Club News 2009 - 2010 - Page 1
26/05/10. Reserves docked points blow
Emley's reserve team were docked three points by the West Riding County League committee yesterday after it was found that they had played ineligible players in their recent league victory over Westbrook YMCA.
Westbrook were in turn awarded the three points from the fixture all of which means that they take second place in the table and with it automatic promotion to the WRCL 1st division.
Rule 8c in the league handbook states:
A team shall not include any player who has taken part in any senior competition match after March 31st during the present season until a period of 28 days has elapsed since they played. For the purpose of this Competition a senior competition is Step 6 and above.
Although the players in question had represented the reserve team before they had not taken part in 10 fixtures for the reserve team by this point.
Club secretary John Whitehead stated: "Whilst we are disappointed to miss out on second place we entirely accept the leagues decision and must now put in place the necessary procedures to ensure that this doesn't happen again".
All may not be lost however as the league are looking to extend their membership for the upcoming season so there is a possibility that we may get the opportunity to move up to the first division. Further details will be posted as we receive them.
18/05/2010.
Reserves Win League Cup
Emley's reserve team earned a well-deserved 2-0 win over Rawdon OB in the league cup at Littletown tonight. The victory was a fitting end to a great first season at the helm by Darren Hepworth who was rightly delighted with his team’s performance at the final whistle.
Emley took the lead on 12 minutes through a terrific strike by Matt Neesam from outside the box. They continued to dominate the game playing quick passing football on a pitch which was a real credit to the Littletown Groundsman.
The victory was sealed early on in the second half as Rob Day latched onto a through ball and chipped home under pressure from the Rawdon keeper.
An appreciative crowd gave both sets of players a round of applause as Emley captain Ben Dunne picked collected the trophy before the champagne corks started popping to begin a night of celebrations back up at the Welfare Ground.
Congratulations to Darren, Nicky, Micky and the lads on a great first season together. Cup winners and 2nd in the league is a great achievement. Lets hope for more of the same next season.
15/05/10
Bland is the Man for Emley
Emley have today appointed Darren Bland as their new first team manager. Bland spent last season as assistant manager at Unibond League club Worksop Town but was keen to get back into the managers seat after previously holding that role at Maltby and Emley's league rivals Staveley.
Emley committee member Graeme Dodgson who chaired the selection panel was delighted with the appointment. "We had some excellent applicants for the post and in the end selected Darren from a very strong shortlist of 6. The club is delighted that Darren accepted the position and are confident that he is the man who can steer us to our ultimate goal of promotion to the NCEL Premier Division “
"Darren really impressed us with his appetite for success and his knowledge and experience of the game at our level. We are all looking forward to working with him and can't wait for the new season to begin".
Bland has called a meeting with all the current squad for 7.30pm on Monday as he looks to make an early start to his plans for next season.
15/05/10. AFC Emley Res 4-1 Dudley Hill Athletic
Emley's second team clinched second place in the table with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Dudley Hill. A run of 6 league wins in their last 6 games gave Darren Hepworth's side the second promotion place behind runaway champions Bay Athletic Reserves.
The game was played at Lepton Highlanders as the Welfare Ground was unavailable due to a cricket match. Rob Day grabbed 2 goals with Nick Reid adding the third before Gareth Garside capped a fine season for the club scoring with an audacious David Beckhamesque lob from inside his own half.
The reserves will now look to sign off the season in style on Tuesday night when they take on Rawdon in the League Cup final which is to be held at Littletown FC (Kick Off is 7.00pm).
12/05/10. AFC Emley Res 3-2 Storthes Hall Res
Emley moved a step closer to clinching second place in league with a thrilling 3-2 win over local rivals Storthes Hall. Hall were 0-2 up within half an hour and looked set to be thwart Emley's hopes of promotion but Rob Day gave Emley a lifeline at the end of the first half with tremendous 30 yard free kick.
Emley edged the possession in the second half as both sides created plenty of chances. Substitute Josh Mallinson grabbed an equaliser with 10 minutes remaining before Nicky Reid grabbed a last ditch winner much to the delight of the Emley fans in the sizeable crowd.
The win moves Emley up to third place in the league, 2 points behind Westbrook YMCA who signed off their season with a 4-1 over Ardsley Celtic tonight. Emley's final league game is against Dudley Hill on Saturday and 3 points will secure second place. The match kicks off at 1.00pm and will be played at Lepton Highlanders as the Welfare Ground is unavailable.
11/05/10
Reserves through to Cup Final
Emley's reserve team progressed to the league cup final defeating Storthes Hall by a solitary goal by John Paul Flynn in extra time. The result sets up a cup final clash with Rawdon OB at Beck Lane, Heckmondwike - the home of WRCL Div One side Littletown and former home base for Huddersfield Town Juniors. The game will take place in a weeks’ time on Tuesday 18th May, kick off is at 7.00pm.
Meanwhile the reserves are in action again on Wednesday evening in a quick repeat of Mondays game when they entertain Storthes Hall. Kick off is at 7.30pm and entry is free.
Emley's rivals for 2nd place Westbrook play their final game of the season on Wednesday against Ardsley Celtic whilst Emley's final league game is against Dudley Hill Athletic on Saturday (Kick Off 1.00pm) - please note this game will be held at Lepton as the Welfare Ground will be in use by the Cricket Team.
11/05/10.
Ground Maintenance
We will be holding our first working party at the ground next Wednesday 19th May at 7.00pm up at the Welfare Ground. As always there are a number of areas that need attention and any help that you can provide would be massively appreciated. For further information please contact Richard Hazelden on 01484 684224 or 07811685343.
09/05/10. Player of Season Awards
Max Joice scooped the coveted Supporters Player of the Year award at last nights presentation evening along with the Players Player of the Year. A consistent performer for Emley throughout the season at right back Joice has rightly earned the respect of his fellow players and fans alike.
Steven Kenworthy won the Chairman’s award in his first season as club captain. Kenworthy grabbed a 20 goal haul for the second consecutive season but missed the latter part of the season through injury.
Ben Dunne was also a double winner for the reserves picking up the Manager and Players Player of the Year awards. Nicky Reid received the Clubman of the Year award.
08/05/10. Morley Town 1 - AFC Emley Res 5
A comprehensive victory away at Morley Town was achieved with a single goal in the first half from Marc Townsend with a tap in at the back post. Chris Prasher brought memories flooding back, beating the offside twice with just the keeper to beat he made no mistake with two clinical finishes. A further breach of the offside trap saw Jake Sanderson also bulged the net with a strong shot. Townsend added the fifth goal with a goal in off the post from a tight angle. Morley pulled one back deep into the half following a defensive calamity.
06/05/10. AFC Emley Res 4-0 Steeton
Emley's second team had a massive boost for their promotion challenge last night defeating Steeton 4-0 at the Welfare Ground. Goals from Matt Neesam, Gareth Garside, Luke Firth and Marc Townsend sealed the win.
Crucially Westbrook YMCA, who are Emley's main rivals for second place slipped up last night drawing 1-1 with second to bottom Morley Town. This means that if Emley win their remaining 3 fixtures they will be assured of second place.
Campion are currently 2nd in the table with 52 points having completed all of their fixtures, Westbrook are 3rd on 51 points with 2 games remaining and Emley 4th on 49 points with 3 games left to play.
The fixtures come thick and fast over the next few days starting with a trip to Morley on Saturday - kick off is 2.30pm.
04/05/10. AFC Emley Reserves v Steeton. Wednesday 5th May - Kick Off 7.30pm
Emley's reserve team entertain 8th placed Steeton at the Welfare Ground on Wednesday night. A win will put Darren Hepworth's men within a point of 2nd placed Westbrook YMCA as they aim to take the final promotion place. Emley ran out 5-0 victors at the Keighley based side back in October. Entry is free of charge and the sports bar will be open before, during and after the game.
04/05/10.
End of Season Party & Presentation Night
The club will hold their annual player of the season presentation night at the Sports Bar this Saturday night (7.30pm). Tickets are just £5 and include food with live music provided by a local covers band and a "special mystery guest". Fans and players are all welcome - prizes will be awarded to both first and second team members. There will also be a draw for all ticket holders with the prize being 8 pints from behind the bar.
01/05/10.
AFC Emley Reserves 1-0 Westbrook YMCA
Emley's reserve team closed the gap on 2 placed Westbrook last night as they continued their pursuit of the second promotion place with Ashley Brothers scored the vital goal. Emley stay in 4th place and are still 4 points behind Westbrook with a game in hand. 3rd place Campion lost to Steeton and are 3 points ahead of Emley but have played 3 more games.
Emley's next game is on Wednesday evening when they entertain Steeton Reserves at the Welfare Ground. Kick Off is at 7.30pm.
27/04/10.
Emley Part Company with Ian Banks
AFC Emley have parted company with manager Ian Banks by mutual consent after 2 years in charge of the club.
Banks was a popular figure as manager, having enjoyed a spell at the old Emley AFC club during the 1990’s at the end of an illustrious playing career.
He and assistant Grant Crookes guided the club to 8th place in the NCEL First Division in his first term in charge of the club earning a reputation for playing attractive football and admiration from fellow clubs and supporters in the process.
He took the side to 2nd in the table before Christmas and well placed for promotion, recording a “giant killing” victory in the Sheffield Cup over Unibond League Worksop Town on the way. But, a slump in the New Year saw Emley win just 3 of their last 16 league games to leave them in 8th spot once again.
Banks met with Emley Chairman Graham Roys at the end of the season and it was decided between them that it would be a suitable time to go their separate ways.Banks stated “My feeling is that the side needs a few new faces in now to take it forward and perhaps it is the right time to bring in a new manager with some fresh ideas".
“The fans have been fantastic, patient and supportive through my time at the club and I am sorry to be leaving them behind when the club has the potential to achieve success.”
“I would also like to thank the players – they have been a great set of lads to work with, thanks too to my assistant Grant Crookes who has worked tirelessly throughout the last 2 years.”
Roys, speaking on behalf of the club committee commented: “We would like to thank Ian and Grant for all of their hard work at the club over the last 2 years. Unfortunately this has not achieved promotion to the premier division – a target that we both set for ourselves.”
“We have seen some great football played over the last two years and some terrific results. Both will be held in high regard here at Emley as they have given their all to the club and they will always be welcome back at the Welfare Ground.”
The search now begins for a replacement manager as Emley look to have a new boss in place in good time for the new season. Candidates are asked to contact club secretary John Whitehead on 07850957161 or johnrwhitehead@uwclub.net for further details about the post.
25/04/10.
Brighouse Promoted
Congratulations from all at the club to Brighouse Town who secured promotion to the Premier division with a 2-1 victory over Rossington. The result capped a run of 16 wins in 18 games which saw them jump from 5th in the table at christmas to top the table.
Tadcaster Albion and Leeds Carnegie both kept up their challenge for the other promotion spot as both recorded 4-0 wins over Yorkshire Amateur and Pontefract Collieries respectively. This means that Taddy must beat Hemsworth in their final fixture of the season on Tuesday night to take the league title. A draw or defeat will hand the title to Brighouse and the second promotion place to Carnegie.
Brodsworth and Shirebrook finish in the bottom two places of the Premier Division and will be relaged to the first divsion.
22/04/10.
AFC Emley Reserves 2-1 Ardsley Celtic
Emley's reserve side bounced back from 2 straight defeats to get their promotion challenge back on track last night. The hard fought victory gives them hopes of securing the second promotion spot ahead of Campion and Westbrook.
Emley took the lead through a spectacular strike by Max Joice before David Murphy pulled one back to make it 1-1 at half time.
Matt Neesam was sent off on 65 minutes after recieving 2 yellow cards and it looked like the writing was on the wall for Emley but they dug deep an grabbed a winner with a fine headed goal by Luke Firth.
The reserves next fixture will be vital to their promotion aspirations as they take on second placed Westbrook YMCA at the Welfare Ground on Friday 30th April - kick off 7.30pm.
17/04/10.
AFC Emley 2-4 Staveley MW
Emley were unable to end the season on a high note as they surrended a 2-1 lead and fell to a 4-2 defeat at the hands of Staveley.
Staveley took and early lead as Ryan Damms scored from the penalty spot on 8 minutes but Emley fought their way back into the game and grabbed a deserved equaliser through Rob Day on 39 minutes.
Mark Townsend put the home side in front on 65 minutes after they were guilty of missing a number of other chances. Emley were left to rue missing those chances however when Staveley made a devastating fightback with 3 goals in 4 minutes through Joel Bates, Judd Colley and Scott Bates.
The result leaves Emley in 7th place in the table but could slip to 8th if Hemsworth take two or more points from their final two fixtures.
There was no joy for the second XI either as they fell to a second consecutive defeat by 2-0 at West Horton.
14/04/10.
AFC Emley 0-1 Barton Town OB NCEL Division One
A depleted Emley side fell to their 10th league defeat of the season as Barton recorded their third consecutive 1-0 victory.
The first half of the game was a fairly laclustre affair with the visitors edging the posession without challenging Emley keeper Mick Clarke too seriously. Emley's best chance came in the opening minutes as Rob Day headed just over from close range.
Barton showed more desire to win the game creating more chances than the home side and took the lead half way through the second half with their prolific striker Gareth Barlow slotting home his 28th goal of the season.
After the goal Emley were finally spurred into playing some better football as Mark Townsend and Duncan Bray both went close before Dave Bramley pulled off the save of the game tipping a curling shot from Mick Amos round the post.
Emley's final fixture of the season is on Saturday at home to Staveley MW. Kick off is at 3.00pm. The second team travel to Bradford based West Horton (Kick off 2.30pm).
13/04/10.
Reserves Semi Postponed
Tonight's league cup semi final against Storthes Hall has been cancelled. We were also trying to schedule a league fixture against Storthes Hall at the Welfare Ground on thursday night but this too has been put on hold. Will post further details once they are confirmed by the league.
10/04/10. Held to A Draw
In an entertaining game at the Welfare, Emley were held to a draw from a Rossington Side that played attractive attacking football. The game was overshadowed by a serious injury to stand in captain Josh Wright, the best wishes from all at the club go to Josh.
Jonathan Mirfin took the lead with a crisp shot, whilst Mick Amos levelled the scores with a fine individual goal.
See Match Reports for full details.
09/04/10.
Weekend Preview
Emley entertain 10th placed Rossington Main at the Welfare Ground this Saturday (kick off 3.00pm). Ian Banks’ men bounced back from a recent run of poor form with a 3-1 victory over Yorkshire Amateur at the weekend and will be looking continue this form as the season draws to a close.
The win at Yorkshire Amateur was achieved with a squad made up 7 first team regulars and 7 of the reserve side as they were missing a raft of regulars through injuries. Banks welcomes back Lee Hill, Duncan Bray, Mick Amos and John Cryus back into the squad. Alex Thomas and Rob Day return to the reserves after impressing against the Ammers.
SQUAD:Clarke, Joice, Leech, Brook, Hazelden, Hill, Wright, Townsend, Amos, Bray, Cyrus, Ingham, Garside, Brothers, Reid.
Emley’s second string make the short trip to free scoring Bay Athletic. The game is to be played at the Syngenta playing fields and kick off is at 2.30pm. Bay will provide a tough test having plundered 18 goals in their last two fixtures (both against Kirkburton).
07/04/10.
AFC Emley Res 1-1 West Horton
Emleys second string were held to a draw last night in the WRCL Division 2. Josh Ingham put Emley in front with a stunning free kick but the visitors cancelled this out with a strike by Ali. The visitors were reduced to 10 men in the second half but try as they might Emley were unable to grab a winner.
The result leaves Emley in fourth place in the table a point behind second placed Westbrook and 10 behind free scoring Bay Athletic who they visit on Saturday. The game is to be played at Leeds Road playing fields and kick off is at 2.30pm. Bay will prove our toughest test this season and have hit 18 goals in their last two fixtures (both against Kirkburton).
1 Bay Athletic Reserves 19 16 2 1 79 50
2 Westbrook YMCA 18 13 2 3 18 41
3 Campion Reserves 20 12 4 4 31 40
4 AFC Emley Reserves 18 12 4 2 26 40
07/04/10.
Easter Draw Results
The clubs Easter Draw was made at last nights game and the results are as follows:
1st Prize: Easter Hamper Ticket no. 40 - Gill Morris
2nd Prize: Large Easter Egg Ticket no. 102 John Mason
3rd Prize: Medium Easter Egg Ticket no. 222 Gilly Meakin
Many thanks to all who bought and sold tickets for the draw. It has helped to raise valuable funds for the club.
04/03/10.
Yorkshire Amateur 1-3 AFC Emley
Emley ended a run of five games without a win with a convincing 1-3 victory over Yorkshire Amateur. They achieved the result playing without key strikers Steve Kenworthy, Mick Amos, Lee Hill and Duncan Bray through injury and work comitments. Ian Banks opted to select reserve teamers Alex Thomas and Rob Day up front along with a number of other second teamers in his squad.
The visitors raced into the lead with just 30 seconds on the clock as Gareth Garside intercepted a lose ball from the kick off and played a ball into the penalty area which Mark Townsend latched onto and forced home when one on one with the Ammers keeper.
The lead was doubled midway through the second half. Josh Wright, captaining the side in the absence of Kenworthy delivered a terrific free kick which Sean Hazelden headed home rising higher than the Ammers centre halves.
The home team snatched a goal back just on half time but did little else to test Emley with Mick Clarke making his first save of the game in the final minute of the second half. Rob Day capped a fine debut for Emley coolly slotting home after a lovely lofted through ball from Ashley Brothers to make it a comfortable 3 points for Emley.
04/03/10.
Reserves Off
Emley Reserves league cup semi final has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Woodfield Park. The first team fixture at Yorkshire Amateur is on - kick off is 3.00pm.
02/03/10.
Weekend Preview Yorkshire Amateur v AFC Emley
Emley travel to Leeds based Yorkshire Amateur aiming to make ammends for their 0-1 home defeat against the same side on Wednesday. Kick off is at 3.00pm at the Bracken Edge ground.
Leading scorer Steve Kenworthy who limped off in the second half of the Wednesday's game after agravating his knee injury and is now set to miss the rest of the season. He joins a long list of first team regulars out of action as Ian Banks' team look to turn round a string of dissapointing results.
Storthes Hall Res v AFC Emley Res WRCL Div 2 League Cup Semi Final
Emley's second string are in action at Storthes Hall's Woodfield Park ground as they aim to progress to the final of the league cup in their first season. In the other semi final tie Westbrook YMCA play Rawdon OB. Kick off is at 1.45pm so if you can't make it to see the first team come along and cheer Darren Hepworth's men on.
31/03/10.
AFC Emley 0-1 Yorkshire Amateur
Emley fell to their 4th successive defeat by a goal to nil against Yorkshire Amateur. After admitting that he got his tactics wrong against Glasshoughton on saturday Ian Banks reverted to 4 men at the back and got a much improved performance out of his side but despite dominating the game for prolonged spells they were unable to grab a goal.
Emley had the better of the opening exchanges with Mick Amos and Steven Kenworthy both going close in the opening 5 minutes. The visitors playing down the slope with the wind at their backs created a few chances with a long range effort hitting the bar before Whitehead punished some slack defending to poke home from close range on 33 minutes.
Amos was denied an equaliser for Emley as they hit back straight after the goal when rounded the keeper only to be denied by a terrific last ditch sliding challenge by the Ammers full back. Lee Hill also went close with a header as Amos chipped a chipped an intelligent ball over the 6 yard box.
The second half saw Emley knocking the ball about well, dominating the posession but unable to grab an equaliser whilst the visitors were restricted to just one shot of any note. Kenworthy limped off after an ineffective start to the second half once again struggling with his knee injury.
Hill put in a couple of dangerous headers and hit a testing shot from just outside the box as Josh Wright and Max Joice both went close from long range but once again Emley were unable to make their dominance count.
Emley have a immediate opportunity to make ammends for the defeat as they make an immediate return visit to the Ammers' Bracken Edge ground on Saturday (kick off 3.00pm).
31/03/10.
AFC Emley v Yorkshire Amateur
Tonights Team News - Match Subject to Pitch Inspection
AFC Emley face Yorkshire Amateur on Wednesday evening for the first of two meetings in 4 days. The match at the Welfare Ground (7.45pm kick off) is rearranged from December when the original fixture was controversially postponed just less than an hour before kick off.
Emley are 5th in the table and desperately need to find some form after recording just one victory in their last 8 league games. Their visitors occupy a lowly 15th spot and most recently lost 5-1 at home to Staveley.
Ian Banks is looking for a vastly improved performance from his team who slumped to a 3-1 defeat at Glasshoughton and drafts into the side a number of fringe players. Midfielders Mark Stuart, John Cyrus and striker Duncan Bray are all out of the side with ankle injuries but Lee Hill should be back in contention after being out for 2 weeks.
Craig Marsh has been released by the club and is set link up with Mick Norbury at Worsborough Bridge. The club thanks Craig for his contributions this season and wishes him all the best for the future.
Squad: Clark, Joice, Leech, Hazelden, Wright, Brook, Amos, Hill, Kenworthy, Brothers, Dunne, Garside, Ingham, Roberts, Thomas, Reid.
Due to the heavy rains over the last three days this fixture could be in doubt. We will post information on the pitch inspection on the forum and facebook site as soon as we have it.
30/03/10.
Banks Issues Apology to Club and Fans
In the aftermath of Emley's defeat at Glasshoughton, Emley's manger Ian Banks has issued the following statement to the fans who travelled to the game and endured a poor performance from his side.
I would like to apologise to all concernered with AFC Emley especially the supporters, for our inept display at Glasshoughton. I apologised to the Chairman after the game and he was not too happy I can tell you and rightly so.
We have been critised and accept everything that was said, you have to take stick when you perform like we did. We just did not turn up and thats not acceptable, only Micky Amos came out of the game with any credit and a couple of other players did ok.
I got the formation wrong, I tried to give us more attacking options, and thought the players could handle it , but we lacked flexibility, but its still 11 v 11 and if you don't defend crosses, doesn't matter what formation you play. This was the worst performance since I have been in charge, and more or less the same players who got us to 2nd in the league, played so well at Leeds, should have beaten Staveley, and were brilliant at Ponte and Askern.
We have stressed that we want finish as high as possible and keep going to the end. Oviously some of the players have not quite understood that statement, so whoever is lucky enough to pull a shirt on against Yorks Ams, will have to show me they are proud and want to be at Emley.
I have not had to make too many of these statements in my time here and don't enjoy having to do it. The good thing about football is that we can go and put things right the next game. Once again thanks for your support and hope that you enjoy wednesday's game as we will strive to put in a much stronger performance.
Banger.
27/03/10 Glasshoughton Welfare 3-1 AFC Emley
Emley fell to another disapointing defeat at Glasshoughton. The home side were good value for the win as their defence snuffed out all of Emley's attacking threat and went in 3-0 at half time. Micky Amos got a consolation goal from the penalty spot for Emley but it was too little too late.
AFC Emley Res 1-0 Rawdon OB
The second XI fared much better and defeated Rawdon 1-0 at the Welfare Ground. This resuly keeps their promotion hopes alive after the top two sides both lost today. Leaders Bay suffered their first defeat of the season - 0-3 against Campion whilst second placed Westbrook YMCA lost 1-0 at Storthes Hall.
26/03/10.
Glasshoughton Welfare v AFC Emley
Saturday 27th March 2010 Kick off 3.00pm
Emley make the short journey to Glasshoughton (kick off 3.00pm) on Saturday looking to build upon their narrow defeat cup against Pickering in midweek.
Glasshoughton are currently 14th in the table but have won their last two fixtures. Emley are in 5th place and will be looking to consilidate this position which would be their highest finish since entering the NCEL 3 seasons ago. When the two sides met last back in November Emley were victorious by 2-0 with Sean Hazelden and Josh Wright on the scoresheet.
Wright is unavailable for the fixture and Mark Stuart is likely to be out for the remainder of the season due to a broken bone in his ankle. Lee Hill is still suffering from a knee injury.
Ian Banks welcomes back two strikers into his squad in the shape of 20 goal Steve Kenworthy (returning from a knee injury) and recent signing Duncan Bray (cup tied). Ryan Brook who was also cup tied on Wednesday will also be back in action. Young prospects Curtis Roberts and John Cyrus also get their chance after impressing in recent displays.
SQUAD: Clarke, Joice, Leech, Marsh, Brook, Hazelden, Ingham, Amos, Cyrus, Townsend, Kenworthy, Garside, Bray, Roberts.
AFC Emley Res v Rawdon Old Boys.
Saturday 27th March 2010 Kick off 2.30pm
Simeon Fletcher and Alex Thomas who both put in hardworking displays against Pickering return to the reserve side along with Nick Reid. The reserves entertain 11th placed Rawdon Old Boys at the Welfare Ground (Kick off 2.30pm). Emley are 3rd and looking to keep the pressure on Bay Reserves and Westbrook YMCA who currently occupy the two promotion places.
24/03/10.
AFC Emley 0-1 Pickering Town (AET)
League Cup Quarter Final
Emley suffered an agonising 0-1 extra time defeat against their higher level opposition after putting in a battling performance. Before the game Pickering had hit 21 goals in their previous 4 games and credit must be paid to the Emley backline for keeping their visitors goalless for nearly 2 hours. Ultimately they were made to pay for their lack of firepower up front and were undone by Ricky Greening’s 115th minute winner.
24/03/10.
AFC Emley v Pickering Town League Cup Quarter Final
AFC Emley entertain Pickering Town in the NCEL League Cup quarter final on Wednesday evening (kick off 7.45pm). Ian Banks' side have suffered a loss of form in recent league games and this competition offers their only realistic chance of silverware this season.
They will have their work cut out however against their higher level NCEL Premier opponents who are currently sitting in 6th place and have bagged 21 goals in their last 4 games, including a 7-1 victory over Hallam on Saturday. Emley's own form has dipped of late as they have struggled with a string of injuries and they fell to a 2-1 defeat against promotion hopefuls Tadcaster at the weekend.
Emley go into the game with a squad of players comprising of a mix of the first and reserve team players. Key players Steve Kenworthy (knee), Josh Wright (thigh), Lee Hill and Mark Stuart (both ankle) all miss with injuries. New signings Ryan Brook and Duncan Bray are cup tied having represented other sides in the competition, as is Craig Wilkinson. Curtis Roberts and John Cyrus who have both recently made the step up to the first team are both ineligible for the tie as league cup rules state that players must have been registered for 14 days before playing in the competition.
As a result reserve teamers Richard Lavery, Luke Firth, Alex Thomas, Nick Reid are drafted into the squad along with fringe players Simeon Fletcher and Gareth Garside.
Meanwhile Emley have resigned Joe Pinnock from our neighbours Brighouse. Pinnock can operate up front and in defence.
Squad: Clarke, Lavery, Marsh, Hazelden, Joice, Leech, Amos, Townsend, Fletcher, Firth, Ingham, Garside, Reid, Thomas.
20/03/10. AFC Emley 1 v Tadcaster Albion 2
A strong first half from Emley was overshadowed by a poor second half triggered when the home team conceeded a poor equaliser.
See match reports for full report.
19/03/10. AFC Emley v Tadcaster Albion Saturday 20th March 2010 - Kick Off 3.00pm
Emley entertain NCEL division one title hopefuls Tadcaster Albion at the Welfare Ground on Saturday (kick off 3.00pm).
Tadcaster are currently 3rd in the table but enough games in hand to overhaul league leaders Brighouse. They have suffered a long list of postponements due to flooding and snow at their Ings Lane ground but are making a strong bid to claim a top two spot. The two sides met last in November when Tadcaster ran out 2-1 winners in a close contest.
Emley go into the fixture on the back of an entertaining 1-1 draw at 4th placed Staveley MW in midweek but will will have to do it without three key players in the shape of Steven Kenworthy (knee), Mark Stuart and Lee Hill who picked up ankle injuries in the game.
New recruit Duncan Bray, an ex-Emley junior who has vast experience in the non league game has just signed from Selby Town and goes straight into the squad on Saturday. Bray a striker with a good goalscoring record has indeed scored against Emley this season when his previous club defeated Emley in the Presidents Cup.
Ian Banks has also just signed defender Ryan Brook from Ossett Town. Brook is a former Brighouse player and Banks has admired him for some time. Brook is also likely to figure in the squad.
Also in the squad is Curtis Roberts, who steps up from Emleys reserves. Roberts is a wide player and ex Huddersfield Town Academy.
Emley’s second XI are away at Bradford based West Horton who are 1 place and 6 points behind them in the table.
Emley Squad: Clark, Joice, Leech, Cyrus, Hazeleden, Marsh, Wright, Ingham, Bray, Townsend, Amos, Garside, Fletcher, Roberts, Brook.
16/03/10.
Staveley MW v AFC Emley Tonight - 7.45pm Kick Off
Emley aim to put together another winning run after their 4-3 victory at Teversal ended a sequence of 4 defeats. They travel to 4th placed Staveley MW tonight (kick off 7.45pm) knowing that a win is essential if they are to keep their hopes slim promotion hopes alive. Emley occupy 5th place in the table and a point behind their hosts.
Midfielder Josh Wright is unavailable for the game but Lee Hill should slot back into the side after missing the Teversal game through injury.
Manager Ian Banks has also called up 18 year old John Cyrus from the reserve team. Cyrus, a midfielder impressed Banks and assistant manager Grant Crookes in the reserves 2-0 victory over Crag Road United on Friday. Crookes commented: "John impressed both Banger and I for the reserves - he is tall athletic and good in the air."
Simeon Fletcher is also in the squad after returning from a string of injuries and scoring for the reserves on Friday.
SQUAD:
Clark, Joice,Leech, Ingham, Marsh, Hazelden, Hill, Stuart,Fletcher, Amos, Kenworthy, Garside, Townsend, Cyrus.
13/03/10.
Teversal 3-4 AFC Emley
Emley got back to winning ways with an entertaining 4-3 win over Teversal following on from a string of 4 consecutive defeats. Amazingly this is the 4th consecutive occaision that Emley have put 4 goals past Teversal. Last season they ran out 4-2 winners in both meetings and when the sides met in November Emley recorded a 4-0 victory.
Emley's goals came from Craig Marsh (2), Steve Kenworthy and a Mark Stuart penalty. Kenworthy now has 20 goals to his credit this season.
12/03/10.
AFC Emley Res 2-0 Crag Road United
Emley's second string defeated Crag Road United at the Welfare Ground on Friday evening. The result keeps them in 3rd place in the table. Ashley Brothers and Simeon Fletcher got the goals.
12/03/10.
AFC Emley Reserves v Crag Road United Friday 12th March 7.30pm
Emley’s second string are back in action on Friday night (7.30pm) at the Welfare Ground entertaining Crag Road United in the WRCL Division 2. Darren Hepworth’s team are currently 3rd in the table.
Teversal v AFC Emley Saturday 13th March 3.00pm
Emley travel to Nottinghamshire based Teversal on Saturday (kick off 3.00pm) hoping to end a run of four defeats. Despite putting in a strong performance at NCEL Premier side Hallam on Tuesday evening they bowed out of the Sheffield Senior Cup and Ian Banks will be looking for his side to put in the same workrate and effort on Saturday.
Emley are currently 5th in the table and have slipped off the promotion pace. To have any realistic chance of promotion they must look to take maximum points from their remaining fixtures and hope that some of their rivals slip up along the way.
Teversal meanwhile are in 12th spot after a mixed run of results – they did however hold league leaders Brighouse to a 1-1 draw on Tuesday ending their run of 11 consecutive victories. The two sides last met back in November at the Welfare Ground and Emley ran out comfortable 4-0 winners.
Since then Teversal have brought in a new management team with ex England international Chris Waddle also providing them with some moral boosting coaching sessions.
Emley’s leading scorer Steve Kenworthy picked up a knee injury at Hallam and is a doubt for the game. Fellow striker Lee Hill also picked up a knock but should be fit. Mick Amos is back in the reckoning after missing the last 3 games. Banks has put 7 days notice in on another striker to add to his squad but this is unlikely to be confirmed until after the weekend.
SQUAD:Clark, Joice, Leech, Marsh, Hazelden, Amos, Stuart, Shooter, Townsend, Hill, Shooter, Ingham, Reid, Kenworthy, Garside, Wilkinson.
Emley Bow Out of the County Cup
Emley put in a respectable performance against higher league opposition tonight in the Sheffield and Hallamshire Cup. Craig Marsh levelled the score, but Hallam went on to win the fixture despite Emley creating the better of the opportinuties in the second half. A good performance for the villagers who should take heart from the performance.
09/03/10. Hallam v AFC Emley Sheffield Cup Quarter Final - Tonight 7.45pm
Emley have a tough Sheffield Cup quarter final on Tuesday night (7.45pm) when they travel to NCEL Premier side Hallam. The game is to be played at Hallam’s Sandygate ground – officially the oldest football ground in the world.
Emley will be looking to progress to the semi finals of the competition for the first time in their short 5 year history with a place in the final at Hillsborough being the ultimate goal. They progressed to the quarter finals with a terrific 2-1 victory over Unibond League side Worksop Town.
Manager Ian Banks is hoping that his side can turn round a poor run of results that has seen them suffer 3 league defeats on the trot after getting within a point of top spot. “It hurts and everyone is disappointed because we have done so well and the expectation level rises. We should not forget what has got us success, so onwards and upwards now. We are desperate not to finish the season empty handed so we will be going all out for a result at Hallam”.
Banks is hoping to have Lee Hill back in the starting line up after he missed the last two games through injury but Simon Wright has been recalled by Rainworth after his loan spell. Craig Wilkinson is cup tied after already playing for Worsborough in the competition.
SQUAD:Clarke, Joice, Leech, Marsh, Shooter, Hazelden, J Wright, Townsend, Stuart, Kenworthy, Garside, Reid, Ingham, Hill.
06/03/10. AFC Emley v Hemsworth MW Saturday 6th March - Kick off 3.00pm
Emley's run of poor results continued with a 2 -1 defeat at the Welfare Ground. Hemsworth pounced on 2 defensive errors to lead at half time. Ian Banks changed his formation for the second period. With Craig Marsh playing upfront Emley were much more competitive. Kenworthy grabbed a goal, which made for an interesting closing 15. Both teams were reduced to 10 men in the second half.
Emley now face a visit to Hallam on Tuesday in the Sheffield and Hallamshire Cup.
05/03/10.
AFC Emley v Hemsworth MW Saturday 6th March - Kick off 3.00pm
Emley are back in action on Saturday against Hemsworth as they look to turn round the form that has seen them fall to two consecutive league defeats for the first time this season. The defeats at the hand of form teams Brighouse and Pontefract leave Emley in 5th place and off the pace for the two promotion places.
Hemsworth will provide tough opponents - after a tricky start to the season which saw them bottom of the league at one point they are now up to 6th place in the table, 1 place and 4 points behind Emley. They come into this game on the back of 4 wins in the last 5 games scoring 17 goals in the process (most notably a 7-0 win at strugglers Grimsby on Tuesday night).
Emley assistant manager Grant Crookes is confident that his team can turn the form around. "We didn't become a bad team overnight and need to continue believing in ourselves. Promotion is still in sight, however it is a long shot. There will be a few twists and turns in the last few weeks of the season and we need to keep plugging away."
Mick Amos is again unavailable and Lee Hill still struggling with injury. Simon Wright is back in the squad after missing on Wednesday.
Squad: Clark, Joice, Leech, J. Wright, S. Wright, Marsh, Hazelden, Stuart, Smith, Ingham, Townsend, Wilkinson, Hill, Kenworthy, Shooter, Garside.
03/03/10.
AFC Emley 1-3 Pontefract Collieries
Emley slumped to their second defeat in as many games and lost vital ground on their promotion rivals who have all recorded victories in midweek.
The home side started the game brightly playing incisive attacking football and were soon in the lead as Mark Stuart converted a penalty after a handball in the 2nd minute of the game. They continued to apply the pressure and Steve Kenworthy was twice denied by the Ponte keeper Rob Poulter when one on on.
Collieries fought their way back into the game and had an effort cleared of the line by Josh Ingham before grabbing an equaliser through Carl Fothergill who struck a powerful shot from the edge of the box leaving Mick Clarke with no chance. 10 minutes later the took the lead as Scott Sommerville took advantage of a defensive error.
Emley created chances to get back into the game and had plenty of posession in the second half but were guilty of not delivering enough quality in the final third of the field. Pontefract put the game out of reach midway through the second half with Craig Stevens applying the final touch from close range much to the frustration of the Emley defence who felt that the player was in an offside position. Mick Clark picked up a yellow card for his protests.
The two defeats mean that the odds are now stacked firmly against Emley gaining promotion to the top flight of the NCEL. Emley will now need to rely upon their rivals slipping up in the final run in.
Emley have a quick chance to bounce back when they entertain Hemsworth MW at the Welfare Ground this Saturday (3.00pm). Hemsworth are currently sixth in the table, a place and 4 points behind Emley. They recorded a crushing 7-0 victory over strugglers Grimsby on Tuesday evening.
03/03/10.
AFC Emley v Pontefract Collieries Tonight - Kick Off 7.45pm
Emley manager Ian Banks faces a selection headache on Wednesday when his side take on Pontefract Collieries when his side aim to bounce back from their weekend defeat at Brighouse (kick off 7.45pm).
A physical game on a heavy pitch left Emley 6 points behind the leaders and with injuries to key players Lee Hill and Mark Townsend. Hill is likely to be out for the game with a recurrence of a thigh strain whilst Townsend suffered a shoulder injury (although an x-ray revealed no break or dislocation). Emley are also without Mick Amos, Simon Wright and Josh Wright who are all unavailable for the game.
Banks is making moves to strengthen his side for the final run in and is hoping to confirm the signing of ex-Town player Steve Smith before the fixture. Smith can operate out on the wing and in the centre of midfield and has experience playing for a number of Unibond League sides including Ossett Albion, Stalybridge, Mossley and the old Emley FC.
Emley’s defeat at Brighouse was their first in the league since November and they will be looking to regain the form that has put them in 3rd place and in contention for promotion. Visitors Pontefract have been frustrated by a string of postponements leaving them 9th in the table. When the two sides met back in January Emley ran out 3-1 victors with 2 goals for Lee Hill and one for Steven Kenworthy.
Squad:Clarke, Joice, Leech, Marsh, Hazelden, Ingham, Townsend, Shooter, Stuart, Kenworthy, Reid, Garside, Lavery, Wilkinson.
27/02/10.
Leaders prove too strong for Emley
NCEL division one leaders Brighouse Town proved too strong AFC Emley as they slipped to a 3-0 defeat - their heaviest in the league this season. Emley were left to rue a string of miss chances in the first half and were punished by a lethal Brighouse side who have now won their last 9 games.
Steve Kenworthy rounded the Brighouse keeper in the opening seconds of the game only to have his shot cleared off the line - this being the first of many chances as the visitors applied the pressure and dominated the first half.
It was Brighouse however who made the breakthrough when the prolific Danny Toronczac headed home just before half time. This knocked the stuffing out of Emley who then could not find the creativity that they showed earlier in the game as Brighouse took a firm grip on the second half of the game.
The home side added two more goals and Emley keeper Mick Clarke pulled of a couple of excellent saves but in truth not even the most partisan of Emley supporters would begrudge Brighouse their position at the top of the table.
Full match report to follow.
26/02/10. Brighouse Town v AFC Emley Saturday 27th February 2010 - Match Preview
Whilst most of the footballing talk will be about Town v Leeds this weekend there is another massive local derby at the other end of the football pyramid when AFC Emley visit Brighouse Town (kick off 3.00pm). In an attempt to attract more fans to the game Brighouse are offering half price entry to Town and Leeds fans who produce a ticket stub or season ticket.
There is lots at stake for both sides as they attempt to gain promotion to the NCEL Premier. Brighouse currently top the table on 48 points, 3 points ahead of 3rd placed Emley who do have 2 games in hand.
When the sides met back in December Emley recorded a 2-1 victory after coming back from a goal down. Since then Brighouse have won an impressive 8 league games on the trot which has propelled them to the top of the table. Emley also have an impressive record at the moment and are unbeaten in 9 games.
The teams also met back in January in the league cup, playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw with Emley eventually being victorious on penalties. Speaking ahead of the game Emley’s assistant manager Grant Crookes is well aware of the threat that Brighouse pose.
“We have played them twice in the last 3 months and know that they are a well motivated side who play quick attacking football so we will not be taking the task lightly. If we play to the best of our abilities we are confident that we can beat them.”
Emley go into the fixture without two of their key players. Central defender Craig Marsh is suspended for one game and Josh Wright is unavailable.
Squad: Clark, Ingham, Leech, S. Wright, Stuart, Hill, Joice, Hazelden, Townsend, Shooter, Amos, Garside, Kenworthy, Reid, Wilkinson.
Meanwhile Emley have recieved a home draw against NCEL Premier side Pickering Town in the 4th round of the League Cup. A date is yet to be set for the fixture.
24/02/10.
Gage Returns to Tevvie
Oliver Gage has left Emley to return to his former club Terversal. Utility player figured in many of Emleys games earlier in the season but lost his place through injury back in October. Since regaining his fitness he has found his opportunities in the first team limited. The club management, players and officials thank him for his contributions and wish him all the best at Teversal.
24/02/10.
Reserve Game Off
Emley reserves will be denied the opportunity to get back to winning ways after Friday nights scheduled clash with Storthes Hall has been postponed. Darren Hepworth's team suffered their second defeat of the season on Saturday at Campion. They are currently second in the table behind Bay Reserves. Their next fixture is scheduled for Friday 12th March against Crag Road at the Welfare Ground.
20/02/10.
Todays Match Postponed
Todays game has been postponed by the match ref. The pitch is 97% clear but frozen along the top touchline where the linesman would run.
19/02/10.
AFC Emley v Rossington Main Match Preview NCEL Division One - Saturday 20th February 2010
Second placed AFC Emley go into saturday's clash at home with Rossington Main (3.00pm kick off) looking to extend their unbeaten run to 10 games.
When the clubs last met back in October Emley ran out 4-2 winners with Lee Hill grabbing a hat trick. Since then Rossington have experience mixed form including a crushing 9-0 defeat against Leeds and convincing victories over Askern and Staveley, leaving them in 12th position. Manager Ian Banks will not be taking his opponents for granted:
"I honestly can’t believe that Rossington are in the position that they are. Take it from me they are a good footballing side and have some very good individuals. We will not be taking league positions for granted and I promise that we will be up for the challenge".
Banks' men put in a fine performance on Monday at league leaders Leeds Carnegie to force a 2-2 draw which keeps them just a point behind the leaders. Banks is looking for another big performace from his players to maintain their push for promotion.
"I thought it was a terrific game and a credit to both teams and the league. You could go and see teams in higher leagues and not witness the sort of football that was played. At the end of the game I could see the pain in their faces, they gave Emley their all".
Banks also paid tribute to the clubs loyal fans who made the trip to Leeds: "When we scored our 2nd against Leeds they nearly took the roof off the stand. We need them to keep getting behind the boys and urge us on especially on the occaisions when things aren't going to plan".
Central defender Craig Marsh misses Saturday's game through suspension. Lee Hill and Wayne Shooter both picked up injuries against Leeds but are named in Banks' squad. Mark Townsend and Simon Wright are both back in the squad after missing on monday night and striker Craig Wilkinson is also back in contention.
Squad:
Clarke, Joice, S. Wright, Leech, Hazelden, J. Wright, Shooter, Ingham, Townsend, Wilkinson, Kenworthy, Stuart, Hill, Garside, Amos.
Emleys second XI are back in action on Saturday when they travel to Manningham based Campion (kick off 2.30pm). Their hosts are 5th in the table whilst Emley are in 2nd place, 2 points behind Bay reserves.
15/02/10.
Leeds Carnegie 2-2 AFC Emley NCEL Division One
Absolute cracker of a game and whilst Emley will be gutted that they didn't win after hitting the bar on three occaisions this is a result that they can be proud of.
Emley just edged the posession in the opening exchanges and came close to scoring when Max Joices speculative shot hit the bar with Mick Amos unable to steer the rebound home. On 23 minutes Amos did manage to get on the scoresheet after Steve Kenworthy stretched the Carnegie defence and played a sweet ball accross the 6 yard box for Amos to stab home despite the keeper Wiacek's attempts to keep it out. Amos then nearly doubled the lead with a well struck shot from the edge of the box with the keeper well beaten it clipped the bar and went over.
Leeds played some incisive attacking football and seized upon a defensive error back as Marco equalised on 35 minutes. Both sides had further opportunities but went into the break on level pegging at 1-1.
The second half continued in much the same vein as the second ended with both sides again playing attractive attacking football despite the heavy rain pouring down.
Carnegie went into the lead on 62 minutes after Tom Leaver hit a well struck shot past Mick Clark and then pushed on to try and put the game out of sight. Clark made some vital saves as Emley's defence held firm with Sean Hazelden and Anthony Leech also helping him out by making some tremendous challenges to snuff out the attacking threat.
There was plenty of action down the other end of the pitch too as Wiacek was also called upon to deny Emley's frontline. Amos hit the bar again from about 25 yards out and before Emley forced their equaliser. Steve Kenworthy was the provider again as he raced into the box through the Leeds defence to be brought down for a penalty. Mark Stuart made no mistake from the spot on 77 minutes sending the keeper the wrong way with a confident strike.
Emley pushed hard to grab a winner but to no avail and stay in 2nd place behind Leeds. They are in action again on Saturday when they entertain Rossington Main at the Welfare Ground (3.00pm kick off). Full match report to follow from Martin later.
13/02/10. Leeds Carnegie v AFC Emley Monday 15th February 2010 - NCEL Division One
It's first against second on monday night when AFC Emley visit league leaders Leeds Carnegie at Farsley Celtic's Throstle Nest Ground (Kick Off 7.45pm).
Ian Bank's men go into the fixture knowing that a victory will allow them to leapfrog their hosts to the top of the table. Emley are enjoying decent form and are unbeaten in their last games whilst Leeds have lost their last two games after a run of 14 unbeaten games. ]
Neither side had a game on Saturday but in the other fixtures Brighouse and Tadcaster made ground on the top two recording victories over Grimsby and Askern respectively whilst Staveley dropped to 5th after losing at Hemsworth.
The last time the two sides met was at the Welfare Ground back in October and the honours were even with a 1-1 draw after Josh Wright had put Emley in front. Leeds have a reputation for playing some of the best football in the league and this was in evidence in this fixture.
They are also the leagues leading scorers with 58 goals and their Nigerian striker Chibuzor Chilaka has 12 goals to his name so far this time out. Emley's own Steve Kenworthy also has 12 league goals and 18 in all competitions putting him top of the league scoring charts.
Inspirational midfielder Marc Townsend and Simon Wright are both unavailable due to work comitments. Josh Ingham and Max Joice return to the side after missing the 3-0 victory over Worsborough on Wednesday evening.
Squad: Clark, Leech, Joice, Marsh, Hazelden, Stuart, Hill, J Wright, Amos, Kenworthy, Ingham, Garside, Shooter, Reid.
12/02/10.
AFC Emley Res 5 - 2 Morley Town WRCL Div 2
Emley's second string moved up to top spot in the league with a convincing 5-2 victory over bottom club Morley Town. The spell at the top maybe shortlived however as Bay are away at Campion and Westbrook YMCA visit Golcar on Saturday and both sides can go ahead of Emley if they win their fixtures.
Rob Day grabbed 4 of the goals and Gav Garside the other after the scores were level at one apiece at half time.
10/02/10.
AFC Emley 3 - 0 Worsborough Bridge Athletic NCEL Division One
Emley moved to within a point of league leaders Leeds Carnegie with a comfortable win over local rivals Worsborough Bridge. The result means Emley have now gone 8 games unbeaten and gives them a real incentive when the top two sides meet on Monday.
Captain Steve Kenworthy lead by example for Emley and finished well twice to put Emley firmly in command and 2-0 up at half time. The goals move Kenworthy to the top of the leagues scoring charts.
Emley dominated the proceedings in the second half with Lee Hill adding a third goal by rounding the Bridge 'keeper. In truth Emley had the opportunities to win by a much larger margin with Hill, Kenworthy and sub Gareth Garside all going close.
Ian Banks will be looking for his side to continue this excellent run on Monday evening at Leeds. Emley's first team have no fixture this Saturday but the reserves are in action on Friday evening when the entertain bottom side Morley Town (Kick off 7.30pm).
09/02/10. AFC Emley v Worsborough Bridge Athletic NCEL Division One - Wednesday 10th February (Kick Off 7.45pm)
Emley host their local rivals Worsborough Bridge at the Welfare Ground on Wednesday (Kick Off 7.45pm) in a NCEL clash rearranged from Boxing Day. Manager Ian Banks is keen for his side to make amends for 2 consecutive draws when his side dominated their opposition.
On Saturday, 2 placed Emley scraped a 2-2 draw against bottom side Eccleshill after being two goals down at half time. Whilst disappointed with the result Banks was enthused by the way that his side responded in the second half. “ We had too many players who did not perform to the best of their ability on Saturday although we dominated the game and created plenty of chances. We showed great spirit to come back from 2 goals down, Josh Ingham came on as sub and scored a superb goal after great work from Steven Kenworthy and Max Joice was outstanding.”
Despite losing ground in the title race Banks is still confident that his side has got what it takes. “People will say: ‘the cracks are starting to show’ but we will stick together. We are unbeaten in 7 league games, unbeaten at home all season and still 2nd in the league table. There are a lot of games to be played between now and the end of the season but one thing that I will promise is that we will work our socks off until the last ball is kicked and we are committed to our cause.”
Banks is without Joice and Ingham for the fixture but Simon Wright and Mark Stuart are back in the side after missing on Saturday.
Worsborough are enduring a difficult season and are second from bottom of the table but recorded an impressive 3-1 victory over Hemsworth on Saturday. They are managed by the experienced (and ex – Wakefield and Emley player) Mick Norbury. The sides met back in August before Norbury took over the reigns with Emley recording a comfortable 3-0 win capped by two long range strikes from Dean Sidebottom.
SQUAD: Clarke, Leech, S Wright, Marsh, Hazelden, Stuart, Townsend, Hill, J. Wright, Shooter, Amos, Kenworthy, Garside, Reid
06/02/10.
AFC Emley 2 - 2 Eccleshill United NCEL Division One - Match Summary
Emley were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw by bottom club NCEL bottom club Eccleshill. The match was played in heavy fog which made visibility for both fans and players difficult.
The visitors who appear revitalised by the appointment of their new manager Mark Senior battled hard and almost pulled off a shock victory having lead 2-0 at half time. After soaking up pressure from the home side Eccleshill hit Emley on the break as Max Joice appeared to be fouled in the run up before beating Clarke with a long range effort. Their lead was doubled soon after this time from close range after Clarke had done well to tip a shot onto the post.
Eccleshill were content to sit back and defend their lead in the second half as Emley pushed hard to get back in the game but for the second game running they lacked a clinical edge. Josh Ingham, on as a substitute finally made the breakthrough drilling home from the edge of the six yard box after good work by Steven Kenworthy. It was Kenworthy who eventually rescued Emley as he looped a header over the Eccleshill keeper as the game went into injury time.
Manager Ian Banks will most certainly see this as two vital points lost and will be looking for a much better performance when his side entertain Worsborough Bridge on Wednesday (7.45pm).
05/02/10.
AFC Emley v Eccleshill United Match Preview Saturday 6th February - Kick Off 3.00pm
AFC Emley entertain NCEL basement side Eccleshill United at the Welfare Ground on Saturday (3.00pm), looking to extend their unbeaten run to 7 games. Ian Banks’ side are currently 2nd in the table and have recorded 5 wins and a draw in their last six games – a statistic that puts them top of the league form table.
Eccleshill are currently bottom of the table but have recently appointed a new manager in Mark Senior. They recently recorded their second victory of the season against fellow strugglers Glasshoughton. After a run of heavy defeats earlier in the season they look to be turning things around and we will certainly be taking nothing for granted today after being held to a 1-1 draw at Plumpton Park back in October.
Banks will be looking for his men to be more clinical in front of goal after being held 1-1 by Appleby Frodingham on Saturday. “We created so many chances, free kicks on the edge of the box and nearly 20 corners. After the game the Appleby manager said that his team were lucky that it wasn’t double figures.”
The other sides challenging for promotion also slipped up at the weekend with Leeds and Staveley losing and Tadcaster drawing meaning Emley’s draw left them better placed, but are still 5 points behind the leaders.
The manager will be without Simon Wright who is unavailable and Mark Stuart is still suffering from a back injury. New signing Richard Lavery, a centre half recruited from Wakefield FC reserves is likely to start on the bench. Ollie Gage is now back training but Banks feels that he needs to get a game in for the reserves before being match fit. The second string have no game this week but visit Morley Town next Saturday.
Squad:Clark, Joice, Ingham, Leech, Hazelden, Marsh, Townsend, Stuart, Hill, J. Wright, Kenworthy, Shooter, Amos, Garside, Lavery.
Saturday 30th January 2010. A Hatfull of Missed Chances Costs Emley Dearly.
Emley were held to a 1 - 1 draw at home to Appleby Frodingham at the Welfare. Having created chance after chance in the first half it fell to Lee Hill to score in the second half - taking his chance well. Kenworthy came off the bench and without touching the ball won a penalty. Josh Wright saw his spot kick saved. The visitors then won their only corner of the half and substitute Siddalls header found the net.
29/01/10.
AFC Emley v Appleby Frodingham Saturday 30th January 2010 - Kick Off 3.00pm
Ian Banks is hoping for a good crowd to cheer his side on at the Welfare Ground on Saturday (Kick Off 3.00pm) as Emley take on 8th placed Appleby Frodingham looking to record their 6th win in as many games.
Emley beat the Scunthorpe based side 4-1 back in September with Lee Hill grabbing a hat trick. The visitors have enjoyed mixed form since then but have the best away record in the league winning all 7 of their fixtures on the road this time.
Emley’s home form is however good and they have yet to suffer a league defeat at the Welfare Ground. They come into the fixture looking to achieve their 6th win in as many league games and Banks will pick his squad from the same pool of players who have achieved this fine run off form.
Mark Stuart is still a doubt after suffering a back injury. Banks has decided to release Martin Scully who joined the club back in October from Worsborough Bridge – Scully has seen his chances limited at Emley making just one full appearance and scoring a goal in the victory over Askern.
Squad:Clarke, Joice, Ingham, Leech, Marsh, Hazelden, J. Wright, S. Wright, Townsend, Hill, Amos, Kenworthy, Shooter, Garside, Stuart.
27/01/10.
Grimsby Borough 0 - 2 AFC Emley
Emley recorded their 5th victory in as many games despite an unconvincing performance at Grimsby Borough. Emley were unable to replicate the strong performances against Brighouse and Pontefract over the last week as they laboured to a 2-0 away win.
Josh Wright put Emley in front on the stroke of half time from the penalty spot after the Grimsby keeper had brought down Marc Townsend in the box. Townsend then wrapped up the game on 89 minutes heading home a cross from Max Joice.
The result moves Emley up into 2nd place in the table, 6 points behind leaders Leeds Carnegie. Emley are back in action on Saturday (3.00pm) when they entertain 8th placed Appleby Frodingham at the Welfare Ground.
26/01/10.
Grimsby Borough v AFC Emley Match Preview - Wednesday 27th January - Kick Off: 7.45pm
Emley travel to Brigg based Grimsby Borough on wednesday looking for a 5th consecutive victory as they aim to keep up their promotion challenge.
The sides last met in August in the opening fixture of the season with Emley recording an emphatic 6-3 victory. Emley are currently in 3rd place and a win will move them into 2nd place above Staveley. Grimsby are 15th in the table, 4 places from bottom but shouldn't be underestimated as 3 of their 4 league victories this season have been recorded over sides in the top six.
Mark Stuart is out of the reckoning after suffering a back strain in the warm up against Pontefract on Saturday. Max Joice is back in the squad after missing the last game with a minor thigh injury.
Squad:
Clarke, Joice, Ingham, Leech, Marsh, Hazelden, J. Wright, S. Wright, Townsend, Hill, Amos, Kenworthy, Shooter, Garside.
23/01/10.
Pontefract Collieries 1-3 AFC Emley NCEL Division One
Emley made it four league victories in a row with 3-1 win at 5th placed Pontefract. In an entertaing game both sides worked hard to play good football on a heavy pitch.
The first half was exciting end to end stuff with both sides creating plenty of chances. Steve Kenworthy put Emley in front with a clean finish inside the box after being allowed too much space by the Pontey defence. Lee Hill then double the lead heading home a corner before the home side snatched a goal back before half time.
Pontefract battled hard to force an equaliser but Emley's defence held firm before Lee Hill capped a good move and fired home his second to put the game out of sight. Both sides had goals disallowed as the action continued but the score remained 3-1 to Emley.
This was another battling display for Emley against a very tricky Pontefract side. Manager Ian Banks will be looking for more of the same from his men as they go in search of a 5th win on the trot against Grimsby Borough on Wednesday.
22/01/10.
Pontefract Collieries v AFC Emley NCEL Div One - Saturday 23rd January (3.00pm)
Emley travel to 5th placed Pontefract this Saturday aiming to record their fourth straight league victory and maintain their promotion challenge. With the top two sides Leeds Carnegie and Staveley in action against one another this weekend Ian Banks' men have a chance to close the gap on their rivals.
Pontefract will provide tough opposition however and after making a slow start to the season they have moved up the table to 5th and lie just 4 points behind Emley. When the two sides met last season goalkeeper Mick Clarke was controversially sent off as Emley lost 0-1. Pontey also won the return fixture at Emley 2-1 so Banks will be looking for his men to seek revenge on Saturday.
Emley will be without right back Max Joice after he picked up a nock in the league cup win over Brighouse in midweek, Josh Ingham is likely to deputise for him after impressing on Wednesday night.
Simon Wright is finally in line for his Emley debut after signing on loan in December from Rainworth. Wright has extended his loan spell and is now set to stay at the club into February. New signing Wayne Shooter is likely to start on the bench.
Emley Squad: Clarke, Ingham, Leech, Marsh, Hazelden, Stuart, Townsend, Amos, J.Wright, S.Wright, Kenworthy, Shooter, Garside, Hill, Wilkinson, Armitage, Scully.
Pontefract have reduced their gate prices at Skinner Lane for the remainder of the season in an attempt to entice more spectators to their games so Emley fans will be able to get into the game for just £3 with under 18's going free.
21/01/10.
AFC Emley 3 - 3 Brighouse Town (AET - Emley win 5-4 on penalties) NCEL League Cup 3rd Round
Emley are the first club to progress through to the quarter finals of the NCEL League cup after defeating Brighouse in this hard fought encounter. After an even start to the game Brighouse took the lead midway through the first half when Wayne Crossley's speculative cross cum shot looped over Mick Clarke in the Emley goal and in off the post. This spurred the visitors on and they soon double their lead through a tremendous strike by (TBC) on the half volley.
In a similar pattern to when the two clubs met back in December Brighouse looked to tire and Emley finally began to assert some authority on the game as captain Steve Kenworthy applied a cool finish from close range. Strike partner Lee Hill brought the scores level stabbing home with the Brighouse keeper Lee Williams unable to keep the ball out.
Emley looked to have won the game in extra time when Josh Wright converted a penalty after Lee Hill was brought down in the box. Emley had chances to wrap up the game but Williams saved well twice when one on one with Micky Amos. They were made to regret this when Clarke was again outdone by an almost carbon copy of the first goal colliding with with post in the process. Clarke recieved a prolonged period of treatment leading to 6 minutes of injury time but neither side was able to grab a winning goal so the game went to penalties.
Clarke picked himself up to be Emley's match winner by saving Brighouse's final penalty before Anthony Leech struck home Emley's last to make the score 5-4. For the record Emley's penalties where converted by Lee Hill, Josh Wright, Mick Amos, Craig Marsh and Anthony Leech.
Emley will look to take the momentum forward to Saturdays league clash at 5th placed Pontefract Collieries with the target of 3 points being vital in their quest for promotion.
19/01/10.
AFC Emley v Brighouse Town NCEL League Cup 3rd Round - Wednesday 20/01/10
Emley are hoping to play their first fixture in over a month when they entertain local rivals Brighouse Town in the NCEL League Cup 3rd round (Wednesday 7.45pm).
The pitch is in great shape because of the hard work of all the individuals who helped clear the pitch over christmas alongside groundsman Ray Chappel. The recent thawing has in turn left the pitch clear of snow.
The last time the clubs met was also the last game played at the Welfare Ground back in early December when Emley recorded a 2-1 victory with Mark Stuart and Steven Kenworthy getting the goals.
Both will be keen to progress to the quarter finals of the competition after recording victories over NCEL Premier clubs in the previous round with Emley victorious at Brodsworth and Brighouse defeating Liversedge at home.
With 5 games postponed over the cold spell Emley now face a busy run in at the end of the season with a string of evening games which will stretch Ian Banks’s squad to the limits as they push for promotion. Banks is well aware of this: The successful teams will need good quality and numbers in their squads to cope, and I think we have this now, fitness is going to be a concern with no games and very little training due to the adverse and freak weather. Despite this I’m hoping that we can start 2010 where we left off in 2009.
With this in mind Banks has added ex- Wakefield man Wayne Shooter, a striker who can also play out wide to bolster his squad. “We have a strong first team squad made up of 18 players, backed up by a strong reserve team squad. This is going to be vital for the 2nd half of the season, with a lot of games to cram in”.
Shooter goes straight into the squad for the Brighouse game with Josh Wright (back from injury) and Gavin Armitage (who missed much of November and December through work commitments). Mark Stuart is suspended whilst Craig Wilkinson and loanee Simon Wright are cup-tied.
Oli Gage is now approaching fitness after being out since October but is likely to get a run out for the reserves on Saturday before being drafted back into the first team squad.
Squad: Clark, Joice, Leech, Marsh, Hazelden, Hill, Wright (J), Ingham, Townsend, Amos, Garside, Shooter, Kenworthy, Armitage, Scully, Robinson.
15/01/10.
AFC Emley v Barton Town OB - Postponed
Emley's home game with Barton scheduled for tomorrow afternoon has been postponed after a pitch inspection morning due to a snow covered pitch. At this stage the league cup fixture on Wednesday Evening (7.45pm) against Brighouse is also in doubt. An inspection will be made on tuesday regarding this fixture.
15/01/10. Sheffield Cup Draw Announced
The draw for the quarter finals of the Sheffield and Hallamshire Senior Cup was made last night and Emley have been paired with NCEL Premier side Hallam. The fixture will be played at Hallam's Sandygate ground - officially the oldest football ground in the World but a date for the fixture has yet to be decided due to the current weather conditions.
Emley of course defeated Unibond League side Worksop Town in the last round to make it through to the quarter finals whilst Hallam defeated Frickley Athletic so it is a real clash of the giant killers.
We will post news of the date for the fixture on here as soon as we know any information.
The draw in full:
Hallam v AFC Emley
Mexborough Main Street v Nostell Miners Welfare
Staveley Miners Welfare v Dinnington Town
Stocksbridge PS v Sheffield FC
08/01/10.
First Team and Reserves Both Postponed
It will come as no suprise to anybody who has been out of the house during the last week that there will not be a lot of football played this weekend. We recieved official confirmation from Staveley this morning that Saturday's crunch clash with the league leaders was postponed due to snow and ice covering the Chesterfield sides Inkersall Road ground.
There is no prospect of Emley's second string being able to play their scheduled fixture with Steeton Reserves as the Welfare Ground pitch is covered with over a foot of snow.
Our next fixture is against Barton Town OB at the Welfare Ground on Saturday 16th January (kick off 3.00pm). With more snow forecast for next week this fixture is already in doubt.
Once the snow clears Emley manager Ian Banks will be able to call upon the services of influential midfielder Josh Wright who has now recovered from his ankle injury. Dean Sidebottom, ruled out for the season with knee ligament damage has now undergone surgery and is out of hospital on the mend - all the best to him as he aims to regain fitness in time for next season.
02/01/10.
Todays Match v Pontefract Postponed
Todays match has been postponed following a late morning pitch inspection. Despite the efforts of the Players, Management, Supporters and Committee members who cleared the pitch on New Years Eve it remains frozen in places. Combining this with a covering of snow this morning there is no way that the match can go ahead.
01/01/10.
Pitch Inspection Tomorrow - 11.00am
Happy New Year to all of our fans. The club are hoping that tomorrows game will go ahead - there will be a pitch inspection at 11.00am. As soon as we know information will be posted on here.