Quotes from the Weekend: Matchweek 3
Tue 13th August 2024 | Manager Reactions | By Jay Cooper
With the majority of NWCFL teams in action across the weekend, there was plenty of scope to speak to club managers for their opinions on what their teams produced in their 90 minutes.
Premier Division:
Lee Ashcroft, of Longridge Town (FC Isle of Man 0-1 Longridge Town)
“It was a very, very long day, with a 4am start for our lads. So the overwhelming feeling really was one of pride. Having gone down to ten men, and with 7 added minutes (at the end), it felt like the world was against us, so to defend as we did was unbelievable.
“It's a great set up over there and they're a very strong, physical side who'll win more than they lose at home. For us to get the 3 points, and deservedly so, made all the hard work, and the journey, worthwhile."
Steve Wilkes, of Ramsbottom United (FC St Helens 0-3 Ramsbottom United)
“I’m really pleased with the performance, especially with us missing a couple of experienced players. I thought from the off we looked on the front foot and dangerous. We scored three very good goals and probably should have had more, but I'm happy with the three that we got.
“A special mention must go to Harvey Hayhurst, who was involved in a nasty car crash on the way to the game. We asked him when he arrived if he wanted to play - he said “yes, 100%” and went on to produce two brilliant assists for two of the goals.”
Martin Ryman, of South Liverpool (Glossop North End 1-2 South Liverpool)
“We've had two great wins in the last few days. To get through in the FA Cup replay on Wednesday was fantastic for the club. We’ve set up a home tie with Witton Albion. We played really well on the night and thoroughly deserved the win. We made a few changes from the initial game on the Saturday, and it was good to see them all have a major impact – especially with all three being new to the club this season as well.
“To pick up our first league win this season at Glossop was vital. Although we've started OK, with two decent draws, you need to get that first victory as soon as you can. I thought we started really well and scored a really good goal, but whilst you’re on top it’s always great to get a second, which we didn’t do.
“I was disappointed in the timing of the goal we conceded - straight after ours. It seemed to knock us back a bit and we lost our way, but I thought we came out at the start of the second half and took control again. We got a penalty to put us back in front and the rest of the game I thought was pretty even. Still, absolutely delighted to get our first league win of the season!
“This year is all about finding our feet and trying to be as competitive as we can. We have a busy week in front of us – we’ll train Monday in preparation for Prestwich Heys at home on Wednesday, and then Witton next Saturday.”
First Division North:
Lee Hill, of Daisy Hill (Thornton Cleveleys 1-3 Daisy Hill)
“It was a good contest in the first half with both sides creating some good chances, with Thornton making one of theirs count. We were always in the game, and I knew we would be able to get something from it as we have too good of a side not to. Just before half time, a sending off for Thornton changed the game. We made 3 changes at half time and went for it, scored two in the first 10 minutes and managed the game well from there on in. We created plenty of chances and were unfortunate not to have finished with a few more – a well-spirited Thornton side were digging in.
“Two good things from my perspective - we were 1-0 up against Maine Road and went down to 10 men a few weeks ago and managed to defend and hold on for the win. So, to be able to break a team down in the same situation is good. Also, we gave up a half time lead to Nelson last week so to come from behind and win this week again seems a bit more satisfying and shows the character of this group of players.”
Matty Atherton, of Euxton Villa (Euxton Villa 1-0 Atherton LR)
“It was a great win for us yesterday for many reasons. Firstly, Atherton LR came into the game unbeaten and having finished 2nd last season, they’re the team to beat this time round. I fully expect to see them contend for the title again.
“Secondly, last season we struggled against Atherton LR, particularly in the home game where we lost 4-0. When we went down to 10 men there was a nagging similarity of the away fixture we played when we conceded in the last minute of the game. So, to see that through was really pleasing as it took a lot of grit and resilience in that last 20 minutes.
“And finally, the win meant that we stay in the mix in the league after a difficult start to the campaign. Hopefully this provides a tangible platform for us to build on for the rest of August.”
First Division South:
Luke Goddard, of Alsager Town (Alsager Town 3-2 Stafford Town)
“By far our toughest game so far against a highly talented Stafford side who will be right amongst the promotion contenders come April. We are hugely disappointed with many aspects of our own performance as we demand high standards as a group, but credit to the lads for still finding a way to win.
“We know we won't win every game, but we have no expectations or pressure. The group are just enjoying laying the early foundations to the project we are building, trying to change the fortunes of recent years for Alsager. This week we will look to improve further to ensure we finish the month off strongly."
Andy Cass, of Cammell Laird 1907 (Shawbury United 0-3 Cammell Laird 1907)
“We’re really pleased to put another 3 points on the board on Saturday, another 3 on the road which is never easy at this level. We really weren’t at our best - missing key personnel never helps - but the lads that did play got the job done.
“That has been season so far to be quite honest - not at our very best but getting results, which was a problem last season. But we’re 13/15 points and certainly won’t be complaining. It’s a good start but plenty still to improve on. We have players returning from injury/holidays and they’ll be needed with tougher tests to come.”
Dean Jones, of Winsford United (Winsford United 3-0 Sandbach United)
“We went into the game against Sandbach full of confidence with our recent form, knowing they are one of the favourites for the title this season - our biggest test to date by far. The first half was scrappy, the wind played a big part as we were playing straight into it, and we were far from our best. We were happy enough to keep the clean sheet and go into half time at 0-0.
“Second half, the lads came out with a real intent to go and win the game, and we had a great chance 60 seconds from the restart. We didn’t look back from there and scored a well worked first goal. The confidence then began to flow, and we were ruthless, going on to win the game 3-0 with some excellent play. Overall, it’s a good start for the group and gives us a solid platform to keep progressing. The fans have been brilliant and the numbers speak for themselves - the club is moving forward, no doubt.”
Quotes from the Weekend: Matchweek 3
Tue 13th August 2024 | Manager Reactions
By Jay Cooper
With the majority of NWCFL teams in action across the weekend, there was plenty of scope to speak to club managers for their opinions on what their teams produced in their 90 minutes.
Premier Division:
Lee Ashcroft, of Longridge Town (FC Isle of Man 0-1 Longridge Town)
“It was a very, very long day, with a 4am start for our lads. So the overwhelming feeling really was one of pride. Having gone down to ten men, and with 7 added minutes (at the end), it felt like the world was against us, so to defend as we did was unbelievable.
“It's a great set up over there and they're a very strong, physical side who'll win more than they lose at home. For us to get the 3 points, and deservedly so, made all the hard work, and the journey, worthwhile."
Steve Wilkes, of Ramsbottom United (FC St Helens 0-3 Ramsbottom United)
“I’m really pleased with the performance, especially with us missing a couple of experienced players. I thought from the off we looked on the front foot and dangerous. We scored three very good goals and probably should have had more, but I'm happy with the three that we got.
“A special mention must go to Harvey Hayhurst, who was involved in a nasty car crash on the way to the game. We asked him when he arrived if he wanted to play - he said “yes, 100%” and went on to produce two brilliant assists for two of the goals.”
Martin Ryman, of South Liverpool (Glossop North End 1-2 South Liverpool)
“We've had two great wins in the last few days. To get through in the FA Cup replay on Wednesday was fantastic for the club. We’ve set up a home tie with Witton Albion. We played really well on the night and thoroughly deserved the win. We made a few changes from the initial game on the Saturday, and it was good to see them all have a major impact – especially with all three being new to the club this season as well.
“To pick up our first league win this season at Glossop was vital. Although we've started OK, with two decent draws, you need to get that first victory as soon as you can. I thought we started really well and scored a really good goal, but whilst you’re on top it’s always great to get a second, which we didn’t do.
“I was disappointed in the timing of the goal we conceded - straight after ours. It seemed to knock us back a bit and we lost our way, but I thought we came out at the start of the second half and took control again. We got a penalty to put us back in front and the rest of the game I thought was pretty even. Still, absolutely delighted to get our first league win of the season!
“This year is all about finding our feet and trying to be as competitive as we can. We have a busy week in front of us – we’ll train Monday in preparation for Prestwich Heys at home on Wednesday, and then Witton next Saturday.”
First Division North:
Lee Hill, of Daisy Hill (Thornton Cleveleys 1-3 Daisy Hill)
“It was a good contest in the first half with both sides creating some good chances, with Thornton making one of theirs count. We were always in the game, and I knew we would be able to get something from it as we have too good of a side not to. Just before half time, a sending off for Thornton changed the game. We made 3 changes at half time and went for it, scored two in the first 10 minutes and managed the game well from there on in. We created plenty of chances and were unfortunate not to have finished with a few more – a well-spirited Thornton side were digging in.
“Two good things from my perspective - we were 1-0 up against Maine Road and went down to 10 men a few weeks ago and managed to defend and hold on for the win. So, to be able to break a team down in the same situation is good. Also, we gave up a half time lead to Nelson last week so to come from behind and win this week again seems a bit more satisfying and shows the character of this group of players.”
Matty Atherton, of Euxton Villa (Euxton Villa 1-0 Atherton LR)
“It was a great win for us yesterday for many reasons. Firstly, Atherton LR came into the game unbeaten and having finished 2nd last season, they’re the team to beat this time round. I fully expect to see them contend for the title again.
“Secondly, last season we struggled against Atherton LR, particularly in the home game where we lost 4-0. When we went down to 10 men there was a nagging similarity of the away fixture we played when we conceded in the last minute of the game. So, to see that through was really pleasing as it took a lot of grit and resilience in that last 20 minutes.
“And finally, the win meant that we stay in the mix in the league after a difficult start to the campaign. Hopefully this provides a tangible platform for us to build on for the rest of August.”
First Division South:
Luke Goddard, of Alsager Town (Alsager Town 3-2 Stafford Town)
“By far our toughest game so far against a highly talented Stafford side who will be right amongst the promotion contenders come April. We are hugely disappointed with many aspects of our own performance as we demand high standards as a group, but credit to the lads for still finding a way to win.
“We know we won't win every game, but we have no expectations or pressure. The group are just enjoying laying the early foundations to the project we are building, trying to change the fortunes of recent years for Alsager. This week we will look to improve further to ensure we finish the month off strongly."
Andy Cass, of Cammell Laird 1907 (Shawbury United 0-3 Cammell Laird 1907)
“We’re really pleased to put another 3 points on the board on Saturday, another 3 on the road which is never easy at this level. We really weren’t at our best - missing key personnel never helps - but the lads that did play got the job done.
“That has been season so far to be quite honest - not at our very best but getting results, which was a problem last season. But we’re 13/15 points and certainly won’t be complaining. It’s a good start but plenty still to improve on. We have players returning from injury/holidays and they’ll be needed with tougher tests to come.”
Dean Jones, of Winsford United (Winsford United 3-0 Sandbach United)
“We went into the game against Sandbach full of confidence with our recent form, knowing they are one of the favourites for the title this season - our biggest test to date by far. The first half was scrappy, the wind played a big part as we were playing straight into it, and we were far from our best. We were happy enough to keep the clean sheet and go into half time at 0-0.
“Second half, the lads came out with a real intent to go and win the game, and we had a great chance 60 seconds from the restart. We didn’t look back from there and scored a well worked first goal. The confidence then began to flow, and we were ruthless, going on to win the game 3-0 with some excellent play. Overall, it’s a good start for the group and gives us a solid platform to keep progressing. The fans have been brilliant and the numbers speak for themselves - the club is moving forward, no doubt.”
