Cheshire League Weekly Round-Up: 12th – 17th August

Cheshire League Weekly Round-Up: 12th – 17th August

The second week of August has been action-packed in the Cheshire League, with multiple fixtures providing plenty of drama and significant shifts in the league standings. Here’s a summary of the week’s action and how it’s shaping up the table:

12th August 2024
– Maine Road Res. 2 – 2 Hartford FC
A closely contested match saw Maine Road Reserves hold Hartford FC to a 2-2 draw. Despite their efforts, both teams had to settle for a share of the points, reflecting their evenly matched performances.

13th August 2024
– **Stretford Paddock 2 – 0 Newton Athletic**
Stretford Paddock continued their strong start to the season with a 2-0 victory over Newton Athletic. Goals in the second half secured the win, keeping Paddock unbeaten and near the top of the table.

– Moore United 3 – 1 Warrington Rylands Dev.
Moore United claimed their first win of the season, defeating Warrington Rylands Development 3-1. The home side took control early on and never looked back, leaving Rylands still searching for their first victory.

– Newton-Le-Willows 2 – 1 Wigan Town
Newton-Le-Willows edged out Wigan Town with a 2-1 win, adding another three points to their tally and keeping Wigan rooted at the bottom of the table.

14th August 2024
– Halton Farnworth Hornets 5 – 4 Haydock FC
In one of the most thrilling games of the week, Halton Farnworth Hornets emerged victorious in a nine-goal thriller against Haydock FC. The Hornets’ firepower was too much for Haydock, despite a valiant effort from the visitors.

17th August 2024
– Stretford Paddock 3 – 0 Wigan Town
Stretford Paddock continued their unbeaten run with a dominant 3-0 win over Wigan Town. Goals from Zak Bell, Ronaldo Brown, and Kayode Adewale ensured a comfortable victory and kept Paddock at the top of the table.

– Lymm Rovers 5 – 2 Moore United
Lymm Rovers put in a commanding performance, defeating Moore United 5-2. This win keeps Lymm Rovers within striking distance of the league leaders.

– Mersey Valley 4 – 2 Warrington Rylands Dev.
Mersey Valley secured a 4-2 win against Warrington Rylands Development, continuing Rylands’ tough start to the season and moving Mersey Valley further up the table.

– Sandbach Town 2 – 1 Maine Road Res.
Sandbach Town edged out Maine Road Reserves with a narrow 2-1 win, maintaining their strong early season form and keeping them in the upper half of the table.

– Newton Athletic 2 – 2 Newton-Le-Willows
In a clash between two closely matched teams, Newton Athletic and Newton-Le-Willows played out a 2-2 draw. Both sides showed resilience, but neither could find the decisive goal.

League Table After This Week
The results from the past week have started to create a clear picture in the league standings:

1. Stretford Paddock took the top spot in the table, with 10 points from 4 matches, remaining unbeaten and showing their intent to challenge for the title.
2. St Helens Town and Lymm Rovers are hot on their heels, both showcasing strong early-season form.
3. Halton Farnworth Hornets and Sandbach Town also secured vital wins this week, keeping them in contention near the top.
4. Mersey Valley and Newton Athletic are holding steady in mid-table, while Wigan Town and Warrington Rylands Development remain at the bottom, still without a win.

This week has been important in establishing the early frontrunners and showing which teams might struggle as the season progresses. With plenty of football left to play, there will undoubtedly be more twists and turns as teams continue to fight for points in the coming weeks.

REPORT: Yellow Brick Wall + Debut Brace Delivers 3 Points Stretford Paddock 2-0 Newton Athletic

Two debut goals from substitute Tayo Tek ensured Paddock took all three points against Newton Athletic Doves in their first midweek game of the season.

The floodlights of the Project Solar Stadium – and the occasional bolt of lightning – were lighting up the Manchester sky as heavy rain welcomed two unbeaten sides to the field.

After relegation from Division One last season, Newton had made a positive start to life in Division Two. With a return of seven points – and 13 goals – from their opening three games, they began the day sitting in second place behind early pacesetters St Helens Town. 

Midweek games are often the bane of grass roots football clubs, with player availabilities limited by work and family commitments. Paddock were not spared this fate on this occasion. 

-Off the pitch, Manager Ste Howson was forced into a number of changes to the side that faced Warrington Rylands ten days ago. He was also forced to watch the game on Twitch with 120 fellow Paddock supporters (and 1 Newton supporter) as he served the final day of this touchline ban. 

-On the pitch, there was no place for the unavailable trio of Kayode Adewale, Joao De Andrade and Janeiro Salmon-Harris. Josh Mbala, Victor Iyumva and Michael Olatunji were given an opportunity to replace them and make the red and black jersey their own.

The opening exchanges of the game were as miserable as the conditions. Both sides really struggling to string a significant number of passes together. Newton were trying to force mistakes from the Paddock rearguard by dropping the ball over their heads and competing for the second ball. It was a viable tactic with the wet pitch and slippy conditions offering them opportunities to reclaim possession in dangerous areas and Newton forced five corners in the first half alone. 

Paddock were getting most of their success down the wings as Ronaldo Brown, Victor Iyumva and the overlapping Alex Black found space in behind the compact Newton defence. However the success of the wide areas didn’t transition into the middle as Paddock struggled to get players into the box to support the attacks and add the final touch. When the balls belatedly arrived, the Newton defence had more than enough to stop the moves in their infancy. Besides a number of (overly) ambitious shots from distance and hopeful crosses fizzed across goal, Paddock didn’t manage to create anything to trouble the adventurous Newton Athletic keeper who seemed eager to sweep up on behalf of his defence.

With the half sleepwalking towards an end, Newton pounced. The Doves midfielder picked up the ball 35 yards from goal, skipped inside his man before clipping a ball between a static Paddock defence left appealing for offside. The Newton forward raced towards goal to meet the ball and strike it left footed – but saw his shot smothered by the onrushing Florian Salceanu. A brave piece of goalkeeping from the new Paddock number one who is quickly becoming a fans favourite at the club. 

Goalless at the break. Both defences on top and both sides failing to create clear chances. It has to be said that both defences were not enjoying the offside decisions without the benefits of an Assistant Referee on the night. Another bane of grass roots football clubs.

Changes were needed and changes were made. Forward Tayo Tek came on to replace Josh Mbala on the right wing and Paddock started the second half with intent, with more purpose to their passing and more patience in possession. The mistakes were limited, the possession started to have purpose but it had resulted in very few opportunities. Paddock fans were starting to question if the possession alone would be enough to breach this organised and resilient Newton defence. Shortly afterwards debutant Tayo Tek provided them an answer.

With 54 minutes played, Sam Walker picked up the ball in central defence and carried it unchallenged towards the centre circle as Newton forwards backed off. From within his own half, Walker rolled a pass along the 5G turf between two defenders as Tayo Tek raced onto the ambitious through ball. As the Newton keeper flew out of his penalty area to intercept, Tek reached the ball first, touched it inside the advancing keeper before firing off balance into the empty net. Paddock had the lead. It was a dream debut goal for the youngster who had only been on the pitch for 9 minutes. An impressive finish, an excellently weighted pass by Walker, but the keeper will no doubt be disappointed to misjudge his attempted interception.

With 60 minutes on the clock, the lead doubled. Michael Olatunji found Victor Iyumva in space on the left hand side near the half way line. He carried the ball with pace to the Newton penalty area, cut inside onto his right foot and dispatched his shot across goal. The shot was parried by the keeper but the rebound fell into the path of new boy Tayo Tek who reacted fast to slam the ball into the unguarded net to score his second of the night. A dream start to life at Stratford Paddock for the substitute.

At 2-0 Paddock were heading for three points and the confidence was finally flowing after a fairly tepid first half display. This is the moment where typically the losing side open up to chase the game and team with the advantage pick them off on the break and extend their lead. Not on this occasion. As Paddock pressed on for more goals, with a high defensive line and a more creative (and risky) passing approach – the major beneficiaries were their opponents. Newton had chances in the closing stages and some good chances too. The first half tactic of dropping passes between defender and keeper was largely ineffective in the first half. But with the Paddock high line, it worked well as the game was nearing its end. Paddock stopper Salceanu was forced into two crucial one-on-one saves in the final moments. Newton were enjoying the better of the play as they attempted to salvage a point from the game.

To their great credit, Salceanu and his defenders held on to secure a much sought after clean sheet and claim all three points. Far from an easy task against a Newton side that still offered a significant threat to Paddock once they found their rhythm in the second half. The Doves will undoubtably leave Manchester frustrated that they didn’t find this rythmn at 0-0 which may have altered the trajectory of the game. However, with two wins in two games, Stratford Paddock’s trajectory is now upwards, as they leapfrog Newton Athletic to sit second in the Division Two table.

Your Voice Heard: Expansion Votes & Club Updates

Dear Stretford Paddock FC Family,

First and foremost, a massive thank you to everyone who participated in our recent voting on the proposed expansions of our club. Your engagement and enthusiasm are what make Stretford Paddock FC the vibrant and growing community it is today. Here are the results and what they mean for our future:

Voting Results Are In!

  • U16 Side Introduction: An overwhelming 97.16% of you voted in favor. We’re moving forward with welcoming both new U16 sides to our club!
  • U18 Side Introduction: With 97.74% approval, we’re excited to start planning for the inclusion of an U18 side.
  • Reintroducing a Reserve Side: 93.73% support means we’ll also focus on bringing back a reserve side to strengthen our player pathway.

Your support for these initiatives clearly demonstrates our collective commitment to nurturing young talent and providing a complete progression pathway from youth to adult levels.

Addressing Your Questions & Suggestions:

There were over 100 comments on the vote from various members, and a lot of those covered the same topics, so I will answer as best I can below;

Veterans Team & Club App: A few comments had asked about the possibility of introducing a veterans team for former players. I think a strong vets side would be the cherry on the top of a fully functional club, and demonstrate the strength of community. But It is not a focus, right now. Also, progress on our club app is a topic close to all of us, it was ready, and then the update to Twitter/X really destroyed the progress. As it stands, we are at a pause and I don’t have anything more concrete I can update. This needs addressing.

Permanent Home: We’re in active discussions regarding a permanent home for our teams and will share more detailed updates as soon as we have them, it is a long-term goal, and would alleviate an enormous chunk of facility issues, but it’s extremely expensive and we need government, council and grant help. Wait out on this.

Live Streaming Games: The idea of live-streaming games has been something we’ve wanted since our first season. The new Veo camera (once it arrives) promises this facility, it needs testing, but it supposedly can be done. There may be some commercial options we can explore with regard to the live streams. Stay tuned!

Kit/Sponsor Update: Your feedback on kits and sponsors has been invaluable. In the coming weeks, we will present options for our kit manufacturer and sponsor for the next season. Your vote will again play a crucial role.

Virtual/Physical AGM: Plans for a virtual and/or physical AGM are in the works, aiming to bring our global supporter base closer together. It is my intention for us to have this summer’s AGM live for all members to join in, and to ask questions.

Finances: There were concerns amongst the comments in the last vote that there may be a substantial cost to running the additional junior sides. On the contrary, the additional teams actually provide additional revenue to the club through subs. There’s also intangibles that are difficult to project. Such as each new squad of juniors will bring with them family members who might purchase a shirt, or hoodie, or become a member, or share and comment on the videos, which all leads to further growth for the club. Financial projections for next season will be shared at the AGM.

What’s Next?

Upcoming Votes: Your input is essential. Keep an eye out for upcoming votes on our kit manufacturer, kit sponsor for next season, and options for live broadcasting. Your voice will guide these critical decisions as we continue to grow and evolve.

Closing Thoughts:

The unity and passion within our club are stronger than ever. Together, we’re not just building teams; we’re crafting a legacy. As we embark on these exciting expansions, remember that every player, every member, and every vote shapes the future of Stretford Paddock FC.

Here’s to our next steps together—onwards and upwards, Up the Paddock!

Warm regards,

Ste

Stretford Paddock 2022/23 Player of the Year Awards

 

 

At Stretford Paddock FC, we believe in celebrating not just the victories on the field, but also the dedication, teamwork, and exceptional contributions that define our players. Last night’s Player of the Year Awards ceremony was an evening filled with camaraderie, applause, and a strong sense of community. As we reflect on the 2022/23 season, let’s delve into the inspiring stories of the winners who have left an indelible mark on our football journey over the past season.

Goal Of The Season – Dom Molloy’s Sensational Strike

Last season’s standout goal came courtesy of Dom Molloy, whose sensational 40-yard strike against West Didsbury & Chorlton in the final game left spectators in awe. This moment of brilliance showcased Dom’s remarkable eye for the spectacular, securing him the Goal of the Season award.

 

Joe Coleman: The Epitome of Club Spirit

Joe Coleman embodies the true spirit of Stretford Paddock FC, playing in every team, from the first team to the U21s. His unwavering commitment, positive attitude, and leadership, especially within the U21s, have earned him the Clubman of the Year award. Joe’s attitude and dedication symbolises the heart and soul of our club.

U21 Phenom: Joe Coleman Strikes Again

Joe Coleman’s impact extended to the U21 category, where he was recognised as the U21 Players Player of the Year. His versatility, camaraderie, and exceptional performances made him a standout among his peers. Manager Nathan Greenhalgh selected Stefan Koci as a very deserving U21 Player of the Year.

 

Rising Star: Mikey Burke’s Triumph

Mikey Burke’s name echoed through the awards ceremony, highlighting his incredible potential. Mikey clinched the Top Assister award by a single assist, eating winger Ronaldo Brown to the award, showcasing his playmaking abilities. His consistent performances also earned him the Young Player of the Year title, reflecting his growth performances.

Players’ Favorites: Reserves and First Team

In the Reserve side awards, Joe Coleman continued to shine, adding Reserve Player of the Year to his haul of accolades. Sean Colbert’s excellence and influence among his teammates saw him a nominated as deserving recipient of the Reserve Players Player of the Year award.

Among the first team, Joao De Andrade’s dedication, professionalism and consistency were recognised as he clinched the Players Player of the Year title, narrowly beating Captain James Oatt by a single vote.

Golden Boot and Top Assister: The Pinnacle of Performance

Tom Jones’s goal-scoring prowess earned him the Golden Boot award narrowly holding out to fend off a late surge from Ryan Katumba, while Mikey Burke’s assist record secured him the Top Assister title, just edging out Ronaldo Brown by a single assist.

Special Awards

The “Always Late but Worth the Wait” award playfully acknowledged Kayode Adewale’s habit of being fashionably late, while the “Best Actor” award was presented to Joao de Andrade, paying tribute to his theatrical on-field flair.

The Paddock Medal: Honouring Exceptional Commitment

The Paddock Medal is a reflection of our deep appreciation for individuals who exhibit exceptional dedication, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to our club’s values. It goes beyond athletic achievements, shining a light on those who truly embody the essence of what it means to be a part of the Stretford Paddock family.

Recognising Remarkable Individuals:

  1. Richie Adjei – The Long-Distance Devotee: Richie Adjei’s commitment to Stretford Paddock FC knows no bounds. Not only has he played across all levels of our club, but he also goes the extra mile – quite literally. Travelling all the way from Leeds to attend training and games showcases his profound dedication. Richie’s journey is a testament to the lengths he’s willing to go to support our club, and his commitment is duly recognised with a Paddock Medal.
  2. Charles Frapwell – Leading Through Adversity: Charles Frapwell’s story exemplifies the power of stepping up when it matters most. A young reserve player, he took on the mantle of managing the team for the final games of the season, showcasing immense leadership and determination. Charles’s willingness to embrace challenges head-on and lead the team in a time of need embodies the qualities we hold dear at Stretford Paddock FC.
  3. Lewis Jeng – Epitome of Dedication: The heart and soul of a club often lie beyond the pitch, and in this case, it extends to Lewis Jeng. Lewis initially joined our club as an intern, eager to learn about cameras and filming. His transformation from intern to club producer is a testament to his dedication and commitment. Honourable mention to his mother, Clare, who’s tireless support and contributions have been invaluable. Their shared commitment to Stretford Paddock FC’s success is truly inspiring and deserving of the Paddock Medal.

Above and Beyond: Fostering a Resilient Community:

The Paddock Medal isn’t just an award; it’s a reflection of the values we hold dear as a community. It stands as a reminder that our club is more than just a football team; it’s a family of individuals who exemplify dedication, resilience, and selflessness.

As we celebrate the winners of this year’s Paddock Medal, we extend our deepest gratitude for their contributions, both seen and unseen. Their actions go beyond the ordinary, reminding us all that the heart of Stretford Paddock FC is made up of individuals who embody our shared values and continue to shape the spirit of our community.

Stretford Paddock FC Player Of The Year – James Oatt

The crowning moment of the night was the announcement of James Oatt as the Stretford Paddock FC Player of the Year. As our club captain, James has exemplified leadership on and off the pitch, consistently delivering quality performances and really embodying the role of club captain. James’ performances were of an extremely high level, week in, week out and thoroughly earned this season’s award by becoming an unquestionably dependent player and a huge asset to the side.

The 2022/23 season was a journey of triumphs, unity, and growth. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners who have left an indelible mark on our club. Your achievements inspire us, and we look forward to a new season filled with even more memorable moments on and off the field.

RESULTS: Members Vote – Sponsorship Ethics

Dear Stretford Paddock FC Supporters,

At Stretford Paddock Football Club, we take immense pride in being more than just a football team; we are a passionate community united by a shared love for the game and a commitment to being a club with clear values. Recently, we embarked on a journey that exemplifies the heart of our club – one that values transparency, inclusivity, and the power of collective decision-making.

Shaping Our Path Through Democracy

In a resounding display of democratic unity, our club members decisively voiced their opinions on two pivotal matters that shape the future of Stretford Paddock FC. With a staggering 79.43% majority, our members voted to introduce a rule in our constitution that prohibits sponsorships deemed unethical, specifically, those related to alcohol and gambling. This demonstrates our unwavering commitment to nurturing a responsible football community that our aspiring players can look up to.

In an even more remarkable testament to our shared vision, 91.57% of our members welcomed TenTrade as our official front-of-shirt sponsor for the upcoming 2023/2024 season. This partnership is not just about business; it symbolizes the fusion of sportsmanship and education, aligning perfectly with our commitment to excellence, growth, and community engagement.

A Football Club Shaped by You

Our members are not just spectators; they are owners, decision-makers, and builders of our club’s identity. This partnership with TenTrade and the resounding support for ethical sponsorship are tangible manifestations of the democratic ethos that underscores our community. Together, we are creating a football club that mirrors our collective values, resonates with our shared ambitions, and reflects the inclusive spirit that sets us apart.

Georgios Rasheed Altoun, Director of TenTrade, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to announce our new sponsorship deal with Stretford Paddock Football Club. This is part of our ongoing efforts to promote trading and education through sports. Let’s shake hands and wish Stretford Paddock a good season ahead and look forward to working together for the exhibition of good sportsmanship.”

As we gear up for the 2023/2024 season with TenTrade as our proud partner, we celebrate a significant milestone in our journey – a testament to the power of collaboration, growth, and unity. Our gratitude knows no bounds as we extend a hearty thank you to our members, supporters, and partners for making this possible.

Join us in embracing this remarkable chapter in our history. Let’s kick off the season with the pride of a community that shapes its destiny, both on and off the field.

Up the Paddock!

REPORT: TEK United 2-3 Stretford Paddock

Stretford Paddock FC embarked on their inaugural international fixture on a memorable Saturday, August 5th, 2023, making their way to Dublin, Ireland to face off against TEK United. The match garnered immense support, with approximately 200 passionate fans in attendance, including The Paddock Ultras, Howson’s Red & White Army, and the Stretford Paddock FC Irish Supporters Club, whose flags proudly waved together, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Initially scheduled at TEK United’s ground, Rockford Park, the match faced uncertainty due to heavy overnight rainfall, rendering the pitch unplayable after an early inspection. However, a new venue was swiftly arranged at Soldier and Sailors Park, just a short distance away. Miraculously, the pitch there remained untouched by the weather and was in pristine condition for the game.

 

The match kicked off shortly after 3pm, and despite TEK United being completely unknown to Paddock, the opening minutes were cautious as our team assessed the level of opposition before them. TEK United showcased their skill and pace, leaving no room for complacency. An early free-kick opportunity outside the box tested Paddock’s defence, with the TEK player hitting the post, much to the relief of our lads.

17 minutes into the game Kieron Molloy pulled up with a hamstring injury, just days after his brother had the same problem in the victory over West Didsbury & Chorlton. An injury which might keep him out for a few weeks – we’ll have to see how he goes. Two goals in two could be missed at the weekend. He was replaced by Joao on the left wing.

Shortly after that it didn’t take long for Paddock to assert their dominance and Joao to make an impact. A well-executed long throw from Omar, starting deep within his own half, created space behind the TEK defence, allowing Joao to deliver a perfect ball into the area for Ryan Katumba to calmly slot home, granting us an early advantage.

Moments later, Paddock further solidified their lead when Oattsy, the captain, skillfully converted a corner, creating a beautiful curling shot that found the far top corner of the net. The goal might have appeared unintentional to some, but Oattsy reckons otherwise – let us know what you think when the highlights are out!

With a 2-0 lead, Paddock began to play with more confidence and control, with some confident possession, mainly via Nosa and Kayode in midfield. Nosa’s brilliant footwork set up Callum for the third goal, as he broke through the offside trap and finished with a beautiful first-time finish. The first half ended with a flurry of shots that failed to find the target, but Paddock firmly in control, leading 3-0.

The second half brought a momentary lapse in concentration for Paddock, leading to two goals for TEK United, reminding the lads that no game can be taken for granted. Reenergized and refocused, Paddock regained their composure and reverted to their usual aggressive dominate style, delivering a captivating display of quick passes, off-the-ball runs, and well-timed attacks.

The match could have seen more goals for Paddock, particularly from the right side, where Callum built on his lethal first half performance and repeatedly found himself in acres of space and looking the most likely source of a goal. The TEK United keeper’s impressive saves kept his team in contention. As the game neared its conclusion, with TEK United players visibly fatigued, McKenna, unfortunately, sustained a hamstring injury, leading to captain James Oatt taking on the goalkeeper role for the remaining minutes. The third time he’s done this, and he’s never conceded!

Adam McKola made his erm, shortly awaited, debut on the 85th minute and had the chance to put the game to bed in the 89th minute – but fluffed his lines! Must see in the highlights!


The final whistle blew, and Stretford Paddock emerged triumphant with a 3-2 victory. The match proved to be a resounding success, showcasing a thrilling encounter and a positive result for Paddock. The warm welcome and hospitality extended by TEK United and Brian from the Irish Supporters Club made the entire experience even more memorable, leaving us with much to be thankful for.

 

Members Input Required! Sponsorship Ethics!

Your voice matters! As a fan-owned club, we believe in transparency and inclusivity, involving our valued members in critical decisions that shape the future of Stretford Paddock FC. Today, we are excited to share a significant matter that requires your active participation.

Ethical Sponsorship: Our Commitment to Values

Stretford Paddock FC has always stood for more than just football. We are a community, a family bound by shared values and a passion for the beautiful game. As we progress on our journey, we aim to uphold these values in every aspect of our club, including our sponsorships.

We are considering introducing a rule in our constitution that prohibits sponsorships from companies involved in certain industries, specifically alcohol and gambling. This decision aligns with our vision of fostering a positive and responsible football community, where our aspiring young players are inspired by sponsors who embody integrity, sportsmanship, and community spirit.

Unity and Inclusivity: One Club, One Family

At Stretford Paddock FC, we celebrate unity and inclusivity. We envision a club where every member, from our esteemed first team to our cherished junior academy, feels a strong sense of belonging. One step towards achieving this unity is having the same kit across all players, symbolizing that we are “one club, one family.”

Respecting Diverse Beliefs: A Welcoming Space for All

We value the diversity of beliefs and backgrounds among our fans and players. It is essential to create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable and represented. By avoiding sponsorships that might make some individuals uncomfortable, such as those related to alcohol and gambling, we aim to maintain Stretford Paddock FC as an inclusive and diverse football family.

A Significant Investment: Unlocking Our Potential

We are thrilled to share that we have received an anonymous sponsorship proposal (sponsor is revealed to members via email) that presents a significant investment opportunity for our club. If approved, this sponsorship could cover a year’s costs for ground hire not only for our first team but also for our reserves and U21s. The financial support offered would be instrumental in realizing our ambitions, nurturing our junior players, and strengthening our teams.

Your Voice Matters: Cast Your Vote

Your participation is essential in shaping the future of Stretford Paddock FC. In the coming days, you will receive an email containing two crucial questions that require your vote:

  1. Should Stretford Paddock FC introduce a rule in the constitution prohibiting sponsorships deemed unethical, specifically those related to alcohol and gambling?
  2. Are we happy to pass the proposed anonymous sponsor as next season’s main sponsor, to be printed on the front of our shirts?

Please take a moment to check your emails and cast your vote. We value each member’s opinion and are committed to ensuring that your voice is heard and respected. You will have 7 days to cast your vote.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to Stretford Paddock FC. Together, let’s continue building a football club that we can all be proud of—one that embodies our shared values and embraces its community.

Up the Paddock!

Ashley Williams becomes Sporting Director

Stretford Paddock FC Welcomes Ashley Williams as Sporting Director and Shares His Vision for the Club

Stretford Paddock FC is thrilled to announce the appointment of Ashley Williams as the club’s new Sporting Director. Williams, an accomplished footballer with extensive experience on the field, including serving as the Captain of the Welsh national team, is eager to share his knowledge and expertise with the players and staff of Stretford Paddock FC.

Williams shared his enthusiasm for joining the club and outlined his responsibilities in his new role:

“I feel like there’s a role I can play in helping out with the club. The main thing that excites me is being on the pitch with the players and helping them develop, building contacts with other football clubs, and helping players progress up the pyramid.”

He further expressed his admiration for the foundation that has already been built by the club:

As a club, we’ve got exciting plans ahead, and I’m looking forward to joining in with what Ste has already built with hard work.

Regarding player recruitment, Williams highlighted the importance of certain qualities in potential players:

I think the first thing I’d be looking for in a player is, are they coachable? What direction do they want to go in? We’ll obviously be looking at ability, but it isn’t the be-all and end-all. It’s all about taking a player and improving their level.

He also emphasized the need for players who are dedicated and eager to be part of the team: “Are they receptive? Do they want to be here?”

Williams is no stranger to climbing the ranks in football, making his experience particularly valuable for Stretford Paddock FC:

“We’ve spoken a lot about this. I know exactly what it’s like going from the lower leagues to the Premier League, which is one of the reasons you wanted me to be involved in dealing with players who went through something similar to me at 17 years of age after being released from West Brom.”

With an optimistic outlook on the club’s future, Williams concluded:

“You look at some other models that have done really well, and we think we can do something similar, if not better. We shouldn’t put a timescale or expectations on it. We want to bring the whole Stretford Paddock family together, bring in new additions, and involve the community. It’s doable because it’s been done. Teams have progressed through the leagues very quickly, and it’s not easy. But with our resources and facilities, I don’t see why we can’t go on and do something very good.”

Stretford Paddock FC are confident that Ashley Williams’ vision, passion, and experience will contribute significantly to the club’s ongoing success. The club is currently inviting interested players to join the team. If you would like to be a part of this exciting journey, please fill out >>> THIS CONTACT FORM <<< to or head over to the  PLAY FOR US page on this website, to express your interest

New Sponsorship Announcement

Stretford Paddock FC and OneFootball announced today that the companies have entered into a strategic media partnership. With technology and social media playing an increasingly critical role in every aspect of sports, we recognize the need to expand the club’s global reach. This partnership will help us tap into the global audience that OneFootball possesses and also help amplify the reach of OneFootball in the UK market.

The agreement brings together the content creating expertise of Stretford Paddock FC and the social media influence of OneFootball. Stretford Paddock FC is a grassroots football team playing in the Cheshire League out of Manchester, and OneFootball are a German-based football media company. Their app features live-scores, statistics and news from 200 leagues in 12 different languages with over 100 million monthly users worldwide.

“This strategic partnership with OneFootball will allow us continue to build our global community, offering a direct communication channel to fans and the brands that we work with.” said Stephen Howson, Manager of Stretford Paddock FC. He added, “This alliance that begins today will undoubtedly bring, in the short term, new and creative additional releases for all fans of Stretford Paddock FC in a season that sees us step into the next level of English football.”

OneFootball will also host editorial content published on the Stretford Paddock FC, such as the most recent news, documentaries and matchday updates. Stretford Paddock FC news will appear as official content in a user’s stream and will be identified by the club’s logo.

Amanda Allegrini, Global Influencer Marketing Lead at OneFootball, said: “In just two seasons, Stretford Paddock F.C. has established its unique vision as a fan-first football club, gaining a strong foothold not just in Manchester but across the UK. OneFootball and Stretford Paddock F.C. share a common value in being fan-focused, and this partnership allows us to get even closer to those supporters and deliver worldclass content to form long-lasting relationships with them. We are extremely excited to welcome Stretford Paddock F.C. to the OneFootball family and look forward to delivering their content to fans around the world.”

You can check out OneFootball or download the app here; https://tinyurl.com/yyc3dw4c

New Home Kit Officially Launched!

We are delighted to unveil our latest home-shirt design, the second of our 4-year partnership with Puma and it’s another cracker! We chose the upward-moving chevron design as we feel it fits what the club has been doing in our short history, everything moving onward!

You will notice we have a new sponsor on the front of the shirt, One Football are a media partner with a brilliant football-news app where you’re able to keep up to with all the latest news, scores and stats from all the professional league’s around the world. You’ll soon be seeing Stretford Paddock content on the app alongside their other creators, some clubs you might have heard of – Real Madrid, Juventus etc. More on One Football later today.

 

As some of you may be aware, we haven’t actually produced a single shirt that hasn’t sold out. So do make sure to get yours as soon as they go on sale, or you might miss out. We’ve got a good amount of stock, but with having over 1,000 fan owners of the club – we might sell a LOT more than we anticipate! Be quick!

We’ve chosen tomorrow’s pre-season friendly with Hashtag United as the first run out for the new kit. If you’re in the Essex area, entry is free and kick off is 4pm – if you’re unable to attend, it’s still possible to watch as Hashtag are live streaming the game on their channel for everyone to see.

The shirt goes on sale to the public on the 29th of July, the day before our first league game in the Cheshire League, but members will be able to buy from the 15th of July – just another reason to get involved with the club’s fan ownership scheme – find out more below.

OFFICIAL PARTNERS