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20Abby BennettThe Lionesses midfielder talks about how influential football is in her life!

HONOURS

Eccles & District League Division 21955-56, 1959-60Eccles & District League Division 31958-59Manchester League Division 11968-69Manchester League Premier Division1974-75, 1975-76, 1976-77, 1978-79Northern Premier League Division 1 North2014-15Northern Premier League Play-Off Winners2015-16National League North2017-18National League Play-Off Winners2018-19

Lancashire FA Amateur Cup1971, 1973, 1975Manchester FA Challenge Trophy1975, 1976Manchester FA Intermediate Cup1977, 1979NWCFL Challenge Cup2006

17. Salford City vs Walsall

05Frankly SpeakingAn encapsulating update on the season to-date in Frankly’s column.

08Match ReportRead about the brilliant win at Oldham Athletic, and the reaction from the goalscorers!

15Foundation 92Thank you to everyone who donated to our Winter appeal, Jumpers for Goalposts.

27Player QuestionsGet to know a bit more about left-back Ibou Touray in this quickfire segment.

31 - 42The InsertFind The Gaffer’s notes, Liam Hogan’s thoughts and the latest from New Year’s Day in the middle section! The format returns to normal next week.

42VisitorsRead up on today’s visitors Walsall including form, history and players.

CLUB ROLL

President Dave RussellChairman Karen BairdSecretary Andy GiblinCommittee Jim Birtwistle, Pete Byram, Ged Carter, Barbara Gaskill, Terry Gaskill, Ian Malone, Frank McCauley, Paul Raven, George Russell, Bill Taylor, Alan Tomlinson, Dave WilsonGroundsmen George Russell, Steve ThomsonShop Manager Tony SheldonCSR Co-ordinator Andrew GordonMedia Zarah Connolly, Ryan Deane, Will Moorcroft Photography Charlotte Tattersall, Howard Harrison

First Team Manager Graham AlexanderAssistant Manager Chris LuckettiGK Coach Carlo NashKit Manager Paul RushtonHead of Performance Dave RhodesPhysiotherapist Steve JordanClub Doctor Dr. Mubin IbrahimSport Science Rob WilliamsPerformance Analysis Ross DuncanDirector of Football Chris CasperHead of Scouting Greg StrongDevelopment Coach Warren JoyceHead of Academy Jamie RussellAssistant Academy Manager Lewis CraigAcademy Staff Andy Badby, Josh Coulson, Luke Morgan, Joe Potts, Liam Preece, Sam TomkinsLionesses Manager Shauna Duffy

Programme printed by MatchDay Creative

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So, another year over and a new one just begun. 2019 definitely ended on a very encouraging note for Salford City with, despite the defeat, an impressive performance at The Peninsula Stadium against Exeter City a few weeks back, an improved second half showing at Bradford City, an excellent victory over Crewe Alexandra (all three highly ranked clubs) and an emphatic triumph on our first ever League encounter at Oldham Athletic’s Boundary Park the other Sunday.

So, on reflection you’ve got to say it was a very good year for the Ammies with us winning the National League play-off final at Wembley and with it promotion for the first time ever into the Football League. The end of the old year saw us sitting in 11th position in Sky Bet League Two, our highest ever placing since our foundation in 1940.

Hopefully we will have started the new year with a positive performance and result at Grimsby Town a few days ago. But as we enter the second half of our first season as a League club what have we learned since kicking off in August?

Well, to begin with, if we thought the National League was a high standard then the step up to full blown League status has seen us move to an even tougher level. In all Leagues though, from top to bottom, there are plenty of sub-divisions within each Division.

I’ve found so far that there are clubs with a proud past who either through mis-management or bad management find themselves in difficult circumstances and are trying hard to get things rectified. There are clubs with fantastic stadia for the level who struggle to get local support. Some clubs, and in the main they have come into the League through the non-league route, have to make every penny count because there is a limit to how far they can extend their fan base.

And indeed, some clubs are dependent on their supporters for their financial and voluntary support to ensure they can continue to compete at the standard.

There are clubs who have been ‘up there’ making a valiant effort to get ‘back there’. These clubs tend to show their pedigree in how well they are structured and run off the field even if on the pitch they are not where they would like to be. It has been obvious that off the pitch our infrastructure still needs to be fine tuned but hopefully we are taking things on board which can be worked on for next season to make attendance at the Peninsula Stadium an even more enjoyable experience.

In our games to date we have come up against some impressive opposition – the consistent Swindon Town for example. Other clubs such as Newport County and Plymouth came out of the blocks flying only to drop back. But the bottom line is that to be successful and linger around the top of the tree you have to show a level of consistency from game to game which up until recently was probably our Achilles heel.

Taking points against well placed Bradford City and Crewe Alexandra is fine and good so long as you then get a result against an opposition whose League position suggests they are not firing on all cylinders – such as Oldham Athletic.

So, to come away from Boundary Park with maximum points - and four goals from open play into the bargain – builds confidence and creates that consistency which is so vital. (Please let us have done well at Grimsby!!!)

Hopefully an equally successful and positive 2020 and beyond awaits us!

FranklySpeaking

7


First of all, I think we need to throw some perspective on our visit to the Utility Stadium (still probably better known as Valley Parade). 20 years ago Bradford City were in the Premier League, we were in the North West Counties League. Despite their fall down the divisions The Bantams still manage to draw an average home attendance of over 14,000 in a stadium which has a capacity of 25,000.

So, I don’t know about you but I took a lot of encouragement from our one-all draw a fortnight ago.

The short trip over the Pennines had been completed in double quick time but the busy pre-Christmas traffic in Bradford city centre slowed us up a bit. Buoyed by an impressive performance the previous Saturday against Exeter City I think we travelled to West Yorkshire in a positive frame of mind. Unfortunately, our opening half showing (on a pitch which, to be fair, didn’t look in the best of condition despite a large sum of money being spent on it in the closed season) didn’t match up to the script.

Salford could have been dead and buried in the first 30 minutes if The Bantams had had their shooting boots on. Chris Neal made a couple of cracking saves from Bradford skipper Jake Reeves and highly rated Aramide Oteh, while the base of the post stood between Callum Cooke and the opening goal. Salford’s brighter moments saw a Luke Armstrong header go over the crossbar and Craig Conway just failed to make contact with an Oscar Threlkeld pass.

It didn’t take long time for the home side to go in front after the break with Harry Pritchard finishing off a good move. But from this point on we upped our performance and proceeded to take the game to Bradford at every opportunity and our equaliser on 79 minutes was a joy.

The impressive Brandon Thomas-Asante showed great perseverance to work his way along the dead ball line before sliding the ball back to Adam Rooney who, having found some space in a crowded goal mouth, planted the ball past home keeper Richard O’Donnell. Brandon almost became a super hero with just five minutes remaining but, unfortunately, his shot was blazed high and wide. Definitely a deserved point on our second half showing.

Salford’s first link to Bradford City goes back to the 2008-09 season, our first in the Northern Premier League when we had 18-year-old midfielder Rory Carson as one of our first ever loanees. He played six games for us before returning to Valley Parade and a first-year professional contract followed. Unfortunately, a series of injuries curtailed his full-time professional career. He returned to Northern Ireland to play part-time for Ballymena United.

Later in the 08-09 season a few of us went across to Bradford to see Rory play in the FA Youth Cup. We spent the game in the company of John McClelland, an ex-Northern Ireland international who, due to the Northern Irish connection, was acting as something of a mentor to Rory. A centre half McClelland played for, among others, Mansfield, Glasgow Rangers, Watford and Leeds United and played at two World Cup finals with Northern Ireland. He spent the 90 minutes regaling us with great stories about his football experiences. By the time he retired he had played in every country in the United Kingdom and in every tier of English football.

With plenty of historical content (although the Neil Redfearn connection is something of an urban myth) Bradford’s 60-page programme was available for £3. The attendance was 14,642 (418 from Salford).

on the roadFrank McCauley gives his account and talking points

from the visit to Bradford City!

Salford City vs Walsall

8 9


Salford City

1. Chris Neal3. Ibou Touray4. Oscar Threlkeld5. Liam Hogan9. Adam Rooney15. Cameron Burgess17. Richie Towell25. Joey Jones28. Brandon Thomas-Asante (16, 48)

32. Jake Jervis (15, 36)

44. Craig Conway

Substitutes

12. Kyle Letheren6. Carl Piergianni7. Luke Armstrong8. Lois Maynard13. Sam Hughes18. Danny Whitehead

Oldham Athletic

20. Zeus De La Paz2. Zak Mills8. Filipe Morais10. Mohammed Maouche19. Desire Segbe-Azankpo (58)

24. Mohamad Sylla25. Chris McCann26. Jonny Smith29. Tomas Egert31. David Wheater (c)34. Tom Hamer

Substitutes

1. Gary Woods16. Scott Wilson18. Dylan Fage27. Kielen Adams28. Jean-Louis Akpa Akpro33. Chris Eagles53. Zac Emmerson

Shots Corners

Fouls Offsides

11 9

Salford Oldham

8

1

Salford Oldham

3

Salford Oldham

711

Salford Oldham

MatchREport

A ruthless Salford City performance saw them come away from this first local derby with Oldham Athletic with all three

points thanks to braces from Jake Jervis and in-form Brandon Thomas-Asante.

vs. Oldham AthleticSky Bet League TwoBoundary Park29/12/19, 15:00

minute. A left-wing run from Ibou Touray was finished off by a great cross to the far post where Thomas-Asante had acres of space to squeeze a close-range finish past De La Paz.

In the 53rd minute Oldham were awarded a penalty after Filipe Morais was fouled, and took responsibility for the spot-kick himself. The little pause during the run-up seemed to distract Morais more than Chris Neal, with the keeper dropping to his right to push ball wide of the upright. Salford’s four-goal advantage remained intact, although it wouldn’t stay that way for long. In the meantime, the Ammies threatened to score a fifth as Richie Towell’s pass picked out Jervis in space on the left. The Luton loanee was on a hat-trick but this time could only blaze high and wide.

In the 58th minute Oldham did get onto the scoresheet, with Zak Mills delivering a great cross from the right. For the first time this afternoon the Ammies’ defence had lost a little concentration, with Segbe-Azankpo unmarked as he expertly placed a header out of the reach of Neal.

In the 72nd minute Thomas-Asante was played into space on the left as the visitors countered yet again. De La Paz advanced at speed to put in an ill-advised sliding challenge on the right-hand angle of the box that failed to connect significantly with ball or speedy Ammie. Thomas-Asante turned the ball inside from the line with Conway arriving just outside the box to hit a rising 20-yard drive that flicked off the top of the bar and behind. Seven minutes from time Thomas-Asante advanced to the right of centre before dropping a cross to the far post. Jervis was still after his third of the afternoon, but forced to hit a first time shot from a tight angle, could only lift the ball high and wide.

It didn’t matter though – Salford City had taken three points from their derby-day visit to Boundary Park.

A word or two for the supporters today – almost certainly the highest number following Salford City to an away game (Wembley being neutral, of course). They were magnificent throughout today’s game, with the only discernable sound from the home fans being a drum. Great stuff, and the players’ appreciation at the end was plain to see.

As if the 3-1 Boxing Day win over Crewe Alexandra wasn’t good enough, the Ammies turned in a classic ‘away’ performance to crush Oldham Athletic at their Boundary Park home. Brandon Thomas-Asante and Jake Jervis weighed in with a brace apiece as Graham Alexander’s side recorded four goals in one game for the first time as an EFL club.

The Latics were neat in possession, but Salford’s defence had settled quickly into its stride and were coping well. The match turned - irrevocably as it turned out - in the Ammies’ favour during a two-minute spell around the game’s quarter-hour mark. Mohammed Maouche’s twisting run inside from the right took him past three players before he went down inside the penalty area. The referee was unimpressed, allowed play to continue and seconds later the visitors had countered to go ahead. The goal came out of the blue as Jervis cut inside from the left before drilling in a low shot. Oldham keeper Zeus De La Paz got a hand to it yet couldn’t stop the ball from finding his bottom left-hand corner.

De La Paz probably should have done better, but Salford tails were up and they doubled their lead within another minute’s play. Craig Conway lofted a ball in from the right, with possession falling for Thomas-Asante, on the edge of the box. Afforded too much space by the home defence, the birthday boy’s finish was unerring, with De La Paz given no chance as the ball fizzed past inside his left-hand upright.

In the 36th minute Desire Segbe-Azankpo had a shot blocked, and when possession fell for Maouche his attempt to hook in an effort from a tight angle on the left didn’t even go out of play as it dropped beyond the far post. Once again Oldham were caught on the break and possession was moved to the right for Conway who dropped a perfect cross to the far post. The Oldham defence were nowhere as Jervis arrived to nod the ball down and past De La Paz.

The Latics came into this game on the back of two straight wins and pushed forward from the restart in the hope of a comeback. There was a little flurry of attacks in front of the Rochdale Road end, but any realistic chance of finding a way back into the game disappeared entirely in the 48th


10 11


MatchReaction

Manager Graham Alexander and goalscorers Jake Jervis and Brandon Thomas-Asante shared their thoughts!

After a period without scoring in the league, The Ammies have now found the back of the net more frequently over the Christmas period with eight goals in three games prior to New Year’s Day, and The Gaffer is pleased that the team’s hard work is starting to bear fruit.

“It’s been an issue for us, you do the work on the training pitch and the analysis with the players, but at the end of the day the players have got to go out there and show the quality that they have. We’re not doubting their quality, but it’s about re-producing it on a more consistent basis.

“I thought the finishes were top class, for Jake to get a brace and Brandon got a brace as well.

“Jake probably had an opportunity, and Brandon probably, to get a hat-trick, but I thought Brandon was very unselfish for laying the ball across the goal for I think it was Cons that

had the shot, Jake just missed that opportunity from four, five yards out, but at least we’re getting into those positions and showing better quality outside the box.

“I think we were getting up to the box in previous games but we weren’t showing the quality to take advantage, but certainly in the last two games we’ve done that and the goals have justified the good play up to that final third.”

Jervis doubled his tally for The Ammies in one afternoon having scored at Walsall and Mansfield Town in October, and had two chances to score a first career hat-trick.

Echoing the Gaffer, he says the good form and results have come as a result of the hard work being put in by the team.

“Obviously we’ve got so many games and to have the week we’ve had, it’s been excellent how all the boys have

worked, pressing from the front, getting the goals and then the way we’ve defended in games as well I think it’s a credit to everyone.

“This hat-trick seems to elude me but I’m happy to get the two goals and I’m happy for Brandon to get the two goals as well.

“Recent weeks we’ve played quite well, moved the ball well but we haven’t got the win, we lost late at Colchester, home against Exeter and I think everything has come together, we’re scoring early on and it’s just worked for us really.

“Previously we’ve played good football without the goals, we’ve added the goals now so hopefully we can keep going and start moving ourselves up the table where we should be.”

December could hardly have gone any better for striker Thomas-Asante though, who only made his first EFL start in the visit of Exeter City.

In four starts he has gone on to assist one goal and score three, and the 21-year-old is very gratefully relishing the opportunity.

“I couldn’t really ask for much more, I’m just so thankful that all my family were there and my friends coming over

from America, and I’m just so happy that I got to share that moment with them. I said to them before the game, just to play in a derby I think that’s my first league derby that I’ve played in so it means a lot to me to be fair, and then to make that mark on what was already an amazing day I couldn’t ask for much more!

“I’m so thankful for the opportunity from The Gaffer, from all of the staff who have helped me get to this point, Warren included from the 23s, now I’ve just got to keep getting my head down and keep grinding for more really.

“We got a win last game, we got a win today and that mo-mentum is really precious for us so I think to just work even harder for the next win and to get a run of wins, that could really help us to climb the table.

“We just need to keep trusting in each other, I think that’s one of the things that’s so special about this team and what I’ve really cherished when I’ve been in this team is that everyone trusts each other, there’s no reluctance to rely on anyone, it’s really a team effort and I think that’s what will help us not only help us in the next game but for the whole season and I think that’s part of the identity of the club so that’s what we need to keep on doing.

“These fans are amazing too, I’m so thankful that we’ve got such an amazing support group!”


12 13


15


Jumpers forgoalposts

Thank you to everyone who donated to our Winter appeal, your donations have now been sorted and delivered to

Emmaus to be distributed out!

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Have yourmate’s back

With 1 in 4 people experiencing a mental health problem each year, we all know someone who needs support.

Drop them a line, ask if they’re ok, let them know you’re there.

You can find information and advice at mind.org.uk, on the phone on 0300 123 3393 or by text on 86463

Wear your shirt backwards to show your support.

Mind is a registered charity no. 219830

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First of all, a slightly belated Happy New Year to all Ammies – and Saddlers – and thanks for turning to this dusty and often ignored page of an otherwise impressive match programme.

As you will all have probably noticed, Christmas is a busy time for football and the non-league scene is not always shy when it comes to imposing hefty schedules on its clubs.

Our local sides enjoyed mixed fortunes over the Yuletide season, although Stockport County would have been pleased with two wins out of two. A thumping victory at home to FC Halifax Town on Boxing Day was followed up by a 2-1 win at AFC Fylde on the 28th. Not such a Joyeux Noel for Chorley though, beaten 3-1 at Wrexham and then 2-0 at Victory Park by Harrogate Town. Those results have dropped the Magpies back down to bottom spot in the table after a recent impressive upturn in results.

In the National League North Altrincham had a good time, winning 1-0 at local rivals Curzon Ashton on the 26th before thumping Southport 3-0 at Moss Lane two days later. All four of goals came from players who have turned out for the Ammies, with winger John Johnston getting two, Josh Hancock one and Tom Peers scoring the winner at Curzon. The Nash are struggling a little bit this season but on the 28th they pulled off a great result, with Andy Halls scoring the only goal at Chester.

The schedule was a little bit more relaxed in the Northern Premier League. Boxing Day produced some good games and 900 supporters turned out at Hyde to see the local ‘derby’ against Stalybridge Celtic. The visitors came out on top in that one as two first-half goals were enough to tame the Tigers, despite a second half reply.

There was another very local affair in the Premier Division at Radfcliffe where Anton Forrester’s goal gave the home side victory over Atherton Collieries. Not quite as close one division lower as Ramsbottom ‘entertained’ Mossley at the Harry Williams Stadium, then proving to be inconsiderate hosts as they ran in seven goals. At the Butcher’s Arms former Ammie Domaine Rouse scored twice in the last 10 minutes for Droylsden to send Trafford home feeling decidedly short on Christmas cheer.

Not too many NPL games on the 28th, although there was a big Premier Division clash at Hurst Cross where home side Ashton United were beaten 2-1 by resurgent FC United of Manchester, in front of 1,500 supporters. Droylsden were denied a second festive win on the bounce as City of Liverpool levelled late on to make the final score 1-1.

Elsewhere, Cleethorpes Town made the very long trip to Market Drayton Town for a Division One South East fixture. Any Cleethorpes supporters who made that journey were well rewarded as their side racked up a 9-2 win, with former Oldham Athletic and Aberdeen striker Scott Vernon weighing in with five of those.

Lots of action in the NWC too, and on Boxing Day Wythenshawe Town edged out Wythenshawe Amateurs with a late goal in front of nearly 500 fans. Maine Road won 3-0 at West Didsbury (att. 392) and the big Cheadle derby saw Town overcome Heath Nomads by 3-1.

Elsewhere, Daisy Hill travelled a mile or two for a 2-0 win at Atherton LR and Chadderton beat Yorkshire side Golcar United 2-1. In the Premier Division Irlam were, surprisingly, beaten 2-0 at Home by AVRO and their game at Winsford on the 28th fell victim to heavy rain.

Aroundnon-League

Andy Giblin rounds up the best of the non-league action from the last year.

28. thomas-asante

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20 21


Abby Bennett has made a statement since joining Salford City Lionesses when the team formed back in June 2018.

Being a fan favourite holds a lot of pressure, but that’s something she has taken into her stride, showing off her rocket shots and clinical accuracy which earned her Player of the Season 2018-19.

It’s always quite refreshing when a player doesn’t realise how good they are, and it was humble beginnings for Abby when she first got into the sport.

“I’ve kicked a ball ever since I was little but I’m not 100% sure what made me get into football.

“I’m guessing growing up with just my Dad, and him being a really good player made me want to be good!

“When I was about 11, I realised I was actually good at it and

had trials at United twice, but I said no when they asked me to sign for them.”

Who else can casually say they said no to Manchester United? Only Abby Bennett.

The midfielder started off playing for Everton’s Centre of Excellence at Under-17’s and then moved onto play for Blackburn Rovers Ladies Reserves.

“I wanted to join Salford City Lionesses because there was less pressure than at Blackburn and higher clubs.

“It’s new, closer to home and easier football I guess; I wanted to try to enjoy playing football again.”

The 22-year-old fell out of love with football when she was just starting out due to some personal struggles with mental health.

“Thinking about it I’ve had anxiety from being little and I never wanted to leave my Dad in case something bad happened to him.

“I always wanted to protect him. I was a worrier and I never enjoyed doing much unless it was with people I trusted and my Dad.

“Then growing up, to when I was about 14 I never really had bad anxiety. I would never sleep out and stuff but I was happy and normal-ish.

“Then one day I was in an exam and I just panicked, I don’t know when it came from, what triggered it or anything but they wouldn’t let me out of the exam and I was sat in there for an hour just panicking.

“After this I was scared of everything. I was scared of going in my classes so I stopped going to them and none of my teachers believed me and thought I was lying about it. “Then when I was 16 I got on at Everton and about four months of playing there I started having anxiety of just getting there and everything became overwhelming.

“After that season I ended up stopping football for about seven or eight months.

“I couldn’t go out my house for that time and was so scared because I was lost and scared and my Dad didn’t know

Salford City Lionesses midfielder Abby Bennett is having one of the seasons of her life; goals galore, top of the table and generally enjoying playing and being involved in the squad. Zarah Connolly spoke to her about reaching this point and her aspirations...

what was happening or how to handle it. I didn’t sleep for two weeks straight.

“The couple of years after that were amazing. I’d never been better in my life!

“I started sixth form, started football again at Blackburn and was just living life to the fullest trying to fit as much as I could in that time I’d missed out on.

“I still have my struggles now, obviously not like I was when I couldn’t go out but the only time I’m not thinking about anxiety is when I’m playing at Salford with you guys.”

At Salford City Lionesses, family is a massive part of the journey the teams on and wherever the team go, you’re sure to see everyone’s relatives on the sidelines including Abby’s Dad, Marcus. There’s no doubt that the midfielder’s biggest fan is her Dad and it seems he’s her biggest inspiration.

“No one compares to my Dad. He’s the strongest, most amazing person I know.

“Everyone feels sorry for me because I lost my Mum but not many people think about him losing the love of his life.

“As to this day he’s never had a girlfriend as he says my mum was the one.”

Continued...


22 23


Naomi, Abby’s mum, was born with an illness cystic fibrosis. Naomi and Marcus wanted a child but were told that it’s incredibly dangerous due to her illness. However, they defied all odds and Abby was born three months early weighing just 1lb. When Abby was just six years old, her mum contracted an infection and unfortunately passed away.

Abby’s Dad has been the perfect role model and support network for her, pushing her to look for opportunities to reach her aspirations. Abby has been offered scholarships to play in America on several occasions which is a huge accolade in women’s football.

“It’s one of the biggest honours; it means a lot to me and it’s my life long dream.

“Years ago I would have said no to it straight away, because I couldn’t leave my Dad for five minutes due to my anxiety so to be at a stage where I can just think about actually potentially doing it means everything.”

With Abby, the sky is the limit and she’s sure got the right attitude for it.

“I have no idea what’s next for me, but my biggest aspiration is to become a pro footballer, or even to take one of the opportunities I’ve been offered and play in America.”

Joining Salford City Lionesses was a great move for Abby, where she’s shown off not just to us but to clubs at higher levels that she’s a force to be reckoned with.

This season the 22-year-old has scored 15 goals in 13 games, starting all but one. The impressive statistics aren’t unnoticed by us all but there’s always room for improvement in her eyes.

“Truthfully when I won player of the year last season I didn’t think it was a true reflection as in my opinion I played just okay but I wasn’t very confident.

“My biggest strength would be dribbling with the ball and my vision on the pitch but my weakness would be my mentality.”

One thing that’s spurred her on is the added pressure of more Salford fans attending games.

“It’s nice to be noticed more and get that exposure on the sidelines, it makes me feel the need to play better for them!”

Abby has scored some terrific goals including an exceptional shot last season that saw her pick up the ball on the right, nutmeg her marker, see the keeper off her line, lobbing a shot from a good 40 yards out which saw her scoop the goal of the season too.

“I’ve made some close partnerships since joining the club. I already knew Feiruz, and Jess and Beth knew of me so I just blended in after that!

“My biggest highlight off the pitch would be just being able to have a laugh with most people and enjoying being around everyone again!

“Whereas on the pitch football wise, I know we didn’t win against FC United in the County Cup final, but the occasion was really exciting to me.”

Salford City Lionesses are currently top of the table, leading with 28 points although Curzon Ashton Women are close behind on 21 points with a few games in hand.

“I’m uncertain how we’ll finish if I’m honest!

“To maintain our good form we need a good bond together and just to be able to play off each other and think of the team and not individuals.

“We need people wanting to score, rather than squaring it to someone in a better position to score.”

What’s the next step for Salford, Abby?

“To go higher, but we need to keep getting better.”

Salford City Lionesses start back after winter break on January 5th against Warrington Wolverines at home. The Argyle Cup campaign will begin January 12th where we’ve been drawn at home to Penrith.

25

Salford City Football Club welcomes fans of all ages to The Peninsula Stadium, and we hope that everyone can enjoy their visit!

So this can happen, we would like to remind all supporters that any form of anti-social, racist, or discriminative behaviour is strictly prohibited, and any person(s) caught will be ejected from

the stadium and face conviction which could result in a Football Banning Order.

We kindly ask that when arriving at and leaving The Peninsula Stadium fans are respectful of our neighbours, keep noise to a minimum, and dispose of any litter in the bins provided.

Strictly no alcohol must be taken from the ground.

Smoking is prohibited in the stadium, and the club operates a strict no drugs policy. Anyone caught in possession will be ejected and face criminal prosecution and a Football Banning

Order. The use of flares or any other pyrotechnic devices is also strictly prohibited and anyone caught in possession of or using any such devices will be ejected from the stadium.

Parking restrictions are in effect in the area surrounding The Peninsula Stadium on match days. Please be mindful of residents when parking. For full details on parking, including

alternative ways of getting to the ground, please visit our website or TfGM.

Finally we understand that high jinks and exuberant behaviour is part and parcel of the matchday experience we are actively encouraging. That said there is a fine line between over

exuberance and anti-social and we ask that at all times fans visiting the Club respect their fellow football fans.

REPORT IT.KICK IT OUT OF FOOTBALL.

AD-210x148-KIO-Report It!.indd 1 23/08/2019 19:42

27


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First football shirt?

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My first senior goal was for Chester in a cup game against Runcorn, so not very memorable!

Music Artists...

Future, Mobb Deep and Bob Marley

Players you have played with...

Steven Pienaar, Ross Barkley and Chris Long

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Chicken with Chilli and Tahini Sauce all over it!

top 3...

If the gaffer came for tea...

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I’m sure he doesn’t eat meat, so probably a nicely seasoned salmon with rice and vegetables.

29


Join our

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© NSPCC 2018. Registered charity England and Wales 216401. Scotland SC037717. Photos by Alex Grace. Illustration by Rosie McKie. Jat is a Childline volunteer. J20181290.

like Jat, volunteer Childline counsellor

Our Salford base – right here in Salford Quays – needs more volunteers. Could you spare four hours each week? Visit nspcc.org.uk/childlinevolunteer

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MY MATCH REPORT

By _______________________

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_______________________________

Favourite Moment

_______________________________

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_______________________________

_______________________________

31


LiamHOGAN

Welcome to the first game of 2020 at The Peninsula Stadium and a Happy New Year to you all.

The past couple of weeks have seen the lads pick up some vital points against tough opposition including two very impressive performances which got us back-to-back wins going into New Year’s Day.

The fixture against Grimsby gave us another great opportunity to build on our recent form but we failed to take it. It’s a set back and a real disappointment however the next game to put it right is as soon as today and our determination to get the right result will be there for all to see.

The game sees us complete the reverse fixture against Walsall, a game where we picked up all three points on the road. We will look to repeat this and finish the busy period with a good positive points tally return.

They come into the game on the back of a win so will be lifted and look to switch positions with us should they get

the win.

The game on New Year’s Day for us shows that some games might not be the most impressive but we have to show we can come out on top in these types of games with character and mental strength.

I predict it will be that sort of game today. Hopefully it is us this time that is on the end of the right result.

With all the games thick and fast and the time of the season we thank you for your commitment, at both home and away games the support has been brilliant.

Let’s give you something to cheer about and bring in 2020 properly.

Enjoy the game,Hoges


32 33


On behalf of us all at Salford City I’d like to wish you all a Happy New Year, and I hope it’s as prosperous as the last.

Thank you so much for your support over the past 12 months and I know you’ll get behind your team again in 2020.

The results over the Christmas period were excellent and testament to the professionalism our players showed in their preparation for those games. It’s impossible to gain such good results without the discipline each individual must show to be ready for his team.

Unfortunately the result on New Year’s Day was a big disappointment for everyone as we wanted to continue our good form, but we couldn’t quite get to the levels of performance we had in the previous games. We have to find out why it was so and make the necessary improvements.

The margins are tight in most games so any small adjustment we must make in our approach for positive effect, will see those fine margins go our way.

Welcome back to Moor Lane for the first time in 2020 for today’s Sky Bet League Two clash with Walsall. A warm

welcome as well to Darrell Clarke, his players, staff and the travelling Walsall fans and officials.

It all comes down to a commitment to our career and how much we want to go through to be successful. In preparation, in recovery, in every action and challenge, we must show how much it means to us to be better than our opponent.

Up the Ammies!

Graham.

GrahamALEXANDER


34 35


Salford City

1. Chris Neal3. Ibou Touray4. Oscar Threlkeld5. Liam Hogan (c)9. Adam Rooney15. Cameron Burgess17. Richie Towell18. Danny Whitehead28. Brandon Thomas-Asante32. Jake Jervis44. Craig Conway

Substitutes

12. Kyle Letheren2. Scott Wiseman6. Carl Piergianni7. Luke Armstrong13. Sam Hughes20. Mani Dieseruvwe

Grimsby Town

1. James McKeown (c)2. Luke Hendrie3. Liam Gibson4. Harry Davis6. Luke Waterfall8. Jake Hessenthaler11. Jordan Cook12. Ethan Robson15. Harry Clifton18. Charles Vernam19. Max Wright

Substitutes

23. Sam Russell10. Elliott Whitehouse14. Ahkeem Rose (84)

17. Harry Cardwell20. Moses Ogbu22. Elliott Hewitt25. Mattie Pollock

Shots Corners

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610

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4

1

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3

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813

Salford Grimsby

MatchREportIt wasn’t quite the Happy New Year to follow a very merry Christmas for Salford City as Ahkeem Rose came off the bench to score the winner for Grimsby Town in the last 10 minutes, with new manager Ian Holloway watching on.

vs. Grimsby TownSky Bet League TwoBlundell Park01/01/20, 15:00

the box, with Neal collecting the low effort at his near post.

Thomas-Asante was nudged over wide on Salford’s left, with Ibou Touray aiming his delivery of the free-kick at the near post. Rooney was there to meet it but was unable to get much direction on a 10-yard header that flew high and wide of the target.

The Mariners were getting on top, but their neat possession wasn’t carving out too many clear-cut chances as Salford’s defence held firm. The Ammies looked to counter when they could and on 63 minutes Thomas-Asante was played into space inside the area and right of centre. It was a decent opening but by the time the trigger was pulled Harry Davis got across to make a great blocking challenge.

In the 81st minute the clearest opportunity of the game so far went the way of Salford City. Substitute Mani Dieseruvwe’s square ball to the right found Craig Conway and his delicate pass into the right-hand side of the box picked out Towell. Grimsby were stretched at the back, but even so Robson should have dealt with the pass inside, aimed at Thomas-Asante. He didn’t, but from eight yards out and with only the keeper to beat the young forward’s shot clipped low off the outside of McKeown’s left-hand upright and out for a goal kick.

A huge chance and within three minutes the Ammies – who should have been one up – fell behind. Moses Ogbu’s pass to the left found Vernam who played a low, square ball into the penalty area. Cameron Burgess gave Rose a little bit too much space to take a touch, turn and hit a low left-footer from 10 yards out and left-of-centre. It wasn’t the cleanest of strikes but did a job as the ball bounced a couple of times, beating Neal’s desperate dive on its way just inside the keeper’s left-hand post.

Salford looked to find a quick response, with Touray crossing high from the left and Conway getting up well, 10 yards out more or less level with the far post. It was a decent attempt, on target to dip under the bar, but McKeown was able to save comfortably.

The fine margins at this level of football were exemplified again as Brandon Thomas-Asante missed a glorious chance to put Salford ahead just a couple of minutes before Akheem Rose struck for the Mariners. This was a tight affair that never looked likely to produce the goals that had marked what had been a very successful yuletide season for Graham Alexander’s side.

In the ninth minute Thomas-Asante – in such form fine recently – curled in an effort from 20 yards, with James McKeown making a comfortable enough save.

Both of these sides were looking to push forward, and Town’s Ethan Robson’s run took him into the area only for his shot to be blocked by Salford skipper Liam Hogan.

At the other end the lively Thomas-Asante did well, making ground on the right before playing a ball inside for Adam Rooney. Salford’s top scorer was well positioned but from about 12 yards out could only direct a low shot just wide of McKeown’s left-hand upright. The former Aberdeen striker had another go in the 19th minute, meeting Jake Jervis’ cross with a downward header that was pushed wide by the keeper.

Not a bad first quarter, but goalmouth action became less common as the half progressed. A Charles Vernam effort from wide had to be touched away by Chris Neal and Salford almost capitalised on a mistake by home defender Luke Waterfall. Thomas-Asante nipped in but when he rolled a pass inside it was behind Rooney and the chance was gone.

In the 42nd minute Richie Towell passed inside for Danny Whitehead, but the midfielder couldn’t keep his 20-yarder down. An even first half overall, with the Mariners seeing more of the ball and Salford creating the better of the chances.

Grimsby looked bright after the restart and a crisp passing move almost unlocked the visiting defence in the 49th minute. Jake Hessenthaler and Robson were involved in the build-up before Vernam had a go from the left-hand angle of


36 37


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40 41


League Tworound-up

A grand occasion at Home Park on New Year’s Day as Plymouth Argyle’s refurbished grandstand, the Mayflower Stand, was fully open for the first time and 15,000 packed in for the visit of Swindon.

Dom Telford’s first goal since August looked to have set The Pilgrims on the right track too but Diallang Jaiyesimi equalised and Eoin Doyle was back amongst the goals after a whole game without one to wrap up the points for the league leaders. Amazingly, it’s only the third win Swindon have managed against a current top half team; if Richie Wellens’ side are serious about their title aspirations then it’s something they will have to address in the second half of the season.

All of the top four won on Wednesday so there was very little movement. Exeter City kept pace with a hard-won 1-0 victory at Forest Green Rovers, their eighth game unbeaten as they build the same sort of momentum that saw them start this season so well. Nigel Atangana was the real focal point as his goal put The Grecians ahead in the first half, but he also saw red early in the second half leaving it to an inspired Jonny Maxted to produce a goalkeeping masterclass and see the win out.

Crewe Alexandra have responded perfectly to their defeat here on Boxing Day with a 3-1 thumping of Scunthorpe United last Sunday followed by a dominant 4-1 win against Carlisle United on Wednesday. Dan Powell scored a brace for the second game in a row, taking his tally to five goals in four games as David Artell’s side eye top spot, or an automatic promotion place at the very least.

Making a winning start to 2020 also were Bradford City, who again needed just the one goal to see of Morecambe at Valley Parade, The Bantams are now seven games unbeaten and have won back-to-back games at home in their last two games. They have only conceded two goals in this run, leaving it for Aramide Oteh on this occasion to score the goal to make the difference.

Colchester United kept a grip on their play-off place, but couldn’t take the chance to move above Forest Green Rovers as Crawley Town took a point home from the JobServe Community Stadium. The Red Devils are winless

in 12, but came from behind here to take a point at a venue where Colchester have been difficult to take anything off.

Joining the play-offs are Northampton Town who left it late, but Andy Williams showed why it is a most wonderful time of the year as he netted in stoppage time versus Stevenage, who fought hard and stayed in the game thanks to Paul Farman’s heroics, but eventually Williams found a way past and three points put The Cobblers into the top seven.

Making way were Cheltenham Town who are without a win since December 7th, but have drawn four of their last five and now share the distinction of having the joint-most draws in the league. Newport’s fall from the top has been even more spectacular, and they thought three points were heading their way until Ben Tozer equalised late for The Robins. They are now two sides along with Macclesfield Town and Stevenage who don’t have a win in the last five.

For their off-field struggles, Macc are a hard to beat side on the pitch and came from behind to take the lead at Port Vale in the John Askey derby, but David Amoo rescued a point for The Valiants who are away at Manchester City in the FA Cup this evening before visiting us in the Leasing.com Trophy on Tuesday night.

We missed a chance to close that gap with Vale after defeat at Grimsby Town, while Scunthorpe United’s win at Oldham Athletic moves them to a point behind. Abo Eisa’s opening goal was his fifth goal in six games as The Iron work their way back up the table.

Mansfield Town have taken their time finding their feet under new manager Graham Coughlan, but showed him that he has something to work with after twice coming from behind to win 3-2 at Cambridge United, courtesy of Nicky Maynard’s hat-trick. Former Ammie Callum Burton kept a clean sheet on his Football League debut last Sunday, but was on the wrong end of a clinical Maynard and a big win for The Stags.

Leyton Orient have struggled for form of late, and that didn’t get any better at Walsall who took a late first half lead at The Banks’s Stadium, and defended it without too much hassle after Cameron Pring was sent off.

Swindon Town still lead the way in the New Year after a win to put last week’s defeat behind them. However the chasers

are keeping pace close behind them...

CHELTENHAM TOWN vs OLDHAM ATHLETIC

Cheltenham have a great chance to move back into the play-offs with Northampton Town playing in the FA Cup, and this is essentially their game in hand so they have to make it count. They are up against an Oldham side who, after two good wins against Crawley and Morecambe, have lost their last two against top half teams.

MANSFIELD TOWN vs GRIMSBY TOWN

The Mariners take to the field under Ian Holloway for the first time with a fresh optimism after their New Year’s Day win against us, and if they win both their games in hand that will put them seven points off the play-offs so a win to leapfrog The Stags would be another positive step for them. Graham Coughlan will be keen for his side to build some momentum after a first league win since October on NYD.

SWINDON TOWN vs BRADFORD CITY

There could still be war between these sides off the pitch surrounding the future of goal machine Eoin Doyle, on loan from Bradford. Gary Bowyer’s side, with a win, could catch the leaders if they also win their game in hand...

TEAM P W D L GF GA GD PTS

1 Swindon Town 25 15 4 6 45 27 18 49

2 Exeter City 25 13 8 4 35 27 8 47

3 Crewe Alexandra 24 13 5 6 46 29 17 44

4 Bradford City 24 12 7 5 31 19 12 43

5 Forest Green Rovers 25 11 7 7 27 19 8 40

6 Colchester United 24 10 9 5 35 23 12 39

7 Northampton Town 25 11 6 8 34 28 6 39

8 Cheltenham Town 24 9 11 4 35 20 15 38

9 Plymouth Argyle 23 11 5 7 34 25 9 38

10 Port Vale 25 8 11 6 32 31 1 35

11 Salford City 25 8 8 9 31 34 -3 32

12 Scunthorpe United 25 8 7 10 33 33 0 31

13 Cambridge United 25 8 7 10 30 30 0 31

14 Newport County 23 7 9 7 21 21 0 30

15 Walsall 25 8 6 11 23 32 -9 30

16 Crawley Town 25 6 10 9 32 35 -3 28

17 Mansfield Town 25 6 9 10 33 37 -4 27

18 Grimsby Town 23 6 8 9 23 28 -5 26

19 Leyton Orient 25 6 8 11 32 42 -10 26

20 Oldham Athletic 24 6 8 10 25 37 -12 26

21 Carlisle United 25 6 7 12 23 40 -17 25

22 Macclesfield Town 23 5 11 7 22 26 -4 20

23 Morecambe 25 4 6 15 20 44 -24 18

24 Stevenage 24 2 11 11 15 30 -15 17

Cheltenham Town vs Oldham AthleticThe Jonny-Rocks Stadium, 15:00Crawley Town vs Forest Green RoversThe People’s Pension Stadium, 15:00Macclesfield Town vs Cambridge UnitedMoss Rose, 15:00Mansfield Town vs Grimsby TownThe One Call Stadium, 15:00Salford City vs WalsallRodney Parade, 15:00Scunthorpe United vs Plymouth ArgyleGlanford Park, 15:00Stevenage vs Colchester UnitedThe Lamex Stadium, 15:00Swindon Town vs Bradford CityCounty Ground, 15:00Millwall vs Newport CountyThe Den, 12:31, FA CupCardiff City vs Carlisle UnitedCardiff City Stadium, 15:01, FA CupManchester City vs Port ValeThe Etihad Stadium, 17:31, FA CupGood luck to Crewe away at Barnsley, and Northampton at Burton in the FA Cup tomorrow!


42

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Substitutes: Bates (Guthrie 38’), Norman (Facey 18’), Cockerill-Mollett (McDonald 71’), Gaffney, Jules, Perry, Rose

W1-0 vs Leyton Orient, Sky Bet League Two

Roberts

Pring

Sadler

McDonald

Guthrie

Lavery

Kinsella

Scarr

Holden

Gordon

Facey

Last line-up

Walsall made a fresh start in the summer following their relegation from League One, and the appointment of Darrell Clarke was back by allowing him to bring in a number of new faces to The Banks’s Stadium.

A serial promotion winner as a manager having won promotion with former clubs Salisbury and Bristol Rovers, Clarke took The Gas up from League Two in 2015-16 with a third place finish.

Amongst his signings were some of his former players at Bristol including James Clarke, Stuart Sinclair and Rory Gaffney, on loan from us for the season although he is ineligible to play today. It took The Saddlers some time to find their feet back in the fourth tier with form searching for consistency, but it came in September with four straight wins until our win at The Banks’s Stadium in early October.

That ushered in a run of six straight defeats, however Walsall have recovered stronger and have lost just one of their last eight league games; 2-1 at home to Carlisle United last Sunday.

Through to the next round of the Leasing.com Trophy too after beating Chelsea’s Under-21s, they host former winners Portsmouth for a place in the area semi-finals.

This afternoon provides Walsall with a chance to leapfrog us as well as perhaps gain some revenge for the defeat on their own turf in October. Away from home they are unbeaten in three, becoming the first team to win at Port Vale this season, then taking a 3-0 lead away at Exeter City (although the game ended 3-3-) before winning at Scunthorpe to become the first team to take three points from Glanford Park since early in the season.

More of Walsall’s points (17) have come when on the road compared to at home (13) and in the away league table they are eighth.

October’s run hasn’t done much to help Walsall’s stats, but it’s a game of form and Clarke’s side have taken eight points from the last 15 available.

DID YOU KNOW?

Walsall’s nickname, The Saddlers, comes from Walsall town’s heritage as a saddle manufacturing town, although it did produce many other leather goods as well including footballs in the early 20th century.

MostRecent

2014-15

League One - 14th

2015-16

League One - 3rd

2016-17

League One - 14th

2017-18

League One - 19th

2018-19

League One - 22nd

D D W L W

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walsallToday’s visitors


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In 1888 Walsall Town and Walsall Swifts came together to become Walsall Town Swifts, and they played their first season in the Midland League although their first game was against Aston Villa in the Birmingham Charity Cup.

They finished third in their first season, then in 1892 Walsall were invited to be founder members of the new Football League Second Division. After finishing 14th out of 16 in 1894-95 they failed to gain re-election, but ahead of the 1895 season moved to Fellows Park where they would play until 1990. The following year, the club dropped Town Swifts to become Walsall FC, and had another spell in the Football League during which time they finished 6th, still their highest finish ever in the League.

Another unsuccessful re-election meant Walsall spent the next few years in the Midland, Birmingham and Southern Leagues, before football stopped for World War I. However after the end of the War the Football League expanded and Walsall were a founder member of the Third Division North in 1921. They haven’t dropped out of the league since.

A third place finish in their second season, and finishes in fifth and fourth place in 1932-33 and 1933-34, were the closest Walsall came to promotion, but their crowning moment was a 2-0 FA Cup win against giants Arsenal in January 1933 (before they lost to eventual runners-up Manchester City in the Fourth Round). They followed that up with a Third Division North Cup final in 1934-35, but lost to

Stockport County at Maine Road.

In 1947-48 Walsall finished third, but again missed out on promotion to the Second Division and the 1950s was a decade of mixed fortune. The club had to re-apply for election in four consecutive seasons between 1951-52 and 1954-55, and in 1958 they were founder members of the Fourth Division. However the decade ended on a positive with a first league title secured in 1959-60, earning Walsall promotion back to the Third Division and they followed that up by finishing runners-up in 1960-61 which took them back up to the Second Division.

They enjoyed two seasons back in the second tier before relegation in 1962-63. Becoming a solid third tier outfit, Walsall were taken over by local businessman Ken Wheldon in 1972 and optimism grew that The Saddlers could push back up, but in 1978-79 they were relegated to the Fourth Division. Once again their stay didn’t last long in the basement of the Football League and promotion was secured at the first time of asking under player-manager Alan Buckley.

He would lead Walsall to become contenders in the Third Division again, and in 1983-84 The Saddlers reached the semi-final of the League Cup after beating Blackpool, Barnsley, Shrewsbury, Arsenal and Rotherham United on the way to facing holders Liverpool. A 2-2 draw at Anfield meant a replay at Fellows Park, which Liverpool won 2-0.

Two groundsharing proposals with Wolves and Birmingham City had been rejected, and Terry Ramsden bought the club in the late 1980s with money injected. New manager Tommy Coakley narrowly missed out on the play-offs in 1986-87, but was more successful in 1988 after Bristol City were beaten in the play-off final. However Walsall were relegated straight away, Ramsden’s business empire collapsed with the club being saved at the last minute, and a second relegation followed in 1990 to leave Walsall in the Fourth Division once again. That year they moved to the Bescot.

Chris Nicholl took the club back into the third tier, now called Division Two, before Ray Graydon finished as runners-up in 1998-99 to take Walsall to Division One. They were relegated immediately, but then promoted again after winning the play-off final against Reading, after extra time. This time they stayed in Division One until 2003-04, but after narrowly avoiding relegation in 2004-05 it came in 2005-06. Richard Money led Walsall straight back up by winning the League Two title on the final day of the 2006-07 season. They nearly challenged for back-to-back promo-tions but the sale of key players in January ended that. However the club did consolidate themselves in the third tier, although endured a couple of close calls. Dean Smith saved them in 2010-11 and in 2014-15 took Walsall to the Football League Trophy Final, which they lost 2-0 to Bristol City. Smith left early November 2015.

In the summer, Leigh Pomlett purchased 76% of the club.

NicknameThe Saddlers

Founded1888

Last season22nd - League one

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Clarke was appointed as manager in the summer following Walsall’s relegation from League One. As a manager, the 42-year-old has enjoyed a decent amount of success at both non-league and football league level.

His playing career started as a 10-year-old at Mansfield Town, from where he worked up through the academy and became professional in 1995. In his first four seasons, The Stags went from relegation battlers in the Third Division to finishing just outside the play-offs. They dropped back to a mid-table side, and at the end of his contract with over 150 appearances to his name, Clarke left to sign for Hartlepool United in 2001 on a Bosman transfer although Pools still had to pay £80,000.

Despite being in an out of the side Clarke scored seven goals in 35 appearances, the the next season matched that tally and played in nearly all of Pools’ matches as they won promotion in 2002-03. The next season opportunity was limited under Neale Cooper, but Clarke still made 35 appearances before a knee injury left him on the sidelines for a spell, which was followed by loan spells at Stockport County, Port Vale and Rochdale. Released from Victoria Park in 2007, Clarke joined Salisbury City in the Conference where he spent the next six years. As a player he helped Salisbury stay in the Conference, then when they were demoted to the Southern League as punishment for financial problems he was made player-manager.

Salisbury won promotion from the Southern League, via the play-offs, in Clarke’s first season before a mid-table Conference South finish in 2011-12. That set them up for promotion in 2012-13, via the play-offs.

Clarke’s success didn’t go unnoticed and in June 2013 he was appointed assistant manager at Bristol Rovers in League Two. In March 2014 he became manager and despite relegation he led the club to back- to-back promotions up to League One before leaving in December 2018.

Liam RobertsSigned: Academy Graduate

A graduate from the academy, Roberts made his debut in February 2016 but learned his trade in loan spells at Rushall Olympic, Rainworth Miners Welfare, Southport, Gresley and Chester. The 25-year-old (above) started the 2017-18 season as understudy to Mark Gillespie, but ended the season as first choice and started nearly every fixture for The Saddlers in the 2018-19 season.

01 Jack RoseSigned: July 2019 (LOAN)

24-year-old shot stopper Rose arrived at The Saddlers in the summer on a season-long loan from Premier League club Southampton. Born in Solihull, Rose is a graduate of the West Brom academy and had loan spells with Accrington Stanley and Crawley Town before signing for Southampton in August 2017. Yet to make an appearance for The Saints, he has played a handful of games for The Saddlers.

13

Cameron NormanSigned: January 2019

The right-back joined Walsall last January on a two-and-a-half year deal from Oxford United, for an undisclosed fee. As a youth player Norman won the 2013 FA Youth Cup with hometown club Norwich City, and had a loan spell at Woking before permanent stints with Norwich United, Concord Rangers, Needham Market and Kings Lynn Town. He signed for The Us in 2018, making 12 appearances.

02

Mat SadlerSigned: July 2019

An experienced centre-back, Sadler returned to The Banks’s Stadium for a second spell in the summer after a successful few years with Shrewsbury Town. The 34-year-old played for England at youth level while at Birmingham City, playing in their 2006-07 Championship promotion season. He signed for Walsall in 2011-12 and played a season before signing for Crawley and eventually Shrewsbury.

04 James ClarkeSigned: May 2019

Well-known to Darrell Clarke having won success with the manager at Salisbury and Bristol, the 30-year-old was signed early in the summer. He started his career at Watford,Oxford United then City, where he won promotion from the Southern League before signing for Salisbury and winning promotion to The Conference. After a spell at Woking he signed for The Gas and won promotion to League One.

05

Dan ScarrSigned: January 2019

A centre-back who we came across in our non-league days at Stourbridge, 25-year-old Scarr has worked his way up to the Football League via the likes of Worcester, Redditch and Stourbridge before signing for Birmingham City in January 2017. He made just one appearance before a loan at Wycombe Wanderers in 2017-18 that ended in promotion to League One, then signed for Walsall last January.

06

Cameron PringSigned: July 2019 (LOAN)

On loan for the season from Championship outfit Bristol City, the left-back has already cut his teeth at this level. The 21-year-old had loan spells with both Newport County and Cheltenham Town last season, making 15 appearances. He started his career with Cheltenham before moving to Bristol, and has also had spells with Merthyr Town, Aldershot Town and Hereford.

03

Kory RobertsSigned: Academy Graduate

The young centre-back has come up through the youth ranks at Walsall, but missed the whole of last season with an ACL injury sustained in pre-season. He captained the Development Squad to league success in 2016-17, and the Walsall Senior Cup while making his first appearances in the men’s team. In 2017-18 he was named the Young Player of the Season after making 24 appearances.

14

darrellclarke


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Alfie BatesSigned: March 2017

The 18-year-old joined The Saddlers after a youth career spent between hometown Coventry City and Birmingham City. He scored on his youth team debut and went on to make 28 appearances for the Under-18s before making his first team debut in the EFL Trophy last season, playing twice. He was named Apprentice of the Season for 2018-19 and has made an influential start this season.

20

Callum Cockerill-MollettSigned: Academy Graduate

The youngster signed a contract extension in the summer after loan spells with AFC Telford United and Chasetown. The 2016-17 Apprentice of the Season, who made his debut that season, has featured more regularly this year at left-back. He captained the youth team and helped the development squad win a league and the Walsall Senior Cup, as well making his Ireland Under-18s debut in 2017.

21

Stuart SinclairSigned: May 2019

Another player re-united with Darrell Clarke in the summer, 32-year-old Sinclair left Bristol Rovers to join the Saddlers boss who he won back-to-back promotions at The Gas with. The experienced midfielder (above) featured largely in non-league after coming through Luton Town’s academy and signed for Salisbury in 2012 to win promotion with Clarke. He then went on to make over 150 appearances for Bristol.

07

Shay FaceySigned: July 2019

A summer signing from Northampton Town, Sale-born Facey started his career at Manchester City and represented England at youth levels. After a loan spell with New York City, playing 23 MLS games, the 24-year-old had further loans at Rotherham United and Heerenveen before joining Northampton in January 2018. He made 42 appearances in 18 months with The Cobblers.

24

Rory HoldenSigned: July 2019 (LOAN)

Winger Holden is on a season-long loan from Championship side Bristol City. The 22-year-old was picked up from Derry City in 2017 and is yet to make his debut for The Robins, but last season he had loan spells at Barrow until January, then Rochdale until the end of the season, making a total of 11 appearances. He has featured more often this season for The Saddlers.

15Liam KinsellaSigned: Academy Graduate

The reigning Young Player of the Year was a standout performer in 2018-19, and won the Goal of the Season. Now 23, Kinsella joined The Saddlers’ academy when he was just eight and was named the Apprentice of the Season in 2013-14 before making his debut in August 2014. A youth player for Ireland, Kinsella has won success at youth level for Walsall.

08

Caolan LaverySigned: August 2019

Striker Lavery (below) signed a contract with Walsall in the summer after being released by Sheffield United, although he had spent the 2018-19 season on loan at Bury where his five goals helped The Shakers to promotion from League Two. Hailing from Canada, the 27-year-old had his first taste of football in England with Ipswich and Sheffield Wednesday, who he left for Sheffield United in 2016.

09

Danny GuthrieSigned: July 2019

A vastly experienced midfielder with over 100 Premier League appearances, 32-year-old Guthrie linked up with The Saddlers in the summer. His youth career was spent with Manchester United and Liverpool, where he made his debut and joined Newcastle United from in 2008. He won promotion to the top flight with The Magpies in four years before spells at Reading, Blackburn and Mitra Kukar.

16

Josh GordonSigned: August 2018

The 25-year-old is one of the only players who was kept on from last season, after scoring nine goals in 45 games. The forward joined from Leicester City who had snapped him up from non-league and he scored six goals in 27 Premier League 2 matches in the 2017-18 season. A former youth player at Stoke, Gordon played for the likes of Newcastle Town, Nantwich Town and Rhyl before joining The Foxes.

10 Elijah AdebayoSigned: June 2019

Tall front man Adebayo signed in the summer after being released by Fulham, where he played since Under-9 level. The 21-year-old never made a senior appearance for The Whites, but impressed on loan with a hat-trick at Slough Town on his debut. In 2018 he joined Cheltenham Town on loan, and last season had stints with Swindon Town and Stevenage, scoring five goals in 30 with Swindon.

11

James HardySigned: June 2019

The tricky winger is no stranger to Salford having come up against us during his time at AFC Fylde. A former Manchester City trainee, the 23-year-old left The Etihad for The Coasters in October 2015 and was named 2016-17 Young Player of the Year after helping Fylde to the National League North title. A former England C international, Hardy also reached the Play-Off Final with Fylde last season.

17

Jack KierseySigned: July 2019

After being released by Everton, the 21-year-old midfielder joined Walsall on a short-term deal. He joined The Toffees when he was 10, and in 2016-17 was named the Under-18s Player of the Season which resulted in a first professional contract. Last season he helped the Under-23s to a League and Cup double as well as making a couple of appearances in the EFL Trophy.

18

Zak JulesSigned: July 2019

Signed from Macclesfield Town for an undisclosed fee in the summer, Jules became Walsall’s 14th summer signing. The former Scotland youth international played a regular part in The Silkmen’s EFL survival under Sol Campbell after joining from Shrewsbury Town. The 22-year-old’s career started at Reading, and was enhanced by loan spells with Hemel Hempstead, Braintree Town and Motherwell.

33

Wes McDonaldSigned: July 2019

Winger McDonald signed a short-term deal in July after spending last season with Yeovil Town where he made 12 appearances in all competitions. The 22-year-old started his career at Birmingham City and had loan spells with Nuneaton Town and Solihull Moors before leaving The Blues in 2018 for Yeovil. This season he is enjoying his best season to date with five goals in 22 appearances.

25

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Get closer to the action than ever courtesy of Hotel Football and our exclusive ticketed matchday hospitality experiences. Enjoy hearing from some of the

game’s most recognisable former Manchester United players during a live Q&A and three course meal over looking the Theatre of Dreams.

Then head over to Old Trafford to enjoy the game.

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56 57


PreviousMEETINGS

A perfect away performance at The Banks’s Stadium saw us pick up a first EFL win on the road back in October!

Winger CraigConway made hisdebut at Walsalland assisted Luke Armstrongfor the opening goal.

Wearing the number 44, it is the highest playing shirt number ever worn by a Salford City player.

Walsall 0-3 Salford CitySaturday 5th October, 2019

It turned out to be quite the turning point for Salford City when we first met Walsall back at the start of October. Coming off the back of heavy defeats to Crewe Alexandra and Forest Green Rovers, while Walsall were on a run of four straight wins in all competitions with three clean sheets too, there were mixed thoughts on the way down to The Banks’s Stadium.

Graham made three changes as Adam Rooney, Jake Jervis and new signing Craig Conway came into a 4-4-2 setup, and it was Conway who proved to make a significant difference throughout the afternoon’s proceedings. His tenacity to keep a forward move in action instead of letting the ball run out of play set up the opening goal for Luke Armstrong, his first in Salford colours as he picked up the short back pass and guided a shot into the left-hand post.

Walsall had their share of chances, but either found Kyle Letheren in an in-penetrable mood in the Salford net, or didn’t find their range. Rory Holden, Josh Gordon, James

Clarke and Wes McDonald all had decent openings but were unable to pull Walsall level. Scott Wiseman was then to thank as he denied Elijah Adebayo from close range, and moments later Cameron Burgess also denied the front man.

Into the second half and Salford found the early break through. Again Armstrong was testing Liam Roberts who palmed away the striker’s shot, but only into the path of Jervis who cooly finished for his first Salford goal.

There was little for Letheren to do in the second half except to deny Alfie Bates and Gordon with decent saves, and in the 72nd minute Ibou Touray made certain of the points with a pelting low drive that Roberts couldn’t get to.

The Saddlers enjoyed more of the possession in the closing stages but couldn’t conjure anything too nervy for the visitors and the winning run was over.

From there we managed to climb some way up the table throughout October before cup fixtures interrupted the league rhythm we had built.

44


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FOOTBALL TO AMSTERDAM5-7 June 2020400 cyclists, 3 days, 2 countries, 1 aim. Help stop prostate cancer being a killer. prostatecanceruk.org/amsterdam

5902 Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company number 02653887.

Join the biggest ride in football!

FOOTBALL 2 AMSTERDAM 2020: Represent The Ammies on the Biggest Ride in Football!

Leave your rivalries on the pitch and get on your bike to help stop a disease that kills one man every 45 minutes.

On 5-7 June, join over 400 football fans who will be taking part in Prostate Cancer UK’s flagship Football to Amsterdam bike ride. The extremely popular event, now on its 8th year is set to be bigger and better than ever before.

Sign up now at prostatecanceruk.org/amsterdam and get £50 off registration with the code F2A50.

Putting rivalries aside, fans will unite as they ride 145 miles through two countries, reaching Amsterdam’s Johan Cruijff Arena from their choice of two start locations - either London at the Olympic Park or in Yorkshire at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough Stadium.

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One man dies every 45 minutes from prostate cancer – that’s two men every football match. You and your mates can help make the difference to beat the most common cancer in men in the UK.

Footballing legend Paul Parker will be taking on Football to Amsterdam for the second consecutive year, he says “I’ll admit I was a little sceptical before the ride last year as I wasn’t much of a cyclist, but the support and camaraderie between all the riders guided me through – and I enjoyed the ride so much that I’ve signed up for 2020.

“Prostate Cancer UK is a terrific cause and is making huge strides in football and beyond. Events like Football to Amsterdam are playing a massive part in driving change for men but there’s still a lot of work to be done.

“That’s why I’m calling on football fans across the country to join me on the starting line next summer. With your support, we can help stop prostate cancer being a killer.”

Up for the challenge? Get yourself signed up and represent Salford City in the biggest ride in football.

Once registered, riders will be supported every pedal of the way and will also receive a Prostate Cancer UK cycling jersey, Football to Amsterdam wristband and a medal at the finish line.

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Competition Result Starting XI Substitutes

September 2019 (H - A)

Sun 1 Warrington Wolverines A NWWRL Div. 1 South 3 - 3 Duke Rhodes Thornton Baker Wharton Barley Bennett (x2) Tobin Ainscough Lawson Tattersall (c) Wakefield Abdullahi Shaw Duckworth

Sun 8 Liverpool Feds Res. A NWWRL Div. 1 South 3 - 9 Duke Ainscough Baker Thornton (c) Shaw Wharton Carta Etchells Tobin Bennett (x3) Abdullahi (x2) Duckworth Lawson Wakefield Barley Rhodes

Sun 15 Northwich Vixens H NWWRL Div. 1 South 6 - 1 Duke Ainscough Baker Thornton (c) Shaw Carta Rhodes Barley Abdullahi Wakefield Etchells Tattersall (x2) Lawson Wharton Tobin Bennett

Sun 22 Chester FC Women A NWWRL Div. 1 South 3 - 1 Duke Ainscough Baker Thornton Shaw Carta Tobin Bennett Wakefield Abdullahi Tattersall (c) Rhodes Lawson Etchells Barley

October 2019

Sun 6 West Kirby Ladies H NWWRL Div. 1 South 6 - 1 Duke Ainscough Baker Thornton Rhodes Wharton Bennett Tobin Wakefield Lawson Tattersall (x3) Etchells Barley Shaw Abdullahi

Sun 13 Wythenshawe Amateurs A NWWRL Div. 1 South 1 - 14 Duke Etchells Ainscough Thornton (x2) Shaw Wharton Barley Carta Bennett (x2) Tobin Tattersall (x5) Wakefield Lawson Abdullahi

Sun 20 West Didsbury & Chorlton H MFA Women’s Ch. Cup 3 - 3** Duke Etchells Ainscough Thornton Shaw Wharton Carta Bennett Tattersall (x2) Tobin Lawson Barley Abdullahi Wakefield Duckworth

Sun 27 Burscough Dynamo^ A NWWRL Div. 1 South 0 - 12 Duke Etchells Baker Thornton Shaw Carta Bennett (x2) Marshall (x2) Tobin Tattersall Wakefield Barley Lawson Abdullahi (x3) Ainscough

November 2019

Sun 3 Chester FC Women H NWWRL Div. 1 South 6 - 2 Duke Ainscough Thornton Baker Etchells Wharton Bennett (x2) Carta Tattersall Tobin Abdullahi Barley Wakefield Lawson Shaw Rhodes

Sun 10 Curzon Ashton Women’s A NWWRL Div. 1 South 2 - 3 Duke Etchells Thornton Baker Shaw Bennett Ainscough Tobin Thomas Tattersall (c) Abdullahi Duckworth Barley Wakefield Lawson

Sun 17 Didsbury FC Ladies 1 H NWWRL Div. 1 South 5 - 2 Duke Etchells Thornton Baker Shaw Bennett Tattersall (c) Tobin Ainscough Lawson (x3) Abdullahi Carta Duckworth Marshall

December 2019

Sun 1 Liverpool Feds Res. H NWWRL Div. 1 South 8 - 1 Duke Etchells Thornton Baker Shaw Bennett Carta Tobin Ainscough Tattersall (x2) Lawson Marshall (x2) Rhodes Duckworth

Sun 8 Northwich Vixens A NWWRL Div. 1 South 1 - 3 Duke Etchells Thornton Baker Rhodes Bennett Carta Tobin Ainscough Tattersall (c) Lawson Abdullahi Thomas Shaw

January 2020

Sun 5 Warrington Wolverines H NWWRL Div. 1 South

Sun 12 Penrith AFC Ladies H Argyle Cup

Sun 19 West Kirby Ladies A NWWRL Div. 1 South

Sun 26 Wythenshawe Amateurs H NWWRL Div. 1 South

February 2020

Sun 2 Altrincham FC Ladies A NWWRL Div. 1 South

March 2020

Sun 1 Curzon Ashton Women’s H NWWRL Div. 1 South

TBC Altrincham FC Ladies H NWWRL Div. 1 South

TBC Didsbury FC Ladies 1 A NWWRL Div. 1 South

^Burscough Dynamo resigned (Dec 2019), record expunged *All fixtures are subject to change. Cup fixtures to be added. **Lost 1-2 on penalties to West Didsbury & Chorlton

63


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EFL Youth Alliance North West Fixtures & Results

August 2019 (H - A) Scorers

Sat 3 Oldham Athletic H 7 - 1 James-Taylor (x2), Twist, Burton (x2), Rhodes, Gorman

Sat 10 Accrington Stanley A 2 - 1 Rhodes

Sat 17 Preston North End H 3 - 2 James-Taylor (x2), Twist

Sat 31 Tranmere Rovers H 3 - 2 Gorman, James-Taylor, Hill

September 2019

Sat 7 Shrewsbury Town A 2 - 0

Sat 21 Rochdale H 3 - 2 Ditchfield, James-Taylor, Gorman

Sat 28 Port Vale A 2 - 5 Gorman (x2), James-Taylor (x2), Hall

October 2019

Sat 19 Fleetwood Town A 3 - 0

November 2019

Sat 2 Blackpool H 6 - 0 James-Taylor (x3), Rydel, Rhodes, Twist

Sat 16 Morecambe A 0 - 2 Twist (x2)

December 2019

TBC Walsall H P - P

TBC Shrewsbury Town H P - P

January 2020

Sat 4 Tranmere Rovers A

Sat 11 Carlisle United A

Sat 18 Port Vale H

Sat 25 Rochdale A

February 2020

Sat 15 Fleetwood Town H

March 2020

Sat 7 Morecambe H

Sat 14 Blackpool A

Sat 21 Carlisle United H

April 2020

Sat 4 Walsall A

Sat 18 Oldham Athletic A

Sat 25 Accrington Stanley H

May 2020

Sat 2 Preston North End A

Clarets Cup Fixtures (Group stage - through to Quarter-Finals)

September 2019

Tues 10 Fleetwood Town A 1 - 3 Hill, Gorman, Twist

Mon 16 Crewe Alexandra A 1 - 3 Dyson, Twist, T.Shepherd

Tues 24 Barnsley A 0 - 0

December 2019

Tues 3 Wigan Athletic A 3 - 1

Tues 17 Hull City A 3 - 3 Galvin (x2), T.Shepherd

EFL Youth Alliance Cup Fixtures

August 2019 (H - A) Scorers

Fri 23 Scunthorpe United A 1 - 2 James-Taylor (x2)

September 2019

Sat 14 Walsall A 2 - 0

October 2019

Wed 23 Grimsby Town H 1 - 2 James-Taylor

November 2019

Tues 12 Chesterfield H 4 - 3 Twist (x3), Monaghan

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TablesNorth West Women’s Regional Football LeagueDivision One South

The Lionesses’ debut season at this level, the sixth tier of women’s football. The winner is promoted to the NWWRFL Premier Division.

EFL Youth AllianceNorth West Division

The Under-18s are competing in the league for the first time this season, but are unfortunately out of the Youth Alliance Cup.

NWWRFL Division 1 South P W D L GF GA GD PTS

1 Salford City Lionesses 11 9 1 1 64 20 44 28

2 Curzon Ashton FC Women 8 7 0 1 31 6 25 21

3 Warrington Wolverines 9 4 3 2 27 14 13 15

4 Chester FC Women 10 4 2 4 22 23 -1 14

5 Didsbury FC Ladies 1 6 3 1 2 19 15 4 10

6 West Kirby Ladies 10 2 4 4 18 29 -11 10

7 Altrincham FC Ladies 4 2 1 1 7 5 2 7

8 Liverpool Feds Reserves 13 1 2 10 19 73 -54 5

9 Northwich Vixens First Women 5 1 1 3 16 16 0 4

10 Wythenshawe Amateurs Women 6 0 1 5 15 37 -22 1

- Burscough Dynamo First Women Resigned in December 2019, record expunged.

EFL Youth Alliance North West P W D L GF GA GD PTS

1 Preston North End 12 9 1 2 40 18 22 28

2 Blackpool 12 7 2 3 27 27 0 23

3 Fleetwood Town 9 7 1 1 21 3 18 22

4 Salford City 10 7 0 3 30 16 14 21

5 Carlisle United 13 6 3 4 27 25 2 21

6 Walsall 9 5 2 2 23 9 14 17

7 Tranmere Rovers 14 5 1 8 37 33 4 16

8 Oldham Athletic 12 4 3 5 24 25 -1 15

9 Accrington Stanley 10 4 0 6 13 24 -11 12

10 Shrewsbury Town 10 3 1 6 17 18 -1 10

11 Morecambe 11 1 4 6 11 34 -23 7

12 Rochdale 8 1 1 6 14 25 -11 4

13 Port Vale 10 1 1 8 14 41 -27 4

66 67

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#Wearesalford

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NORTHAMPTON TOWNThe Peninsula StadiumSaturday 11th January, 15:00

Our third home game in a week is next Saturday when Keith Curle’s side visit The Peninsula Stadium.

Tickets are now on sale for this game, and can be bought from the ticket office during opening hours, or online.Adults: £10, Concessions: £5.

MATCH DAY TRAVEL

This season we are working with Transport for Greater Manchester to help supporters plan their journey to The Peninsula Stadium on match days.

Parking is extremely limited around the ground due to the resident parking permit area which is in operation on match days. This is between 12:00 - 19:00 for games that kick-off at 15:00, and 17:00 - 23:00 for evening kick-offs.

A Park & Ride service is available from the old IT Lab car park (M27 8SJ) for £2 per vehicle, and opens 90 minutes before kick-off. Swans operate the shuttle service.

FOREST GREEN ROVERSThe New LawnSaturday 18th January, 15:00

We visit The New Lawn for the first time in January to take on promotion-chasing Forest Green Rovers.

Tickets are now on sale from the ticket office during opening hours. FGR have three sections: Seated, Covered Standing and Uncovered Standing. Prices vary.

NExt UPPORT VALEThe Peninsula Stadium / Tuesday 7th January, 19:45

We are back at home on Tuesday night when The Valiants visit, fresh off the back of their visit to Manchester City in the Emirates FA Cup Third Round this weekend. A place in the Leasing.com Trophy Northern Section semi-final is up for grabs, or in general terms the quarter-finals of the competition.

Tickets are available to purchase in advance for the North and West Stands, the South Stand will be closed for this fixture. Normal ticket prices apply: Adults: £10, Concessions: £5. Season tickets are not valid for this fixture, and seats are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Admission for The West Stand only is available on the evening.

The Park & Ride will not be in operation for this match. Please park sensibly and responsibly.

We are delighted to be able to offerpre-match hospitality off-site courtesy of

Babbo Cucina Italiana!

Warm welcome and greathospitality in a relaxed atmosphere

Parking at the restaurant.15-minute walk / 5-minute drivefrom The Peninsula Stadium

Guaranteed ticketsavailable more than 1weeks prior to the game

Standing match tickets provided onthe day, Seats can be arrangedon request

Adults £40, Children £20

Three-course Italian meal withboth Adult and Children menusavailable

Matchday Hospitality

If you would like to try this fantastic package visit

www.salfordcityfc.co.uk/hospitalityor email [email protected]

Public Transport services operate around the area, and there are regular bus services along the A56 (Bury New Road) between Manchester City Centre and Bury. Alight at the junction with Moor Lane and walk 5-10 minutes.

From Salford, the 95 runs from Salford Shopping Centre along Littleton Road. Alight before the roundabout at the bottom of Moor Lane and it’s a 10-minute walk up hill.

TfGM provide a dedicated travel page for each fixture which is on their website and both our social media channels.

Blue Badge Holders may park within the permit zone for up to three hours. Please don’t block any access.

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AD-210x148-Carabao-Half the Sugar.indd 1 30/07/2019 22:45

Salford City walsallManagerGraham Alexander

RefereeChristopher Pollard

AssistantsBarry Gordon & Robert Atkin

Fourth OfficialOllie Williams

#WeAreSalford

ManagerDarrell Clarke

01. Liam Roberts02. Cameron Norman03. Cameron Pring04. Mat Sadler05. James Clarke06. Dan Scarr07. Stuart Sinclair08. Liam Kinsella09. Caolan Lavery10. Josh Gordon11. Elijah Adebayo13. Jack Rose14. Kory Roberts15. Rory Holden16. Danny Guthrie17. James Hardy18. Jack Kiersey19. Mitch Candlin20. Alfie Bates21. Callum Cockerill-Mollett22. Luke Little23. Tom Leak24. Shay Facey25. Wes McDonald30. Rory Gaffney32. Sam Perry33. Zak Jules

01. Chris Neal02. Scott Wiseman03. Ibou Touray04. Oscar Threlkeld05. Liam Hogan06. Carl Piergianni07. Luke Armstrong08. Lois Maynard09. Adam Rooney10. Danny Lloyd12. Kyle Letheren13. Sam Hughes15. Cameron Burgess16. Jack Baldwin17. Richie Towell18. Danny Whitehead20. Mani Dieseruvwe22. Dan Jones23. Nathan Pond25. Joey Jones28. Brandon Thomas-Asante32. Jake Jervis33. William Evans34. Alex Doyle44. Craig Conway

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