How the points were won....

Saturday 24th March 2007 k.o 14:15

Care Trust 1-2 Greenfield F.C (W)
After a terrible run of five straight defeats Greenfield took a break from league action to play in the Northern Cup quarter final against a young and determined Care Trust side who last season inflicted defeat on Greenfield, thus nearly costing them promotion.

With confidence at an all time low, manager AJ Houghton reverted back to the ‘dogs of war’ old school Greenfield side that won a cup and sent the team out with the attitude to win at all cost.

With John Burrows still serving his suspension, Smart once again showed his versatility by taking his place in goal. A welcome return for Barrigan saw him take his place in defence alongside Houghton, Stead and Tasker. Kelly and Mulligan up top.

Greenfield started a little shaky with the away side having an early goal ruled out for offside, as well as Smart being forced into a decent save.

Soon afterwards and the lively Care Trust took the lead courtesy of some slack defending. A free kick inside the home sides half was pumped into the box and despite claims for offside, the static defence allowed the striker to control the ball and poke home from close range. An early blow for Greenfield meant that they would have to dig dip to get something out of the game.

Just twenty minutes into the game and Greenfield were dealt another major blow as they were reduced to ten men, something that they have become somewhat accustomed to this season. Stead's back pass saw Smart's clearance charged down by the opposition striker and as he shaped to shoot he was blatantly dragged back and thus denied a clear goal scoring chance. The referee was left with little option but to point to the spot and administer a red card.

Houghton was forced to don the gloves and went the right way to his right as the striker scuffed his effort wide of the target. A huge let off for the Bishop Road outfit and the just the kick up the backside that they needed.

With that and Greenfield started to play the better of the two sides and could have scored on several occasions. Kelly, Mulligan and in particular Dan Smith all guilty of lacking composure after some excellent build up play. A quick free kick from Stead sent Burrows free on the right and his cut back allowed Stead to produce a delightful cross to find Kelly unmarked at the back post. He produced a well struck volley, but it was unfortunately straight at the keeper who did well to hold onto it.

Despite being reduced to ten men Greenfield rallied at half time and knew that all the pressure was on Care Trust to push on and make their numerical advantage count.

The blue and whites came out all guns blazing and not long into the half the score was levelled. Skipper Burrows dispossesed the Trust midfielder and after a neat turn played a great through ball for Mulligan to run onto. His miss-struck shot across goal was parried by the keeper into the on rushing Ste Kelly who was in the right place at the right time to tap in his second goal for the club.

Shortly afterwards the injured Mulligan was replaced by Bain, who had an immediate impact with his constant direct running and harassing of the away sides defence.

It wasn't long after when Greenfield managed to take the lead from a dead ball situation. A Bayliss corner from the right was whipped into the near post and the keeper once again failed to hold onto the ball. With Tasker causing a menace a goal mouth scramble ensued and the ball broke to Kelly who ws once again on hand to poke the ball home.

Despite being in the lead and a man down, Greenfield continued to press with Daz Smith and Bain acting as excellent outlets for the defence. The hard working Dan Smith was replaced by Roberts to tighten up the midfield as the game got a little heated, with several of the Care Trust players lucky to escape a caution.

Thanks to a wonderful defensive display from the whole of the team the blue boys managed a well overdue, hard fought victory and booked a place in the semi-final of the Northern Cup were they await either Eccleston, Old Xaverians or Fleetcar.

A great team display today meant a few candidates for man of the match but his match winning brace means Ste Kelly just pips the excellent Barrigan to the award. Kelly's tireless running and work rate outstanding under difficult circumstances. Special mention to the manager AJ Houghton who produced a solid display in goal, a great example of committment to the team.

Saturday 31st March 2007 k.o 14:30

Greenfield F.C 3-1 Sidac F.C (W)
After last weeks determined cup display, Greenfield were looking to build upon their impressive cup run and climb the league table. Standing in their way would be Sidac Social FC, the team Greenfield beat in the Tom Worrall cup final last year when they went on to lift the trophy.

More injuries and suspensions would ravage Houghton’s squad. Dan Smith was ruled out, with Daz Smith only fit enough for the bench with other absentees including Duffy,Bayliss, Gallagher and Peacock as well as long term absentee Bain. Burrows was also serving the final day of his lengthy suspension.

This left Taylor to make only his third Greenfield appearance in goal, but Houghton was boosted by the return of Ablewhite who started on the right side of a four man midfield.

It was the away side that started the brighter of the two teams with a low driven free kick well gathered by Taylor at the second attempt. Not long afterwards and skipper P Burrows saw his looping header rebound off the cross bar and out for a goal kick after a delightful cross from right back Stead.

Twenty minutes into the game and Sidac were reduced to ten men when the left back was dismissed for a petulant kick on Ablewhite. This however only made things more difficult for Greenfield as Sidac were forced to work twice as hard, with Taylor coming to the rescue again, this time saving with his feet.

The scores would remain deadlocked as the teams entered the half time interval. Greenfield were now pushing forward and knew it would surely only be a matter of time before they penetrated a stubborn Sidac defence, who only really offered a long ball threat.

However things didn’t go to the plan and against the run of play Sidac took the lead in fortunate fashion. From a long hopeful throw in, Burrows' header hit Tasker in the face and fell fortuitously to the number 8, who was on hand to smash the ball into the roof of Taylor’s goal.

This was just the motivation that the home side needed as they dug deep and looked to get an equaliser and then hopefully a winner as they knew a draw would not be good enough. Greenfield were playing some good football and just a lack of composure in the final ball was preventing them from finding that elusive goal. Good pressing from Kelly and Mulligan caused the Sidac defence problems, which allowed the midfield to get forward with Roberts having an effort blocked.

The red and blacks were now playing on the counter attack with most of their creative opportunities coming via the number 10. On one occasion he almost wrapped up the game as he fired a shot goalwards, in which Taylor pulled off a magnificent save and then followed that up immediately with another close range parry of equal brilliance and ensuring that one goal defecit.

That warning only had one effect and Greenfield went up the other end and drew level. A brilliant corner from the left was whipped in by Roberts straight into the danger zone. Abelwhite rose above everyone and bulleted home his first Greenfield goal from close range, with Houghton waiting in the wings in case he missed. Just deserves for the impressive defender who was taking an unfamiliar role in midfield.

With the tireless Stead picking up a groin injury he made way for McCarthy with Harrison slotting in at right back. Daz Smith was also introuduced for Mulligan after he had ran his socks off and looked jaded in the warm conditions.

Greenfield again rode their luck with Taylor pulling off another good stop from a direct free kick 18 yards out, after Houghton had been booked for bringing down the oppostion striker as he ran through on goal.

Another attack from Greenfield saw them take the lead as a deep Ablewhite cross evaded Kelly and found Burrows at the back post. With his back to goal he sent the defender the wrong way and squared the ball back to the waiting McCarthy who was on hand to neatly slot home his first in Greenfield colours. A great introduction to the game for the lively substitute.

The game was well and truly wrapped up in stoppage time when Harrison's excellent ball over the top found Ablewhite in space. His neat skills turned the defender inside out and his left footed shot cannoned back off the post with Daz Smith's effort blocked by the defender. The rebound was however tucked away by the supporting McCarthy to secure three important points.

A massive effort and a well earned victory once again for the boys from Bishop Road, as they look to turn a so far disappointing campaign around and showing what they can do when they dig in and work as a team.

Another hard working display from Greenfield today with man of the match going to goalkeeper Taylor who pulled off some stunning saves and kept his team in the game. Excellent handling and commanding of his box also gave the Greenfield defence some much needed confidence.

Saturday 7th April 2007 k.o 14:30

Greenfield F.C 4-0 Knowsley South Res F.C (W)
After two successive victories, confidence was high at Greenfield FC with two previous hard working, battling games it was time for Greenfield to show their class once again.

Manager AJ Houghton was able to select a strong back four with keeper J Burrows returning from suspension behind Barrigan, Houghton, Tasker and Bayliss. After his brace last week McCarthy earned a place in the on the left side of midfield with Duffy returning from a lengthy injury in the centre of the park.

Greenfield started much the more positive of the two sides creating chances early doors. Ablewhite went close with a glancing header and Mulligan fired an effort straight at the keeper and forcing him into an early save.

Some beautiful football was on display in the hot conditions with the home side knocking the ball around exhibition style, with the awful run of defeats very much a distant memory.

Fifteen minutes into the half and the blue and whites finally converted all their possession into a goal. Duffy was brought down 25 yards from goal slightly to the right of the penalty area, perfect range for the sweet left foot of Bayliss. He stepped up and bent a wonderfully executed effort around the wall and into the side netting, leaving the keeper stranded.

Greenfield continued to play excellent football, dominating possession all over the park and nearly scored again through Mulligan, who once again brought a good low down save from the Knowsley keeper. It wasn't long before they doubled their advantage having won a throw-in in a dangerous position. A long throw from Barrigan caused havoc in the defence and allowed Mulligan to rise and delightfully head home a well placed effort into the top corner. It was just rewards for the hard working striker who could well have had a hat-trick at this point.

The home side would enter the interval two goals to the good looking to kill off their opponents.

The second half commenced with the same pattern as the first, Greenfield still knocking the ball about and causing their younger opponents to chase shadows. Kelly, Ablewhite and Duffy again came close with Kelly in particular seeing a headed effort go just wide with Greenfield looking to add to their goal tally. Burrows also had a half volley parried away by the impressive Knowsley number one.

With the Junction game looming on tuesday, P Burrows gave way to Harrison and shortly afterwards Greenfield effectively killed of the game. Some more wonderful football saw McCarthy find the net for successive games. A 7 pass move from one end to the other resulted in Mulligan squaring the ball to McCarthy who's run into the box was timed perfectly for him to side foot home from 12 yards.

Houghton introduced Dan Smith and Leigh Smart for Ablewhite and Bayliss, with Smith going inches over with a fantastic 25 yard effort. With the away side now tiring Greenfield turned the tempo up a notch and went looking for a fourth goal. It soon followed. Kelly pressurised the keeper into a mistake and the ball landed at McCarthy’s feet, the wing man controlled the ball and delicately lobbed the ball over the stranded keeper. A wonderful effort from the number 7 who was having a great game.

Greenfield ran out eventual four nil deserved winners with arguably their best performance of the season so far.

Great performances all round especially from the creative Ablewhite, the energetic Mulligan and free kick hero Bayliss but MOM was awarded to McCarthy for two well taken goals and an excellent, hard working display both in attack and defence.

Tuesday 10th April 2007 k.o 18:15

Greenfield F.C 6-3 Junction F.C (W)

Greenfield's first tuesday night game of 2007 would see them face a side languishing at the foot of the table, knowing that anything less then 3 points would be unacceptable. Winstanley came in for J Burrows in goal with that being the only change in the back five, with Mulligan missing Smith would start up top alongside Kelly.

The game began at a fast tempo with Junction penning the home side in their own box for five minutes with a series of long, bulleted throw in's into the danger area, with Greenfield soaking up the pressure tremendously. Having weathered the "storm", Greenfield started to demonstrate their superior quality. A neat passage of play down the left led to the opening goal. Smith played a ball to McCarthy who managed to dig out a fantastic left footed cross from the byline, which Ablewhite rose superbly to head home from six yards out.

Just minutes after the restart and Ablewhite repayed the favour as Barrigan set him free down the right wing. His deep cross landed at the feet of McCarthy for him to finish comfortably from just inside the area.

A great start for the blue and whites as they looked to better the 5 goal margin the last time the teams met. Junction offered very little in terms of going forward and at times Winstanley was a mere spectator in goal. The times he was called into action he commanded his area very well with some calm and composed handling. Most of Greenfield's attacking play was coming from the flanks with full backs Bayliss and Barrigan looking to play in the wide men, with Barrigan's long throw a constant menace in the away side's back line.

With thirty minutes on the clock the Bishop Road men looked to have killed off the game. A free kick from inside the opposing half saw the impressive McCarthy deliver a fantastic ball to the back post. Again, the heading ability of Ablewhite was on display as he out jumped everyone to head home from eight yards out to grab his second of the game. It was now three nil and it looked as though there would be no way back for Junction as the teams went into the break.

The second half kicked off as Greenfield looked to add a few more to their goal tally. The centre back pairing of Tasker and Houghton called into action very little, dealing well with the long balls being pumped at them. Burrows and Dan Smith were given time in the midfield to get the ball out wide and Junction had little answer as they looked to get back in the game.

Ten minutes into the half and Kelly got on the scoresheet with a composed finish after some good football. It wasn't long after until he added his second and Greenfield's fifth when some tidy footwork from substitute Harrison led to him playing a great ball over the top for Kelly to latch onto and smash home from twelve yards out. With the game seemingly over manager Houghton made further changes with Bayliss and Barrigan giving way for Smart and Stead.

With 25 minutes still to play Junction didn't give up and started to get a foot in the game. Another long throw into the home side's area caused problems with Winstanley failing to collect the ball, as it was spilled for the opposition to stab home and reduce the defecit to four goals.

This seemed to creat some panic in the Greenfield defence and they conceeded another as a loose ball in the area was volleyed into the top corner of the goal. A great finish which only inspired the losing team to get back into the game. Greenfield seemed to lose concentration and allowed the visitors two goals to unsettle the team. A through ball from the Junction back line set free their midfield man, who seemed to be standing a good five yards offside. But instead of playing to the whistle the static defence allowed the winger to run through on goal and finish into the roof of the net from a tight angle.

The score was now 5-3 and gave some resepectability back to a side that had lacked any real creative ability throughout the game. Greenfield managed to regain some composure and with 5 minutes remaining, another high ball from the Junction defence was brought down by Smart and given to McCarthy. His through ball played in Kelly who managed to beat the offside trap with the away defence standing still and showed great composure to lob the ball cooly over the stranded keeper and grab his hat-trick. Just rewards for some patient play.

Final score 6-3 in which Greenfield will be dissappointed to have conceeded three goals in a game where they were looking to keep a clean sheet. Nevertheless a valuable three points and another victory, their fourth on the bounce as they look to climb the league.

Some impressive displays all over the park with Ablewhite and McCarthy in particular scoring and creating goals with some great play. But to score a hat-trick at any level is a great achievement and for that the award goes to Ste Kelly as he looks to finish the season off with a flurry of goals.

Saturday 14th April 2007 k.o 14:30

Old Xaverians 3-3 Greenfield F.C (D)

Greenfield made the long journey to Liverpool to face a strong Xaverians side sitting second in the table and unbeaten at home this season. Due to a number of injuries and other committments the squad was severely depleted with manager Houghton only having two substitutes to choose from in Roberts and Smart, with the only change being in goal as the returning John Burrows replaced Winstanly.

In sweltering conditions on a small and very hard pitch this was always going to be a tough encounter. The game started at a frantic pace with Greenfield slower out of the traps, leading to the home side creating a number of chances, mostly through corners. One effort led to a save from keeper Burrows in which he injured himself as he banged his neck against the post. Despite the early pressure the away side managed to regain some composure and began to settle into the game.

By now it was clear to see that the team from Liverpool only really had one attacking threat and that was the huge kick from their keeper which they looked to utillise at every opportunity. After ten minutes, a Xaverians attack was broken up by a superb sliding tackle from Dan Smith, who then managed to regain his feet and play an excellent ball over the top for lone striker Kelly to run onto. His determination paid off as he forced a good stop from the keeper, only for the ball to rebound out and fall at the feet of the in form McCarthy. The midfield man still had work to do as bodies got back on the line, but he kept his composure and finished well to give Greenfield an unlikely lead.

It was not long after when a long throw from Bayliss was mis-judged by the defender and landed at the feet of unmarked skipper Burrows, who from six yards out guided his tame effort straight at the keeper. A huge let off for title hopefulls as the blue and white's looked to double their advantage.

The game was being played at a fast and lively pace despite the difficult conditions and another corner for the home side led to them getting back into the game. As the ball was delivered from the left it seemed to be clearing everyone, including the defence, when Houghton was adjudged to have pushed the striker in the back and the referee pointed straight to the spot. A harsh penalty to conceed as the striker had looked to make no effort at all to get off the gound and head the ball. The number 8 stepped up and sent keeper Burrows the wrong way and the scores were level.

That decision only spurred Greenfield on and they began to attack Old Xaverians at will, with the lively Ablewhite, Shaw and Kelly all causing problems for the home defence. The only real threat to the Greenfield defence was the long kick from the goalkeeper, which was dealt with superbly by Tasker and Houghton with P. Burrows dropping into the back line to attack the ball.

The scores remained level as the teams headed for the break and as the temperature continued to rise. The second half got underway as frantically as the first and it was again Greenfield who were causing all the problems. Within minutes of the restart, some neat skill from Ablewhite saw him brought down on the right about 25 yards from goal. Perfect range for the sweet left foot of Bayliss. With the keeper looking to be unsighted, Bayliss stepped up and curled a now trademark effort around the wall and past the despairing dive of the goalkeeper to make the score a deserved 2-1.

Within minutes of Greenfield taking the lead they went on and added another as a ball over the top was not dealt with by the defence. A mix up between the goalie and the centre back allowed Shaw to steel in and guide an extremely brave header beyond the stranded keeper and into the back of the net to create a two goal defecit. With forty minutes still to play, Greenfield knew they were going to have to be at their best to make sure of the 3 points.

Old Xaverians were obviously rattled and were now flying into tackles in which the referee failed to show any cards despite late tackles on Bayliss, Shaw and Smith. Some resolute defending at the back from Barrigan and Bayliss meant no real chances fell to the home side. It was Greenfield who looked the most likely to score as the defence looked shaky on every attack they faced, with Kelly in particular doing well to hold up the ball and bring his team mates into the game.

Xaverians continued to pump long balls into the away defence which were now being dealt with comfortably. With ten minutes remaining Roberts was introduced for McCarthy to tighten the midfield. Not long after and the home side pulled one back. A free kick on the half way line was played short to the left with everyone expecting another long ball into the box. The attacking player was given time on the ball and he swung the ball into the area, with the ball somehow landing at the feet of the number 8 who had his back to goal. He executed a superb effort over his head, leaving the keeper no chance, to get his team back in the game.

The team from Liverpool were now throwing everything at the men from Bishop Road, but again this was rebuffed as Greenfield looked to close out the game. With five minutes remaining a massive blow as Ablewhite sprained his injured ankle on the turf meaning he was unable to carry on. Smart came on and a reshuffle led to Shaw and Kelly dropping back and defending the flanks and Smart to chase down on his own up top. He almost grabbed a fortunate goal as the keeper's clearance was hit straight at him, but the goalbound effort was gathered in.

With just two minutes remaining on the clock, disaster struck. A misplaced backward header from Kelly led to an effort on goal which J Burrows came out to and managed an excellent parry across goal. The ball landed on the head of the number 9 who somehow managed to guide his effort back across goal, missing the target and going wide, but the retreating Burrows desperate to get his hands on the ball, parried the ball back into the net. The scores were level. Heartbreak.

There was still time for a Roberts free kick to flash wide, not troubling the keeper and the game ended 3 apiece. Greenfield deserved the three points today and on another day know they could have won this game comfortably. But they can take heart in the performance and when the dust has settled will look back and see this as a good battling point.

A tremendous display from a depleted squad with some massive performances from Bayliss and the fit again Dan Smith in particular. MOM however goes to skipper Burrows for a hard working, tenacious performance and most notably for his dominance in the air in a game in which the home side looked to use the long ball whenever possible.

Tuesday 17th April 2007 k.o 18:15

Greenfield F.C 0-1 Pilkingtons 'A' (L)

Greenfield went into this game without long term injury Ablewhite, absent captain Burrows, Mulligan and the suspended Darren Smith. This, joining the already lenghty injury list, meant it was always going to be a tough game for Greenfield with Pilks looking to hold onto the top spot in the league.

In a tight match Greenfield probably had the better chances to win the match but were unable to convert them. Paul Winstanley, in goal for the unavailable John Burrows, put in another impressive performance between the sticks. In particular when he was called upon midway through the first half to make a point blank save after a mix up in the Greenfield penalty area.

The home side looked to counter-attack in the second half and the impressive Duffy, playing in a role just behind lone front man Kelly, managed to carve out a few decent chances. Whilst John Harrison hit one thunderous drive on goal, unfortunately straight at the keeper when either side would have saw the ball hitting the back of the net.

The closest Greenfield came to scoring was from a Bayliss corner as Houghton lost his marker at the back post and fired his header back across goal. With the keeper well beaten it was cleared off the line from by a defender at the far post.

With only eight minutes remaining in the game, Pilks worked the ball well down the left and managed to get in behind full back Barrigan. A poor cross towards the front post saw Tasker fail to clear the danger as the ball took a cruel bounce of the hard surface. The away side's number 10 could not miss from five yards out as the ball landed perfectly for him to fire home.

In a game which Greenfield gave as good as they got, manager Houghton was left wondering why despite the absence of a number of key players, they had just played the top two teams in the league and were the better side in both games.

MOM was awarded to Chris Duffy for his tireless work in constantly closing down the Pilks defenders and always looking a threat with some good touches that showed up the oppostion defence more than once.

Saturday 21st April 2007 k.o 14:30

Greenfield FC 1-3 Boilermakers FC (L)

More injury problems ahead of this match saw Greenfield down to the bare bones of the squad only the injured Bayliss and late arrival Barrigan on the bench. Manager Houghton was left with little option in terms of selection and had to line up with a 3-4-3 formatio, with the returning Mulligan starting as one of the three strikers alongside Peacock and Kelly. Stead and the still injured Gallagher making up the back three.

Greenfield started the game brightly and the attacking formation paid off as they won a corner. Stand in captain Roberts delivered a deep ball and found Houghton who had peeled off to the back post and his well directed header put the home side one nil up.

Greenfield didn't rest on their laurels and threatened to go further ahead with chances falling to Mulligan, another Houghton header and Peacock shooting from distance. However, the equaliser soon followed somewhat against the run of play as Boilermakers exposed Greenfield's left back area. A through ball was played into the penalty area and was dispatched under stand in keeper Martin.

With just five minutes until the half time interval the away side took the lead. A decent ball into the box from the right flank saw the number 10 drift in unmarked and head into the roof of the net to make Greenfield pay for some poor defending.

Greenfield continued to attack the opposition in the second half with Barrigan replacing Peacock and Bayliss coming on for the hard working Dan Smith. Despite this Greenfield again conceeded a sloppy goal. A free kick was awarded and an effort on goal was misjudged by Martin as the ball landed in the back of the net and effectively secure the victory at 3-1.

A second consecutive defeat for Greenfield against a top three side as they look to finish a dissapointing season on a high. Without looking for excuses they were missing 7 key players and with a bigger squad to choose from Houghton might have fancied a much needed three points.

Some hard working performances today from Stead in particular and Gallagher playing through the pain barrier to help out his team mates. MOM was however awarded to manager Houghton for some great last ditch defending, getting on the score sheet and almost adding a second. Greenfield will hope to welcome back skipper P Burrows, McCarthy, Tasker, J Burrows and Daz Smith for the massive Northern Cup semi final against Eccleston in a game that could make or break their season.

Saturday 28th April 2007 k.o 14:15

Greenfield F.C 3-0 Eccleston Utd (W)
Greenfield continued their Northern cup exploits against a strong Eccleston side with much more than a place in the final at stake. Local pride would also be on the menu making the semi final even tastier.

AJ Houghton had the luxury of informing several players they wouldn’t be in the impressive 16 man squad. But the team named did includ returning keeper J Burrows between the sticks with P Burrows taking up his rightful place as team skipper. McCarthy and Daz Smith also returned in place of Stead and Roberts.

The game kicked off with Greenfield immediately creating chances as they looked to find an early goal. One attack saw McCarthy drive an effort on goal with the ball seeming to cannon back off the defenders arm. Daz Smith also saw a volley fired just wide.

The away side were playing on the counter attack and at times looked dangerous going forward. However, the GFC defence stood firm and dealt with every long ball the visitors could pump at them.

Not long into the game and the home side finally converted their chances. A dangerous corner on the right was whipped in by Bayliss and manager Houghton was on hand at the back post to firmly bury his header from four yards out. His second in successive games and it was no more than the home side deserved.

With twenty minutes on the clock the game became a little heated. P Burrows was on the receiving end of a late challenge and a skirmish broke out. Tasker, who didn't need to get involved, clashed with the left winger and the Greenfield centre half received his marching orders whilst the number 10 was awarded a yellow for the initial foul. A massive blow for the home side as they would have to play with ten men for seventy minutes in hot conditions.

Houghton reshuffled his team with Barrigan moving infield to centre half and the silky skilled Duffy filling in at right back. This meant Daz Smith reverting to right midfield and Kelly leading the front line alone. It was going to be a big ask for Greenfield to retain their one goal advantage.

Shortly afterwards J Burrows was tested at his near post but managed to safely push away a well hit volley from the Eccleston winger. But the blue boys continued to stand their ground and managed to get to half time without conceeding, to regain their composure and look to master another victory.

Eccleston unsurprisingly started the second half the brighter, knowing that an early goal would severely shift the momentum in their favour. The first five minutes of the half saw the away side put the defence under huge pressure. But once again Greenfield showed excellent team spirit and unparalleled resilience and looked to counter using the pace of Daz Smith and the lively McCarthy at every opportunity.

The game started to become a little scrappy with tackles flying in, with Eccleston's frustration clear to see as they contested the referee's decisions at every opportunity. Despite being down to ten men Greenfield continued to look for the second goal. A great team move was nearly capped off by Kelly, whose shot brought a good stop from the keeper in the yellow and black’s goal. This would be the hard working Kelly’s last contribution as he was replaced by Mulligan with thirty minutes remaining.

Shortly after the change and Greenfield added a second courtesy of Daz Smith. A few minutes of pressure from a corner kick saw the ball half cleared when P Burrows headed it back into the box. Dan Smith did excellently to keep the attack alive as he laid the ball off to Barrigan who was supporting on the right. He produced a lovely cross to the back post which was met by a superb Daz Smith leap and he powerfully headed home to make the score two nil.

Houghton looked to sure up the midfield with Roberts coming on for Dan Smith, who had worked his socks off all game. Roberts didn't take long to get into the action with some fierce tackling and a booking shortly followed, which seemed to rile the desperate Eccleston players.

By now the away side's heads had gone down as they had been outplayed by the ten men of Greenfield. A free kick on halfway inside the Eccleston half saw an excellent ball floated into the area from McCarthy. This was met by a superb header from Mulligan, who somehow managed to steer his header beyond the stranded keeper. That made the score three nil and it looked as though the game was done and dusted.

Greenfield ran down the clock with some sterdy team defending, with Duffy in particular showing exactly how important he is to the team. Ablewhite replaced McCarthy to see the game out and the score remained as Greenfield ran out three nil. This despite some late Eccleston pressure.

A superb team effort today with Barrigan, Duffy, Bayliss and Houghton all putting in top class performances, as did Daz Smith. But MOM was awarded to skipper P Burrows. Another tireless, neat, classy display from the man in the engine room, a truly inspirational effort.

So Greenfield can be more than delighted after showing great resilience playing with ten men as they booked a place in next months final at Valarie Park to face Old Xaverians, in what is sure to be a difficult game. A second successive cup final will give the blue and whites the chance to finish the season on a high with a cup victory.

Thursday 3rd May 2007 k.o 18:15

Eccleston Utd 0-6 Greenfield F.C (W)

After beating local rivals Eccleston on Saturday to reach the final of the Northern Cup, Greenfield made the short trip to Ecclesfield to take them on in the league. With a strong squad to choose from, manager AJ Houghton rang the changes with Winstanley replacing Burrows in goal and Roberts, Gallagher, Stead and Mulligan coming in for Smith (Dan), Tasker, Kelly and Bayliss. This was a must win match as the blue and whites looked to make sure of league safety.

On a warm and sunny evening, Greenfield looked to make the most of Eccleston's patchwork side as they seemed to have a number of key men absent. From the first whistle Greenfield attacked at will, using the height and strength of Mulligan to play strike partner Daz Smith in on goal. The pacey front man causing all kinds of problems for the home sides defence as he ran at the back four. Eccleston had no answer and inside five minutes the away side had taken the lead. Some good link up play from the front men saw Daz Smith produce a neat finish and it was one nil.

The away side continued to attack at every opportunity and a minute later Roberts, back in at central midfield, was given time on the ball. He produced a great ball over the top for Mulligan to run onto and he made no mistake as he finished under the keeper and it was two nil. Greenfield by now could sense there were goals in the game, McCarthy came close on two occassions from just outside the area and Roberts also had a shot charged down. Most of the play was coming from the right as the non stop running of Stead from right back supported the front players.

Winstanley was untroubled in the Greenfield goal, with his handling and commanding of his penalty area as excellent as ever. Chances continued to be created and Mulligan received the ball in the Eccleston area with his back to goal. With the defender looking to steal the ball, the lanky striker produced an exquisite turn and left the centre back for dead as he went on and hit a low drive across the face of the goal. Daz Smith was on hand to score his second and Greenfield's third with only ten minutes on the clock.

By now the confidence was oozing from the Northern cup finalists and they were knocking the ball around with confidence on a difficult, bobbly surface. Another good team move saw Roberts spray the ball out wide to Smith who again looked to run at the now terrified defence. He put in a lovely cross towards the head of skipper Burrows at the back post, but the ball was cleared from the danger zone. However, it fell to the skilful Duffy, who, from a good thirty yards from goal, managed to chest the ball down and hit a superb volley that dipped over the keeper and into the roof of the net. A quite magnificent effort for his second goal of the season and just what his current form deserved.

It was now four nil and Greenfield were now threatening to put on a record victory. Eccleston unsurprisingly had let their head's drop and had no answer to the attacking ability of the away side. Chances continued to be created with Gallagher and McCarthy getting in shots from range that the keeper gathered comfortably. Burrows also went clean through on goal and just as he looked to take the ball around the keeper, he managed to get a strong hand to the ball and clear to safety.

Just before half time and the game was effectively killed off as a defensive mistake allowed for Mulligan to steel in and score his second of the game. A free kick in their own half was hit straight at the centre forward and he managed to get the ball under control, compose himself and finish underneath the stranded keeper. The score would remain the same as the half time whistle blew.

The second half started with some increased pressure from the home side as they went in search of some much needed pride. At times the Greenfield back line looked a little shaky as they lost a bit of concentration, hardly surprising as they had had little to do for the majority of the game. Winstanley kept his goal in tact with a fine save from point blank range, as Eccleston looked to reduce the arrears. The increased pressure on Greenfield to further their goal haul was evident as they lacked a little bit of composure in front of goal, with Daz Smith and Mulligan continuing to terrorise the back four. Roberts made way for Dan Smith after ten minutes of the half only for the big midfielder to be replaced himself by Tasker due to an ankle injury.

Tasker slotted into an unfamiliar central midfield role alongside Burrows and sprayed the ball about very well, between them creating numerous chances for the team at every opportunity. With the help of the hard working Stead supporting all the way, his crosses from the flank also creating panic in the defence. With fifteen minutes remaining Bayliss came on for Gallagher, who'd had a solid game back at the heart of the defence and Barrigan reverted to centre back. Greenfield then went on to secure their biggest victory of the season as good work from McCarthy saw the ball break for Daz Smith on the left. He again ran directly at the Eccleston defence and once he'd got into the area, squared the ball across goal for the unmarked Mulligan to grab his hat-trick, despite claims for offside. Six nil and it was definitley game over.

Further chances fell but the conditions had taken their toll and the score remained the same, despite Eccleston trying their luck in the last few minutes. Again, there was no getting past the impressive Winsatnley. Another superb performance for the Greenfield men even though theyr were up against an understrength side, they took their chances well and on another day may even have doubled their goal tally. The blue and whites will look to continue their good form into the Northern cup final as they look to recreate their cup success of last season.

Stead, Burrows and Duffy all produced impressive displays and Houghton and Gallagher were solid at the back. Despite Daz Smith's tireless running creating a number of chances for the team, MOM today goes to Tim Mulligan for his hat-trick and being a constant menace to the Eccleston side, who couldn't come to terms with the strikers strength and power.

Saturday 12th May 2007 k.o 14:30

Greenfield F.C 1-4 Old Xaverians (L)
The last game of Greenfield's 2006/07 league campaign saw a dress rehearsal for the Northern Cup Final as they faced league leaders and soon to be champions Old Xaverians. With the match surrounded in doubt as to whether it would be played at all, manager AJ Houghton had a number of personnel injured or unavailable and so was forced to ring the changes. Martin was selected in between the sticks in place of J Burrows with Gallgher returning to the back four in place of Tasker. Roberts and Harrison also making starts in midfield with Mulligan leading the line alone.

On a miserable day at Bishop Road Greenfield could not have asked for a better start when within the first minute, a hopeful through ball from Smith was latched onto by Duffy on the left side. His instant control gave him a yard on the defender and he was given a free run on goal. He managed to keep his composure and as he bore down on goal, delicately lobbed the ball over the onrushing keeper from six yards out and give Greenfield the lead. Another well taken goal from the in form midfielder.

That goal only kicked the away side into action with them knowing that they still needed a victory to guarantee them the league title. They made their physical presence count and started to get a foot in the game as Greenfield went through the motions in a match they saw as a nothing game. The blue and whites did match their physical presence, but after twenty minutes, poor marking from an attacking corner saw the big number ten poke home to level the scores at 1 apiece.

Xaverians were by now trying to bully their opponents into submission, but not for the first time this season they refused to roll over. Despite numerous decisions going against Greenfield, they battled well for the rest of the half and managed to keep the scores level as they went into the half time interval.

Going into the second half, it was clear to see that there was only one team interested in winning this game and that was the team from Liverpool. Greenfield still had one eye on bigger prizes as they looked to give nothing away before the sides met in two weeks time in the final of the Northern Cup. ten minutes into the second half and they were given the chance to take the lead when Bayliss was adjudged to have felled the impressive number nine in the box. The referee didn't have to think twice as he pointed to the spot and the number eight stepped up to send Martin the wrong way.

It was 2-1 and despite Xaverians dominance they hadn't really troubled Martin in the Greenfield goal. Mulligan, playing as a lone striker, had a chance that the keeper managed to parry, but the home side looked happy just to see the game out. Manager Houghton made a double substitution with Barrigan and Daz Smith replacing Stead and Harrison as the manager looked to give two of his players a run out. Not long after and club captain Burrows came on for the impressive Gallagher, playing through the pain barrier for his team, to see out the last fifteen minutes.

These substitutions didn't have the desired effect as Xaverians went on to increase their lead with an impressive strike from the number four, who's shot from outside of the box seemed to take a deflection off Houghton as it sailed in. A neat team move from the champions elect also them work the ball down the left hand side and a cross come shot across the face of the goal was bundled in by Greenfield's Houghton, with the ball already looking to go in.

It was 4-1, gameover. A somewhat flattering scoreline for the away side that came as Greenfield's heaviest defeat under manager's Houghton tenure. But he'll have his eye firmly fixed on exacting revenge in the upcoming cup final and will know that this result will have no bearing on that fixture as the men in blue will raise their game as they hope to lift their second successive cup.

In a game were the Greenfield players didn't want to jeopordise their cup final squad place with injury, no one performed as they know they can. But it was hard to be motivated for a game which had absolutely no relevance to the club. MOM was awarded to Duffy for a solid performance in which none of the Xaverians side could get near the silky skilled player.


NORTHERN COUNTIES CUP FINAL


Saturday 26th May 2007 k.o 15:00

Greenfield F.C 1-1 Old Xaverians AET (Greenfield win 5-4 pens) (W)

For the final game of a long and demanding season, Greenfield travelled to Merseyside Police Club in Old Swan to face treble winning outfit Old Xaverians FC in the final of the Northern Counties Cup. the Liverpool side looking to make a clean sweep after running away with the league and winning the Tom Worrall cup. It was going to be a tough act for the boys in blue against a side who had only lost twice all season.

Manager AJ Houghton had the unfortunate task of accommadating 18 men into a 16 man squad. Although his job was made easier with an impressive looking starting line up with J Burrows back in goal and a stern back four of Barrigan, Bayliss, Tasker and Houghton. Skipper P Burrows was partnered by Dan Smith in midfield with Daz Smith, Ablewhite and Duffy in support. Mulligan would act as the lone striker. The bench was made up of Stead, Roberts, Peacock, Kelly and Harrison with Gallagher unselfishly having to pull out at the 11th hour, still suffering with his ankle injury.

As a capacity crowd grew the game kicked off on a huge and impressive playing surface. The league champions expectedly started the game much brighter as they knocked the ball about thus forcing Greenfield to chase possession.

It didn't take long for the impressive number 9 to make his mark on the game. Some wonderful skill in the Greenfield area saw him turn Bayliss to create an excellent opportunity for the champions. His ball across the face of goal somehow managed to evade the number 8 at the back post. A massive let off for the blue boys as they were given an early warning as to the talents of the Liverpool side.

Xaverians were by now knocking the ball around at will and putting pressure on the Greenfield side, without creating any real goal scoring chances. As the game started to pick up tempo, Greenfield matched the physical presence of the their mouthy opposition and started to get a foot into the game as challenges started to fly in. With Xaverians looking to dominate the air with their height, Burrows, Dan Smith and Ablewhite all did well to compete.

With about twenty minutes on the clock Old Xaverians took the lead. A ball over the top fell to the hard working number 9 on the left of the penalty area. He produced some wonderful skill to get past the challenge of Houghton and executed a fantastic finish which nestled into the far top right hand corner of the goal, giving keeper Burrows absolutey no chance.

It was probably no more than they deserved for their early pressure, but Greenfield heads refused to go down and the goal only sprung them into life. Immediately from the restart some excellent work from Ablewhite created a chance for Mulligan who saw his shot blocked.

It wasn't long after when the game was turned on its head. The Xavs goal scorer hacked down J Burrows with a knee high challenge and then continued to berate the referee who duly produced a second yellow followed by a red and earning himself an early bath. This was just the inspiration that Greenfield needed to get back into the game. Daz Smith was starting to get into the game with his pace causing all kinds of problems and creating space for Ablewhite and Mulligan.

The game was starting to get heated with challenges flying in. An apparent elbow from the Xavs number 7 on Dan Smith was missed by the officials, with the Greenfield man having no choice but to leave the field with a nasty eye injury. A big blow for the central midfield man who was starting to make his influence on the game count. He was replaced by Roberts who slotted in like for like.

The blue men were making their one man advantage count and Old Xavs were very fortunate not to be reduced to 9 men not long before half time. Daz Smith raced through on goal on the left only for the clumsy defender to to bring half bring him down. He blatantly stopped a clear goal scoring chance but somehow managed to escape without even a caution. A free kick was awarded in Bayliss territory on the left just outside the area. he stepped up and with the keeper beaten, found the side netting with a great effort. Greenfield's first real effort on goal.

With the game getting fiery and threatening to spill over as tempers flared, the half time whistle sounded and Houghton rounded up his troops. They could sense there was a chance of victory if they could get a goal and get back into the game.

Greenfield started the second half in dominating fashion, first to every ball and making every tackle felt, with Burrows winning countless headers in the centre of the park. Bayliss was given more and more space on the left to feed Duffy and set up more attacking play. Ablewhite was also starting to produce some quality football and whipped in some dangerous balls into the box.

Not long into the half and Greenfield drew level. A neat header from Burrows found Mulligan in space, who produced a delightful ball for Duffy to latch onto. He raced clear on goal and despite the pressure of the defender and the oncoming goalkeeper, he kept his composure and beautifully finished the move off with a left foot volley.

GFC were by now in total control, with Tasker and Houghton marshalling the back four superbly. One block in particular from Houghton when the Xavs striker looked to have gotten the better of him, kept his side level. Barrigan also kept the usually lively number 8 in his pocket. At the other end, excellent work on the right flank from Ablewhite created space for himself and he was unlucky not to score when his shot whistled past the goal, not quite bending enough.

With the clock running down and the game heading into extra time, there was still time for one last chance for Greenfield. Mulligan found himself in space in the Xavs box and was unlucky not to score when his effort from six yards out went over after the defender produced an excellent last ditch tackle.

The full time whistle blew and with the scores dead locked at one apiece, like the Tom Worrall cup drama of last season, extra time beckoned. With Abelwhite's ankle injury causing him problems he was replaced by Kelly who would partner Mulligan in attack.

Once again GFC continued to press, looking for that illusive winner. But Old Xaverians had tightened up at the back, changing their system slightly. A long throw from Barrigan was flicked on by Burrows with the ball landing at the feet of Daz Smith. who's first time effort from a tight angle cannoned back off the bar. Was that a sign of things to come? Just before half time in extra time Stead replaced the injured Barrigan. Fatigue was rightfully showing on both sides.

In the Greenfield area, Bayliss recovered well to get in an excellent block on the attacking player as he looked for the winner.

The final fifteen minutes of the game was played at a slower pace as it started to take its toll on the players. Roberts was making his presence felt in the centre of the park and a booking soon followed. Duffy almost won it for Greenfield has his left footed effort from distance was pulled wide of the upright. With ten minutes remaining Greenfield went down to ten men as the hard working Tasker went off with an ankle injury, in which Roberts had to revert to centre back alongside Houghton.

Their was still time for a scare for the blue men as a weak shot from the Old Xavs centre midfielder was cruelly sliced inches wide as Roberts stuck out a foot. But this just missed the top corner and went out for a corner, much to his and his teams relief.

In the final, dying seconds of the game Kelly missed a golden chance from six yards out as his effort after good work from Smith went blazing over. A sign of possible things to come for the striker.

Game over and the game would enter the penalty shoot out stage.

Penalties:
1. P Burrows - Captain cool stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way to beautifully despatch his effort high into left side of the net.

2. S Kelly - After a nervy looking run up the centre forward went for power and blasted over handing the initiative to Old Xavs.

3. L Roberts - Having seen the opposition miss, Roberts fortuitously wrong footed the keeper and was lucky enough to tuck his effort away.

4. T Mulligan - The tall striker placed his penalty into the corner but saw the keeper produce a fantastic save to his right.

5. M Bayliss - The reliable left sided player rounded off a fine game with a great penalty, sending the keeper the wrong way

6. K Stead - The versatile full back kept his cool and fired an unstoppable pen into the bottom left hand corner of the goal.

7- J Burrows - The keeper rolled the ball into the left side of the goal as he sent the oppostion keeper the wrong way.

The following penalty was missed by the Old Xaverians player, handing the victory and the NORTHERN CUP 2007 TO GREENFIELD FC.


Every single player played their part in a tense, tight, dramatic encounter with Bayliss, Daz Smith and Mulligan all putting in excellent performances as did the skilful Duffy. However MOM was awarded to Phil Burrows for his non-stop, hard working performance, off the ball running, with Burrows also winning countless headers in the centre of the park. Stepping up when it really mattered to keep his head under pressure and finish a lovely penalty.

Once more well done boys and thanks for everybody who came down in support. It really does mean a lot to the lads.