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League Round-Up: A Week of Shockers and Show-Stealers

Hey everyone, join us as we dissect last weekends weekend’s action and look ahead to tomorrow’s Cheshire League Two fixtures!

Last Week’s Drama

No doubt the biggest jaw-dropper came from the Pilkington U23s who put a double-digit past the Maine Road Res. – proper statement that, isn’t it? They’re not just leading but dominating at the summit with their goal difference skyrocketing.

Lymm Rovers FC, meanwhile, pulled a blinder against Clay Brow FC, silencing them with a clean sheet and a trio of goals. They’re a side with momentum now, and who knows how far up the table they can go?

Down but not out, Newton-Le-Willows gave Mersey Valley a lesson in football with a 4-0 victory, turning a few heads and possibly setting the stage for a fairytale rise through the table.

Lastly, we had West Didsbury & Chorlton Res. running riot against Hartford FC, banging in a handsome five goals to none, a result that nudges them further away from the bottom.

Looking Forward to Next Week’s Clashes

Fasten your seat belts because this week is brimming with fixtures that promise plenty of thrills and possibly a spill or two. Here’s the lowdown:

• Pilkington U23s vs Mersey Valley: The league leaders are eyeing another win, but could Mersey Valley offer up a surprise? Stranger things have happened!
• Lymm Rovers FC vs Hartford FC: After a spanking last week, can Hartford pull up their socks and give Lymm a run for their money?
• Newton-Le-Willows vs Maine Road Res.: Fresh off a dominant win, Newton-Le-Willows will be fancying their chances against a wounded Maine Road side.
• Stretford Paddock FC vs Moore United FC: With Paddock yet to taste defeat this season, and Moore United have only just started finding their feet with a couple of wins; can they upset the apple cart here?
• Wigan Town FC vs St Helens Town: Wigan’s got it all to do against a St Helen’s side eyeing those upper slots in the league standings.
• Winsford Town FC vs West Didsbury & Chorlton Res.: A pivotal game for both sides, with the opportunity to solidify or even improve their positions with a win.

So, there you have it, a sneak peek at the action waiting to unfold. Get the teas in, find a comfy spot, and get ready for another belter of a weekend in the league. Elsewhere we’ve been given our first cup fixture. The first team are disappointed to not be featuring in the Manchester Challenge Trophy, as we did last season, but a change to the leagues which make up qualification has found us seeded in the Manchester Amateur Cup, instead. Last season’s first game saw us put five-goals past Denton Town, and this season we’ve been drawn against Denton Town’s RESERVES – strange decision for us to be in this competition, but one we will endeavour to win!

Come and join us for tomorrow’s fixture against Moore United, at the Butchers Arms!

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!

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!

In an eagerly anticipated comeback, Droylsden FC made a spectacular return to the football scene over the weekend in a thrilling match against Stretford Paddock, marking their first game since the club’s revival. Both teams battled it out for the honoured Tony Downes Trophy, setting the stage for an enthralling contest.

The Butcher’s Arms Stadium was buzzing with excitement and the match garnered an unbelievable turnout, with an estimated 1500 fans making their way to the venue.

The atmosphere was electric, with both sets of fans generating an incredible noise. Stretford Paddock brought a considerable following of their own, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Although the focus was primarily on Droylsden’s long-awaited return, Paddock, made it clear from the outset that they were not there to simply roll over; they aimed to spoil the party. With Paddock playing their home games at the Butcher’s Arms couple of seasons ago, it added to the historical connection.

The hosts kicked off the game with great energy, creating several scoring opportunities that ignited the crowd and Paddock spent much of the first half on the . However, the Bloods’ wastefulness in front of goal came back to haunt them late in the first half when Stretford Paddock’s new 45 year-old striker, Gavin Salmon, father of Paddock’s star midfielder Jainero Salmon-Harris, found space in the box, evaded his marker, and fired a precise shot into the bottom corner, giving his team the lead.

In the second half, Droylsden responded admirably, equalizing a few minutes in when their number 14 connected with a cross from the left, calmly slotting the ball home. The remainder of the game saw few noteworthy chances, apart from a close effort from Mikey Burke hitting the post from distance just minutes before the final whistle. With the score level at 1-1 after 90 minutes, the match would be decided through a penalty shootout. Martin Flannagan was the star of the shootout for Paddock where his impressive saves gave Paddock the advantage. Droylsden’s hopes were then dashed when one of their veterans stepped up and sent his penalty wild and high over the crossbar, sealing victory for Stretford Paddock. Paddock joyously lifted the Tony Downes Trophy moments later, in front of their jubilant traveling supporters.

However, beyond the footballing spectacle, the match served as a tribute to Droylsden guardsman Tony Downes, who tragically lost his life at the age of 20 while serving his country in Afghanistan in 2007.

Notably, Stephen Howson, who grew up in Droylsden, also served in Afghanistan around the time Tony passed away, making this cause particularly close to his heart. Stephen shared, “I was on the Herrick that preceded the one Tony passed away on. I didn’t know him, but being from Droylsden, it really hit home. It’s always poignant passing his memorial on the side of the pub. So, when Dave asked us to play for this trophy, we took it seriously. We wanted to do justice to Tony’s memory and ensure it wasn’t taken lightly.”

Stephen further expressed his delight at Droylsden’s comeback, highlighting the remarkable efforts of Dave Pace, the Droylsden manager, behind the scenes. He stated, “I’m absolutely buzzing. I wasn’t sure they’d come back from what happened to them, but Dave has worked tirelessly and has probably surprised a few people. A few thousand people are here today, showing just how much the community missed their football club.”

Dave Pace, the Droylsden manager, dedicatedly worked to make this return possible and was astounded by the tremendous support from the fans. Despite only having a few weeks to prepare with the players, he saw around 140 individuals turn up for the first training session, presenting him with his fair share of challenges. Dave expressed his gratitude, saying, “The support has been brilliant. Today exceeded my expectations. It’s just fantastic; words can’t describe it. We’ve come so far from where we were a few months ago, and it’s all credit to the fans and everyone connected to the club.”

The day was a fantastic one for the whole community, who had waited three years for Droyslden’s return as well as being a significant milestone for Paddock who were able to walk away with their first bit of silverware in the clubs history.

The end of the season is almost here. All that remains for Stretford Paddock in what can only be described as a ‘mixed’ first season in the Cheshire League is a home fixture against West Disbury & Chorlton Reserves. Despite Paddock no longer fighting for promotion, any kind of result tomorrow would ensure that the YouTube side’s first season in the Cheshire League ends with a top half finish.

Situational Preview

Stretford Paddock currently sit 8th in Division 2 of the Cheshire League, level on points with Haydock who have a superior goal difference. Haydock, however, have played all 26 of their games this season meaning that a draw or win for Paddock would guarantee them a top half finish.

It’s tough for Paddock to see a 7th place finish as a success down to the fact the club were at one point just a handful of points away from the top 3. Despite this however, when considering the large amount of injuries and the permanent loss of some key players – 7th is respectful.

West Didsbury & Chorlton are currently in 10th place in Division 2 but have 2 games remaining. They need to win both to make sure they finish 9th however, depending on results elsewhere, they might only need one win.

When the two sides faced each other 8 months ago, Paddock were 3-0 victors in what was their first victory of the season. It would also be the first win of their 7 win streak in the Cheshire League.

Opponent Watch

West Didsbury & Chorlton Reserves are currently in 10th place in the Cheshire League division 2. They have played 23 games, winning 8, drawing 7 and losing 8. They have scored 42 goals and conceded 33.

They are a young side with players from a number of academies in Cheshire. The skill level of their players is high.

Their form has been mixed of late, wining 3 and losing 3 of their last 6 games. It will for sure be a tough game for the Paddock boys considering their opponents also have something to play for.

Team News

After serving his 1 game suspension against Moore United, Stretford Paddock’s captain, James Oatt, will return to the line up.

One man who has returned to training after a long absence is Paddock midfielder, Dom Molloy. Dom was a key player for Paddock during their impressive unbeaten run however, a number of reasons including multiple injuries has kept him out of the team.

We will have to wait and see wether or not Dom returns to the first team squad for Paddock’s final outing of the 22/23 season.

🚨𝗙𝗜𝗫𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦🚨

It’s our final fixture of the 𝟮𝟮/𝟮𝟯 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 where we welcome 𝗪𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗗𝗶𝗱𝘀𝗯𝘂𝗿𝘆 & 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗿𝗹𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘀.

📅 Sat 20 May
🕑 2:00PM
📍 Manchester Enterprise Academy, M22 9RH
🏆 @CheshireFL
🎫 FREE#UpThePaddock pic.twitter.com/2mo8W2hloU

— Stretford Paddock FC (@SPaddockFC) May 19, 2023

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

After there being no game for the lads last week, Stretford Paddock return to action in the Cheshire League with an away trip out to Lymm. Last weekend, opponents, Pilkington U23’s, failed to field a side which resulted in the postponement of the fixture. Still looking for an away victory this year, perhaps some fresh legs will aid Paddock in really kickstarting their end of season run in.

Situational Preview

Paddock currently sit in 8th place in Division 2, one place into the bottom half of the table. Haydock, who sit currently in 7th position, are 6 points ahead of Stretford Paddock having played 2 more games. It is this weekend’s opponents, Lymm Rovers, who are a place behind Paddock. The gap between Lymm and Paddock is also 6 points. It means that whatever happens this weekend, Paddock will remain in 8th place.

Lymm are in a similar situation to Paddock in the sense that whatever the outcome of the fixture on Saturday, they will remain in 9th place.

For Paddock, a top half finish is still well within the realm of possibility. Should Paddock win their 2 games in hand, they would go level on points with Haydock leaving an exciting end to the season.

Head to Head

Stretford Paddock were 6-1 victors in their outing with Lymm Rovers back in February. The game is mostly remembered for 2 debut goals for Paddock’s new main man up top, Ryan Katumba.

February’s result will stead Paddock into the game this weekend with plenty of confidence however, Paddock have only won once since that game. It’ll therefore be, no doubt, a tough game for Ste’s men.

Another man who will make things difficult for Paddock this weekend is Lymm Rovers forward, Rory Ridley-Thomas. Ridley-Thomas is the Division’s joint 9th top scorer this season with 13 goals to his name.

Elliot Watkins is another danger within the Lymm Rovers ranks – he has 10 goals to his name this season.

Team News

Due to the carry over of his suspension from two weeks ago, Paddock captain, James Oatt, is unavailable for tomorrows game.

His second yellow card in stoppage time against F.C. St Helens resulted in Oatsy picking up a one match ban. The ban was supposed to take place last weekend against Pilkington U23’s however, because the fixture will be rearranged, his ban must take place this weekend.

🚨𝐅𝐈𝐗𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒🚨

After last week’s postponement, we’re back in action this time away to 𝗟𝘆𝗺𝗺 𝗥𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀

📅 Sat 29 Apr
🕑 2:00PM
📍 Lymm Leisure Centre, WA13 0RB
🏆 @CheshireFL Division 2
🎫 FREE#UpThePaddock pic.twitter.com/cm66XGEYvm

— Stretford Paddock FC (@SPaddockFC) April 28, 2023