Reserves March report

March has been a tough month but we have had a maximum 12 from 12 points which is pleasing but going out of the reserve division league cup on pens was disappointing, with a young depleted side to a good Padiham outfit.
  The injuries have been well documented and at times its been difficult getting a side together culminating in having only 12 fit players and the bench being made up of lads carrying injuries.  All credit to the lads though 450 minutes without conceding which ended last night against a very good Wigan Robin Park outfit.  Its good to see Adam Greenwood back playing again and looking like his old self as well, Matthew Cavanagh has been superb this month at centre half, he's composed never looks rushed and like all good centre halfs reads the game well and makes minimal mistakes.  We have lost a few players this month and to be honest their attitude disappoints me as the people of Barnoldswick are always critical of our club saying we don't have enough locals playing in the reserves and first team.  There are numerous reasons for this and here are a few, the poor mentality of local lads who when the going gets tough disappear, the lack of ability and thirdly the lack of committment to playing at semi professinal level.  There are no easy games at this level and when you play for Barlick at local level it is most peoples cup final so you have to play well or at a minimum give everything you have for 90 minutes.  I for 1 would like to see 22 local lads playing in the first and second team but until all the above are addressed by the players themselves you and i won't see it.  Onto April now and we haven't given up in the league just yet as the teams above us both have difficult run ins.  We have a craven cup semi to play against a very good Rimington side, this is the part of the season where you need momentum and we seem to be fingers crossed, getting a head of steam up.

Stephen Chew BTFC

Padiham Reaction

Ben Hall. “ In the first half we played ok, we created numerous chances and we felt we were unfortunate to go in at half time behind. The second goal killed us there is no doubt about that and to be fair Padiham did well and they took their chances as Fildesy always seems to do against us. Some of the lads shouldn’t have played but they threw a shirt on and gave it all they had but in the end it showed that we weren’t 100% right. Looking forward to Formby and Congleton we have major doubts over Hollindrake, Grimes and Hayton whilst  Smith, Clarke, Airdrie and Blades are definitely out. We are desperately looking to bring one or two in but with the deadline gone it isn’t going to prove easy. The season is turning into a nightmare due to injuries and there is no doubt that is a major reason for us losing these two games, its not an excuse it’s a fact

Maine Road Reaction

Ben Hall. “ It was a tough night, they played very well and pressed us all over the pitch and looked fresher than we did. We started very well and played some excellent football and I thought we were going to score more than the one we got,  but they upped it and we couldn’t match them. Our passing was off and some of the lads looked a bit jaded. We are struggling for numbers and Smith, Clough and Chapman picked up knocks and Blades is struggling with his foot. I wouldn’t expect any of them to be fit for the Padiham match  and  we’ll have to check on Overson and Hollindrake before we think about putting a side out on Saturday. We are still fourth, we have lost six games all season, and we must continue to enjoy ourselves because 17 other teams would swap places with us that’s for sure. The deadline is next week and it looks unlikely that we’ll bring anybody in because at a minimum they have to be as good as what we have and there isn’t many of them about.”

Glossop Reaction

Ben Hall. “ It took us a while to get going but when we did we fully merited the victory. We were a bit predictable in the first half and didn’t create much, having said that neither did they and their goal was fortunate but the second half we were more like ourselves. Chappy’s goal was worthy of winning any game and he delivers time after time for us and we are lucky to have a player like him at the club. Also we must praise Chris Thompson. Saturday morning was chaotic and he only signed an hour before the deadline so to produce a performance like that on debut shows we have signed a extremely good goalkeeper.”

Atherton LR Reaction

Ben Hall. “ We don’t quite know how that has happened to us to be fair. Take the first 15 minutes out we were excellent, created a hatful of chances, hit the woodwork three times and their keeper has made three saves which he had no right to make. Forget the final two goals because we had committed so many bodies forward we were always going to leave gaps and they took their chances. They had five attempts all night and scored four which tells you all you need to know about the quality of their finishing. The lads aren’t down, but we can’t keep giving teams starts against us. Silsden and now Atherton have parked their bus because we gave them something to hang on to so we need to start games better. It’s just one of those games which happens now and then but the overall performance was very good again.”

Alsager Reaction.

Ben Hall. “ The conditions were tough on Saturday and in the first half we struggled to come to terms with them, and in addition Alsager were quite lively so we had to be on our toes. Gabs goal just before half time settled us and in the second period we were excellent and we should have scored more. The one and two touch stuff was a joy to watch culminating in G’s goal which was out of the top drawer. We had the opportunity of resting players too which is vital because we have a busy schedule coming up.”

Runcorn Reaction.

Ben Hall. “ We have certainly played better but we won and that’s the name of the game. We played a lot better going forward on Tuesday and didn’t get the rewards and today we didn’t create half as many chances and scored three good goals. The back four and Billy were excellent on Saturday and to go into the game with Overson, Williams and Clough missing from our defence shows the strength in depth and how well the lads adapt to whatever situation they find themselves in. Runcorn showed a lot of ambition and have good players so the clean sheet was very pleasing.”

Silsden Reaction.

Ben Hall. “ Frustration and disbelief sums up our night really. We created a hatful of chances, dominated possession and should have won the game comfortably but sometimes things don’t quite go your way and this was one of those occasions. We got punished for an error then that give them something to cling on to. You have to admire the way they defended, they sat deep and were brave, got important blocks, won vital headers  so all credit to them but it was like a defence v attack session  in the main. I don’t think there has been  a game that we have dominated  like that in two years so not to win it is mind blowing but at least we got something out of it to preserve our good run.”

2nd Team

Its been a tough month in February as we have shot ourselves in the foot with the defeat at Ashton, we have however progressed in the Craven Cup when we beat Gargrave 4-1 last week.  We also welcome back Ben Harrison this week from suspension so we are pretty much at full strength with just Jake Bancroft to come back. With Padiham to play twice, Liverpool away and also Daisy Hill away it will be a tough month.  It would be nice to try and play a few back to back games so we can build some kind of momentum up. Its the same for all clubs though so we'll just have to keep training hard and take our chances when the games come.
  On the Craven Cup we have in my opinion the toughest of the draws taking on Rimington.  Rimington are currently top of their league having won it for the last 3 years as well as winning the Craven Cup 4 out of the last 5 years the only other team to win it in that time was Maccas team in 2007 in a thrilling final at Settle against Ingleton.  So with that in mind we go into the game as underdogs as the Rimington side have vast experience of winning trophies and some very good players.  There are a few former Town players there as well so it will be an interesting game.  Terry Braithwaite has done a fantastic job there and we look forward to playing them on the 19th April.  We won't give up in the league until its a mathematical impossibility but its not looking likely, as Padiham and Glossop both have a healthy cushion at this point. 
  The first team carry on winning and i really enjoyed last weeks game against Colne not just because of the result and the rivalry between the two clubs but in my opinion it was a great game of football.  Both sets of players can be proud of the game, as it was a great advert for the Vodkat League.  I have to say the 1st team lads have done the club proud again this season and i hope they continue in the same vein.  Hopefully they have won the manager of the month award for the second time this season with 4 straight wins in feb.  Which knowing how hard they work is fully deserved.
   Tom Halliwell has had his first taste of first team football and in my opinion will be good enough in the not to distant future but there are other lads also knocking on the door and with the games coming thick and fast between now and the end of april will no doubt be called upon because of injuries and suspensions.  Its up to them to take it and maintain a high level of performance when they get their chance.  I just hope we have no more postponements as I am sick of training on Saturdays!!

Stephen Chew BTFC

Colne Reaction

Ben Hall. “ A fantastic local derby which certainly lived up its billing. Two good honest sides going toe to toe for the whole game and in the end I thought we fully merited the victory. We are delighted for the lads, they have been an absolute credit over the 2 years we have been here and they deserve all the praise they get. Colne are a good side and they pushed us really hard, but given we had to overcome the loss of The Skipper and Billy, not to mention Gabs the lads just got on with it and kept their discipline in what was always going to be a fast and furious game.
We go to New Mills Saturday with a lot of belief, and we will try our very best to win there now and keep our excellent run going.”

Glossop Reaction.

Ben Hall. “ Another vital victory for us on Saturday in a game we thoroughly deserved to win. We used the ball well, worked extremely hard and our back four and keeper were outstanding, and that was the solid base that we built on. I think they had one shot on target throughout the whole game and if you limit teams like Glossop with the potent threat of Kharas and Hartsthorne you are doing something right so obviously we were really happy with the result and performance. We have a tough week ahead of us now and we need to carry the good form on and ensure we stay at the right end of the table.”

St Helens Reaction.

Ben Hall. “ Another vital win for us, we were excellent in the first half and we should have been at least 4 -0 up, but in the second half it became a bit of a battle which we withstood and emerged worthy winners. There were a lot of positives for us, young Tom Halliwell looked assured and composed on debut, if he continues to work hard he’ll be a great player in the future, and  the team looked solid and worked extremely hard as a unit and showed a lot of togetherness which is what we have come to expect. We didn’t risk Spencer as he has a bit of a problem with his groin and he is vital to us, and we have obviously lost IQ (Blades)  as he brokedown with the same problem that has kept him out for a month so we’ll have to see how he responds to treatment this week”

Rossendale Reaction.

Ben Hall. “ Obviously were delighted to get back to winning ways and although we made it at times hard work for ourselves we deserved to win the game and in the end we should have had a few more. We tweaked the shape of the team a little bit to give us a bit more going forward and subsequently on occasions we looked a little vunerable at the back in the first half particularly, but in the second half we were very good and were pleased with the win.
Although we don’t like to single out individuals we must praise Liam Garbutt who ran their defence ragged and I think they were happy when we hooked him. He really is showing everybody what a top player he is after a terrible start to his Barnoldswick career due to unlucky injuries so long may it continue.”

Bacup Reaction.

“ We feel a bit unfortunate we didn’t get a result but that’s the way it goes sometimes. In the first half we were excellent, the movement and the  one and two touch football was a pleasure to watch, but then in the second half a combination of us not mixing it up enough, tiredness and them getting to grips with us a little bit meant we were nowhere near our best. We aren’t going to get upset about it though, because we know we’ve had two tough away games this week and competed well in both.”

managers comments-

  Saturday was more about our attitude than anything else and i thought our lads were 1st class, from front to back they battled well and came through a very tough encounter against Grassington.  The game was tough mainly because we weren't really playing our main pitch where we can pass it nicely and really impose our game on other teams,  as well as the fact that Grassington never let us settle which was a credit to them.  Our 2 centre halves Sconny and Cavanagh really stood out for me especially in the first half winning every header and both first and second balls.  This allowed us to push on and get the goals needed.  The reward is a home tie in the quarter finals against Gargrave at home on the 19th Febuary, which i'm sure will again be a test of our credentials.  I do believe the Craven cup is wide open this year,  Rimmington drawing at Bentham was a big shock as Rimmington have been very dominant in this competition for the last few years.  Its Cheadle this week and i hope the lads play with the same desire and determination in that game as well.
Stephen Chew BTFC

Winsford Reaction.

Ben Hall. ‘’ Words cannot describe how proud the three of us were with the lads on Saturday. Each and every one of them outstanding to a man and when you consider that was our first game in the league for nine weeks, against the league leaders on their own pitch who had won nine in a row the performance defied belief. We were deserving of the victory, the lads workrate was superb and the quality we had in possession was excellent. Emotions ran high on Saturday, we as a club have suffered with the loss of Alverley and we were determined to play our hearts out for the top man. I’m sure he would have been proud of the lads, because we certainly were. Finally a big thankyou to the Sewer who backed the players to the hilt and were really vocal. They spurred the lads on when they needed it, showing that as a club we are some collective unit.”

Match reaction from Daisy Hill.

Match reaction from Daisy Hill.
 May I take this opportunity to wish everybody the best for the New year connected with the club.  After the events over christmas it was great to get back playing football.  After paying our respects to Alverley the day before and with a minutes silence on Saturday it was fitting we put in a good performance.  Our last game was on November 13th at Glossop which was a match we and I have learnt a great deal from and to be honest glad to move on from.  We received tremendous support from the committee over this and whilst not happy at being punished so severely by the league and wrcfa we accept it and must move on.
  The performance on saturday was pleasing but so also the collective attitude of the entire of the players at the club.  We played 3 first team regulars to get games in after their lengthy lay off and their attitude and commitment were superb.  My lads were also excellent and put on a show for a decent sized crowd.  This team has really grown in terms of ability and attitude from the start of the season.  The way we played showed what the lads are capable of and what we must take in terms of performance to the end of the season.  We are still in the Craven cup, league cup and an outside chance of the league.  The improvement made from the end of last season is there for all to see not just in terms of performance but also points on the board.  We took 32 points last season and we currently stand on 25 with 11 games to play so i personally am hoping our total will be well in advance of that this year.  We were also knocked out of the Craven cup at the first hurdle by Grassington who are our opponents on saturday, so not to be taken lightly.  The winner will take on Gargrave at Home in the next round.  Whilst in the league cup we take on Padiham who currently sit top of the pile.  We are getting closer to Padiham in terms of quality so hopefully we have a lot to look forward to in the new year. 
  As well as all that we have a role to play supporting Ben, Stu and Kev helping them out when they need cover or lads to get minutes on the pitch.  I know its a cliche but the spirit in both players is the best I have ever seen at Barlick and really enjoyable to be part of and long may it continue.
Stephen Chew BTFC

15th December

Halifax Reaction.

“It was always going to be a difficult game and so it proved on the night. Our preparation for the game wasn’t ideal – we have struggled with training due to the weather so we knew we wouldn’t be as sharp as we would normally be. The game was a good run out for us though, the lads have got valuable game time and Blades and Grimes have served their bans which is good news for us. With regard to the match I thought we played quite well, we could have strung five across the middle and gone for damage limitation but we played our normal way and were positive so we have no regrets. The finishing of Halifax was clinical, we probably had as much possession as them, had numerous attempts on goal but when they were presented with an opportunity they took it. Football is all about levels, and try as we might we couldn’t get up to theirs tonight.”

21st November

Flixton Reaction

15th November

Ramsbottom  Reaction.

Ben Hall. ‘’ The work rate, belief, desire and determination which the players showed on Saturday was nothing short of outstanding. To beat  a team of Ramsbottom’s quality in any situation is a massive ask, but to do it against all the odds with ten men defies belief. We shouldn’t be surprised though because week in week out the lads produce performances like that and it just shows how together the group is.
It was a tough game against a high quality team, and we were excellent in the first half and created chances, in the second half they came on strong and when they got the penalty and Billy got dismissed things looked ominous for us but we were brave and continued to believe.”

9th November

Irlam Reaction

Ben Hall said " There is no doubt that we were nowhere near our best but we should have won the game. We created a hatful of chances at 1-0 up then they punished us. Extra time was crazy, again at 3-2 up with 5 minutes left we thought we had done enough then their equaliser was a fantastic strike out of nothing and it finished us off mentally and physically. Full credit to Irlam though, they had already beaten Colne and Winsford this season and we saw why. They played really well but I thought a draw would have been a fairer reflection".

5th November

Barnoldswick Town have today completed the double signing of former Accrington Stanley, Shrewsbury Town and Droylsden defender Paul Howarth and striker Michael Morrison from rivals Ramsbottom United.
Ben Hall said " We wasn't actively looking to sign anybody but when players of this calibre and quality become available and show a real desire to play for Barnoldswick Town its hard to say no. Paul was a Pro four years ago winning the Conference with Accrington and has been training with us for a month now and is impressed with whats going on here. Michael is a player of undoubted ability, he has scored goals for fun in this league and was Ramsbottom's regular centre forward, but he has expressed his wish to play for us. We welcome both of them to our football club".

2nd Team Update October

October has seen mixed results for us because we have been beaten by Glossop at home and Bootle away but the lads have shown what they are made of and bounced back after the Bootle result talking 6 points against Ashton town and Athletic.  With the victory over New Mills at the start of the month that means 9 from a possible 15 points but in fairness the we should be on 12.  We dominated the game against Glossop for long spells and a couple of lapses in concentration cost us the points in that game.  The Bootle game I can have no complaints about as they deserved their 3 points in the end.  The game last week against Ashton Athletic at Ashton was a great result and a big 3 points for us.  The way we defended on the day, especially for a 20 minute spell after half time won us the game.  The lads attitudes were spot on and they fought for and worked for each other right until the end. 
This month is going to be tough as all our games are on the road and hopefully we can show the same levels of committment and desire in the fixtures against Daisy Hill, Glossop and Irlam.  There is no doubt in my mind if the lads set their stall out and are prepared to battle we are a match for any team in this division.  We have also been lucky with the Craven cup draw and been given a home tie against Grassington who will be more than up for beating us after they shocked the Reserves last season.  The squad is looking healthier at the minute with a couple of new arrivals imminent and competition for places will be at a premium for the rest of the season as long as lads stay patient.  We have also been training together with Tim Wolfe's under 18's on a Sunday and they currently sit top of their respective league with 7 wins from 7.  There are a few lads in that team who will be banging on the door at some point this season and that can only be healthy for the club.
  Last but by no means least, as some may know Norman Shearer departed after the Glossop game because of work committments.  I would like to thank Norman for his input and helping me out since March 6th last season.  Normans a top bloke and will be missed at the club.  The departure of Norman saw the promotion of Chris Gaskell to Assistant Manager.  Chris has been at the club for a long time now and he's a top lad and he has given me everything as a player since I took over.  As he keeps reminding me with him at my side we have a 100% record.  In all seriousness though Chris has been a breath of fresh air and a great choice as Normans replacement.  Hopefully this month will see us close the gap at the top a little, we'll have to wait and see though and take each game as it comes.

Stephen Chew

3rd November

Sports Blog: It's brilliant for Barlick

• By Matt Donlan » Sports reporter Lancashire Telegraph

Re Manager of the Month Award for October

THE bubbly will be flowing at Victory Park after Barnoldswick Town finally received a reward for their stunning 16-match unbeaten run in the Vodkat League Premier Division.
Barlick have taken to life in the top flight of the North West Counties League set-up like a duck would take to the current East Lancashire weather.
And with a smart ground and a forward thinking business plan you can see the team making even bigger strides than they already have.
That particular area of East Lancs has real potential for a club to take hold – and Barnoldswick have many, many people behind the scenes who are prepared to graft together with the common aim of pushing the club forward.
This, don’t forget, is a club that was only formed in 2003 as an amalgam-ation of Barnoldswick United and Barnoldswick Park Rovers.
That merger gave the club the Town tag that was last used in the 1920s and 30s when it graced the Lancashire Combination.
Every football fan must be genuinely delighted that Barlick are blossoming and this award is more than deserved as they buck the trend when many clubs are struggling But it may give the organisers of the award a slight problem.
You see, Barnoldswick don’t just have one manager, they don’t even settle for just two.
Barlick are bossed by a trio of co-managers in the shape of Ben Hall, Stewart Airdrie and Kevin Richard-son. The threesome are doing a sterling job and it is great to see their efforts rewarded.
But I just hope the good people at the Vodkat League have realised there are three bosses – and don’t just pitch up at Barlick with one bottle of the league sponsor’s product.

1st November

Stone Dominoes Reaction.

 Ben Hall. “ Another fantastic result for us and also a very good performance to go with it to cap off an outstanding month. What the players have done is remarkable, 20 points gained in 8 games, 23 goals scored and our unbeaten run stands at 16 games in our first season in the Premier League. This group are a pleasure to be involved in, all cracking lads and all extremely good footballers who are enjoying themselves, and that transmits itself onto the pitch.
We played really well on Saturday, we knew all about Stone and we really wanted to win the game after our healthy competition with them last year. We could and probably should have been out of sight at half time but we got sloppy and got hit by the sucker punch against the run of play, but we just had to carry on being patient and the chances would come which they did.
The most pleasing aspect is that at half time the lads didn’t panic and were totally confident that we would turn it round. That shows the belief is growing, and so it should because were a very good team.”

25th October

Runcorn Reaction.

Ben Hall.  ‘’ What a superb performance by the lads, they really were top drawer on Saturday and deserved everything they got. From Billy to the three lads who come off the bench they were excellent and to go and win at a club of Runcorn’s size and stature really shows how far we have come.
There is no doubt to be 4th in the league the lads deserve an enormous amount of credit. The work they put in for one another is there for all to see, and each and every one of them are nice lads too. People from outside our club can say what they want about us, but the facts are we are punching above our weight big time when you look where we are in this division, but we’ll keep going and try and win each and every game.
We are being approached by quality players who would like to join us, four have expressed a interest in this week alone, but we are remaining loyal to our lads, they deserve that off us, because in the last year and a half they have jumped through hoops for us and long may that continue.’’

21st October

Silsden Reaction

Ben Hall.  ‘’ In the end we got exactly what we deserved, the victory and it would have been a travesty if we did  not win the match. We should have been 2-0 up inside ten minutes, and totally controlled possession the first half to the point I thought the lads were a bit arrogant the way they went about the job and taking too many touches instead of getting the ball forward quicker and playing in the danger areas. We then fell behind due to a lack of concentration on our part, then we got our act together and played 4 up top and they couldn’t handle us. The desire that the lads showed again to win a football match shone through, even at 1-1 we didn’t change our shape and went for it and got our just rewards. The supporters were again was superb, they stuck with us and  I hope they went home happy on a cold night”.

18th October

Maine Road Reaction.

Ben Hall. “ Another great result for us, on the back of winning the Padiham game giving us 6 points in what has been a very productive week.  Maine Road are a very good side, they play excellent football and they commit bodies forward which in turn gives you a chance on the counter and we took our opportunities when we got them.
We defended very well, the back four plus Billy Carrington were on top of their game and they needed to be so obviously were really happy with the way things went. Another plus was the return of Liam Garbutt, the lad has had a rough time since joining us through injury and for him to get out there and contribute to the victory is brilliant for him and us as a management team. He is an extremely important player for us and has a bit of catching up to do in terms of fitness but once he’s  there he’ll be top quality for us.
The supporters deserve a lot of praise on Saturday too, they were brilliant and really got behind the lads. They know how tough this league is and there are spells in every game when things don’t go for us but they kept encouraging the players which is always appreciated by the lads and us too.”

13th October

Padiham Reaction.

Ben Hall, “ What a fantastic game for the neutral, both teams giving 100% effort, and the commitment of all the lads who took part in both teams were a credit to themselves and their clubs. We asked the lads not to get caught up in what was always going to be a high octane occasion, and unfortunately we did. Our passing and moving was off, and although we dominated the majority of the game we gave them hope by not killing the game off and individual errors which we need to eradicate. On the positive side we created a hatful of chances and we kept the pressure on and got there in the end, it has been a difficult week for the club and the management and players would like to dedicate this victory to Brian 'Bill' Bowditch who I’m sure would have been delighted with the victory”

11th October

Bootle Reaction.

Ben Hall. ‘’ Another show of our undoubted resolve and sheer refusal to accept defeat was apparent on Saturday. To be 3-1 down against a side of Bootle’s quality with 15 minutes to go and in the end be unlucky not to win it shows the desire and spirit of the group. After the first ten minutes, we sorted ourselves out and played really well on the counter in the first half, then we warned the lads that they would come flying at us which they did. Two goals in two minutes were bad enough then to gift them a third was beyond frustrating. Then Robbie Smith gave us a lifeline and then we could have had more goals in the end after Paul Barrett had again bailed the lads out. We must give special praise to Paul Barrett, a few short weeks ago he lost his place and he was annoyed with us, but his reaction has been superb. He has knuckled down and showed a real determination and scored 3 goals in a week for us, two of them vital ones and we are delighted for the lad, because theres no doubt he’s a real top qualiy player.’’

7th october

Vodkat League Premier Division: Barnoldswick Town 2-2 Bacup Borough; Attendance: 128; Admission: £4; Programme: £1

“Good evening, welcome to Barnoldswick Town. I hope you enjoy your evening, that will be £4 please, a fiver with a programme.”
Doesn’t take much does it? A simple act of courtesy from the gentleman on the gate and you are set up for the evening. First impressions count and at Barnoldswick Town they are very favourable.
Several posters have visited the Silentnight Stadium lately so no need to add much. Suffice to say that since my last visit a couple of years ago the ground has undergone several improvements without losing its character. ‘Barlick’ have adapted superbly to life in the North West Counties League, winning promotion and consolidating well in the Premier Division. With crowds of between 80-120 on average they have a groundswell of support and judging from the excellent programme lots of support from local businesses.
There are so many nice touches- hot drinks served in pot mugs at the tea bar and the team line-ups written out on a whiteboard by the club house bar. Everyone is friendly and clearly there to enjoy their football, including the players. When the referee emerged late for the second half one of the home players enquired: ‘Bit late ref, have you been gorging yourself on custard creams or was it Hob nobs?’
This was a fiercely fought game between two well-matched sides on a lovely mild evening. The home side rescued a point in the sixth minute of injury time when sub Barratt converted a penalty after a trip in the box. Two quality strikes from the Bacup no10 Ogunyode, the second on 92 minutes looked to have earned a win for Brent Peters’ side after they had fallen behind to a tenth-minute opener.
The best way by road if travelling from Lancashire is to take the M65 to Colne and then the Skipton road, turning left towards Barnoldswick at Kelbrook. Though relatively isolated it’s a small town well worth a visit and the football ground is a gem, one of my favourites in this excellent league.

6th October

Bacup reaction

Ben Hall. ‘’ What a fantastic game of football, both teams contributing to a excellent spectacle and I suppose in the end a fair result. In the first half we were excellent again, but in fairness to them in the second half they played really well. We knew all about the quality Lance Ogunyode has, - we’ve tried to sign him twice, and to be fair he punished us big time – but the attitude, dedication and determination shone through again and Paul Barrett got us out of jail.  Bacup are probably the best side we have played this season, they have already beaten Ramsbottom, Clitheroe and Rossendale this season and took AFC Fylde to penalties so we knew we would have it all to do.
Stewart and myself had a beer with Brent after the game and he told us that was his toughest game of the season and we’ll take positives from that. We are 10 League games unbeaten and for a promoted team that’s good going , and all credit must go to the lads’’.

3rd October

Ashton Reaction.

Ben Hall. ‘’ The lads were outstanding on Saturday and were a pleasure to watch at times. Everybody contributed to the win, Mark and the back four dealt with everything comfortably, the midfield four passed the ball quickly and Chappy and Aaron led the line superbly. Also Baz, Grimes and Stewart put in excellent performances off the bench which gives us what we want – competition for shirts.  We have a relentless October and we have to make sure we look after the players and use the squad to ensure freshness as much as we can.
We aren’t  getting carried away with anything, we have done well over the last week but we now have Bacup and Bootle to deal with, both as sterner test as you will get at this level so we will have to be at our best in order anything positive this week.’’

30th September
Quote from gary Martindale the Formby Manager

An FA Vase victory acted as the springboard for the Squirrels to end their league duck a week ago but Saturday’s 4-0 thumping at Barnoldswick saw the run halted in abrupt fashion.
“It was a difficult afternoon on Saturday, Barnoldswick are certainly one of the best sides we’ve come up against so far this season. They were a very good footballing side, which I wasn’t expecting from this level to be honest. They deserved the win.”

27th september

Formby Reaction.

Ben Hall. ‘’ The performance was as good as we’ve seen I think since we have been in charge here, certainly when you consider that Formby were a useful side and very dangerous on the break. Some of the  passing and movement was of the highest quality and we were really made up, especially after last weeks disappointment at Maine Road. The three lads who made their debuts were excellent, and they fit in superbly but the effect it had on the other lads was plain to see. The new lads have given everybody a lift and the team needed that, and if we can continue playing in the same vein it will continue to earn us points.

20th September

Maine Road Reaction,

‘’ We left Manchester on Saturday extremely disappointed with both  the result and the performance. We didn’t turn up on the day and too many players were off the pace which we can’t afford to do at this level but that’s football. We didn’t deserve anything, although we were denied a cast iron penalty and we hit the bar at 0-0 which would have changed things significantly if they would have gone our way. There is no panic though, a defeat at Maine Road isn’t the end of the world and we are going to lose games at this level, and nobody should be under any illusions otherwise. Every game is difficult, but we are competitive and once we get key players back we will be a force, there is no doubting that.’’

15th September

After last nights game it's given me some food for thought for this Saturday's game away at Grindleton, who will be no pushovers especially at home. Our lads have to show they can scrap for a result when we don't play well and last night was a classic example of the case in question.
The players have to learn that any switching off in concentration will cost you goals at this level and also going the other you can give nothing short of your maximum effort. Padiham didn't play particularly well but were effective and a couple of lapses have cost us at least a point. One good thing is we are closer to them now than we were last season.
So far before last nights game including the friendlies we were 10 unbeaten, its now time to set off on another run. Every game is tough especially when you have the aims that we do.
This last 2 weeks has been the hardest since I have taken over with the amount of injuries both teams have suffered in recent weeks. The first team managers should be given a great amount of credit for getting a result on saturday as well as the Reserves for getting a result also. The injury list last week was horrific and having people coming up to you and asking why certain people are not playing is quite annoying. The fact is we discuss at great length who is taking who, who's performing, who's up to the task in hand and so on. No decision is taken in haste and I expect people to trust us to make the decisions. Up the Town!

Stephen chew

13th September

Winsford Reaction.
Ben Hall, ‘’ I will keep my opinions about Winsford’s approach to the game to myself, as it will probably land me in trouble, but what I will say is it was most definitely a game we should have won. Eleven v Eleven we were the better side, a goal up, then we get Billy sent off for in our opinion nothing and the whole game changes. Ok, they were reduced to nine men, but we didn’t have a keeper so the advantage wasn't massive. That said, just after half time we hit the bar, seconds later they equalize and that is just the way its been going for us. Their second goal was a fantastic strike, then we laid siege on their goal for 20 and finally got our rewards when Baz popped up. Considering the fact they were second in the league and we were without Garbutt, Airdrie, Clough, Spencer Jordan, Shelmerdine, Caton, Alderson, and to lose Billy and the Skipper Russell Clarke who wasn’t fit I think we did ok on the whole.
We are now 7 games unbeaten, over a 21 day period, in a new division, with half a team unavailable and to lose none of them shows that these lads never give in. We need our players fit and once we do we will climb up this league because there is nothing to be scared of.
We were really pleased with the contributions of Ellerton and Whelan who both did really well, and showed they are comfortable at this level, and credit must go to Stephen and Norman with the reserves who are doing a incredible job and we believe that they will emulate the first team last season in bringing success to our club”

8th September

Alsager and Squires Gate reflection.

Ben Hall. – ‘’ To be honest I think the key word which sums up our week is frustration. Starting with Alsager, we had numerous chances to win a scrappy game. The pitch was poor and we gifted them a goal, but then the lads showed the necessary character to get back into the game. I suppose a point down there isn’t a bad result but we left feeling that we could and should have done better. Squires Gate was different. We were excellent, particularly in the second half where some of the passing and moving was of the highest quality. We created I’m told eleven chances and converted one which is obviously why we didn’t travel home with a maximum return. However it must be said the levels of commitment, determination and desire in this group continue to grow and given all the injuries and unavailability issues we have at the moment the lads are giving us everything they have.’’

3rd September

August has 2 wins 1 draw and 0 losses, that is not to say it hasn't been a tough month as we have played Irlam, Bootle and AFC liverpool reserves. Three tough opponents, 3 different games although all three sides as you expect in this league like to play football. I have been impressed with all the lads attitudes and as we stand at the minute we still have a big squad with only one lad moving on to pastures new. It is with regret that Matthew Benfield has decided to leave and go to Colne united as he feels he should be playing at this stage of his footballing life. Matthew has represented Barlick at 1st and reserve team level and has never let the club or his team down when he has played. He will be missed and i wish him all the best with Colne United this season. That said the other lads that have been left out have battled hard and won there places back and its this attitude that will serve us well this season. Chris Gaskill has been superb both times he has come on and he's won his place back. He has set the standard for the other lads and i hope they follow his example.
One of the most pleasing things about our season so far is the sharing of the goalscoring burden, 8 goals scored and 7 different scorers. We are sharing the workload and playing some attractive football with it. Kieron Lee was back as well last week and gave a commanding performance in the centre of the park alongside Brit. With quite a young side sprinkled with experienced lads like Me, Chris Brennan, Carl Ellerton and Gazza we have got a nice balance and a good atmosphere around the changing rooms.
We are all after the same aim as well and that is to make Norman Shearer a happy man something we have so far failed to do. This month will be a tough month, firstly Cheadle then New Mills away, Padiham at home and A very tricky Craven Cup tie at Grindleton. Having watched the first team in action also they are adapting to life in the Vodkat Premier very well and i think the game against Rossy was a great match to watch, full of entertainment and played at a great tempo.
Keep up the good work everyone!!

Stephen Chew BTFC RES

1st September

Ben Hall. ‘’ Two draws have been attained this week giving us two valuable points however we really feel that we should have gained all six. At Flixton we threw  away two points after creating numerous chances. In this league if you don’t take your opportunities when they get presented to you, you will get punished and it was a harsh lesson for us all, but the way we responded against Rossendale was first class. To say last season they were two divisions higher than us just shows how far this group has come. We were excellent, and we just couldn’t force the winner but the game as a spectacle was excellent and both teams deserve enormous credit. Many of the lads really played through the pain barrier, the Skip, Stewart, Robbie, Bill and Bear all had knocks, Grimzey gets injured in the warm up and on top of that Garbutt, Shelmerdine, Barrett and Alderson were unavailable to us, so the collective and individual efforts were as usual excellent. It is a relentless schedule in this division and its something that we are going to have to get used to and be able to cope with’’

25th August Ashton Town reaction

Ben Hall – “ Obviously we were delighted with the result, but at times the performance left a lot to be desired and there is a hell of a lot we can improve on and we will there is no doubt about that. The pleasing thing is we kept going until the end as we always do and we got our rewards. We took the necessary risks to win the game taking a midfielder off and putting a striker on when the game was in  the balance so alls well that ends well. The introduction of Stewart was key again, the lad is top drawer and the goal was worthy of winning any game”.

24th August St Helens Reaction

Town's management trio pleased with first win of the season.
Ben Hall said. “ We are so pleased for everybody connected with the club that we have our first 3 points on the board, especially the players who deserved everything they got on Saturday. We have banged on about them believing in themselves and once Baz put us in front the confidence levels visibly grew and we started popping the ball around the way we can. Collectively and individually the lads were brilliant and we must take this on to Tuesday night..
St Helens are a good side, we beat a team who finished in the top 8 on their own patch, so obviously the lads were delighted. We had to change things before the game and during it and the lads adapted well, so all credit to the them.
What was particularly pleasing was the attitude of the lads on the bench. Bladesy missed out because he hadn’t trained for 2 weeks, Fritzl wasn’t quite fit, and Stu had a chest infection so we were limited, but those boys, along with Gabs, Ash, Sukes and Lewis were full of encouragement for the lads throughout which shows they are all pulling in the same direction”.

11th August Ramsbottom Reaction.

Towns management left the Riverside Stadium last night upbeat after their teams performance.
Ben Hall said, “ In the first half we were outstanding and we were by the far the better team, but we switched off for the goal and suddenly the whole game plan changed.. We should have been 2 up, before they got going, and in the second half the commitment and effort was there but in terms of passing and moving the ball we weren’t at our best..
Ramsbottom are a very good side, with real quality and like ourselves have a excellent spirit, and to be fair to them they played well in the second half, but Anthony and Bernard (their managers) were very complimentry about us, and they are top lads so I know they were sincere in their praise.
That’s Congleton and Ramsbottom gone now, and we look forward to Silsden next Tuesday night.’’

10th August Congleton Reaction.

After Town’s unlucky defeat in their opening game against Congleton the management team were delighted with the teams performance.
Ben Hall said, ‘’ The three of us had a chat after the game and we all came to the conclusion that we are going to be a force at this level as long as we continue to perform in that manner. Saturday was a very proud day for us, to take this group of lads, some of the same from Sunday football to the Vodkat Premier League in 15 months shows what they have achieved, both personally and collectively and they need to know how proud of them we are.
Congleton will finish in the top three, in strikers Haddrell and Hirst they have top quality, and without doubt it was a eye opener in terms of the level we need to be at week in week out, but in terms of the way we passed and moved the ball, we were better than them, what they did very well was play to their strengths, and were an extremely well drilled, experienced outfit.
On another day we could have won, the disallowed goal and hitting the post alone tell you that, but we take it on the chin and move on to Ramsbottom, another excellent side on Tuesday.
On the injury and availability front Chapman, Clough and Carrington are back and will go into the squad for Ramsbottom, Overson will return for the Silsden game, and Garbutt probably will be ready in 7-10 days, all of these are vital to us and the sooner we get a full compliment – Richardson and Alderson apart we will be much stonger for it.
Finally, a big thankyou to our supporters on Saturday, who were excellent – you saw the way the team responded to that encouragement and it is important we all continue to believe in the style of play and the players we have, because these are the dual ingredients that are going to take this club forward.”

6th August report no2

  I am really looking forward to watching the first team in the game against Congleton on Saturday to see how far our club has come in the past 7 years since Barnoldswick Town was formed.  The lads have really stepped up the preparation in the last couple of weeks and it is a blow to pick up the injuries that the first team has.  Ash Alderson has been a big part of this football club for the last couple of years but hopefully he'll recover quickly and return to the first team.
The reserves have been excellent throughout preseason and its going to be difficult to whittle the squad to 16 for the opening days game against Irlam.  I do hope lads are patient and don't sulk in what is going to be a massive season for everyone.  Its been a busy pre season as a lot of new and old faces have come to the club.  Mathew Coates has not stopped scoring and is starting to improve his all round play whilst Damon Clark and Ben Mousley will no doubt chip in with more than there fair share.  Tom Helliwell is looking a real player at the minute but needs to carry the consistency from game to game and he will be a big part of the clubs future as well as Liam Britton who has looked sharp and committed throughout the pre season games.  Even without people dropping from the first team we now have a squad of about 20 players and they are all capable of doing a job at this level and about half being ready to do a job in the first team if asked to do so.  With wins against Farsley reserves, Steeton 1st team, Crosshills, Skipton LMS and a loss against Guiseley in which we were the better side for all the first half but for a very poor decision from the referee we would have been going in 1 up.  The pleasing thing about the performances has been our ball retention and all the players are starting to look comfortable in possession of the ball.  Hopefully we can take this into the final pre season game and then into next saturday.
Again good luck to the firsts tomorrow in which is a massive game and lets all stick together and get behind them in our first ever season at this level of football!

Stephen Chew Reserve team manager

22nd July
Reserve Team Pre season report 1

I have to say I have been pleased with the quality of the football so far in preseason and also the quality of players at our disposal so far. We have been told what our targets are and I am in no doubt if we play like we have in the opening friendlies we will not be far away from achieving our goals for the coming season.
As well as achieving our own personal goals we also have an important role to play for the first team. We have to be available to play anyone who needs to get match fitness whilst also providing players to cover injuries, suspensions and loss of form. So far I feel we have managed both objectives well and have constant dialogue with Stu, Ben and Kevin. We have to find the right blend of attitude, ability, and workrate so we can push players forward and to be honest there will be players banging on the door this year.
Barlick seems to be the place to be at present and long may it continue, this hasn't happened overnight though. Its taken the hard work of three very good managers to get the atmosphere right. Lets not forget the backing we receive from the committee as ever. There will always be arguments at whatever level your at. We have stuck together and are now reaping the rewards that the club deserves. Lets keep the club moving in the right direction and enjoy this season, good luck to all involved!
Stephen Chew Reserve team manager

19th July
Town Receive Double Boost.

Town can officially confirm that former Clitheroe and Padiham striker Robert Grimes has signed for the club.
Grimes impressed everybody with his excellent display in Saturdays win at Yorkshire Amateurs  scoring a stunning goal.
Ben Hall said. “ Robert has agreed to join us and we feel this is a very important signing for us. He is very different to the other strikers we have and in terms of holding the ball up he is the best around. This is going to be an important factor in this division when we are going to be under pressure for spells and its vital we get back hold of the ball. He has come to us fresh and full of enthusiasm and has fit in straight away. I have known Grimzey for a long time and to get the best out of him you need to make him feel wanted, and so far he has done ever so well.”
In addition our co manager Kevin Richardson has been given all the all clear today to step up his rehabilitation. Hall added,” This is the news Jim has waited 12 months for and now he can join in everything except contact. He has had a tough year and he really has missed it and annoyed me on the sidelines! It is important we don’t rush him back, and give him all the time he needs to make sure he comes back stronger than ever. He will be  like a new signing and a very good one at that, and we hope that he will be back in a Barnoldswick Town shirt sooner rather than later”

13th July

Town’s management have reflected on the tough start we face but are really looking forward to the challenges ahead.
Ben Hall said "We couldn’t have been handed a tougher start but that’s why we have all worked so hard over the last 15 months. As we have said numerous times before, this football club has moved forward both on and off the pitch and we now face the likes of Congleton and Ramsbottom on a level playing field. Both teams finished in the top 5 last year, and we know that both are going to be there or thereabouts so its going to be a fantastic that we are going to be able to test ourselves against the best this league has to offer early in the season. We aren’t expected to win these games by anybody, therefore we can relax and play our normal game and see where it takes us, but we have a good squad and come August 7th we will be ready to give it all we have.
Saturday’s win at Abbey Hey was a good start for us. We played well and should have won more comfortably, and the three lads that made their debuts, Robbie, Jack and Lee did really well. The frightening thing is Satch, Gabbs, Spencer, Both Lewis’ Cloughie and the skipper were missing, and all will return to the squad for Saturdays trip to Leeds.
We as a group have had a lot of detractors from outside the club, who really know nothing about The North West Counties League, and not much about football in general, and we have proved them wrong and together we have produced the most successful team in Barnoldswick Town’s history. When we go out on that pitch on August 7th we have to take stock and realise this isn’t the East Lancashire League, this is one step from UNIBOND football, and all of us must enjoy each and every game and appreciate how far we have come.
The support we have received from the committee and supporters last year was superb, and we really hope that continues. I have said it before and I’ll say it again, these lads will be a credit to this club for years to come, and the quality, character and spirit in this squad will be the envy of many a good side, and plenty of bad ones too.
On a final note, a big well done to Chewy and Norman for beating Farsley on Saturday, in which we are told was a superb performance. Things are looking good under their guidance, and im sure that our reserves will continue to move forward.’’

Town Confirm 3 More Signings

We can confirm that 3 more additions have been confirmed to join us for the upcoming season.Town have beaten off competition from several clubs to capture highly rated defender Jack Overson.Jack won player of the year at Padiham last year and appeared to be Ramsbottom United bound until Town made a late move to get their man.Also, Town have captured former Warrington Town and Accrington Stanley midfield player Lee Riley.Lee has come highly recommended, and already the signs in training are that we have signed a quality player.Finally, local lad Carl Ellerton has joined the club. Carl played in the East Lancs League last year, so the step up for him will be massive, but he has all the ability in the world, and Towns management team are delighted with the capture.In addition to this former Clitheroe and Padiham striker Robert Grimes is training with the club, a player of great ability, and a decision will be made by both player and Town over his future over the next week of two.
Towns management team have confirmed that no other signings are on the radar now and are delighted with the signings they have made.

TOWN SEAL DOUBLE SWOOP

Barnoldswick Town have today completed the double signing of Robbie Smith and Paul Scott both from Padiham Football Club.
Both signings show that Town are not here to make the numbers up in the Premier Division and Town’s managers are delighted with the captures.
Kevin Richardson said, “ We heard a while ago that Robbie was perhaps looking for a move from Padiham and this was confirmed last week. Initially he informed us that he wished to play at a higher level, but subsequently has decided to join the ranks at Town. He is a real quality player, in our opinion one of the best in the division and we are delighted to have him on board.”;
Meanwhile Scott has decided to leave Padiham since the previous manager left and again has agreed to Join Town. Kevin added, “ Again, with Paul, we believe that we have signed a player who is more than at home at this level and is extremely versatile and can cover a number of positions. A quality we are going to need in this division. Paul however has recently become a father, so his introduction to the fold will take a little longer, but we expect him to join up with the lads over the next few weeks”.
‘’ We are now satisfied with the squad we have. Every player who helped us gain promotion has once again committed themselves to us which just shows how much they enjoy life at Barnoldswick Town. That said its not to say we won’t add any more, but they have to be of a certain quality and fit within the constraints we are under. With several key players under contract we can look forward to the challenge with confidence”’