LANCASTER CITY FC Giant Axe, West Road, Lancaster LA1 5PE Telephone & Fax: 01524 382238 Email: [email protected] Website: www.lancastercityfc.com

Welcome . . . WWWWWWWWWWW WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW WWWWWWWELCOME Good afternoon and welcome to our Northern game against league leaders Town.

We would like to extend a warm welcome to their players, officials and supporters along with the match officials and hope they enjoy their visit.

It is the best part of a month since we shared the points with Morpeth in our last home game and a lot has happened since then. The disappointing FA Cup exit at Skelmersdale was followed by the frustration of our home game against Gainsborough having to be postponed the day before as a precaution following Covid concerns around the visitors.

The pandemic continues to have a big impact on our league at the moment with three clubs currently not being able to play for a short period of time. I am sure all other clubs send them their best wishes whilst hoping it is a situation they can avoid themselves.

However, the season has taken a turn for the better in the last week with our first win of the season coming in con- vincing fashion at Grantham last Saturday which was then followed up by a hard earned point at FC United in mid- week.

Warrington have made another excellent start to the season and arrive at Giant Axe with a three point lead at the top of the table having won five and lost one of their seven games to date. Five of the games have been at home though and they did lose their last away trip at Mickleover so they will be looking to strengthen their position today.

They look to have a potent strike force with Josh Amis and Bohan Dixon being amongst the leading scorers in the league with four goals each.

The two sides meet again next Saturday when we travel to Cantilever Park in the 3rd Qualifying Round of the FA Trophy. Before that though, we finally get to play last season’s delayed Lancashire Cup final against Prestwich Heys at Leyland on Tuesday evening, kick off 7.30pm. The next home game is in a fortnight’s time when Nantwich Town visit Giant Axe.

Enjoy the game. Andrew Satterthwaite

Enjoy the game.

Andrew Satterthwaite

CITY CLUB DIRECTORY President Ian Sharp LIFE Vice President : Barry Neswham Chairman : Stuart Houghton General Manager : Graham Dockerty Non Executive Directors : Eric Williams (Supporters Club) : Keith Winder Club Secretary : Sarah Pearce Assistant Secretary : Mike Sparks Club Treasurer : Amy Evans Dolly Blue Lottery Co-ordinator : Pam Satterthwaite

COACHING STAFF First Team Manager : Mark Fell Assistant Manager : Graham Lancashire First Team Coach : Rob Henry Goalkeeping Coach : Mark Thornley Sport Therapist : Paul Winstanley Medical Consultant : David Rhodes Kit Manager : Michael McGahon Assistant Kit Manager : Stuart Wilson Assistant Kit Manager : Michael Wilson

OTHER PERSONNEL Club Solicitor : Peter Rutherford Club Chaplin : Fr Anthony Keefe Club Historian : David Cunliffe Commercial Manager: Alex Everett Club Webmaster : Eric Williams / Graham Dockerty LCFC Media : Alex Everett Club Safety Officer : Rob Hill Covid 19 Officer : Graham Dockerty Welfare Officers : Jan Walsh / Peter Davies Groundsman : Aran Rigg GroundStaff : David Hughes / Peter Benson / David Cunliffe / Moreen Cunliffe/ Rob Hill / Billy Heron / Tony Moorby / Steve Wright / Pam Satterthwaite

PROGRAMME TEAM Editors : Andrew Satterthwaite / Barry Newsham Contributors : Fr Anthony Keefe / Steve Wright / Keith Winder / Ian Wood Printing / Compiling : Andrew Satterthwaite / Graham Dockerty Public Address : Eric Williams Raffle / Golden Goal Sellers : Jan & Ron Walsh

SUPPORTERS CLUB General Secretary : Keith Winder Treasurer : Steve Wright

LANCASTER CITY FOOTBALL CLUB IS A TRADING NAME OF LANCASTER CITY FC LTD REG No 06010739 THERE ARE 8 SHAREHOLDERS ALL OWNING ABOVE 10% OF THE SHARE CAPITAL THESE ARE : D.NEEDHAM. I. SHARP. E.WILLIAMS. S.HOUGHTON. M.HOYLE. R.MUCKLE. G.DOCKERTY. AND T.CLARKSON. THERE ARE 10 FURTHER SHAREHOLDERS EACH HOLDING NO MORE THAN 1.3% OF THE SHARE CAPITAL REGISTERED OFFICE : THE CLOSE, QUEENS SQUARE, LANCASTER, ENGLAND, LA1 1RS ACCOUNTANTS : CWRCHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS, THE CLOSE, QUEENS SQUARE, LANCASTER, ENGLAND, LA1 1RS

Fell’s View . . . with City boss Mark Fell . . .

Mark Fell & Graham Lancashire

Mark Fell was understandably in buoyant mood following the results at Grantham and FC United which saw City pick up four points out of six.

“I thought Tuesday night was a good game actually,” said Fell. “It was a contrast in styles I suppose. I know we have taken a bit of stick from FC United. They have shown a little bit of a lack of class but they have done that be- fore. They don’t like it when someone comes and does a job on them. I was told that our style was rudimental, but our rudimental style created double the amount of chances that their side created so I will take it as a compliment. I thought we were very good value for 1-1, we had the best chance of the game in the 94th minute when Niall Cow- perthwaite has had two shots cleared off the line. These past couple of results are just what we have needed. In the second half last night I felt a little bit more reassured about our identity and what we are about. We were back to doing the things which served us well last season.”

“I thought we were absolutely brilliant at Grantham on Saturday. We were subjected to the most laughable sending- off after 20 minutes but I thought we were as good with 10 as we were with 11. Grantham are quite an expensively assembled side but we looked much more as unit, more cohesive.”

He was also positively looking forward to the clash with league leaders Warrington Town

“Warrington have started the season well, but they lost to Mickleover and drew with Nantwich thanks to a last mi- nute goal. There will be no fear from us. We know they are a team which we go in amongst and get a result. After the last two results, we go into the game with a bit of vigour and a bit confidence. I think if you look at this league and the way it’s gone over the first month of the season, it is absolutely anybody’s.”

“Teams are beating each other, there’s loads of draws – it’s a bit like the Championship. If we can go on a bit of run now of four or five wins, we will be right up there.”

Our Visitors ~ Warrington Town Introducing our Pitching In NPL Premier Division Opponents . . .

Formed in 1949 under the eye of their late president, Jimmy Drinkwater the club began life as Stockton Heath play- ing at a ground called London Road in Appleton. We competed in the Warrington and District league until 1953, when a move to the Mid League coincided with the appointment of Freddie Worrall as manager. During his thir- teen years at the helm, Heath were one of the most feared sides in Cheshire football, winning a string of honours in- cluding the Mid Cheshire League Championship in 1960, the three times, and making more ap- pearances (five) in the Cheshire Amateur Cup Final than any other club.

Several players from this successful period went on to join Football League clubs, including Ian Weir (Scotland & Hibernian), John Green (Tranmere Rovers), and Alan Foster (). The most famous son must, however, be Roger Hunt who went on to score many memorable goals for Liverpool and gained the ultimate honour of winning a World Cup Winners Medal with England in 1966.

At the 1961 AGM, it was decided to change the clubs name to Warrington Town, and in 1965, the club moved to their present home in Latchford. A neat, compact stadium with a capacity of around 3,500 the ground is on the banks of the Manchester Ship canal in the shadow of the imposing Cantilever Bridge which dominates the areas skyline, and from which the ground now takes its name.

The late sixties and early seventies were mostly spent in the doldrums, and the club continued without success until the formation of the North West Counties League in 1982 proved to be a springboard to start to move up the pyra- mid. Originally placed in the third division of the new league, Town immediately gained promotion as runners up, and quickly established themselves as one of the second divisions most powerful clubs, missing out on promotion by small margins on no fewer than three occasions.

1985-86 saw Town's first serious attempt at winning the F.A. Vase, but following a tremendous run, they bowed out to eventual winners Halesowen Town in an epic semi-final replay at Bucks Park, home of Telford United. Promotion to division one of the NWCL was achieved in 1986-87 and the club again excelled in the F.A Vase, making it all the way to Wembley sadly losing 3-2 to local rivals St Helens Town in the final.

Promotion to the was gained in 1989-90. The club had consistency in the new division with three 7th place and a 5th place finish, but relatively little success until 1992-93 when a fantastic FA Trophy run ended in the quarter finals at Sutton United, earning them a cool £5.000 for being the furthest non-exempt team left in the competition. On the away to Sutton, Town had beaten Conference side Merthyr Tydfil, which earned them a team of the round prize. In the , they were victorious at Town and Hyde United on way to a Semi Final Place, while in the League Cup, they went one further becoming the first ever Division One Side to reach the final, in front of a large crowd at . Town matched Premier League runners up Winsford United all the way but Winsford took the trophy home following a penalty shoot out. To cap the clubs most successful season ever, Neil Whalley equaled the NPL transfer fee record when he moved to third division side Preston North End for £25,000 and just a few weeks later shattered the fee record, also moving to Deepdale for a staggering £60.000. Town were named "Team Talk Magazine" team of the year 1992-93.

A high number of injuries together with problems behind the scenes and a disappointing lack of goals in 1993-94 hin- dered the team, although we did reach the semi final of the Cheshire Senior Cup, beating conference side Witton Albi- on on the way, and were in with a chance of promotion until the last few weeks of the season.

The 1994-95 season was another successful year for Town, who made it into the draw for the F.A. Cup First Round Proper for the first time ever, a last gasp equaliser at Hyde United forcing a replay. The winners of the tie would en- tertain Darlington but sadly Town failed to make the first round proper, as Hyde won the replay 2-0. Town also took Chorley to a replay in the league cup, having beaten Barrow along the away, but once their interest in that competi- tion was over the club were able to focus on their main aim of the season, namely promotion to the Premier Division. An amazing run saw them win eleven games of their last fifteen, but this was not quite good enough. Town finished in third place, missing out on promotion by just one point.

Major problems behind the scenes over the close season resulted in the management team and most of the players moving to Curzon Ashton, and a completely new-look Town side lined up to face Alfreton for the first game of the

.

Our Visitors ~ Warrington Town Introducing our Pitching In NPL Premier Division Opponents . . .

1995-96 season. Town lost 5-1, but new boss Tommy Lawson turned things around, and by Christmas, Town were once more than a match for anybody, finishing in mid table. The close season 1996 saw yet another change of management as Tommy left for pastures new to be replaced by Alan Lord. Unfortunately, the partnership split just before Christmas and Simon Rudge came back and brought Ray Birch as his assistant. The change came too late to save Town from relegation, but the run did show some promise.

Financial problems both on and off the pitch beset Town in 1996-97 and a new committee was formed under Chairman Harry Boden & Steve Jones. Relegation to the NWCFL Div 1 was followed by demotion on ground grading criteria to Division 2 and a rationalisation of the club’s finances coupled with the appointment of Dave Hughes as Football Manager & Ian Dick as his secretary saw Town's image improve dramatically. Sadly, though Ian had to return to Scotland for personal reasons, and Dave stepped down to assistant manager, with Alan Blair becoming manager.

The 99/00 season saw Town win the Second Division Trophy beating Tetley Walker 2-0 at Prescot Cables. In 2000/01 Warrington won the Second Division title to return to Division One of the North West Counties League. Town finished 16th in their second season back in Div 1 and Alan Blair stepped down, Glenn Walker & Derek Brownbill took over to see Town finish 5th in the league and gain promotion back into the UniBond Division One after the league restructuring process had taken place (Conference North was created).

For the first five seasons in the UniBond (Northern Premier) League Town found life fairly difficult finishing each season in the bottom half of the table, which included a couple of close scrapes avoiding relegation. The period was not entirely without success though as we won the NPL Fair Play Award, numerous programme awards, youth team championships and cup wins for the reserves. We also had a four-figure home attendance against Liv- erpool in the Senior Cup and reached the third qualifying round of the FA Cup. A number of managers came and went in this time, namely Glenn Walker in sole control, Ian Street and Paul Moore. When the North South split came for Division One Town spent one season in the south in 2007/2008 before moving to the north. In season 2008/09 ex Town favourite Joey Dunn took over as team manager and gradually things started to improve. 2009/10 saw Town record their highest finish in the NPL since the mid 1990’s when ninth place was secured. Off the field the club continued to prosper under the leadership of a new board of directors headed by Gary Skentel- bery and optimism was higher than for many years that better football times were not too far away as we sought further improve. The club had a positive air about it in all departments and optimism was high. 2010/11 showed that hope to have definite grounding as we spent most of the season on the fringe of a play-off position. However, a disappointing last few games saw us drop away and even lose sixth place which had been occupied for the last three months of the season, apart from the final game, finally finishing ninth once more. In the close sea- son superb new 3G five a side facilities were added in the open end behind the goal and the main pitch itself also had a make over as we sought to end the days of the Cantilever bobble once and for all.

The 20011/12 season saw us threaten to take a play off position up until mid March when we slipped off the pace in a matter of one week. This resulted in the management team of Joey Dunn and Stuart Humphreys being re- placed by Shaun Reid and former player Lee Smith. 2012/13 saw Shaun start to rebuild the squad and although success was hoped for it never really came to fruition and the season became a transitional one. A brief flirtation with a play off position did occur but with more games played than our rivals a mid table finish was the predicta- ble outcome.

2013/14 saw a marked improvement in league form. Despite losing the two opening games Town then went on a long unbeaten run. A top five place was reached by the fourth Saturday of the season and from thereon was never relinquished. A good number of weeks were spent on top of the table, but we eventually finished third, claiming a record number of wins (27) and points (87). Sadly, promotion was not to be after a 1-0 play-off semi final defeat at home to Bamber Bridge meant we would start 2014/2015 still in Evo-Stik Division One North. The 2014/15 season commenced with the adoption of a new club crest designed by Tom Greaves; it being chosen as a competi- tion winner to replace the long-standing old town coat of arms motif. Further improvement is now the target with a promotion place the ultimate aim. The club made huge steps forward in publicity terms in 2014 reaching the FA Cup First Round Proper for the first time in our history. We were rewarded with a home draw against Football City that was shown live on BBC2 across the nation. We served up a cracker of a match and one that epitomised everything we love about the FA Cup as Town amazingly defeated our Football League opponents 1-0, thanks to a Craig Robinson header after just seven minutes. What an amazing evening. We went on to play Our Visitors ~ Warrington Town Introducing our Pitching In NPL Premier Division Opponents ....

Gateshead in Round Two in what was our ninth match in the competition all told, this time live on BT Sports, but sadly the adventure ended there as we lost 2-0. Gateshead went on to play away to West Bromwich Albion. It had been a fantastic adventure that will live long in the memory. The cup success did have an effect on our league campaign as games in hand could not be turned into sufficient points and we finished the season in ninth. However, the season was nicely rounded off with a Doodson Sports Cup Final win over Farsley at Stockport County’s ground. Twenty years after our first final appearance in this competition also saw the game decided on penalties, but this time we won, the score being 3-2 after the game had ended 0-0 after ninety minutes. It was the club’s first silverware in fifteen years and the highest-ranking tournament we have ever won. Town started the 2015/16 slowly but it did not last long, and we led the table on a couple of occasions before returning there early in 2016 and opening a gap on our only challengers Northwich Victoria. However, on learning that his contract would not be renewed at the seasons end manager Shaun Reid decided to leave the club in February 2016. Assistants Stuart Mellish and Lee Smith took charge following Shaun’s departure. The good form was just as consistent, and Town opened up a substantial lead firstly on Northwich and latterly on Spennymoor Town. The lead would not be relinquished, and Town won the championship on 16th April with two games still to play following a 6-1 thrashing of Prescot Cables in front of 1411 spectators and which took us up to 100 league points, a club record. The final two games were also won to see us finish on 106 points and score in every league game through the season. We also registered the most wins and goals scored in a season. It was without doubt the finest moment in the club’s history to date.

Life in the Premier Division brought mixed fortunes and inconsistency led to the management duo of Stuart Mellish & Lee Smith leaving the club by mutual consent in mid-October. was appointed as manager at the end of October with former player as coach and Craig Robinson as assistant manager. The side settled down well after new year and a very consistent run saw us climb into a play off place. We were in with a chance right up until the final couple of games but finished on a run of draws to end in tenth position. The Reserves were promoted to the Cheshire League Premier Division and won the League 1 & 2 Cup

2017/18 proved to a busy season for Town if ultimately without silverware. A consistent league campaign saw us occupy a play off place for all bar two Saturday’s throughout the season. The runners-up position was ours from 17th February through to the final match when unfortunately, we were pipped by Ashton United on and ended in third place. Still our best ever finish. Sadly, we would lose our play-off semi-final at home to Gran- tham Town. The FA Trophy saw us play in ten matches all told, eventually being highly unlucky to exit in round three away to Wealdstone, having defeated National League Ebbsfleet United in the previous round.

2018/19 proved a memorable season for Town and although in any other season we would have gained promotion that reward was denied at the last. Having performed consistently all season, and the opening two weeks aside, occupying at least a play-off position all season, including topping the table on three different occasions we had to settle for third place in the end. Play-off wins at home to Nantwich Town (4-1) and at South Shields (2-1) set up a Super Play-off Final at home to Kings Lynn Town. We led 2-1 with five minutes to go but conceded a penalty which was converted. In extra time Kings Lyn got the winner again with five minutes remaining. The game attract- ed a season best attendance of 2200. Town made the draw for the FA Cup First Round Proper again but unfortu- nately lost out in a 4Q replay at FC Halifax Town. Season 2019/20 saw Town compete at the top end of the table if not quite as consistently as the previous season. We sold midfielder to Football League club Black- pool FC where he signed a full-time contract, the first such occurrence since the mid 1990’s Town could say that. We were well placed in third in mid-March 2020 when everything stopped due to Coronavirus. The season was deemed null and void with no promotion or relegation. So, we go again in season 2020/21

Management Paul Carden Manager. After a lengthy playing career mainly with and Cambridge United, Carden was appointed South- port manager in January 2015 after previously being a player coach at Luton Town. He successfully kept Southport in the Conference Premier. He left the club in November 2015 and was appointed interim manager of Tranmere Rovers in September 2016 after a spell as assistant manager. Paul took over at Town in October 2016

Our Visitors ~ WARRINGTON TOWN Introducing our Pitching In NPL Premier Division Opponents . . .

Mark Beesley Coach. Former Yellows striker Beesley was manager at Burscough in season 2015/16 following a lengthy playing career, including spells at Chester, Forest Green Rovers and Cambridge United.

Players Adam Carden Position Defender. Brother of manager Paul, Adam has played for a number of clubs including Stalybridge Celtic, AFC Fylde, Southport, and FC United of Manchester. Always dependable when called upon, Adam also assists with the coaching and identifying new signings.

Josh Amis Position striker. Josh has spent much of his career with Stockport County in two spells with a season at Northwich Victoria sandwiched in between. He has also played for Altrincham and Preston North End. Josh joined Town in the close season prior to 2018/19 and featured regularly in the pre-season games.

Mitchell Duggan Position Midfield. Another signing in November 2016 with a first appearance in the home win over Rushall Olym- pic. Mitch started out as a youth team player with Tranmere Rovers before progressing to the first team. He was pre- viously with Marine before coming to Warrington but left again for a spell to return in summer 2018

Jack Dunn Position midfield. Jack arrives at Town from Tranmere Rovers for the 2018/19 season. He has also had loan spells at Morecambe, Burton Albion and Town. He started as a trainee with Liverpool. He has represented Eng- land at U-17, 18 & 19’s.

Mark Roberts Position defender. Northwich born Mark enjoyed a stellar career as a professional making in excess of 500 appear- ances. He signed from Forest Green Rovers but also numbers Crewe Alex, Stanley, , Fleet- wood Town and Cambridge United among his former clubs. He won two promotions while at Stevenage.

Jack Mackreth Position Striker. Jack signed from Wrexham and has also spent time at Macclesfield Town and Town. His start for Warrington was delayed while international clearance came through.

Bohan Dixon Position midfield. Bohan joined Town in late August 2018 and scored on his debut in the 5-0 win away to North Fer- riby United. Joining from Ashton United he has had a wealth of experience , predominantly in non league football. Starting out at Accrington Stanley he soon moved on to Lincoln City before spells at Stalybridge Celtic, AFC Fylde, FC Halifax Town and Stockport County.

Tom Warren Position Defender. born Tom joined Town early in season 2019/20, making his debut in the away win at Nantwich Town, having played for Everton Youth prior to that.

Callum Grogan Position. Defender. Grogan, 22 at the time of signing, hails from Liverpool and was a professional with Shrewsbury Town, before spending the past few seasons with Radcliffe, making more than 120 appearances. He becomes the Yellows’ first new signing of the summer

Charlie Munro Position midfield. Charlie signed in the summer of 2020 having previously played at Ashton Athletic. He joined Warrington Town after being highly recommended by one of our scouting team who had watched him several times turn in some impressive performances

Our Visitors ~ WARRINGTON TOWN Introducing our Pitching In NPL Premier Division Opponents . . .

Craig Carney Warrington Town have signed midfielder Craig Carney for the 2020-21 season. The 27-year-old arrives at Cantilever Park having spent the last campaign with Northern Premier League Premier Di- vision rivals FC United of Manchester. Having started his career at Southport, Carney has also starred for Marine, as well as enjoying spells at Northwich Victoria, Lancaster City, Squires Gate, Bamber Bridge and Kendal Town.

Joel Amado Position defender. Amado, who was twenty two when signing for Town at the beginning of August 2020, was part of the Trafford side that won the 2019 Integro League Cup and from where he joined Town. He has previously had spells with Curzon Ashton and Irlam FC.

Evan Gumbs Position defender. Evan, 23 when signing in August 2020 from Tranmere Rovers, is no stranger to Cantilever Park having had three spells on loan at the club, making 34 appearances in the 2017/18 season. He was released by the EFL League Two club and the management team were quick to make their move.

Matthew Regan Position defender. Matt signed in the close season prior to the 2020/2021 campaign having previously appeared for Curzon Ashton. He has had a wealth of experience at the higher levels of the non league game. Previous clubs include, Farsley Celtic, Ashton United, Stalybridge Celtic, Hednesford Town, Worcester City and Tamworth,

Luke Duffy. Position midfield. Town signed attacking midfielder Luke Duffy ahead of the pre season friendly against Southport on 1st September 2020. Duffy, 21 when signing, was part of the City development squad in 2019/20 and has previously had trials with Crystal Palace and Brentford. He starred against the Yellows for Lower Breck in the pre-season game and manager Paul Carden was quick to swoop in and secure a deal.

Michael Rose Position Midfield. Michael signed for Town in early September 2020 aged 38 having previously featured in the Foot- ball League with Macclesfield Town. He has a wealth of experience at many clubs including Morecambe, , Colchester United, Town, Norwich City, Stockport County, United, Cheltenham Town, Town, Hereford United and Chester. He started as a trainee at Manchester United.

James Baillie Position Defender. James is a local lad who was previously with Curzon Ashton. He joined Town in September 2020. He started at Crewe Alexandra.

Matthew Taylor Position Defender. Matt joined Town in September 2020 having previously played for Town. He has also previously been with Oxford United, as well as Wigan Athletic and County as a youngster.

Chris Holroyd Position Striker. Experienced striker has signed on the dotted line at Cantilever Park in early October 2020 having left Northern Premier League Premier Division rivals Stalybridge Celtic. Chris, 33 when signing was at Cambridge United while Town boss Paul Carden was player/assistant manager there, and among his teammates was Yellows assistant Mark Beesley. Holroyd has also taken in spells at Wrexham, Macclesfield Town, Chorley, Morecambe, Preston North End, Rother- ham United, Bury, Stevenage, Brighton & Hove Albion and Chester

INTRODUCING YOUR COVID-19 SECURE

GIANT AXE BY GRAHAM DOCKERTY For the foreseeable future matches at Giant Axe will be subject to the club strictly adhering to the guidance provided.

Consequently, a maximum of 300 spectators are allowed for all our competitive matches, managed through a new online DIGITAL TICKETING system to ensure we do not exceed the capacity guidelines and control the flow of entry. Our digital ticketing system is set for launching ahead of the first home match, this Saturday 12th September v Spennymoor Town. Season Ticket holders will have priority and be guaranteed entry to all our Northern Premier League home fixtures. Fans will notice changes with respect to social distancing and are requested to wear a face covering when mov- ing around the ground. Risk assessments have been produced and published with the following key changes to your usual match day experience; o Fans must adhere to social distancing at all times o Pedestrian barriers and a gangway around the ground will allow fans to move safely, one way at a time o Crowd management by Stewards and Marshalls at cross-over points o Social distance spacing of available seats in the John Bagguley stand and 2m squares marked in all spectator standing areas o Area behind the dug-outs cordoned off to form a safe area for players and management (barriers will open at full-time to allow fans to leave via this side) o Positioning of infra-red activated hand sanitisers around the ground o 2m queuing introduced for the turnstile(s), Netbusters’ Bar, Dolly’s Diner, Tea Bar and toilets o Cashless payments only for Netbusters’ Bar and Dolly’s Diner The club have also produced a Coronavirus Code of Behaviour to provide further guidance when attending matches. We would ask fans to observe these guidelines and bear with us whilst these necessary restrictions are imposed upon us, but the safety of our fans is our number one priority. We want all spectators to enjoy coming to Giant Axe to watch The Dollies in a safe environment. Thank you for your continued support in these diffi- cult times. For further information please contact Graham Dockerty (01524)-382238 CORONAVIRUS CODE OF BEHAVIOUR BY GRAHAM DOCKERTY In order to assist our staff, stewards and marshalls, and to help protect you and your fellow spectators.

In order to assist our staff, Stewards and Marshalls, and to help protect you and your fellow spectators, you are kindly requested to follow these guidelines when attending all fixtures:- · Make sure in advance that you know where your entry point is, and if an entry time is specified on your tick- et or when making your booking, please adhere to your allotted time. · Arrive in good time to go through all of the necessary entry procedures. · At all times, and in all parts of the ground, please observe social distancing and avoid close contact with those not in your ‘bubble’. · Be aware that all payments inside the ground should be contactless where possible. · Maintain good hygiene: use the sanitiser dispensers provided and avoid touching your face or other com- monly-touched surfaces, such as handles and railings, whenever possible. · We advise you to wear a mask or face covering within the ground when you are able, especially when inside a building, e.g. the front part of the queue for Netbusters’ Bar or using the toilets. · If you need to access any of the ground’s amenities, such as toilets, Dolly’s Diner, Netbusters Bar and tea bar, check to see if any of them have queues and plan accordingly. · Remain in your seat or viewing position at all times where it is possible. · If you need to leave your viewing position, wait for a time when the gangway is clear and follow any sign- age indicating which way to go, or the directions of the stewards. · If you are seated, when moving past spectators to and from your seat, please avoid face to face contact with other spectators. · If you are standing, please stay within your social bubble and remain aware of the movements of others at all times. · Please observe respiratory etiquette: always cover your mouth if needing to cough or sneeze. · Avoid hugs, high-fives and any close contact with people who are not in your social bubble. · Minimise shouting, singing or celebrating where possible, and if you do sing or shout please wear a mask or face covering. · If you are attending with other members of your social bubble, please make sure they have read and under- stand these guidelines too. Thank you for your co-operation: STAY SAFE!

Lancaster City Supporters Club with Supporters Club General Secretary Keith Winder . . .

Why are we being ‘Singled Out’ ?

As one who has spent much of the last 7 months at work trying to understand, organise, and implement the tsunami of instructions, guidance, and recommendations of a government intent on micro-managing the behaviours of a 60 mil- lion population in the UK, I realised a long while ago that common sense was going to be in short supply. I know I should be grateful that the government’s Culture, Media and Sport department felt able to release the Leagues in Step 3 and below to admit supporters from the start of the season (even though a blanket imposition of an arbitrary capacity limit across all grounds at each Step defied common sense), but the more I see of what’s going on at other Clubs in our League, the more dissatisfied and agitated I am becoming at the constraints which appear to have been imposed on our Club !

I have largely kept my counsel on this subject, as I know not everyone shares my views about how the authorities should be dealing with the pandemic. I also acknowledge that many of our supporters are in the more vulnerable age range, and are cautious and wary of being in places where they may not be able to adequately social distance, but it is becoming clear from the feedback I’ve had, and the comments I’ve seen, I am not alone in railing against the im- position of a 200 supporter limit on match day attendance at Giant Axe. As Dave Towers noted earlier this week, of Tuesday evening’s NPL fixtures, 21 in total, all but six had attendances in excess of 200, and it may well be that those had authorisation for more than 200. “I’m beginning to wonder if we’re the only Club in the league which is being restricted to this total”

Well, he may be right; 5 of the 6 – Grantham, Glossop North End, Newcastle Town, Sutton Coldfield and Wisbech – have already recorded home attendances of in excess of 200 this season. The 6th club, Pickering Town, has yet to do so, but has an authorised “Covid-Secure” limit of 400. So how have we reached a position where our Club, with one of the largest licenced capacities in the League (3,513 according to the Club fact file), now has an approved Covid- Secure capacity that is one of the lowest, if not the lowest, of the 61 Clubs in the NPL ?

The first thing to understand is that the Club imposed its own limit on ground capacity, as part of its risk assessment – 300 v. the 600 permitted by DCMS for Step 3 clubs. As many of you will recall, I covered the arrangements the Club had put in place prior to the first home game in an early Supporters Club Bulletin, and our Chairman kindly invited me for a ‘walk round’ to see the arrangements and explain the rationale. My private view was that some of the provi- sions were a little ‘over the top’ – seating out of use in the stand, barrier deployment, some of the walkways etc but I took the view that erring on the side of caution was a sensible position to take to protect the Club from any potential push back or criticism.

However, come the first home match – the cup tie v. Runcorn Town – someone in an official capacity, either a police officer (which is what it says on the website) or a Council official, or both, found reason(s) to challenge the 300 limit and requested/ demanded that the capacity be further reduced to 200. So what was the nature and form of this commu- nication ? Was it “guidance”, a recommendation or instruction ? Has it been formalised in writing – a report or a let- ter ?

Depending on the nature of these official representations, should we now be seeking to challenge ? On the grounds of ‘experience to date’ alone, we must be able to do so – it is abundantly clear that there are cavernous spaces all around the ground with 200 in. So, anyone who wants to socially distance themselves has ample opportunity to do so, and that will not be compromised by an additional 100 in the ground. The reality is that even if there were only 50 in, if they all congregate in a huddle behind the goal which the Dollies are attacking, the distancing guidelines are breached. The only mechanism the Club has to deal with this is public address, and some ‘nudges’ from ground stewards – all of which the Club are doing. 300 doesn’t change any of that.

Some of you will doubtless say that our supporters have brought this position on the Club by not adhering to the Club’s directions. I would probably agree with that – but the government has gradually migrated its position from one of enforcing distancing to one of personal responsibility within a framework of control measures like masks, hygiene etc. Some of you will also say that with the County Covid risk level being raised to Very High/ Tier 3 only last week, the time is not right to be challenging the restrictions

Lancaster City Supporters Club with Supporters Club General Secretary Keith Winder . . .

week, the time is not right to be challenging the restrictions. I understand that – but if grounds like Marine, 3-sided with a capacity only constrained by the club’s Step 4 status, can have double City’s capacity in the Liverpool Tier 3 area, we surely must question our position. The same is undoubtedly true at Warrington, Mickleover, Ashton Unit- ed, Brig, Atherton, Radcliffe, and doubtless others at Step 3 with authorised capacities of between 400 and 600.

The pandemic presents an existential threat to all professional and semi-professional football clubs, and we must do everything we can to generate income, manage costs, and keep everyone safe and healthy, and part of that is push- ing back on unrealistic or unreasonable restraints on the Club’s ability to do those important things. Somewhat iron- ically, many non-League clubs are reporting much-improved attendances this season, presumably boosted by refu- gees from ‘elite’ clubs desperate for an opportunity to attend a match for real – we need to be able to exploit that as much as possible, for the long-term health of our game and our Club.

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YOUTH NEWS Introducing City’s Under 18 side

The club has introduced an under 18 side this season that will be playing in the North West Youth Alliance. The team is being run by ex-City players Lee Dodgson and Neil Uberschar along with Darren McDermott with the ma- jority of the squad having come through the junior ranks together and being at the younger end of the age group have two seasons at this level.

Their opening fixture in early September proved to be a difficult away draw to Marine in the FA Youth Cup. They started well and had much the better of the first half but failed to capitalise on their chances in front of goal. The first goal was always going to be significant and it went to Marine after the break with a second goal late in the game seeing the home side through.

The league season did not get under way until the first Sunday in October and a late change of fixture due to Covid restrictions saw them travel to meet Maghull.

The first half went very well and after having a goal disallowed for offside, goals from Daniel Lindsay and Liam Jackson put City 2-0 ahead. Maghull fought back after the break and drew level before going 3-2 ahead but City pulled themselves together and a Sam Poulet equaliser earned a share of the points.

Their second fixture was also away, this time to AFC Blackpool who had scored a big win in their opening fixture. Again they looked the better side in the first half but failed to capitalise on opportunities. The home side got more into the game after the break and a goal 20 minutes from time was enough to settle it in their favour.

The first home game was last Sunday against AFC Darwen. The first half was fairly even with City having the better chances with a goal disallowed for offside and the Darwen ‘keeper making a couple of good saves. It was Darwen who struck first though, just before half time and this gave the confidence to look much the better side in the second half rounding off the win with a second goal.

One point from their opening three games is probably an unfair reflection on the performances and the young side will need to take better advantage of the chances they are creating as the season develops.

The City Match Report by the LCFC Media Team . . .

FC UTD OF MANCHESTER 1 LANCASTER CITY 1

Tuesday 20th October 2020

A Tuesday night under the lights was in store for Lancaster City as they travelled to Manchester to take on FC Unit- ed of Manchester.

Lancaster City headed into the game on the back of a 4-2 victory away at Grantham. It took twenty-three minutes for the first real chance of the game and it came to the Dollies.

Tom Kilifin had the first of two back to back chances when he was played in after a ball over the top with opposition keeper Dan Lavercombe making a key save. Davis Norris had a backup shot cleared off the line after a corner.

That proved to be the closest either side came to scoring in the first half in a very defensive minded game. However, an altercation between both sides saw Cowperthwaite and Wills both booked. The whistle sounded for half time with the teams even.

They often say it’s a game of two halves and this was the case in the second period of play.

It took just four minutes of the second half for the first goal when Dan Cockerline was on the end of a perfect through ball slotting the ball past to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.

However, City didn’t let this bring them down as they hit back within five minutes with substitute Matty Blinkhorn making an instant impact as he flicked the ball on to Tom Kilifin who fired the ball home with pace much to the joy of Mark Fell and Graham Lancashire.

City were by far the better side in the second half winning the aerial battles.

Another chance fell to David Norris who headed the ball towards the goal but it narrowly missed the target.

Despite pressure from the Dollies, the hosts almost took the lead but a brilliant save from Sam Ashton denied them the golden opportunity.

Using their ‘Rudimentary’ style of football, the Dollies attacked the FC United goal with a last-minute corner headed down and struck towards the goal by Tom Kilifin who’s effort was cleared off the line.

The final whistle sounded and the Dollies held their heads up high after picking up four points in two difficult match- es.

For FC United they went home in a sombre mood.

City team: Ashton, Bailey S, Bailey C, Cowperthwaite, Teague ©, Hudson, Wilson (Sloan 75), Wills, Kilifin, Nor- ris, Holland-Wilkinson (Blinkhorn 54). Unused subs: Fensome, Gregory, Povey

Stick-in-the-muds by Fr. Anthony Keefe . . .

Is that title correct, or should it be “sticks-in-the-mud” as there is no such word as “muds”? (My spell check has already revolted against it.) Ah, but that would imply that I am talking about “sticks” (noun) whereas I am really thinking about the verb “to stick”.

Prodnose: Oh, stop woffling and get on with it.

Self: For once, I agree with you, so on with U is for Unforgettable (continued).

After the victory at Clitheroe, achieved with the help of a Ken Udall penalty save, the unbeaten eleven of autumn 1967 faced St. Helen’s Town at the Giant Axe, in front of 479 fans early on a Wednesday evening—early, because there were no floodlights; on a Wednesday because that was half day closing. This should have been a stroll in the park, against an unfancied side, and an early goal for the home team suggested that business was as usual. To our dismay, however, we saw the vistors not only equalise before half time, but take the lead in the second half. Was the unbeaten run to end ignominiously?

City produced an equaliser, but this was not good enough. Our last three games had been won, and we demanded nothing less. The minutes were ticking away, stoppage time was approaching and the score was 2-2.

Three times centre forward John Bilsborrow, converted into a winger to accommodate Brian Robinson, left defenders trailing as he powered down the right towards the (now) Neil Marshall end. His first run ended with a shot over the bar. His second entailed a pass inside to Brian Kirk, who also fired over. With the referee already checking his watch, JB mounted a third assault. Defenders were outstripped, the ball was played inside to Kirk, who seemed to get it stuck between his feet. A moment of anxiety as the little maestro adjusted his footing—and then crashed the ball into the net, before leaping into the arms of Brian Robinson, who carried him around the pen- alty area in triumph, this in the days when a raised arm was as far as goal celebrations usually extended. The final result was Lancaster City 3 St. Helens Town 2, but it had been a close run thing.

Four more victories followed, including a First Qualifying Round FA Cup tie against, remarkably, Milnthorpe Corinthians, then of the North Lancashire League, which drew a remarkable 849 spectators to the Giant Axe, be- fore two coach loads of fans trekked up the A6 (the motorway not yet reaching beyond Carnforth) to Penrith, for the Second Qualifier.

This tie counts as unforgettable, as it featured another virtuoso performance from my all time favourite player, Bri- an Kirk. After Brian Robinson had smashed home an opener from close range, el maestro demonstrated his class, first sending a thunderbolt flying into the top corner of the net, and then, after half time, having even the home fans drooling as he tied defenders in knots, rounding off his performance with his second and his side’s third goal. A 3-0 brushing aside of Netherfield was witnessed by a crowd of over a thousand—in those days people turned up to watch a winning team, unlike the situation during Tony Hesketh’s second spell when thrilling football and thir- teen successive victories saw numbers through the gate actually fall. Towards the end of that game, however, something was amiss. The same eleven players had appeared in every moment of the ’67 side’s ten successive vic- tories, but now a change had to be made. Keith Robinson pulled up injured, to be replaced by substitute Trevor Wolstenholme, and that all-conquering eleven was destined never to play together again.

Not only Keith, but also Rodney Webb, was unavailable for the following Saturday’s trip to Great Harwood for FA Cup Qualifying Round Three. Still, there should have been no real problem. The ten wins had included a swatting of the Harroders in the League, and three coachloads of fans were in confident mood as we headed for East Lancs. We had, however, reckoned without the home side’s pitch, or swimming bath as it might more accurately have been called. Water polo would have been a more appropriate game that afternoon, though even that would have presented difficulties, as the water was mixed with thick, cloying mud—and into that mud City’s hopes, dreams, and players sank. Despite my seventeen years and incipient moustache, I was close to tears as we headed back north, unaware that this was the beginning of a lengthy spell when Gt. Harwood were to prove a bogy team, largely under the guidance of ex-Dolly Leo Gornall, whose death was announced a few weeks ago, along with that of a later Dolly, Dick Oxtoby. May they rest in peace

Netbusters 2020-21 Per goal scored by the following players Sam Bailey-£1 Deborah Johnson -£2 Billy Heron Tom Kilifin-£2 Billy Heron, John Dickerson, £1 Steve Wright Charlie Bailey- £1 Steve Wright For each game in which no LCFC player receives neither a red or yellow card-£3 Dave Cunliffe For each hat trick scored by an LCFC player-£3 Luke Wilson If LCFC score four or more goals in a game-£10 Jake Carney-Jackson Per league goal scored by LCFC’s top scorer-£1 Jake Carney-Jackson For each game that Paul Dawson plays & doesn’t get booked-£2 Billy Heron For each game that Ben Hudson starts & doesn’t get subbed off-£1 Sue Winder Per penalty scored by LCFC-£5 Keith Winder Per league penalty scored by LCFC-£1 Phil Nightingale Per penalty saved by LCFC’s keeper-£10 Keith Winder Per FA Cup win-£5 David Owen, £2 Derek Johnson Per FA Trophy win-£5 David Owen, £1 Derek Johnson Per League Cup-£1 Derek Johnson If LCFC…….. Finish in the playoff places-£10 Luke Wilson Win promotion via the -£20 Luke Wilson Win the league-£30 Luke Wilson Win the LFA Trophy-£10 Derek Johnson Reach the FA Cup 1st round proper-£10 Derek Johnson

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Today’s Fixtures

Premier Division

Bamber Bridge v Buxton LANCASTER CITY V Warrington Town Mickleover FC v Grantham Town Radcliffe FC v Gainsborough Trinity Stalybridge Celtic v Basford United Whitby Town v Morpeth Town Witton Albion v Atherton Collieries

FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round involving NPL clubs

Brackley Town v MARSKE UNITED Chester v MARINE FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER v Guiseley ILKESTON TOWN v Hartlepool United SOUTH SHIELDS v FC Halifax Town STAFFORD RANGERS v Skelmersdale United

Netbusters 2020-21 Good afternoon everybody, & welcome to our visitors from Warrington for this rearranged game. I hope that their players, any supporters that have made the journey & officials have arrived safely. I was wondering if any supporters would be able/brave enough to enter the Covid hotspot that is Lancashire. Then I looked at wiki & then learned a new fact, that Warrington is in Lancashire too! O on further reading, it used to be in Lancashire & now it’s in Cheshire. So, I’m back to my original question, will there be any Wire supports here today? Are they allowed to come?

We were scheduled to play South Shields this afternoon, but they are playing in the FA Cup instead today. They are playing Stafford Rangers away, after beating Longridge Town in the third qualifying round, which followed their win over us over us in the second qualifying round. With the greatest respect to both Longridge & Stafford, I have to say that I think we have missed out somewhat as I would regard both of games these as winnable ties. Hey ho, what will be will be, no regrets eh? When the announcement of the rearrangement of today’s game was made the, fixture list was described as “fluid”, it’s that fluid that it’s making me feel seasick! There was also news of the LFA final from last season, which is to be played at the at Leyland behind closed, flippin’ typical, we get to a final & we can’t go! I think that we’d best keep our eyes on the fixture list, as it seems that there could be numerous last-minute alterations.

The Wire arrive here occupying the top spot in the league table. Like ourselves, they are obviously eliminated from the FA Cup, but they’re league record shows played six, won five lost one. They have won all four of their home league games, and won one, lost one away. That home record could be an issue next Saturday, as we have been drawn to play them at Cantilever Park next Saturday in the FA Trophy third qualifying round. I’m writing this on Monday evening, before we play away at FCUM & our visitors entertain Nantwich, so as usual all this may be entirely inaccurate by the time you read it. Returning to the “fluid” fixture list (or at least it’s depiction on the NPL website), our home game against Witton is the one that will make way for the LFA final versus Prestwich Heys.

A week ago today saw us register our first league win of the season, and also score four times in a single game which has been a sadly unusual thing for us to do over the last couple of years. Mark Fell was fulsome in his praise for everyone from Lancaster that made the long (longest of the season?) trip to Grantham during his post- match YouTube interview. Sadly, there was a downside, that being the dismissal of Andy Teague. I don’t know for what offence he was dismissed, & so what length of ban he will face but I assume he will start serving it today? Our disciplinary record this season is poor, I think this was our third sending off of the season already, and with a limited squad, suspensions are bound to have a detrimental affect. I think I’m right to use affect ra- ther than effect there, even if “Word” is telling me something different. Perhaps my hero, Fr Keefe will put me straight if he reads this? It would seem that our loan signing from Preston, Jacob Holland-Wilkinson made an impressive debut, culminating in his involvement in setting up the fourth goal for David Norris. Welcome to the club Jacob, I hope you enjoy your time here & that every game goes as well. As I said, I’m a game behind as I’m writing this before the FCUM, but the latest netbusters total I can offer you after the win at Grantham is now £68. Thank you for your generous support, and if you aren’t yet involved please think about having a go

If you wish to join in, you can contact me by phone/text on 07960062621 or by email at [email protected] I will also be at the ground for as many home games as my shifts allow Up the Dollies!

Steve Wright

Pledges for the 2020/21 season Per league win -£2 Phil Nightingale, £1 Luke Wilson Per league point-£1 Dave Cunliffe Per win- £2 Tony Keefe, Brian Kendrick, £1 Dave Weston Per away win-£2 Derek Johnson, £1 Steve Wright Per league clean sheet-£1 David Owen Per clean sheet-£3 Brian Kendrick, £2 Billy Heron, Tony Keefe, £1.50 Dave Cunliffe, £1 Sarah Pearce, Michael Wright, Steve Wright Per goal scored by LCFC-50p Pam Satterthwaite Per goal scored by the following players Sam Bailey-£1 Deborah Johnson Rhys Turner-£2 Billy Heron Tom Kilifin-£2 Billy Heron, John Dickerson, £1 Steve Wright Charlie Bailey- £1 Steve Wright For each game in which no LCFC player receives neither a red or yellow card-£3 Dave Cunliffe For each hat trick scored by an LCFC player-£3 Luke Wilson

TODAY'S TEAMS

WARRINGTON LANCASTER CITY TOWN Blue, Blue, Blue Yellow, Whie, Yellow

1 Sam Ashton 1 Charles Albinson 2 Sam Bailey 2 Mitch Duggan 3 Charlie Bailey 3 Matthew Taylor 4 Niall Cowperthwaite 4 Charlie Munro 5 Andrew Teague Capt 5 Mark Roberts Capt 6 Ben Hudson 6 Matt Regan 7 Rob Wilson 7 8 Simon Wills 8 Michael Rose 9 Jacob Holland-Wilkinson 9 Josh Amis 10 David Norris 10 Bohan Dixon 11 Tom Kilifin 11 Luke Duffy

12 Lewis Fensome 12 Jack Dunn 14 Jacob Gregory 14 Jordan Buckley 15 Matty Blinkhorn 15 Joel Amado 16 Christian Sloan 16 Callum Grogan 17 Luke Higham 17 Chris Holroyd

Referee Abid Hussain Assistant Daniel Curran Assistant Timothy Eagles

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