Author: Donna Artis

Guildhall Cup Thriller: Appley Bridge Edge Out Cherrybrook in Heart-Stopping Penalty Showdown!

Premiership

Bickerstaffe 3-1 Highgrove
In an action-packed clash, Bickerstaffe took charge early, with Will Lamb making it 1-0. Shortly after, Alex Grisedale doubled the lead, leaving Highgrove on the back foot at halftime with a 2-0 deficit to overcome.

The second half saw a flash of hope for Highgrove as Cristian Lacob struck in the 65th minute, narrowing the score to 2-1. However, any comeback dreams were dashed when Ollie Molyneux sealed the deal for Bickerstaffe, who walked away 3-1 victors with a commanding performance.

Preston Wanderers 0-3 Shevington
Shevington set the tone early against Preston Wanderers, with Louie Fitzpatrick finding the back of the net in the 21st minute to give his side a 1-0 lead at halftime.

As the second half rolled on, Fitzpatrick once again delivered in the 70th minute, making it 2-0, and in the 83rd minute, Andrew Thomas added a third, leaving Wanderers with little chance to rally. Shevington cruised to a well-deserved 3-0 victory.

Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs 0-2 Burscough Dynamo
Burscough Dynamo put on a show as Ben Pallet launched a thunderous 30-yard strike to open the scoring, giving his side a 1-0 lead at halftime.

Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs looked to find their way back into the game, but Jacob Williams-Tranter dashed their hopes, making it 2-0 and securing the win for Burscough with a solid all-around performance.

Tarleton Corinthians 0-5 Eccleston & Heskin
Eccleston & Heskin made quick work of Tarleton Corinthians, opening the scoring in the 16th minute through David McMillan. Just seven minutes later, Jordan Aird added a second, putting Corinthians on high alert with a 2-0 scoreline at halftime.

The onslaught continued in the second half as Aird struck again in the 60th minute, extending the lead to 3-0. Not to be outdone, Alex Brooks netted in the 77th, and Scott Snape capped off the rout with an 85th-minute goal, handing Eccleston & Heskin a resounding 5-0 win.

Division One

AFC Ainsdale 3-3 Standish St Wilfrids
What a showdown at Ainsdale! The home side took an early lead in the 20th minute with a neat finish from Liam Mackie. But it didn’t take long for Standish St Wilfrids to answer back as Jay Bramwell struck in the 28th minute, leveling the score and setting up a tense second half.

Things heated up after halftime when Rob Thomas scored twice, once in the 55th and then again in the 70th, to give Standish a 3-1 lead. But just when it seemed like they’d run away with it, AFC Ainsdale roared back. Joseph Tinsley cut the deficit in the 88th minute, and then in the dying seconds, Elliot Styche stepped up to rescue a point with a dramatic equalizer in the 91st minute. Fans won’t soon forget this nail-biter!

Astley FC 5-2 Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves
Astley FC served up a goal-fest at home, delighting fans with a 5-2 victory! Luke Robinson set the tone with a brace, scoring in the 23rd and 42nd minutes. Not to be outdone, Anthony Baffoe added to the tally with a cool strike in the 60th minute, before Charles Young made it four in the 75th. Cieran Dowd capped things off with a cherry-on-top goal in the 88th. Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves, missing a teamsheet, managed to score twice, but Astley had too much firepower.

Hoole United 1-2 Sir Tom Finney
In a tightly contested match, Hoole United and Sir Tom Finney went toe-to-toe, but it was the visitors who came out on top. Harvey Torrance got the home fans on their feet in the 25th minute with a well-timed goal, but Sir Tom Finney struck back just before the half, with Kiran Collister finding the net in the 44th minute.

The second half was all about who could grab the next goal, and it came in the 75th minute courtesy of Conor Garrett. That clinched the win for Sir Tom Finney and earned them three valuable points!

Leyland RAFA FC 4-0 Ribchester Rovers
Leyland RAFA FC gave their fans a show with a dominant 4-0 win! Jordan Griffiths was the hero of the day, starting off with a goal in the 30th minute. After the break, Griffiths found the back of the net again in the 50th minute, building momentum. Martin Smith joined the scoring fun in the 65th minute, and Griffiths completed his hat-trick with an 80th-minute strike to seal the deal. A strong performance for Leyland, with Ribchester Rovers struggling to keep up.

Division Two

Fleetwood Hesketh 2-8 Castle FC
A goal bonanza unfolded in Southport, with Castle FC showing no mercy in a spectacular 8-2 rout. Fleetwood Hesketh couldn’t keep pace, and Castle FC’s finishing was lethal. While we didn’t have the teamsheets, it’s clear this match was one to remember for Castle FC fans, who watched their side score nearly at will. The home team found the net twice, but it wasn’t enough to slow Castle’s relentless attack.

Marsh United 8-1 Middleton & Overton Sports FC
Marsh United delivered a masterclass on home turf, starting strong with Jamie Taylor’s seventh-minute opener. Nick Buckley followed with a cool finish in the 20th minute, and Joseph Pollard made it 3-0 by the 32nd minute, sending Middleton & Overton into halftime with a mountain to climb.

The second half saw Daniel Smith firing on all cylinders with two goals in quick succession, just before Michael McGrady gave Middleton & Overton a glimmer of hope with a lone reply. But Marsh quickly snuffed it out as Smith bagged his hat-trick and Jamie Taylor and Daniel Martin added two more for an 8-1 hammering that left their opponents reeling.

Wigan Rovers 1-7 New Longton Rovers
New Longton Rovers dominated away, striking early through Thomas Bentley in the 12th minute. Just two minutes later, George Kelly doubled the score, and Christian Roach’s 19th-minute goal set the visitors up with a comfortable 3-0 lead at halftime. Wigan Rovers looked helpless as the onslaught continued.

Roach was far from done, sealing a hat-trick with two more goals in the 56th and 70th minutes. Jonathan Croft’s 81st-minute goal made it 6-0 before Wigan Rovers’ Ben Harford nabbed a consolation in the 83rd. New Longton had the last laugh, though, with George Kelly closing it out at 7-1 in the 85th minute. It was a day to forget for Wigan, but New Longton fans were left singing all the way home.

Division Three

Bay Rangers FC A 4-0 Walmer Bridge Reserves
Bay Rangers FC A came out firing on all cylinders as they steamrolled Walmer Bridge Reserves in a 4-0 romp! Jamie Scott started the festivities early, finding the net in the 7th minute with a sweet assist from Leon Bartholomew, making it 1-0. Just ten minutes later, Kieran Potter doubled the score, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Bay Rangers were sitting pretty at halftime, up 2-0 and looking unstoppable.

After the break, the action heated up again when Jamie Scott struck his second goal of the day in the 53rd minute, with Ricky Ball adding the final touch on a well-placed assist. Not to be outdone, Leon Bartholomew closed out the scoring in the 59th minute, securing a perfect four-goal victory with Thomas Geary helping out with the assist. It was a commanding win that put Bay Rangers right back in the spotlight!

Middleton & Overton Sports FC Reserves 0-7 Marsh United Reserves
Marsh United Reserves unleashed an unstoppable wave on Middleton & Overton, cruising to a stunning 7-0 away victory! Cameron McLeod opened the scoring in the 27th minute, followed swiftly by Peter Myerscough in the 32nd. Just before the break, Connor Wallis made it 3-0 with a cool finish, setting up a dominant lead for Marsh.

They came out of halftime with the same fire, and Wallis struck again in the 50th minute to make it 4-0. Five minutes later, McLeod bagged his second goal, putting Middleton & Overton even further on the ropes. He completed his hat-trick in the 65th minute, leaving the fans in awe, before Charlie-Scott Thompson wrapped up the rout in the 80th minute. Marsh United’s clinical performance left no doubt—this was their day!

Shevington Reserves 0-2 AFC Ainsdale Reserves
Shevington Reserves faced a tough test in AFC Ainsdale Reserves, who edged them out with a solid 2-0 victory. Seb Mikolajewski broke the deadlock in the 28th minute, giving AFC Ainsdale the lead as they headed into halftime with a slim advantage.

In the second half, Connor Edmondson found the back of the net in the 73rd minute, sealing the win. It was a clinical performance by AFC Ainsdale Reserves, showing their defensive resilience and sharp finishing to take all three points.

Wyre Villa Reserves 6-2 Broughton Amateurs AFC Reserves
Wyre Villa Reserves put on a show with a dazzling 6-2 win over Broughton Amateurs Reserves, thrilling fans from start to finish! Alexander Rhodes got things rolling early with the opening goal, quickly followed by strikes from Jamie Houghton and Nico Moreton, sending Wyre Villa to a comfortable 3-0 lead. Travis Stringfellow then added a fourth to close out a near-perfect first half, with Broughton struggling to keep pace.

Broughton tried to rally in the second half with a goal from Collins Iheuko, but Wyre Villa had more in the tank. Stringfellow added his second, while Houghton capped the scoring in style to make it 6-2, even as Albashir Ahmed found the net for Broughton. It was a goal fest that ended with Wyre Villa celebrating a high-scoring victory!

Guildhall Cup

Appley Bridge 3-3 Cherrybrook (Appley Bridge win 4-2 on penalties)
In a Guildhall Cup showdown that felt more like a rollercoaster than a soccer match, Appley Bridge and Cherrybrook went head-to-head in a nail-biting contest that ended in a 3-3 draw, only for Appley Bridge to clinch victory in a dramatic penalty shootout. The action started early, with Danny Atkins giving Appley Bridge the lead in the 20th minute, showing off his lethal finishing skills. But Cherrybrook weren’t going down without a fight, and by the 32nd minute, Matty Glover had equalized, bringing the score to 1-1. Only three minutes later, Atkins struck again, doubling down on his mission to keep Appley Bridge ahead. They went into halftime with a narrow 2-1 lead.

The second half was just as intense! Jack Thorogood brought Cherrybrook back to level terms in the 55th minute, but Appley Bridge quickly responded, with Mattias Lokuta finding the back of the net in the 65th to make it 3-2. As the clock ticked down, Lewis Barlow stepped up for Cherrybrook, scoring in the 78th minute to make it 3-3 and setting up a thrilling finish. The game went to penalties, where Appley Bridge kept their cool and secured a 4-2 victory, moving forward in the cup with their nerves intact and heads held high.

Astley FC Reserves Outgun New Longton Rovers in a Thrilling 6-4 Goal Fest!

Premiership

Burscough Dynamo 0-2 Broughton Amateurs AFC
In an impressive away showdown, Broughton Amateurs AFC kept their goal tally ticking as Michael Mathias and substitute Dane Westwood found the net, sealing a solid 2-0 victory over Burscough. With relentless pressure from start to finish, Broughton’s precision and patience ultimately paid off, leaving Burscough searching for answers to break their defensive stronghold.

Shevington 3-0 Highgrove
Shevington played host to Highgrove in a game that waited until the second half for the action to kick off. Louie Fitzpatrick was in unstoppable form, bagging two goals in quick succession at the 55th and 67th minutes to put Shevington ahead. Shaun Whittle then capped off the win in style with an 88th-minute goal, wrapping up a convincing 3-0 victory after a quiet first half.

Standish St Wilfrids 1-0 Walmer Bridge
In a tight clash between Standish St Wilfrids and Walmer Bridge, Johan Du Toit made his mark early in the game, striking in the 25th minute to give Standish the lead. The goal would be the only one of the match, but it was enough to secure Standish a 1-0 victory as they expertly defended their slim lead until the final whistle.

Division One

Ribchester Rovers 1-5 Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves
It was all action at Ribchester as Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves ran rampant, leaving the hosts with plenty to ponder. Antonio Byron Berisha opened the floodgates in the 23rd minute, and Luke Ewart doubled up just five minutes later. Tomas Wright slipped another past the keeper in the 58th minute, Ewart struck again in the 65th, and Jack Sawyer put the game to bed with a clinical 85th-minute goal. Ribchester managed a consolation goal, but Southport had already stolen the show in style.

Division Two

Astley FC Reserves 6-4 New Longton Rovers
Astley FC Reserves and New Longton Rovers turned their game into a goalfest! Luke Robinson came out firing with goals in the 2nd, 10th, and 30th minutes, joined by strikes from Jak Turner (12) and James Knott (34) to give Astley a commanding lead. But the Rovers had other plans, with Jonathan Hart and a double from Luke Livesey sparking a fightback. However, it was Robinson’s fourth goal at 88 minutes that sealed the 6-4 win, ending an epic back-and-forth.

Fleetwood Hesketh 3-4 Middleton & Overton Sports
Middleton & Overton Sports brought pure drama to Fleetwood Hesketh, with Jake Dwyer putting in a clinic. His first came right before halftime in the 45th, and then he struck again in the 53rd and 65th minutes, joined by Thomas Egan’s clinical shot in the 50th. Fleetwood Hesketh did their best to keep up with three goals, but Middleton & Overton’s precision and assists from Cameron Isherwood, Thomas Howis, and Jack Burba gave them a nail-biting 4-3 win.

Westgate Hawks 2-0 Wigan Rovers
Westgate Hawks showed composure in their 2-0 victory over Wigan Rovers. Edward Harrison got the scoring underway in the 24th minute, and Chris Kavanagh solidified the win in the 58th. Wigan couldn’t break through Westgate’s disciplined defense, leaving the Hawks to celebrate a well-earned clean sheet and three points.

Division Three

Bay Rangers FC A 1-1 Marsh United Reserves
A tense clash between Bay Rangers and Marsh United Reserves ended all square! Connor Wallis struck early in the 14th minute to give Marsh United the lead, but Jamie Scott had other ideas and found the net for Bay Rangers, leveling things up late in the game. The match ended with both sides taking a share of the spoils.

Broughton Amateurs Reserves 0-4 AFC Ainsdale Reserves
AFC Ainsdale Reserves brought firepower to Broughton with a convincing 4-0 victory. Aiden Obey opened the scoring, giving Ainsdale a narrow lead at halftime. They roared back in the second half, with Luke Highton doubling the advantage, Jack Kennedy Howlett netting the third, and Ben Shelbourne sealing the win with a fourth goal, sending Broughton home empty-handed.

Chipping FC A 2-2 Shevington Reserves
Chipping FC A and Shevington Reserves battled to a 2-2 stalemate in a well-fought encounter. Although both teams kept the score close, neither provided a teamsheet, leaving fans in suspense about the exact details. A tightly contested affair, both teams split the points after an intense game.

Walmer Bridge Reserves 1-1 Middleton & Overton Sports Reserves
Middleton & Overton took the lead before halftime thanks to Elliot Mooring’s goal, assisted by captain Ben Kay in the 43rd minute. The lead held until the 89th minute, when Ciro Pranzo equalized for Walmer Bridge Reserves. With Nathan Kay named Player of the Match for Middleton, both sides left the pitch with a hard-earned point.

Guildhall Cup

Castle FC 3-2 Hoole United
In a nail-biting game, Castle FC edged Hoole United 3-2. Though Adam Thomas and David Wilkinson found the net for Hoole, Castle took home the win and the bragging rights in a spirited display.

Sir Tom Finney 0-7 Marsh United
Marsh United unleashed an early blitz against Sir Tom Finney, with Aaron Hoyle scoring in the 9th minute and Daniel Smith following with a rapid double in the 19th and 23rd minutes. The first half saw Marsh take total control, ending 3-0 at the break, leaving Sir Tom Finney searching for answers.

In the second half, Marsh United piled on the goals, with Jamie Taylor scoring in the 53rd and 66th minutes. Jamie Coulton joined the scoreboard in the 70th, and Taylor completed his hat-trick with an 84th-minute strike. The match ended in a 7-0 rout, with Marsh United making a powerful statement in their Guildhall Cup campaign.

Wyre Villa Reserves 1-3 AFC Ainsdale
AFC Ainsdale claimed a decisive 3-1 victory over Wyre Villa Reserves, with Matthew Howard striking first in the 19th minute. Charles Lunt added two more for Ainsdale, while Jamie Houghton scored for Wyre Villa, but it wasn’t enough to stop Ainsdale from taking all three points.

Lancashire FA Amateur Cup

Preston Wanderers 2-4 Appley Bridge
Appley Bridge put in a commanding performance with goals from Lokuta Mattias in the 10th minute and Liam Hilton in the 25th to give them the lead. Despite goals from Lewis Scanlon and Luke Smith for Preston, Appley Bridge’s Declan Ashurst and James Rimmer solidified the 4-2 victory with strikes in the 55th and 70th minutes, progressing them through to Round 3.

Rishton United Vets 3-1 Eccleston & Heskin
Rishton United Vets showcased their veteran prowess, besting Eccleston & Heskin 3-1. Despite Alex Brooks scoring for Eccleston, the hosts proved too strong and ran away with the victory, ejecting Eccleston from the cup.

Tarleton Corinthians 0-3 Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs
Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs cruised past Tarleton Corinthians with a clinical 3-0 scoreline. Thomas Elliot Haworth struck first, while Jonathan Scholes bagged a brace to ensure a comfortable passage to the next round.

Penalty Drama Seals Marsh United’s Lancashire FA Cup Victory, While AFC Ainsdale’s Mackie Hat-Trick Steals the Show in Division Action!

Premiership

Highgrove v Bickerstaffe
In a closely contested battle, Highgrove’s Hayden Ellis gave the home side a 1-0 lead just before half-time, netting in the 45th minute. But Bickerstaffe had other plans! Alex Griesdale pulled off a stunning second-half display, scoring twice to flip the match on its head and secure a 2-1 win for the visitors.

Walmer Bridge v Broughton Amateurs AFC
Walmer Bridge fought hard at home, but Broughton Amateurs AFC proved too strong. Despite no teamsheet from the home side, Broughton’s Oliver Jones and super-sub Liam Bell found the net to secure a 2-1 victory. The resilient visitors held firm against a late push from Walmer Bridge to seal the win.

Division One

AFC Ainsdale v Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves
AFC Ainsdale came out of the gates flying, with Liam Mackie in unstoppable form. Mackie netted a quickfire hat-trick with goals in the 1st, 14th, and 31st minutes to give AFC Ainsdale a commanding 3-0 halftime lead over Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves. The visitors tried to rally in the second half, with Joseph Lemmons pulling one back in the 75th minute, but Ainsdale held on for a well-deserved 3-1 victory.

Sir Tom Finney v Ribchester Rovers
Sir Tom Finney edged out Ribchester Rovers 2-1 in a thrilling encounter. Although no complete teamsheet was available, Sir Tom Finney’s resilience and determination earned them the win, keeping Ribchester Rovers at bay.

Lancashire FA Amateur Cup

Breightmet United v Castle FC
Castle FC faced a tough trip to Breightmet United A, where they fell 5-2 after going 2-0 down at halftime. Despite battling back, it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit.

CMB Sports Club Reserves v Cherrybrook
Cherrybrook couldn’t find their rhythm as they were defeated 4-2 by CMB Sports Reserves, with the game decided in the first half. Both sides scored twice, but CMB’s early dominance secured their victory.

Carnforth Rangers Reserves v Wyre Villa Reserves
Wyre Villa Reserves struggled on the road, as Carnforth Rangers Reserves cruised to a 5-1 win, leaving the away side with much to reflect on.

FC St Helens Reserves v Chipping
Chipping FC A suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of FC St Helens Reserves, who ran riot with an 11-0 demolition job.

Old Mancunians v Marsh United
Marsh United showcased nerves of steel in their clash with Old Mancunians. After a dramatic equalizer from Aaron Hoyle in the 83rd minute, they held their nerve to win 6-5 in a tense penalty shootout.

Standish St Wilfrids v Astley FC
Standish St Wilfrids pulled off a dramatic 4-3 win over Astley FC. First-half goals from Ross Ellison (12, 40), Johan Du Toit (23), and Alexander Favell (43) gave Standish a 4-0 lead at the break. But Astley FC came roaring back in the second half, with Cieron Dowd, Luke Robinson, and James Knott scoring to set up a thrilling finish, but Standish held on for the win.

Marsh United’s 7-3 Goal Fest Steals the Show in a Thrilling Weekend of Football on October 12th!

Premiership

Eccleston & Heskin 3-5 Shevington
Eccleston & Heskin were cruising with a 2-0 lead at halftime thanks to Henry Stock’s early strike and Alex Brooks’ cool finish. But Shevington had a different script for the second half! Shaun Whittle’s goal kick-started the comeback in the 48th minute, and then Louie Fitzpatrick absolutely ran the show with a hat-trick blitz in just over 25 minutes. Jack Hamilton added a cherry on top with a goal in the 76th minute. Alex Brooks pulled one back late on, but by then, the Shevington storm had done its damage.

The second half felt like a footballing rollercoaster as Shevington flipped the game upside down. Eccleston & Heskin went from confident to stunned in what can only be described as a footballing heist. Fitzpatrick’s hat-trick will be talked about for weeks, leaving Eccleston wondering what on earth happened after their perfect first 45.

Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs 0-0 Walmer Bridge
In a match that could be described as 90 minutes of defensive perfection or attacking frustration, Southport & Ainsdale and Walmer Bridge played out a goalless draw. Both teams had their moments, but neither could find that all-important breakthrough. A good old-fashioned clean sheet is about the only thing the managers will be smiling about!

This one was more about who didn’t slip up rather than who was going to seize the day. With no goals to celebrate, the only drama was keeping an eye on the clock, hoping something might finally happen. Spoiler: it didn’t.


Division One

AFC Ainsdale 6-2 Ribchester Rovers
AFC Ainsdale hit Ribchester Rovers for six in a lively affair. The home side’s attack was relentless, leaving Ribchester defenders spinning, while Jack Billington and Lee Miller managed to save some face with their two goals. Ribchester’s Shaun Earl also saw yellow, but the real fireworks came from Ainsdale, who netted six with ease.

Ribchester simply couldn’t keep up with the flood of goals from Ainsdale, who looked like they were having a training session. Shaun Earl’s yellow card was a tough reminder for Ribchester, who will be licking their wounds after this drubbing.

Appley Bridge 7-2 Leyland RAFA
Appley Bridge were in red-hot form, smashing seven goals past Leyland RAFA with a hat-trick each from Daniel Atkins and Liam Hilton. Declan Ashurst kicked things off, and from then on, Leyland were playing catch-up. Despite goals from Alan Cunningham and Nathaniel Colwell, it was all too much for the visitors, who simply couldn’t plug the leaks.

Leyland RAFA were left reeling as Appley Bridge flexed their attacking muscles. By the time the final whistle blew, Appley Bridge had turned the game into a highlight reel of goals, leaving RAFA wondering how they were on the wrong side of a goal fest.

Cherrybrook 0-1 Standish St Wilfrids Reserves
A nail-biter at Cherrybrook ended with a single goal to separate the sides, as Standish St Wilfrids Reserves snatched a win. It took until the 61st minute for Jay Bramwell to break the deadlock, sealing the three points for the visitors. Cherrybrook huffed and puffed, but just couldn’t find the equalizer.

It wasn’t a game for the goal-hungry fan, but for Standish, it was mission accomplished. The home side will be left ruing missed chances while Bramwell’s goal turned out to be the golden ticket.

Sir Tom Finney 5-2 Cube FC
Sir Tom Finney were in dazzling form, rattling in five goals to put Cube FC to the sword. The visitors managed two consolation goals, but that was the only solace they could take from an afternoon where Sir Tom Finney ran riot.

Cube FC left with heads hanging low as Sir Tom Finney’s attackers left no mercy, making sure the scoreline reflected their dominance. Cube will be wondering how to patch up their defense after this humbling encounter.


Division Two

Castle FC 4-3 Middleton & Overton Sports
It was a goal-filled thriller as Castle FC edged out Middleton & Overton Sports 4-3. Guy Spence was the star, bagging a hat-trick and then some with three goals, including a crucial late winner. Jakub Kowalik’s strike added to the tally, but Middleton fought back with goals from Michael McGrady and Kevin Coward, keeping the game on a knife’s edge until the final whistle.

Just when it looked like Middleton might pull off the comeback, Spence popped up again to secure the points for Castle. Middleton’s last-minute push was valiant, but Castle’s determination paid off in this seven-goal spectacle.

Fleetwood Hesketh 1-2 Wigan Rovers
Fleetwood Hesketh took an early lead thanks to David Norbury’s 17th-minute goal, but Wigan Rovers clawed back to secure a 2-1 victory. Callum Bayliss leveled things before halftime, and Joseph Fairhurst’s 80th-minute winner sealed the deal for Wigan.

It was a tale of two halves as Fleetwood started brightly but couldn’t hang on. Wigan’s late pressure paid off, and they took home all three points in a closely fought battle.

Marsh United 7-3 Astley FC Reserves
Marsh United turned on the style with a 7-3 demolition of Astley FC Reserves. Jamie Coulton and Daniel Smith both had days to remember, with Smith bagging a whopping four goals! Jak Turner and Tom Holt offered resistance for Astley, but they were simply outclassed.

Marsh United’s attacking firepower was on full display as they tore through Astley’s defense. It was a goal fest for the home fans, with Coulton and Smith running the show in this high-scoring encounter.

New Longton Rovers 0-7 Westgate Hawks
Westgate Hawks soared high with a 7-0 thrashing of New Longton Rovers. Edward Harrison grabbed a hat-trick, with goals from Devon Hill, Chris Kavanagh, and Charlie Smith adding to the scoreline. It was a dominant performance from start to finish as the Hawks never took their foot off the gas.

New Longton will be having nightmares about this one as Westgate’s attacking barrage left them without answers. A comprehensive win for the Hawks who were ruthless from the get-go.


Division Three

Broughton Amateurs AFC Reserves 5-0 Middleton & Overton Sports FC Reserves
Broughton Amateurs Reserves crushed Middleton & Overton Sports Reserves with a dominant 5-0 win. Charles Whitworth was unstoppable, netting four goals, while Mohamed Abdalla Hashim added another for good measure.

Middleton & Overton had no answer for Whitworth’s brilliance, as the striker put on a one-man show, sending Broughton’s fans home delighted.

Chipping FC A 1-4 Marsh United Reserves
Marsh United Reserves took control of this match, putting on a goal-scoring clinic to leave Chipping FC A in their wake. The first-half was all about Marsh’s attacking prowess, with Theo Callender opening the scoring in the 30th minute. Not to be outdone, Connor Wallis doubled the lead in the 38th minute with a precise finish, before Seamus Sharkey put the icing on the first-half cake with a goal in stoppage time (45+1). Chipping found themselves 3-0 down by the break and wondering how to stop the Marsh onslaught.

Despite some fight from Chipping FC in the second half, Marsh United Reserves kept the pressure on. Sonnie Thompson added a fourth goal in the 74th minute, sealing the win in style. Chipping did manage to find the back of the net, but it was too little, too late, as Marsh walked away with a well-earned 4-1 victory.

Walmer Bridge Reserves 3-0 AFC Ainsdale Reserves
Walmer Bridge Reserves were in full control with a 3-0 win over AFC Ainsdale Reserves. Ross Greenhalgh led the charge with a brace, while Charles Akporotu added a third to wrap up the points.

Ainsdale Reserves couldn’t break through the resolute Walmer defense, and Greenhalgh’s clinical finishing made sure it was a comfortable afternoon for the hosts.

Wyre Villa Reserves 6-0 Shevington Reserves
Wyre Villa Reserves enjoyed a goal-filled afternoon with a 6-0 thrashing of Shevington Reserves. Zach Crosbie and sub John Cardwell both grabbed two goals each, with Jacob Anderton and Danny Wilson joining the party.

It was a one-sided affair from start to finish, as Wyre Villa showed no mercy and gave their fans plenty to cheer about.


Liverpool County FA Saturday Junior Cup

Burscough Dynamo 2-0 Sankey Vale Reserves
Burscough Dynamo powered to a 2-0 victory over Sankey Vale Reserves in the Liverpool County FA Saturday Junior Cup. Curtis Carberry and Bradley Fanning found the net as Burscough’s defense held firm to keep a clean sheet.

It was a professional display from Burscough, who controlled the game and took their chances when they came, sending them through to the next round.

Haydock 1-1 (Pens 5-6) Bickerstaffe
After a tense 1-1 draw, Bickerstaffe emerged victorious in a dramatic penalty shootout. Alex Grisedale gave Bickerstaffe the lead in the 54th minute, but Haydock fought back to force spot-kicks. Bickerstaffe held their nerve to win 6-5 on penalties and advance.

It was a nail-biting finish to a fiercely contested match, with Bickerstaffe just edging it on penalties to keep their cup hopes alive.

Leyland RAFA Run Riot: Griffiths Bags Five in 10-Goal Mauling!

Premiership

Broughton 3-4 Bickerstaffe
Broughton’s early opener from John Gough in the 5th minute got the home fans buzzing, but Bickerstaffe had other plans! A whirlwind of goals from Matthew Bailey, Shay Banner, Paul Dunne, and Alex Griesdale secured the visitors a thrilling 4-3 win. Though Oli Jones fought back with two late goals (70′, 80′) for Broughton, it wasn’t enough to turn the tide in a pulsating seven-goal thriller!

Highgrove 9-1 Shevington
It was an absolute goal-fest at Highgrove, with a display of pure domination. Bradley Diamond started the party in the 9th minute, and the goals just kept pouring in, with Harvey Ogley, Joe Martin (a hat-trick!), Lewis McGrath, Hayden Ellis, and super-sub Tyler Hennedy all joining in the fun. Poor Shevington could only muster a solitary goal from Shaun Whittle as Highgrove hit nine!

Standish St Wilfird’s v Burscough Dynamo
A non-event on the pitch, as Standish St Wilfird’s bagged a walkover without breaking a sweat, with Burscough Dynamo unable to field a team.

Walmer Bridge 1-3 Eccleston & Heskin
After a quiet first half, the game burst into life as Ted Ball broke the deadlock for Eccleston & Heskin on the hour mark. Alex Brooks added a double (70′, 80′) to seal the deal, despite Jake Hardman’s 78th-minute effort for Walmer Bridge. A game of two halves, with Eccleston & Heskin coming out on top!

Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs 0-3 Tarleton Corinthians
A clinical display from Tarleton Corinthians saw them brush aside Southport & Ainsdale. Luca Intonazzo, George David Carrington, and Edward Latimer were on the scoresheet, ensuring a comfortable 3-0 win for the visitors.


Division One

Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves 2-3 Hoole United
Hoole United edged a tightly contested match against Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves, courtesy of goals from Alfie Parker (20′) and Adam Thomas (24′, 57′). Despite a spirited fightback, the hosts fell just short, losing 2-3.

Sir Tom Finney 2-4 Cherrybrook
Cherrybrook stormed to a 4-2 win over Sir Tom Finney, taking a 3-1 lead into halftime and never looking back. It was a case of too little, too late for the hosts as Cherrybrook ran away with all three points.

Appley Bridge 3-1 Standish St Wilfird’s Reserves
Declan Ashurst’s double was the highlight of Appley Bridge’s 3-1 win over Standish St Wilfird’s Reserves. James Harrison’s 66th-minute strike gave the visitors some hope, but Liam Hilton’s goal sealed the victory for the home side.

Cube FC 3-3 Astley FC
Cube FC and Astley played out an enthralling 3-3 draw, with goals flying in from all angles. Astley’s Cieran Dowd, Charles Young (35’), and Luke Robinson (45+2’) gave them the edge, but Cube FC showed their fighting spirit to claim a point.

Ribchester Rovers 0-10 Leyland RAFA
A demolition job from Leyland RAFA saw them hit Ribchester Rovers for ten! Jordan Griffiths stole the show with five goals, while Spencer Warburton added a hat-trick. Richard Coley and substitute Richard Cunningham rounded off the carnage in a one-sided affair.


Division Two

Castle FC 6-2 New Longton Rovers
Castle FC turned on the style with a 6-2 drubbing of New Longton Rovers. Guy Spence helped himself to a hat-trick, and with additional goals from Matthew Thomson, Ross Mills, and Toby Palamountain, Castle cruised to victory. Rovers’ George Kelly and Joseph Richardson could only grab consolations.

Astley FC Reserves 2-2 Middleton & Overton Sports
Astley FC Reserves had a fiery start, with Matthew Hurst scoring in the 9th minute and Lewis Sumner adding a second just before the break. However, Middleton & Overton Sports came fighting back with a penalty from Kieran Potts (4’) and an equalizer from Thomas Egan (55’) to share the spoils.

Fleetwood Hesketh 0-6 Burscough FC Reserves
Burscough FC Reserves were unstoppable in a 6-0 rout of Fleetwood Hesketh. Deliale Brester’s early hat-trick (8′, 17′, 38′) laid the foundation, with Lewis Bannister and Cole Connolly piling on the misery for Fleetwood in the second half.

Wigan Rovers 1-4 Marsh United
Marsh United secured a comfortable 4-1 away win at Wigan Rovers. Jamie Taylor’s early brace (7′, 24′) set the tone, and despite Sam Young’s 35th-minute strike for Wigan, Daniel Smith and Jamie Coulton ensured Marsh’s dominance with late goals.


Division Three

Bay Rangers FCA 5-2 Middleton & Overton Sports FC Reserves
Bay Rangers FCA ran riot with a 5-2 win, thanks to goals from Aiden Higgins, Kieran Potter, Jamie Scott, and Asa Stone’s brace. The visitors managed a couple of late goals through Jack Burba (62’) and Ben Kay (78’), but the result was never in doubt.

Bickerstaffe Reserves 6-2 Wyre Villa Reserves
Bickerstaffe Reserves enjoyed a goal-filled afternoon, with Adam Jarman bagging a hat-trick and Ollie Molyneux adding a goal in the 20th minute. Substitute Aidan Flynn put the cherry on top with a late strike as Wyre Villa Reserves were soundly beaten.

Broughton Amateurs AFC Reserves 5-4 Walmer Bridge Reserves
An absolute rollercoaster at Broughton Amateurs as they edged Walmer Bridge Reserves 5-4. Charlie Whitworth set the tone early (2′), followed by Matt Holden and a late flurry from Collins Iheuko and Dilan Joseph Daly, who completed a heroic comeback after Walmer Bridge had twice drawn level.

Chipping FC A 1-1 AFC Ainsdale Reserves
Chipping FC A took an early lead thanks to Kieran Smithson, but Ainsdale Reserves clawed their way back with a 53rd-minute equalizer from Zack Baggaley to ensure a 1-1 draw in a closely fought contest.

Shevington Reserves 1-2 Marsh United Reserves
Marsh United Reserves secured a gritty 2-1 win at Shevington Reserves, with Connor Wallis giving them a first-half lead (41’) and Peter Myerscough sealing the win with a 72nd-minute strike.

Guildhall Cup 24/25 – Round 2

The upcoming fixtures for Round 2 are listed below. These matches are to take place on Saturday 26th October.

Appley Bridge

v

Cherrybrook

Castle FC

v

Hoole United

Sir Tom Finney

v

Marsh United

Burscough FC Reserves

v

Astley FC

Wyre Villa Reserves

v

AFC Ainsdale

From last-minute winners to goal-filled thrillers, this weekend’s football had it all!

Premiership

Bickerstaffe 2-2 Broughton Amateurs
The Broughton Amateurs came out of the gate like a pack of greyhounds chasing a rogue sausage, with Liam Bell netting twice before the half-hour mark, leaving the Bickerstaffe defense dazed and confused. First, he coolly slotted one in at the 5-minute mark, and before Bickerstaffe could catch their breath, he made it 2-0 by the 30th minute.

Bickerstaffe’s response in the second half was slow, but when they got going, it was like watching a steam train gather momentum. Though the goals weren’t listed, we know Bickerstaffe clawed back to earn a dramatic 2-2 draw. It’s a tale of two halves, with Broughton wondering what might have been if they hadn’t run out of steam.


Division One

Leyland RAFA 3-2 Astley FC
This was a rollercoaster of emotions that made the fans wish they had brought popcorn. Leyland took an early lead thanks to Jordan Griffiths’ 12th-minute opener, but Astley’s James Knott tied things up by the 29th minute, setting the tone for a frantic game.

As the second half wore on, Astley thought they’d snatched it when Tom Crook gave them a 2-1 lead in the 63rd minute. But Griffiths had other plans, equalizing two minutes later and then sealing the deal with a last-gasp 90+ winner, completing his hat-trick. Leyland RAFA celebrated like they’d won the World Cup, and Astley? Well, they were left scratching their heads.

Standish St Wilfrids Reserves 4-3 Cube FC
Standish started strong with a Max Foley goal in the 38th minute, only for Cube’s Malakai Pharrelle Taylor McKenzie to level just as fast. But before halftime, James Fairhurst gave Standish the lead again. It was end-to-end madness as Taylor McKenzie equalized once more after halftime.

But Standish kept their cool, with Rob Thomas and James Harrison scoring two quick-fire goals to take a 4-2 lead. Cube made things tense when Khalid Sheikh pulled one back, but the Wilfrids held on to win in this thriller that had more plot twists than a soap opera.


Division Two

Fleetwood Hesketh 1-9 Marsh United
The Marsh United express train arrived early, with Jamie Taylor firing the first warning shot just 10 minutes in. From then on, it was a goal-fest as Fynlay Robert Wren netted a brace and Christopher Davis joined the party before Aaron Hoyle and Jamie Coulton turned the game into a rout.

Fleetwood’s Frankie Pearson mustered a consolation in the 51st minute, but it was as useful as a chocolate teapot against the tidal wave that was Marsh United. The match ended 1-9, with Fleetwood fans leaving faster than a cat at a dog show.


Division Three

AFC Ainsdale Reserves 3-2 Bickerstaffe Reserves
Ainsdale took an early lead through David Whittaker before Jack Kennedy Howlett doubled it by the 39th minute. Bickerstaffe replied with two goals to level the match just before halftime, leaving everyone wondering who would have the last laugh.

Ainsdale kept their cool, and in the 84th minute, Aldo Pimenta popped up with the winner, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Bickerstaffe fought hard, but it was AFC Ainsdale Reserves who left the field smiling.

Marsh United Reserves 5-1 Broughton Amateurs AFC Reserves
Peter Myerscough decided to start his own goal-scoring show, netting twice in the first half to put Marsh United Reserves comfortably ahead. The second half was more of the same, with Charlie-Scott Thompson, Jordan Ghorst, and Steven Richardson all finding the net.

Broughton’s lone highlight came from sub Andrew Crossthwaite, but by that point, it was like putting a plaster on a broken leg. Marsh United Reserves strolled to a 5-1 victory and celebrated like it was Christmas morning.

Walmer Bridge Reserves 2-1 Bay Rangers FC A
Walmer Bridge Reserves wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Adam Rae striking first in the 20th minute, followed by a second from Charles Akporotu at the 35-minute mark. Bay Rangers replied almost instantly through Asa Stone, making it 2-1 just before the break.

The second half saw both teams huff and puff, but neither could blow the house down. The score stayed 2-1 as Walmer Bridge held on for the win, while Bay Rangers were left wondering where that first-half spark went.


Lancashire FA Amateur Cup

CMB Sports Club Reserves 3-2 AFC Ainsdale
AFC Ainsdale fought valiantly in this Lancashire FA Amateur Cup clash, pulling off a dramatic comeback from 2-0 down to level the match early in the second half through Fabrizio Anelli and Charles Lunt. But it wasn’t to be, as CMB Sports found a third goal in the 65th minute and held on for dear life.

Ainsdale huffed and puffed but couldn’t blow the CMB Sports house down. Despite the loss, they’ll be proud of their fightback—but perhaps a bit miffed at that missing final push.

Castle FC 8-0 Millhead
It was more of a landslide than a football match at Castle FC, where Ross Mills kicked off the goal fest just 5 minutes in. Leslie Comerford was on a mission, grabbing four goals, while Nathan Hagarty, Joe Nelligan, and sub Stephen Howley piled on the misery for Millhead.

It was an absolute masterclass from Castle, who treated Millhead like a speed bump on their way to an 8-0 hammering. Millhead fans left the ground in disbelief, while Castle players might need to share that match ball with their entire team.

Cherrybrook 2-0 Peel Park
Martyn Glover wasted no time putting Cherrybrook ahead, finding the net just 5 minutes in. From there, the game turned into a midfield scrap, with neither side giving an inch. Peel Park fought hard but couldn’t find a way through.

Just when it seemed like the game would end 1-0, Tommy Harban struck in the 83rd minute to put the game to bed, with an assist from Jack Crowther. Cherrybrook took home the points and left Peel Park scratching their heads.

Chipping FC A 3-3 (Pens 4-2) Croft
This game had more comebacks than a bad sequel. Croft raced to a 3-0 lead, only to be pegged back by a determined Chipping side. George Bolton started the fightback, with Reuben Keefe and Joseph Cort completing the comeback by the 84th minute.

In the shootout, Chipping kept their nerve, winning 4-2 on penalties and booking their place in the next round, while Croft will be wondering how they let this one slip through their fingers.

Highgrove 2-3 Pennington Reserve
Highgrove’s defense started with all the stability of a jelly on a trampoline, conceding twice before halftime. Pennington Reserve looked to be cruising to an easy win, but Joe Martin’s 59th-minute goal sparked a comeback that made Highgrove fans start to believe.

Harvey Ogley then leveled the score at 2-2, setting up what could have been a heroic fightback. But football has a funny way of breaking hearts, and Pennington delivered a dagger with a late winner, snatching victory 3-2 just when Highgrove had a glimmer of hope.

Little Lever Sports Club 2-4 Standish St Wilfrids
It was the Samir Sobeih show as Standish’s striker single-handedly tore apart Little Lever Sports Club, scoring four times in a dominant performance. He struck twice before halftime, leaving Little Lever’s defense in disarray. They tried to claw their way back in the second half, but Sobeih wasn’t done, netting his third and fourth goals to make sure Standish walked away with the win.

Little Lever managed to make the scoreline respectable with two late goals, but it was too little, too late. Standish’s bus home must have been buzzing, while Little Lever was probably searching for a new game plan (and a way to stop Sobeih).

Middleton & Overton Sports 1-6 Hest Bank Utd
Middleton & Overton Sports probably wish they’d stayed in bed for this one. Hest Bank Utd came out firing, taking the lead within 12 minutes and never looking back. Although Jake Dwyer gave Middleton hope with an equalizer, that hope was quickly extinguished as Hest Bank piled on the goals, adding five more to their tally.

The second half was a slow, painful march for Middleton, while Hest Bank coasted to a comfortable 6-1 win. It’s safe to say Hest Bank players celebrated with more than a few pints after this performance!

New Longton Rovers 1-6 Rochdalians AFC
This match had more cards than a poker tournament and more goals than New Longton Rovers would like to remember. Rochdalians took a commanding 4-0 lead before halftime, and despite a brief moment of joy for New Longton when George Kelly scored, things went downhill fast.

Kelly saw red shortly after, leaving Rovers a man down, and Rochdalians pounced, scoring twice more to make it 6-1. By the end, both teams had collected yellow cards like they were going out of fashion, and New Longton were left to rue a day where nothing seemed to go right.

Preston Wanderers 3-2 Southport FC U21
Preston Wanderers must have thought they had this game in the bag when they went 3-0 up by the 46th minute, with goals from Lewis Scanlan, Casey Armstrong, and Charlie Swindlehurst. Southport FC U21 were down a man after a red card in the 25th minute, but that didn’t stop them from making a dramatic late comeback.

Two goals in the final 15 minutes from Southport made for a nervy finish, but Preston held on for a 3-2 win. As the final whistle blew, Preston fans sighed with relief, while Southport must have been left thinking, “What if…?”

Shevington 2-2 Burnley Belvedere (Pens 1-3)
Louie Fitzpatrick was the hero and the heartbreaker in this dramatic clash. His opening goal gave Shevington the lead, but Burnley Belvedere quickly replied with two goals to turn the game on its head by halftime. Shevington pushed hard for an equalizer, and Fitzpatrick delivered once again in the 83rd minute to make it 2-2.

The game went to penalties, and that’s where Shevington’s luck ran out. Burnley held their nerve, winning the shootout 3-1, leaving Shevington to rue what could have been, while Burnley celebrated their progression with confidence.

Wardle 4-0 Wigan Rovers
Wardle’s dominance was evident from the first whistle, as they tore into Wigan Rovers with goals raining down in the first half. By the 38th minute, they were already 3-0 up, with Wigan looking like they were chasing shadows.

The second half didn’t provide much respite for the beleaguered Rovers, as Wardle added a fourth goal just to rub salt into the wound. Wardle’s fans were ecstatic, while Wigan left the pitch probably wishing they could forget the whole day ever happened.

Whitworth Valley 4-0 Tarleton Corinthians
Whitworth Valley took no prisoners in this one-sided affair, running out 4-0 winners against a hapless Tarleton Corinthians side. The match felt more like a training session for Whitworth as they dominated from start to finish.

Tarleton never got a look-in, as Whitworth’s relentless attack proved too much for them to handle. By the time the final whistle blew, the Corinthians players were just glad it was over, while Whitworth strolled off the pitch, barely breaking a sweat.

Winstanley St Aidans 9-1 Sir Tom Finney
Sir Tom Finney FC might want to skip the highlights reel of this game. Winstanley St Aidans ran riot, scoring nine goals and leaving Sir Tom Finney’s defense in tatters. Adrian Barbu’s lone goal for Sir Tom Finney was the football equivalent of finding a penny in an empty piggy bank—it wasn’t going to save the day.

Winstanley looked like they were having the time of their lives, scoring at will and running the show from start to finish. Sir Tom Finney will need to regroup quickly after this drubbing, but for now, Winstanley are the talk of the town.

Wyre Villa Reserves 4-3 Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves
If you like late drama, this was the game for you. Southport took an early lead through Joshua Brooks and led 1-0 at halftime. The second half, however, was chaos. Wyre Villa equalized via a Travis Stringfellow penalty, but Southport regained the lead through Will Whiteside.

Then it got wild. Wyre scored twice, first through Tomas Wright and then Jake Anderton, only for Southport’s sub Reece Davies to level at 3-3. With just minutes left, Jamie Houghton popped up to score the winner for Wyre Villa, capping off a wild 4-3 thriller.

Thrilling Goals, Dramatic Penalties, and Cup Chaos: A Recap of Saturday’s Action

From a 7-7 penalty shootout thriller to a 9-1 demolition, Saturday’s fixtures had it all – goals galore, last-minute drama, and unforgettable moments!

Premiership

Burscough Dynamo 2-2 Shevington
It was a tale of two halves for Burscough Dynamo as they battled Shevington in a game full of twists, turns, and a few questionable passes. Shevington’s Jordan Dainty broke the deadlock in the 14th minute, and it looked like Dynamo were running on empty. But in classic fashion, Burscough found some late heroics. Substitute Curtis Carberry was subbed on and wasted no time in bringing Dynamo back into the game, leveling the score early in the second half like a superhero throwing on his cape mid-battle.

Dynamo’s Dylan Kenyon then took the lead with a cheeky finish that sent the home fans wild, but Ryan Crawford of Shevington had other plans, equalizing just past the hour mark. The game finished 2-2, leaving both sides with a point and Burscough wondering what might have been if they’d remembered to turn up for the first 45 minutes.

Eccleston & Heskin 3-2 Preston Wanderers
This match was like a rollercoaster of emotions, with Eccleston & Heskin and Preston Wanderers trading goals like they were swapping football cards. Jordan Aird got things going for Eccleston with a goal in the 11th minute, and Ted Ball doubled the lead with a strike so smooth it could have been buttered. But just when they thought they had it wrapped up, Preston’s Declan Creighton pulled one back, and Finlay Stewart equalized before halftime, proving once again that football is a game of two halves.

The second half was a battle of wills, but it was David McMillan who provided the final twist, scoring the winner for Eccleston in the 69th minute. Preston Wanderers pushed hard for an equalizer, but the Eccleston defense stood firm, sending Wanderers home wondering where it all went wrong.

Walmer Bridge 1-0 Highgrove
Walmer Bridge kept things simple but effective in their clash with Highgrove, with Zak Deaves’ 29th-minute goal proving to be the difference. In a match that could only be described as “tactically cautious” (a.k.a., slightly boring), Deaves’ strike was the highlight of a first half that had more possession changes than shots on goal. Highgrove, meanwhile, made a flurry of substitutions like they were auditioning for a Broadway show, but none could find the magic touch.

Despite their best efforts and some interesting tactical choices, Highgrove couldn’t break down the Walmer Bridge defense. The final whistle blew, leaving Walmer with a 1-0 win and Highgrove cursing their luck—or possibly their tactical book.

Division Three

Bickerstaffe Reserves 1-2 Marsh United Reserves
Marsh United Reserves left Bickerstaffe scratching their heads after a tight 2-1 victory that could have gone either way. Peter Myerscough opened the scoring for Marsh in the 23rd minute, and by halftime, Bickerstaffe looked like they needed a team talk worthy of a Hollywood sports movie. However, instead of a dramatic comeback, Nathan Graham doubled Marsh’s lead with a goal in the 56th minute, leaving Bickerstaffe feeling like they were chasing shadows.

Bickerstaffe managed to pull one back late in the game, but it was too little, too late. Marsh United held on for the win, and Bickerstaffe were left rueing missed chances—and maybe a few missed tackles too.

Middleton & Overton Reserves 3-8 Shevington Reserves
Shevington Reserves showed no mercy as they ran riot over Middleton & Overton Reserves, scoring eight goals in what turned into a rout. Ben Lyons was the star of the show, bagging four goals and leaving Middleton’s defense chasing their own shadows. Robert Pilling opened the scoring in just the 5th minute, and from there, it was one-way traffic as Shevington piled on the misery.

Middleton managed to grab three consolation goals, but by that point, it was like sticking a plaster on a sinking ship. Shevington celebrated a dominant win, while Middleton will be hoping for a better day at the office next time.

Guildhall Cup Thrillers

AFC Ainsdale 6-0 Chipping FC A
AFC Ainsdale decided to throw a goal-scoring party, and poor Chipping FC A forgot to bring their defense. Matthew Howard got things rolling with a 34th-minute opener, and after that, it was like Ainsdale couldn’t stop scoring. Howard grabbed another just before the hour, and substitute Lewis Harwood made an instant impact, adding Ainsdale’s third and fifth goals like he’d just come off the bench in a FIFA match.

Chipping’s defense spent most of the game chasing shadows, and by the time Fabrizio Anelli scored the sixth in the 90th minute, they were probably counting down the seconds until the final whistle. Ainsdale could’ve scored more, but they kindly decided to stop at six.

Astley FC 4-2 New Longton Rovers
Astley FC’s Luke Robinson was in the mood for goals, bagging a hat-trick in the first 35 minutes to leave New Longton Rovers wondering if they’d stumbled into a one-man show. Robinson’s finishing was clinical, and by the time James Knott added a fourth just before halftime, Astley were cruising. New Longton tried to mount a comeback in the second half with goals from Christian Roach and George Kelly, but the damage was already done.

Astley took their foot off the gas in the second half, allowing Rovers some time in the spotlight, but the three-goal deficit was too much to overcome. Astley bagged the win, with Robinson undoubtedly making his case for man of the match—and possibly an early Christmas bonus.

Burscough FC Reserves 7-7 Cube FC (Pens 5-4)
Buckle up, folks, because Burscough FC Reserves vs Cube FC was a match so wild it could be mistaken for a video game. Cube struck first with Khalid Sheikh opening the scoring, but Burscough’s Lewis Bannister quickly equalized, making it 1-1 by the 7th minute. The goals came thick and fast after that, with Malakai Pharrelle Taylor McKenzie netting twice for Cube and Charlie Ellis answering back for Burscough to make it 3-3 by the hour mark. From there, it became a ping-pong game of goals, with McKenzie and Ellis both completing hat-tricks. Just when Cube thought they had it at 5-3, Burscough stormed back to tie it 5-5.

Cube’s McKenzie added another, and Sheikh made it 7-5, surely sealing the game—or so they thought. But Burscough weren’t done yet. With a late goal from Tom Wakefield in the 89th minute and a last-gasp equalizer in stoppage time from Delial Brewster, Burscough sent the game to penalties in the most dramatic fashion possible.

The penalty shootout was just as chaotic, with Cube’s luck running out as they missed three crucial kicks. Burscough, cool as ice, slotted home five penalties to win the shootout 5-4. This game had more plot twists than a soap opera, and neither side will forget it anytime soon.

Cherrybrook 9-1 Ribchester Rovers
Cherrybrook turned Ribchester into a defensive disaster zone, with Jack Crowther and Tommy Harban treating the goal like it was an all-you-can-score buffet. Crowther opened the feast at 19 minutes and couldn’t stop, helping himself to four goals like he was at a Sunday roast. Harban, not to be outdone, chipped in with four of his own, making it a day of absolute carnage for the Ribchester defense. By the time Robbie Heaton joined the party at 4-0, Ribchester were already booking their therapy sessions.

Ribchester finally found the back of the net in the 88th minute thanks to Ben Bristo, but by then, it was like finding the last chip after everyone’s already left the party. Cherrybrook finished 9-1, leaving Ribchester licking their wounds and wondering how Crowther and Harban could still walk after scoring so much.

Fleetwood Hesketh 0-1 Wyre Villa Reserves
In a game tighter than a jar of pickles, Wyre Villa Reserves managed to pry open Fleetwood Hesketh’s defense just once, and that was all they needed. Toby Smith’s second-half strike wasn’t exactly a thunderbolt, but it was enough to send the Wyre fans home with something to celebrate. Fleetwood Hesketh, on the other hand, might want to start a petition to widen the goalposts – they couldn’t hit the target if it was the size of a barn door.

The match was otherwise a snoozefest for the neutrals, with the highlight being a pigeon that spent most of the second half perched on the crossbar, probably having a better view than the rest of us.

Hoole United 2-0 Wigan Rovers
Hoole United left it late but finally got things going after an hour of trying to remember where they left the goal. Enter Alfie Parker, who broke the deadlock in the 65th minute and then decided one wasn’t enough, adding another ten minutes later to secure a 2-0 win. Parker was basically playing his own game, while Wigan Rovers were still trying to figure out the instructions.

Wigan will feel hard done by, as their second-half substitutions didn’t quite spark the revolution they’d hoped for. Instead, it was all about Hoole and their Alfie – Parker by name, poacher by nature.

Sir Tom Finney 2-2 (Pens 4-3) Middleton & Overton Sports
Sir Tom Finney and Middleton & Overton Sports decided that a regular game just wasn’t exciting enough, so they threw in a penalty shootout for good measure. It all started off well for Sir Tom Finney, with Thomas Weatherill opening the scoring early. But Middleton & Overton had other plans, with Cameron Isherwood equalizing just 13 minutes later. The second half saw Jack Burba give Middleton a lead, but Kevton Foster wasn’t having any of that nonsense and leveled the score late on.

The penalty shootout was full of drama, tension, and probably a few chewed fingernails. In the end, it was Sir Tom Finney who held their nerve to win 4-3 on penalties, leaving Middleton & Overton wishing they’d practiced a few more spot-kicks during the week.

Westgate Hawks 0-8 Marsh United
Westgate Hawks had barely blinked when Marsh United scored their first goal – 40 seconds into the match. From there, it was a brutal day at the office for the Hawks, who were left chasing shadows as Marsh piled on the goals like a team possessed. By halftime, it was already 4-0, and the Hawks’ morale had left the building.

The second half was more of the same, with Jamie Taylor finishing off his hat-trick and Marsh United continuing to score at will. When Christopher Davis scored the eighth goal, it was more of a mercy kill than a celebration. Marsh United walked away with an 8-0 win, while Westgate Hawks are probably still looking for where they left their defense.

High-Scoring Thrills and Dramatic Comebacks: A Recap of Saturday’s Football Action!

Premiership

Bickerstaffe 4-1 Tarleton Corinthians
Bickerstaffe delivered an impressive 4-1 win against Tarleton Corinthians. Shay Banner opened the scoring, followed by Thomas Bradley, Josh Grice, and substitute Jay Luca Clandon, who capped off the victory with a late goal. Tarleton Corinthians’ George David Carrington netted a consolation goal for the visitors, but it wasn’t enough to challenge Bickerstaffe’s commanding performance.

Broughton Amateurs 3-4 Eccleston & Heskin
In a thrilling encounter, Eccleston & Heskin edged out Broughton Amateurs 4-3. Ted Ball and Ryan Thompson scored early for the visitors, but Broughton’s Liam Bell pulled one back before the break and equalized shortly after halftime. Eccleston’s Jordan Aird responded with a quick-fire brace, giving his side a two-goal cushion. Broughton’s Benjamin Fry scored late on, but Eccleston held on for a hard-fought victory.

Highgrove 1-5 Standish St Wilfrids
Standish St Wilfrids dominated Highgrove with a 5-1 win. Despite Daniel Hammond giving Highgrove an early lead, Standish responded through Josef Dineley and Ross Ellison, who scored a hat-trick, before substitute Louis Halliwell completed the rout. Highgrove couldn’t keep pace with Standish’s relentless attack.

Preston Wanderers 3-1 Burscough Dynamo
Preston Wanderers secured a solid 3-1 victory over Burscough Dynamo. Declan Creighton and Finlay Stewart gave Preston a 2-0 lead before Ben Holmes pulled one back for Dynamo. However, Stewart’s second goal sealed the win for the home side.

Shevington 2-1 Walmer Bridge
Shevington came out on top with a 2-1 victory over Walmer Bridge. Edward Braithwaite and Louie Fitzpatrick scored for Shevington, while Charlie Killeen netted a late goal for Walmer Bridge, but it wasn’t enough to salvage any points.


Division One

Appley Bridge 8-1 AFC Ainsdale
Appley Bridge delivered a commanding 8-1 demolition of AFC Ainsdale, with Liam Hilton leading the charge by netting five goals. Mattias Lokuta added two more, and Rhys Evans scored to complete the rout. AFC Ainsdale managed to score a consolation goal, but it was a day to forget for the visitors.

Hoole United 4-3 Cube FC
Hoole United snatched a dramatic 4-3 win over Cube FC. Gary Hughes and Harvey Torrance scored for Hoole, with substitute Adam Thomas netting twice, including an 88th-minute winner. Cube FC fought hard, leading 2-1 at halftime and then retaking the lead at 3-2, but Hoole’s late surge earned them a thrilling victory.

Leyland RAFA FC 6-2 Cherrybrook
Leyland RAFA cruised to a 6-2 win over Cherrybrook, with Richard Coley and Jordan Griffiths leading the charge. Griffiths scored a hat-trick, including a penalty, while George Peprah added another. Cherrybrook’s Liam Hughes and Jack Crowther scored for the visitors, but Leyland RAFA’s dominant performance sealed the win.

Ribchester Rovers 1-3 Sir Tom Finney
Sir Tom Finney FC picked up a 3-1 win against Ribchester Rovers. Kevton Foster’s early penalty and goals from Connor Garrett and Ibrahim Alsenoussi gave them a commanding lead at halftime. Ribchester’s Lee Miller pulled one back in the second half, but the result was already beyond doubt.

Standish St Wilfrids Reserves 2-2 Astley FC
Standish St Wilfrids Reserves drew 2-2 with Astley FC in an evenly-matched game. Jay Bramwell opened the scoring for Standish, and an own goal from Astley late on helped them avoid defeat. Astley’s Luke Robinson scored twice to keep the visitors in the game, and both sides shared the points in the end.


Division Two

Astley FC Reserves 2-2 Fleetwood Hesketh
Astley FC Reserves drew 2-2 with Fleetwood Hesketh. Andrew Maxted’s brace for the home side was canceled out by Scott Burns and Robert Hardaker for Fleetwood. Maxted gave Astley the lead twice, but Hardaker’s equalizer in the second half ensured the points were shared.

Castle FC 5-2 Wigan Rovers
Castle FC secured a 5-2 victory over Wigan Rovers. The home side’s scorers weren’t documented, but they led throughout the game. Wigan’s Ben Harford and Jamie Roe netted for the visitors, but Castle FC’s clinical performance secured all three points.

Marsh United 1-4 Burscough FC Reserves
Burscough FC Reserves triumphed 4-1 over Marsh United, with Sam Roche netting twice before being subbed off at halftime. Deliale Brewster and Ben Nutbrown added to the score in the second half, while Marsh’s Peter Myerscough grabbed a consolation goal late on.

Westgate Hawks 2-2 Middleton & Overton Sports FC
Westgate Hawks and Middleton & Overton Sports played out an entertaining 2-2 draw. Middleton’s Elliott Mooring scored twice, but Westgate responded with goals from Edward Harrison and Devon Hill, ensuring a share of the spoils.


Division Three

AFC Ainsdale Reserves 0-8 Marsh United Reserves
Marsh United Reserves ran riot with an 8-0 win over AFC Ainsdale Reserves. Connor Wallis scored twice, with Charlie-Scott Thompson, Harry Tinkler, Sonnie Thompson, Ewen Callender, Joseph Raymond, and Luke Willett all adding to the scoreline in a dominant performance.

Bay Rangers FCA 3-4 Shevington Reserves
Shevington Reserves edged a 4-3 thriller against Bay Rangers FCA. Christopher Robinson scored twice for Shevington, while Thomas Geary’s hat-trick kept Bay Rangers in the game. A late goal from Alex Farley in injury time secured the win for Shevington in a dramatic finish.

Chipping FC A 1-1 Broughton Amateurs AFC Reserves
Chipping FC A and Broughton Amateurs Reserves played out a 1-1 draw. Charles Whitworth’s 25th-minute strike gave Broughton the lead, but Chipping fought back to earn a point in the second half.

Goals, Drama, and Last-Minute Thrills

A Weekend of Football Action – With Stunning Shots from Wyre Villa vs Chipping FC A by Derick Thomas!

Saturday’s football action was filled with excitement, drama, and goals, with teams across the divisions battling it out in a thrilling round of fixtures. From Bickerstaffe’s solid 2-0 win in the Premiership to the rollercoaster 5-4 scoreline in Division Three between Bay Rangers and Bickerstaffe Reserves, there was no shortage of entertainment. Special mention goes to the clash between Wyre Villa Reserves and Chipping FC A, where a late goal sealed a hard-fought 1-0 win for Chipping, captured in stunning detail by photographer Derick Thomas. His photos bring the intensity of the match to life in this week’s report.

Bickerstaffe 2-0 Burscough Dynamo
Bickerstaffe continued their fine form with a solid 2-0 victory over Burscough Dynamo. William Lamb opened the scoring midway through the first half, giving the home side a 1-0 lead at the break. Luke Mcateer added a second in the 70th minute to seal the win, as Burscough struggled to find a response. A disciplined performance from Bickerstaffe secured all three points.

Broughton Amateurs 1-6 Standish St Wilfrids
It was a day to forget for Broughton Amateurs, as Standish St Wilfrids ran riot in a 6-1 demolition job. Johan Du Toit started the goal spree for Standish, followed by a quickfire hat-trick from Samir Sobeih, who found the net three times in just ten minutes. Ross Ellison made it 5-0 before halftime, leaving Broughton with a mountain to climb. Oliver Jones netted a consolation goal, but Louis Halliwell’s late strike put the final nail in the coffin. A clinical display from Standish St Wilfrids.

Highgrove 6-0 Eccleston & Heskin
Highgrove turned on the style with a comprehensive 6-0 thrashing of Eccleston & Heskin. Luke Bradley’s brace and a goal from Joe Martin had Highgrove cruising by halftime. The second half saw further goals from Joe Martin, Harvey Ogley, and a late strike by Kaine Walmsley to cap off an outstanding team performance. Eccleston & Heskin were left chasing shadows as Highgrove dominated from start to finish.

Tarleton Corinthians 5-1 Shevington
Tarleton Corinthians produced a dazzling attacking display to down Shevington 5-1. George David Carrington opened the scoring early, followed by goals from Edward Latimer and Freddie Brookbanks to give Tarleton a comfortable lead. Further strikes from Luca Intonazzo and Carrington sealed the win, while Shevington’s Frankie McConville scored a late consolation.


Division One Drama: Thrillers and Goal Fests

Cube FC 3-3 Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves
A true rollercoaster of a match saw Cube FC and Southport & Ainsdale Amateurs Reserves share the spoils in a 3-3 thriller. Ubaid Patel scored twice early for Cube, but Southport & Ainsdale clawed back with goals from Sean Doran and Thomas Elliot Haworth before halftime. Jack Osborne gave the visitors a 3-2 lead in the second half, but deep into stoppage time, Malakai Pharrelle Taylor McKenzie rescued a point for Cube with a dramatic equalizer.

Sir Tom Finney 7-2 AFC Ainsdale
Sir Tom Finney put on a goal-scoring clinic with a 7-2 triumph over AFC Ainsdale. Adrian Barbu kicked off the scoring, followed by braces from Jordon Doyle and Conor Garrett, and a goal from Abdullah Shaban to round off the rout. AFC Ainsdale managed two consolation goals, but they were no match for Sir Tom Finney’s attacking prowess.


Division Two: Late Drama and Close Contests

New Longton Rovers 3-1 Wigan Rovers
New Longton Rovers fought back from an early deficit to secure a 3-1 victory over Wigan Rovers. Joseph Fairhurst gave Wigan the lead, but New Longton responded quickly through Alexander Jackson. George Kelly’s double, with goals just before halftime and in the 73rd minute, sealed the comeback win for the home side. Wigan’s early promise faded as New Longton’s quality shone through.

Burscough FC Reserves 2-3 Marsh United
Marsh United edged out Burscough FC Reserves 3-2 in a game filled with penalties and late drama. Aaron Hoyle opened the scoring for Marsh with a penalty, and Connor Wallis added a second deep into first-half stoppage time. Burscough fought back with a penalty of their own, but Alfie Hoyle’s late goal seemed to have sealed the game. A late goal from Burscough made for a tense finish, but Marsh held on for the win.


Division Three: Wild Scorelines and Late Winners

Wyre Villa Reserves 0-1 Chipping FC A
In a tight and tense contest, Chipping FC A took all three points with a 1-0 win over Wyre Villa Reserves. After a goalless first half, Nathan Crook broke the deadlock in the 71st minute, guiding Chipping to victory. Wyre Villa Reserves pressed for an equalizer, but Chipping held firm to secure a hard-fought win. Photos from this game, courtesy of Derick Thomas, capture the intensity of the match perfectly.

Bay Rangers FCA 4-5 Bickerstaffe Reserves
In a pulsating encounter, Bickerstaffe Reserves snatched a 5-4 victory over Bay Rangers FCA. The game saw goals fly in from both sides, with Tom Hankin and Jake Williams among the scorers for Bickerstaffe. Bay Rangers’ Ricky Ball bagged a second-half brace to bring the score level, but Joshua Hough’s late strike earned Bickerstaffe the win in a nine-goal thriller.