn't find the elusive
second goal and, it was no surprise to see the home team break away
in the final seconds to score a third. A little harsh but, nontheless
a final score of 3-1, and a disappointing demise from the trophy.
The second team were at home to high fliers Wythenshawe
Amateurs and, after the last couple of weeks must have approached
the fixture a little apprehensively. They turned in their best performance
since the first game of the season though, pushing the visitors all
the way. At the final whistle they hadn't quite been able to match
their opponents two goals, being able to find the net on only one
occasion, a much better effort than of late. Final score 2-1.
The third team were also at home and, were in there usual goal
bonaza of a game. This time their opponents were Fives Athletic,
who were in fifth position in the division and, who breeched to home
defence five times. The story had at least a trace of a happy ending
though, as the thirds managed to match fives with five of their own
and, move up into fifth spot in the division. Final score 5-5!!!!!!!.
|
| 7/10/08 |
| Wests first
team were at home in a rearranged league fixture, originally having
a blank date. After the ninety minutes were over they probably wished
they hadn't bothered. Coming off the back of a loss in the cup last
week, west never really found their true form against the visitors,
Beechfield United, who themselves are very much in the promotion
running. Although they matched their opponents for effort and endeavour
they were not firing on all cylinders. Beechfield on the other hand
saw this as a good opportunity to peg back one of their main rivals
who sat above them in the table and, once they had got their noses
in front never really looked like losing it, a second goal finally
saw of wests, condeming them for first time to two defeats on the
bounce. The 2-0 reverse still leaves west holding on to their
second spot though and, still very much in the promtion hunt. The
second team were in action away at Hindsford and continued
in their improved form but, once again came home empty handed going
down 2-0 after a decent performance. The one bright spot was
the thirds who were visiting Standians and, as is the
norm for them were involved in another flurry of goal action. This
week though they finally outgunned their opponents winning in the
end 4-3, to move into the top half of the table..
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|
14/10/08 |
| This weeks fixtures
gave wests first team an immediate chance to gain some satisfaction
over last weeks opponents; when they made the journey to Manchester
FA headquarters to once again take on Beechfield United. Although
playing much better than last week and creating numerous chances,
particularly in the first half, west were unable to turn them into
goals. On any other day leading scorer Pheonix, who has been
quiet over the last few weeks, could have had a double hat trick.
However, just like the team in general, lady luck isn't quite shining
on him at the moment. The solitary goal he did put away to get back
on the goal trail wasn't enough to take anything from the game, as
the hosts capitalised to take full advantage of the situation going
on to net three times to take all the points in a 3-1 victory.
The second team at home to East Manchester managed to
net a couple of goals, but, unforunately for them the defending couldn't
match their forward play, conceding five to slide to a 5-2 defeat.
Once again it was left to the third team to lift the gloom
over the club. They entertained Salford Victoria, a team who
so far this season are unbeaten, that was until Saturday when west
hit them with a seven goal salvo and, their defending did, this week
match their attacking as they kept a clean sheet. The 7-0 mauling
dished out to to Salford lifted the thirds into top spot in the division
on goal differnce. Well done boys; keep it up.
|
|
21/10/08 |
| West
firsts returned to Brookburn to take on Salford Victoria in
this weeks league encounter, hoping to get back to winning ways and,
to take some reward out of a game with a few more goals to show for
their build play. West began and, continued to be the better team
throughout the game, with their opponents relying more on physical
and, intimidatory tactics to try and unsettle the home team. West
though as of late played some attractive football, which was enough
to see them go into the lead with Phoenix finishing it off.
Some fine link up play from the forwards saw west ,with once again
Phoenix bagging a goal to put them 2-0 ahead. This seemed to
take some steam out of Salford and, the game. Phoenix had a
couple of chances to increase the lead before he eventually converted
a third for his hat-trick and to round of the scoring, giving west
a comfortable 3-0 victory. The seconds, away to leaders
Dukenfield, who hadn't dropped a point all season must have
feared the worst but, put in another good performance. Once again
though they returned without any points with the hosts being just
a little to good for them, still a creditable showing, eventually
going down 3-1. The thirds continue in a rich vein of
form as they were involved in a table topping game. They were away
to the team in second spot Leigh Athletic, who they defeated
earlier in the season 3-1 at home. In a hard fought contest, west
eventually bagged all the points as they turned over their hosts,
completing the double over them, 4-2, to stay top of the division.
|
| 27/10/08 |
| A tough task
faced West first this week as they travelled to face league
leaders Dukenfield Town. It would serve to show how west will
fare in the promotion stakes in the coming weeks. The encounter proved
to be as uncompromising as was expected, but, West acquitted themselves
well matching Town in almost every aspect of the game, however, once
again some wasted opportunities in front of goal cost them dear as
they went in at half time 2-0 down. A third goal for the hosts looked
to have sealed the win and finished off west, they though had other
ideas, as they clawed their way back into the game, reducing the deficit.
Only a poor decision from the referee, who to everybody's surprise,
including the home team denied west from taking a well deserved point
from the game. As this was sandwiched in between goals from Phoenix
and, Pennels. Leaving west to travel home feeling aggrieved
and, unfortunately without any points to show for their efforts Final
score 3-2. The second team continued in their current
poor run of form at home to Elton Vale. There was little between
the two sides, but, the visitors took all three points on offer with
a narrow 2-1 win. The result saw the seconds slip to the foot
of the table. The thirds at home to Standians were not able
to sustain their fine run of late. They found their opponents a little
to good for them on the day, going down 4-1. They are though,
still in the thick of the promotion scrap.
|
| 3/11/08 |
| Wests
first team were excused duty this weekend, leaving the second
and third teams to try and get the club back on the winning track.
The seconds were at home hosting runaway leaders of the division
and, recent conquerors of them on their own patch, Dukenfield Town.
Having played reasonably well in the last few weeks without putting
together a co-ordinated spell when their defensive play matched their
attacking efforts, they have gone unrewarded. This would be an ideal
time to do both, gain a little revenge over their opponents, who have
held the whip hand of wests teams in the last few weeks and, gain
some much needed confidence, plus the points. Turning in their best
performance since the opening game, and probably of the season so
far, they achieved all those objectives, as they turned out resounding
winners. They completely dominated the game netting five times to
towns single reply and, in the process moved themselves of the foot
of the table. Final score 5-1. The thirds were in cup
action at home to Walshaw FC, who play their games in a higher
division. They more than matched their visitors throughout the match
but, at the end of the ninety minutes, and extra time, were only level
at 3-3. Sadly for them they were outscored in the ensuing penalty
shoot-out, going out of the cup 4-2 on the penalties.
|
| 10/11/08 |
| Wests
first team returned to action this weekend, making the short
trip across the city to face Salford Victoria, hoping
to pick up where they left off in the league, with a win. On the new
age playing surface, one which suits wests passing game, they were
soon in control. Going ahead through leading scorer Phoenix.
Only a lapse in concentration allowed Vics back into the game, Summers
though, on the scoresheet for the first time, eventually restored
wests lead. West continued to play the better football but, didn't
find the net again until a good passage of play was abruptly stopped
by a foul. The respite for the hosts though was short lived as
Lilley duly punished them from the resulting free kick, to deservedly
wrap up all three points in a 3-1 win. The second team
produced another good showing, although it did not reach the level
off last weeks performance, still for the first time this season they
picked up points for a second Saturday on the run. This time in an
entertaining game against visitors Stockport Georgians, they
shared the points in a 3-3 encounter. The thirds returning
to league action after last weeks shoot-out disappointment, were back
on form and, secured all three points at Beechfield United, which
was ample revenge over the team that defeated them at home on the
opening day of the season, with a 3-1 win.
|
| .17/11/08 |
| The firsts
returned to Brookburn Rd for a promotion scrap against one of
their main promotion rivals, Bury Amateurs, hoping to capitalise
on last weeks good showing and, gain some ground in this virtual six
pointer. Unfortunately for them their opponents were also in the same
frame of mind and, although this turned the encounter into a high
scoring affair, west were more on the receiving end of it. A game
that had plenty of action and incident saw west net twice but, although
the were always in contention, with strikes from Wagstaffe
and Summers, conceded on four occasions to slip to a 4-2
defeat. The two goal margin also saw their visitors go above them
in the division by virtue of goal difference and, by just one goal.
The second team, who were away at high fliers Monton
Amateurs, were unable to sustain their improved form, crashing
not only to a heavy 6-1 defeat but, also to the foot of the
table. The thirds continue to be the surprise package of wests
sides this season. Once again they turned in another fine showing
as they trounced visiting Gregorians 4-1 to go back to the
top of their division. Although teams have games in hand on them,
it's still a good effort almost half way through their season
|
| 24/11/08 |
| West
first team faced a tough away encounter this week against Fives
Athletic who, although struggling at the wrong end of the table
are difficult to beat on their own patch. West had the better of the
first half on a not, to put it mildly, the best of playing surfaces,
creating some good opportunities. Eventually they carved open the
home defence with a flowing move with leading scorer Phoenix putting
the the finishing touch to a cut back to put west 1-0 up at the break.
If west had the better of the first half there was no doubt that the
home side dominated the second, putting west under almost constant
pressure for the whole time. West did though have a couple of chances
on the break to snatch a second and kill of their hosts but, couldn't
take them. It was in the main a fine backs to the wall effort to keep
out the home side, to eventually come home with a good win and all
three points, plus completing the double over their hosts. A result
which pushes them back up to fourth spot. Final score 1-0.
The second team faced last weeks opponents Monton Amateurs
on home soil, hoping to improve on the thrashing they received last
week. To some extent they did just that, improving on the performance
but still went down 4-2 against a very good side. The third
team slipped to what could now be classed as a, surprise defeat, against
lowly Bury Amateurs when the went down 3-1 at
home, they also lost top spot in the division. |
| 1/12/08 |
| The first
team hosted one of the divisions tougher tackling ' Old Wimbledon'
style teams in Saturday in Standians, so a bruising encounter
was expected and, duly delivered. West had the better of the early
exchanges and went ahead through Cook. West, who never really
coped with the visitors long ball tactics all afternoon soon found
themselves back on level terms. West worked their way back on top
and, got their reward when Walker restored the lead before
half time. Any thoughts that Stand were going to play dead were dispelled
as they gave west at battering, almost laying siege to the home teams
final third of the pitch for the first twenty five minutes of the
second period. This concerted effort saw them breech wests defence
on two occasions to give themselves a 3-2 advantage. West once again
managed to claw their way back into contention and get some attacking
play of their own going, they finally managed to break through the
visitors heavy rearguard with a fine move, finished off by under the
weather sub and, leading scorer Phoenix to make it 3-3.
A draw, wests first of the season seemed a little disappointing as
they had won a close encounter away but, it could have been worse,
final score 3-3. The second team had no game, theirs
falling victim to the weather. The third team were hoping to
get back on track after a defeat last week but, once more conceded
three goals, one in the final minute to deny them a point at home
to Wilmslow Albion to go down for the second week on the trot,
this time 3-2. |
| 8/12/08 |
| A short trip to local rivals and, promotion contenders was the order
of the day for wests first team when they took on Old Alts.
Just as on their last visit west were undo by a controversial penalty
which gave the home team a share of the points. West for the most
part contained their promotion rivals and, were always dangerous on
the break. A header won in midfield saw them break and a ball to Lilley
saw him return to the scoresheet as he put west ahead at the break.
The game continued in the same vein after the break with west containing
al that Alts could throw at them and, looked as though they would
take all the points. That is until a free kick awarded, was driven
into the defensive wall and, the referee then giving a highly controversial
penalty. Alts readily accepted the gift and took a point from the
game. The decision must have played on the refs mind as he was to
put it kindly, unsure he had made the correct decision after the game.
Final score 1-1. The seconds returning to action went
down at home to Springhead 2-0, a result which leaves them
firmly rooted to the bottom. The third team have gone of the
boil lately and, suffered their third defeat on the run, this time
heavily, going down 6-2 at Salford Victoria. |
| 15/12/08 |
| The weather wreaked havoc with this weekends fixtures, with all
the teams games eventually falling to the bad conditions. However,
the games that did go ahead in the respective divisions, didn't effect
the positions of wests teams in those divisions. The first and thirds
still held on to their respective third spots. keeping them both still
in the promotion frame. |
| 22/12/08 |
| West first team returned to action with an away trip
to Heywood St James, hoping to get back to winning ways and,
complete another double for the season. However, things are never
so simple in football. West looked as though they were in early Christmas
spirit mode, as the started off as this game the same way they finished
the last one, by giving away a penalty. Heywood gratefully grasped
their present to go 1-0 ahead. West slowly worked their way back into
the game and, deservedly equalised, once again from the boot of leading
scorer Phoenix. West continued to have the better of the game
in the second half but, were unable to make a further dent in the
home teams rearguard. Just when it looked as though they were in for
a third draw in succession, up popped fullback Masterman to
put a Christmas smile on wests faces as he scored a last gasp winner
to give them all three points, and leave them sitting high in the
league over the festive season. Final score 2-1. The second
team were once again without a game. The third team were up
against runaway divisional leaders Dukenfield Town at home.
Unfortunately for them they faced them at a time when, after an promising
start they seemed to have hit a brick wall, with results slowly deteriorating
week by week. This week was to be no different and, they suffered
their heaviest defeat of the season going down heavily 8-2. |
| 29/12/08 |
| West first team visited Stand Athletic,
who are close on their heels in the promotion race, with games in
hand and, had a win at Brookburn Rd to their name. So a win was vital
to keep wests up in contention and gain some satisfaction for their
home defeat. All this they eventually achieved in a bruising encounter
on a semi frozen, rutted pitch. West started the better and were in
control but, fell behind when the hosts caught them out on the break.
West regrouped and, were back in the game when a smart piece of inter
play between Cook and Summers ended with Cook deservedly levelling
for wests. Unfortunately another lapse from wests saw stand retake
the lead for the second time, once again west began to dominate and,
it was no surprise when wests second highest scorer, Pennels had
them back on level terms. As the second half wore on west looked the
more likely winners and, after Lilley had converted a penalty
to give them a 3-2 lead it looked to be their day. Stand though had
other ideas and once again refused to lie down as they put themselves
back in the game with a third, equalising goal. West still had thoughts
of a festive win double though, forcing their opponents on to the
back foot as they pressed for a winner. Stand eventually began to
tire and west through Pearce, took the lead once again. With
the hosts now looking a little rattled west finally put the game to
bed when they forced the home team to put one past their own keeper,
to leave the final score 5-3 to wests and, a well earned win
to make it a six point Christmas bonus. The seconds returned
to action at home to Gregorians but, as in their last outing
were on the wrong end of a three goal game, going down 2-1.
The thirds had the weekend off..
|
| 5/1/09 |
| Wests first team were the only side to get any
action at the weekend due to the icy weather conditions. They made
the trip to Manchester juniors and, started the game which they dominated
for most of the first half which was played. They created but, didn't
take a number of good chances, the home side though were dangerous
on the break and from set pieces. Just as well that west didn't put
away their chances as the ref called off the game before the start
of the second half, which is always something you don't want to happen
if you are leading. Still it allowed the players to shake off some
of the festive cheer before they take on league leaders Dukenfield
next week.
|
| 12/1/09 |
| Unfortunately the weather played its hand this weekend, with all
wests teams falling foul of the icy conditions, giving all wests players
a weekend free. One game in the first teams division did take
place though, leaders Dukenfield were at second placed Beechfield,
a contender of wests for a promotion spot. The match finished all
square at 1-1 leaving wests still in third spot, three points behind
Beechfield but, with two games in hand. The teams just below though
are still very much in contention at this stage of the season.
|
| 19/1/09 |
| Wests teams all returned to action this weekend, the
firsts were at home to another of the promotion hopefuls, as they
entertained Wythenshawe Town. After the enforced absence from
action west were a little 'ring rusty' and, of the pace against opponents
who were sharper in the early stages of the game. With west struggling
get get any sort of cohesion going, wythenshawe took full advantage
of this to build up a potential match winning margin lead of 2-0.
West though began to gain a toehold into the game as it wore on and
were back in contention when Pennels headed home, his tenth
goal of the season, to reduce the deficit to 2-1. West continued to
battle it out trying to get something from a match that at one stage
looked lost. The reward for their efforts came when a penalty awarded,
was once again coolly put away by Lilley, to finish off the
scoring. West may consider it two points dropped but, against one
of the better sides in the division coming from two down it was eventually
a good point gained. Final score 2-2. The second teams
return to action didn't bring any better fortune as they were defeated
heavily at Wythenshawe Amateurs 7-2 . The third team
were up against Pennington at home and managed to stop their
poor run of form when they gain a creditable 2-2 draw.
|
| 26/1/09 |
| The west first team were the only side in action this weekend,
when they finally got to face and, finish the much postponed fixture
against Manchester Juniors. This week the game took place on
home soil as juniors made the short trip across town. As in the first
abandoned game away from home, wests were the better team all round
and were soon in control. The game was similar to the abandoned game
in that west didn't kill off the visitors earlier than they eventually
did. Without their leading scorer it was Pennels who put west
in front as he notched a goal for the third game running, to give
west a deserved lead. Stevens netting for the first time this
season finally made the game safe for wests as they harvested another
three points in the chase for promotion. The promotion race though
is going to be close and, could go to the wire. Final score 2-0.
|
| 2/2/09 |
| With the first team having no game, it was a
question of wait and see what happens to the teams around them in
their games over the weekend. The results turned out to be a mixed
bag, with wests slipping just one spot to fourth but, still very much
in contention for promotion. The seconds were back, in cup
action at home to a very good Monton Amateurs and, put in a
much improved performance. Unfortunately they fell just short as their
opponents went through to the next round, winning by the odd goal
in three, 2-1. The third team also returned to league
action hoping to continue where they left off, gaining a much needed
draw. They found their opponents, table topping Dukenfield Town
though, a little to good on their own patch, sliding to a heavy 6-0
defeat.
|
| 9/2/09
|
| The first team were in quarter final cup action this
Saturday away at promotion contenders Wythenshawe Town.
Town paraded a team that was in the main full of much bigger physical
units and, used it to their advantage early in the first half. West
began to get a grip on the game and only a fingertip save onto the
bar prevented the hosts from going behind, unfortunately for wests
they were on the wrong end of a debatable goal from a corner, when
a push went unpunished as the home team went 1-0 up. West pushed hard
late on in the half and were awarded a penalty for their efforts.
This time though the usually reliable Lilley saw the keeper save his
effort, leaving west being a little unlucky to go in behind. West
were clearly the better side in the second half as the opened up the
home defence on a number of occasions but, without being able to finish
off the moves. Mid way through the half a mazy run through the home
defence looked as though it would bring a much deserved equaliser,
only for a desperate late lung deflecting the goalbound effort for
a corner. When a penalty was given to the home team ten minutes from
time, it looked as though it could be all over for wests, but, Simpson
produced the second penalty save of the game to keep them alive. After
slicing open the home defence once again, it brought a late tackle
to give west a second penalty and, third one of the game. Once again
though the keeper came out on top as he read Cooks intentions to stop
west from getting a deserved equaliser. This gave the home team a
big lift and they kept west pinned in their own half for much of the
last few minutes. Although going out west did not in any way let themselves
down and, put in a stirling effort in defence of the trophy they won
last season. Final score 1-0. There was finally better news
for the second team, as they were able to enjoy their weekend
when they defeated visitors Pretwich Heys 3-1, with goals from
Crimes 2,and Garcia getting on the scoresheet. The third
team were without a game..
|
| 16/2/09 |
| Wests first team returned to action in the league
this week, hoping not to suffer any adverse reaction to last weeks
cup setback. They were though on their travels, as they faced a tough
encounter against a club trying to avoid relegation in Wilmslow
Albion. In a hard fought match over the ninety minutes, against
a team determined to take something from the game, saw wests hard
pressed to take the points they would need to keep them on promotion
track. Digging deep, on a difficult pitch, they eventually managed
to overcome their spirited opponents, as they finally wrapped up all
three points gratefully by a 2-1 scoreline; with strikes from
Phoenix and Lilley. Although not their best performance,
the three points gained moved wests back up a spot into third in the
increasingly competitive promotion race. The second team at
home to fellow strugglers, Walshaw, could not capitalise on
last weeks fine showing, as they slipped to a 3-1 reverse.
The third team were once again inactive.
|
| 23/2/09 |
| All three of our teams were unfortunately without games
this weekend. The second were scheduled for a break but, the
third and first team games both fell to late posponements.
With all the clubs around the firsts in their division in action,
it was wait and see time to work out if they were to slip down the
table. When all results were known, a mixed bag as far as wests were
concerned, they had dropped just one spot down the table to fourth.
With games against top and bottom placed teams to come, promotion
is still very much in their own hands. A good finish to the season
could still see them promoted.
|
| 2/3/09 |
| After last weeks enforced absence the first team
were back on their promotion quest, at home to fellow hopefuls, Monton
Amateurs. The visitors to Brookburn Rd were just behind wests
in the chase for promotion but, crucially, have games in hand. A win
for wests would give them some much needed breathing space over their
rivals, as well as putting a dent in their chances. A tough physical
encounter was expected, but, maybe not as much as was dished out by
their visitors. West though were by far the better footballing side
and, on numerous occasions opened up the monton defence, but were
unable to find a finish. Monton for their part continued to hand out
some bruising stuff, with west suffering damage to players from feet
to noses, one, Summers has a suspected broken 'bugle' to show for
his afternoons work. Eventually wests class began to tell and, after
spurning a few more chances, once again, fullback Masterman
popped up to notch only his second goal of the season, to give the
home side a very hard earned victory. The three points gained moved
wests up one notch back into third spot and, made it that much harder
for their visitors. Final Score 1-0. The seconds were
also back, on their travels to , unfortunately they had no joy, going
down in a tight match by the odd goal in three, 2-1. The thirds
once again had the day off.
|
| 9/3/09 |
| The first team were keen to get under way this
week; in all probability they would have expected to continue on from
last weeks good showing, by taking all three points from their home
clash with visitors Wilmslow Albion. Having defeated them a
couple of weeks ago on their own, difficult patch, the better conditions
of Brookburn would suit wests far better. This proved to be the case
as the home side in their drive for promotion, dominated the game
from start to finish, and in doing so, hoped to improve their goal
difference, which could be crucial at the seasons end. Though West
pegged back their opponents for long periods in each half, in the
end for all their superior possession, Albion did manage to find the
back of wests net on one occasion, the home team for their part, having
to settle for four of their own. Lilley opened the scoring
with a free kick from the edge of the box, Phoenix notched
a double, with Walker rounding off the scoring when he cooly
slotted home the fourth, in what turned out to be a comfortable win
in the end. With results going for most of the teams around Wests
in the promotion chase, they still maintained their third spot. Final
score 4-1. The second team have improved of late, but,
still seem to get edged out by the odd goal. This was the case this
week as they again slipped up by the odd goal in three, going down
2-1 away at Stockport Georgians. The third team
returned to action with a very useful away point at Fives Athletic
in a 3-3 draw, which keeps them comfortably in a mid table
spot.
|
| 16/3/09 |
|
The first team were back on the cup trail this week, having
been given a second chance to defend the trophy they won last year.
Their QF opponents having been stripped of their win for, shall
we say ' irregularities'. West, now facing Stand Athletic
in the semi final, were determined to make the most of their reprieve.
Games against this uncompromising, tough tackling side have been
hard fought, close encounters this season, but, with wests having
the upper hand so far. They expected no less this time, but, set
out their stall to nullify their opponents long ball style, and,
to capitalise on their pace on the break. West tighter format frustrated
stand all afternoon, leaving the outcome of the match to more than
likely rest on who might snatch a single goal. With west defence
keeping a tight rein on most attacks, and the midfield more than
matching them in mddle of the park. It was wests who eventually
broke the deadlock, when Pennels forced the ball home from
a cross by Lilley, to take the tie deservedly, 1-0 and, for the
second year move into the final. Final Score 1-0. The second
team fell once again, at home to the old 1-2, this time in
a basement battle against fellow strugglers, Bury Amateurs.
They just don't seem to be able to snatch anything for their efforts,
from some very tight game just lately. The thirds had no
game. |
| 23/3/09 |
| As the season reaches its latter stages, with wests first team
having just six games left, every one is now vital as they chase maximum
points from them. So an away trip to relegation battlers Manchester
juniors looked to be a tricky hurdle to overcome. West however,
proved to be more than a match for the occasion, putting in a competent
performance all round as they controlled the game, even though they
were behind at the break. Throughout the second half west pressed
and, drew level with a Summers pen. A double strike from Walker
and the game was over, with west meriting more than the 3-1
victory they eventually came away with, as they claimed three more
vital promotion points. The win also moved them up a spot to second,
most of the chasing teams also had a good day, so goal difference
looks as though it could play a part as the season reaches its climax.
The second team continue to be out of luck and the points as
they slid to a 3-0 away defeat at the hands of Springhead.
The thirds were once again out of action.
|
| 30/3/09 |
| Cup Final Report 2/4/09 |
|
.Wests were defending the trophy they won last year when they faced
close rivals Old Altrinchams at Trafford FC. Games this year
have been close and, this final was to be no different. West had
the better of the opening exchanges as Phoenix forced a good save
from the Alts keeper. Wests keeper had to be on his toes to block
a shot at the second attempt in his box as Alts tried to get into
the game. Both sides had chances from low crosses across the box
but were unable to convert, and, Simpson in Wests goal made another
smart save from a break. West again broke down the right and, from
another low cross goal no one could get a touch in front of the
empty net. Both sides had good efforts from fee kicks, Lilly was
just over for West, before Phoenix bore down on goal but, was unable
to put the finishing touch to the move. The sides went in level
at the break. For the first half of the second period it was Alts
who were in the ascendancy as they forced West onto the back foot,
conceding a number of free kicks and corners. Simpson produced a
good save to deny Alts, before Pheonix had a header just over for
Wests. Alts pressing hard forced another and, with Churchman, Wests
towering centre back off the field receiving treatment, they conceded
in unfortunate circumstances. Simpson who had a fine game, could
only punch the corner onto the shoulder of Stevens and, the ball
spun down and over the line to put Alts 1-0 up on nineteen minutes.
Iredale limped off to be replaced by Rowell as West tried to get
back into the game, the play became more even but, a break from
Alts saw Simpson deflect a shot wide. Churchman, after another knock
also left the field, replaced by Masterman, Farren also came on
for Walker, as Wests pushed forward for an equaliser. Unfortunately
they had little luck in front of goal as Lilley and Pheonix both
had shots blocked. In the final minutes Alts pulled everybody back
and, try as they might West just couldn't find a way through as
they finally went down to that solitary own goal. West will need
to regroup now for a final promotion push in the coming weeks. |
| 6/4/09 |
| West firsts were soon back in action, trying
to put the disappointment of their cup loss behind them. The opposition
were Bury Amateurs, another team snapping at the heels of wests
in the promotion scramble and, with games in hand,.on their own patch.
Unfortunately for wests the home side had little sympathy for them
and, for the second time in a few days they were to taste defeat,
Looking a little jaded wests gave it a good shot to try and lift their
spirits but, didn't look to have enough left in the tank to take home
all three points. Phoenix, wests leading scorer did manage
to find the back of the net, but, it wasn't enough to cancel out the
home sides double, as they took the game 2-1 and, the promotion
points on offer. West are still in second spot, however, with the
other teams around them winning, it now looks touch and go for promotion.
The second team went down to a heavy defeat 4-0 at home
to Gregorians as they struggle to the seasons end. The third
teams season, which started with some promise is also petering
out to a disappointing end. They also went down at Wilmslow Albion
3-0. |
| 14/4/09 |
| It couldn't come any tougher for Wests first team
in their final league game of the season, as they faced vistors to
Brookburn Rd in the form of champions elect Dukenfield Town.
With Wests needing all the points for promotion and, Town needing
something from the game to secure the championship, a nervous encounter
looked to be on the cards. Early exchanges were sporadic from both
sides as they looked to settle into a rythm and gain the upper hand,
as the half wore on Town probably had the slight adavantage though
neither side looked entirely comfortable. West finally broke the deadlock
as Pennels put the finishing touches to a move to put wests
1-0 ahead. Town also began to play a little better and, were back
to all square at 1-1. West again pressed the visitors back and, regained
the lead when Phoenix about to score was fouled. From the resulting
penalty, Lilley put them back in front at 2-1. Town redoubled
their efforts and forced Wests onto the back foot to gain a second
equaliser for 2-2. West created and, unfortiunately, missed a couple
of good chances as they sought out the third goal to try to take all
the points. This was to cost them dear as Town snatched a goal to
put themselves ahead in the game at 3-2. Try as the did West
couldn't find a third to at least give them a deserved share of the
spoils. So on a day when the visitors clinched the title, West must
now wait and see if they have done enough to sneak a promotion place.
The misery continues for the second team as they lost out at
East Manchester 4-1, they still have a few games left though
to try and end the season on a better note, The thirds were
out of action, they have one game left. |
|
20/4/09
|
| With the first team now having to sit and wait for the seasons end
to see if the are to be promoted, the spotlight falls on the second
teams fight to avoid relegation from their division. Away to mid
table AVRO this week, they at least gave themselves some hope
with a long awaited win. Although they didn't stop their defencive
failings of late, they conceded four, this was cancelled out by a
super day at the other end as they put six past their bemused hosts
defence, to end the day with all three precious points in a superb
6-4 win. The third team still wait to play their final
game but, will look to finish with a win to end up in mid table. |
|
27/4/09
|
| Wests second team continued their relegation dogfight with
a home game against fellow strugglers Hindsford, so a chance
was there to continue where they left off last week and, to grab three
more vital points. This they did, although as an attacking force it
was a little more muted this week, however, they managed to bag three
which, along with an improved defensive display, only one conceded
for a 3-1 win, meaning they still have a chance of avoiding
the relselection process. The third team slide slowly down
the table while they wait to play their final game. |
|
5/5/09
|
| Wests second team continued their bid to remain in the division
when they recorded a third succesive win. They were away at mid table
Rochdale SC and, were made to fight all the way by the home
side in a contest that could have gone either way. West though needed
no less than all three points and, were finally rewarded for their
efforts when at the final whistle they had secured a fine 3-2 win.
Only a win in their last game though will give them any chance of
staying up. The third teams last game will be on Saturday. |
|
11/5/09
|
| If Wests second team wanted to have any chance of avoiding
reselection this season, then their final game of the campaign was
a must win affair. Once again though, it was to be a game played away
from home as they made the trip to Walshaw Sports. With a good
few weeks behind them they at least travelled in expectation of getting
a result, this proved to be the case as they returned with all three
points after a 3-1 win. Leading scorer and, player of the season
for the team, John Chrimes finished the game off with a brace.
They must now wait for the final game to be played to see if they
have done enough. Good finish to the season boys. |
| At the season end and, with all the final results in, west first
team had finally finished in fifth spot on goal difference. Missing
out on promotion by a few points, coupled with a cup final appearance
it was still a good season overall. The second team, thanks to a late
rally did manage to avoid the wooden spoon but, due to the re-election
process, must now wait and see if the will still remain in the same
division for next season. The third team finished comfortably above
the bottom of their division. |
| Leading Scorers |
| Cup Final Report 27/5/08 |
| West Didsbury + Chorlton celebrated their 100th year
in style on Friday night in the divisional Murray Shield cup final
by beating their final league game opponents Monton amateurs.
In the two league games so far their has been little to choose between
the sides, with Monton probably just having the edge. West though
set about their task to redress that situation in a blistering opening
twenty minutes. Only the Monton keeper with some excellent saves,
one a double save, from Ashcroft & Lilley preventing them going further
behind than from Ashcrofts deft lob from the edge of the area
on eight minutes, putting Wests in front. Monton though began to get
a foothold in the game later in the half and once again were more
threatening on set pieces than open play, but, some good positional
sense & handling from Berry in goal and, better marking from Wests
defenders kept their sheet clean. Monton began better in the second
period and almost equalised inside the first few moments, West were
now coming under more pressure, and, were trying to make a change
to ease the situation, only for the ball to remain in play for almost
four minutes. When the ball did go out it was to signal the equaliser
for Monton just before an hours play, keeper Berry made two great
stops but unfortunately for him the ball twice rebounded to Monton
players and at the third attempt they took the chance to draw level.
Shrewd tactical changes by the Hines/Cook management duo saw Scarry
impress on the right side of midfield with Matt Zajac switching to
the left, With the changes made Monton were pushed further and further
back and West began to dominate possession, now playing the ball quickly
into the spaces they started to expose Montons lack of pace at the
back. Within five minutes West had regained the lead, as West defenders
broke up an attack the ball was played into midfield and, a first
time pass between the centre backs found MoM Ashcroft sprinting
clear to drive the ball low past the advancing keepers right hand
to put West back in front. West were now pushing back the Monton fullbacks
and, their attacks were becoming more sporadic relying on the long
ball to their over physical forwards, that were being more than matched
by West back four, with Grimshaw and Wagstff coping with a now almost
manic centre forward. With ten minutes remaining West produced the
best move of the game moving the ball quickly down the right with
the ball being cut back perfectly to the oncoming Farren to put the
finishing touch to what looked like a third goal. While West were
celebrating a linesman had flagged, for some unknown reason, offside,
and, Monton had taken a quick free kick to break onto a now sparse
West defence with them now having a numerical advantage Monton looked
as though the would snatch a equaliser, but, fortunately a poor pass
allowed West to re-form and regain control. A third goal wasn't long
coming though as West this time broke down the left a ball played
into the middle saw Farrens shot come back off the foot of a post,
only for Fran Zajac to coolly step past a defender and slide
the ball into the net to put West 3-1 ahead in the 85th minute, to
secure Wests first, first team win in a cup final for thirty years
and, send the centurions and their supporters wild and also seal a
great all round team performance from player manager Danny Iredale
and his team. Other notable West performances were from Paul Rowell,
Alex Wagstaff who played through the pain barrier for 90 minutes and
was immense, with the midfield duo of Gary Lilley and Stuart Kelly
as tireless as ever. A great performance from all the players, well
done boys. Final Score 3-1. Team 4-4-2. Berry, Iredale, Grimshaw,
Wagstaff. Rowell. M.Zajac, Kelly, Lilley, Nadin. Ashcroft, Farren
c. Subs. F.Zajac, Crimes, Skarrey, Luckin. Amongst the West Committee
and supporters the victory brought back memories for Chairman Brian
Cripps, veteran of the last occasion West played and defeated Monton
in a cup final in 1970 when both clubs were in the Lancs and Cheshire
League and manager of the last 1st team cup winning side in 1978.
.
|
| 1st Leading scorers: |
May 18, 2009
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