How the points were won...

Saturday 27th October 2007 k.o 14:30


Cardinal Newman 3-5 Greenfield F.C AET (W)

After six successive victories Greenfield returned to cup action to face Cardinal Newman FC from the Old Boys Premier division in Liverpool, in what promised to be a very difficult test for Houghton’s men. Things were made more difficult by a number of absentees with key players Smith, Ablewhite, Barrigan, Bayliss and Duffy all missing for various reasons. Houghton did still manage to field a strong side with Roberts returning to centre of midfield alongside, with Stead coming in at right back.

In windy conditions on a large pitch Greenfield knew they could utilise their pace and passing abilities to open up their opponents. It was a scrappy opening ten minutes to the game with both sides failing to get into any rhythm and failing to carve out any real chances of note. But it didn’t take long for things to change with Veidman and Butcher both forcing decent saves from the keeper. Mulligan was also unlucky to see a header shave the cross bar as the away side started to exert more and more pressure on the Cardinal defence.

With the home side limited to playing on the counter attack they were given too much time in midfield, but they failed to create anything in the final third of the pitch. It wasn’t long before the blue and whites broke the deadlock through their current top scorer Butcher. He managed to get on the end of a neat reverse pass inside the area on the right and outmuscled the taller centre back to get his shot in on goal. The advancing keeper could do nothing to prevent the ball finding the net off the right hand post and thus handing his side the initiative.

Having got their noses in front Greenfield weren’t playing to their usual high standards despite having a lot of possession, as they failed to make their final ball count. Gaps were opening up all over the pitch and as a result Cardinal managed to equalize courtesy of a defensive mix up. A hopeful long ball over the top through was misjudged by keeper Burrows and the ball bounced over his head. Having lost his bearings he scrambled back and with the ball going out for a goal kick he parried it back into play and straight to the waiting centre forward. He still had work to do but wasn’t closed down in time and he rifled home a decent effort beyond Burrows, levelling the score at one all.

This seemed to hit the confidence of the away side as passes started to go astray, but the only real chances the home side would have came courtesy of some sloppy play from Greenfield. It was the same sloppy play that would see the Liverpool side to take the lead. The centre forward was again given too much time on the edge of the area and he was able to pick out the right winger who’d surged into the box. He cut inside and fired somewhat fortuitously straight through the legs of Burrows. Greenfield were behind.

Minutes later and Greenfield were offered the chance to equalize as Butcher, again showing his strength, managed to get past his close marker in the area. The stocky striker was blatantly dragged back and the referee pointed straight to the penalty spot. Unfortunately the usually reliable skipper Burrows pulled his effort wide to the left having sent the keeper the wrong way. Was this a sign of things to come? The half time whistle blew and Greenfield had a battle on their hands as they entered the break a goal down for only the second time this season.

Manager Houghton knew he had to change things after an indifferent first half with Roberts reverting to centre half, Veidman moving into central midfield and Garland reverting to right back.

The second period got under way with the cup specialists knowing they had to raise their game if they wanted to progress any further and immediately upped their game. Veidman and Burrows in particular harassing their opponents, not allowing them any time to settle on the ball. Roberts marshalling the defence well. Veidman was starting to make his mark on the game and created a number of good chances for the lively front pairing of Mulligan and Butcher with Bishop also trying his luck from thirty yards.

Gallagher was introduced for the hard working Stead and Garland became more of an attacking threat on the right as he linked up well with Innes. The pressure finally told as Greenfield grabbed a well earned equaliser with a great team goal. The electric Veidman started the move off with a great ball down the left that released Butcher. The goal scorer turned provider as he produced a great cross to the back post for Mulliagan to impressively plant his header beyond the keeper. A goal that had been well worth the wait.

By now the away side had a spring in their step as they looked to kill off their Liverpool opponents. The steady Houghton made way for Williams to give the side some extra balance and shape and he got straight into the action with his neat dribbling. Greenfield looked hungry for the ball as they snapped at the opposition’s feet looking for the winner. With fifteen minutes remaining the breakthrough came as a free kick was awarded just inside the home sides half. Veidman delivered an excellent ball that landed perfectly for Mulligan, who beat the offside trap as he turned and volleyed home his second of the game. Surely that was going to be enough.

Greenfield continued to look solid as they headed for the next round and introduced Smart for the excellent Mulligan to sure things up, only for disaster to strike in the final minute of normal time. The stocky Cardinal substitute shrugged off some poor defending and managed to slot the ball beyond Burrows and the tie was level. Extra time was to be played.

The first half of extra time was a stalemate with neither team creating any real chances of note, knowing the next goal would be crucial. The second period got underway and manager Houghton decided to go for it and he ordered his men to attack. With fatigue setting in on both sides it was merely a case of who wanted it more. Greenfield answered that in emphatic style. Tireless skipper Burrows’ attempted shot on the edge of the area landed perfectly at the feet of Butcher eight yards from goal. With his back to goal he swiveled and rifled home to make the score 4-3 to the Northern Cup champions. Cardinal were beaten.

The blue and whites defence knew they just had to see out the game but a needless free kick was given away on the edge of their area. The resulting effort came back off the bar, allowing for a quick counter in which they went up the other end and put the game to bed.

Veidman released Butcher on the halfway line and as he advanced on goal, unselfishly squared the ball to Burrows who had continued his run into the box, but his effort was blocked on the line by the retreating defender. But Smart was on hand to finish the move and wrapped up a hard fought 5-3 victory.

A seventh successive victory for the title hopefuls in a cup they now have a real chance in. Not the best footballing performance but one which the manager AJ Houghton will have been pleased to see with a great battling and determined win, a win that they will no doubt have to repeat in the future if they want to be in the end of season honours list.

Two goals a piece from Butcher and Mulligan and another awesome display from Veidman, who changed the game with his hard work and non stop running. MOM today Lee Roberts for a solid display at centre back in which he won every header and made some vital blocks when he had to.

Saturday 3rd November 2007 k.o 13:30

Greenfield F.C 3-1 Pilkington "A" F.C (W)
Greenfield's next test was in the Hospital Cup against opposition a league above them, a team in which they failed to beat twice last season. The fit again Smith came in for Innes, with the injured Stead making way for Duffy. Other than that it was an unchanged side with Barrigan named among the subs.

The home side, looking to make an early impression in this competition, started at a frantic pace as they looked to make up for missing out on promotion last season. Pilks seemed to be rattled by the pace at which Greenfield were attacking and struggled to get into the game. It didn't take long for Butcher to carve open the Pilks back four and get a shot in on goal. Ten minutes into the game and Greenfield sufferred a major blow as Mulligan's back injury flared up and he had to be replaced by Barrigan.

Houghton reshuffled the pack and Williams moved up top. Chances continued to be created and a Burrows through ball found Williams with space and time in the away sides box. Unfortunately he rushed his shot and blasted wide. Twenty minutes into the game and the fiery Pilks number 9 swang an elbow at Barrigan in the area and the referee rightly showed him the red card. This just gave Greenfield added impetous to attack the red and blacks. And attack they did.

With chances continuing to be created Butcher was running the back four ragged and they had no answer to the constant pressure. Veidman and Duffy from the flanks were running at will and Pilks started to get frustrated as they had no answer to the wave after wave of attacks. But Greenfield lacked the clinical touch in front of goal and their main source of attack was coming from dead ball situations. With the away sides keeper looking more and more uncomfortable as he continually flapped at corners. But again Greenfield failed to convert their chances.

The back four with Bishop and Roberts winning everything again looked assured and left Pilks creating very little. Burrows and Smith in the centre of the park were winning everything which left the opposition even more frustrated as they started to badger the referee. Despite the continued pressure the half time whistle blew with the game somehow still without a goal.

Greenfield came out for the second half knowing that if they continued to dominate the game in the same way, the goals would surely follow. Butcher and Duffy had chances to open the scoring but again they failed to get the break through. Garland and Barrigan were getting forward and supporting the attack as they looked to make their one man advantage count.

Ten minutes into the half and the deadlock was finally broken. Strong running down the right by Veidman saw him cut inside and roll the ball across for Duffy 8 yards from goal. His first touch was an uncharacteristically bad one, but he managed to recover and skilfully chip the ball up and shoot low beyond the helpless keeper. Finally, the goal they had been threatening from the first five minutes of the match. Surely this would open the floodgates and more would follow.

Garland saw a shot from distance fly over and Veidman and Duffy had more chances to score,and it was the in form Veidman who got the second. Smith and Burrows put in a crunching challenge in their own half to break up play once again, with the ball falling at the feet of Roberts who played a ball over the top for Veidman to run onto. He was left to place the ball under the keeper to continue his recent good run of scoring.

Pilks knew they were being outplayed and they're heads started to drop as Greenfield continued to play some good football, but again lacked the killer touch in front of goal. Veidman was causing all kinds of problems on the right and a quick counter saw another strong run brought to a halt by a cynical challenge on the edge of the penalty area. With the away sides defence still trying to get organised, some quick thinking from Garland saw his quick free kick pick out skipper Burrows unmarked in the area. He produced a great diving header from ten yards out to emphatically find the back of the net and put the game well and truly to bed.

There was still twenty minutes to play and Greenfield knew they could end up with an impressive result if they continued to play the way they were. But it was one of those days in front of goal as Butcher came close on more than three occassions. At the other end Pilks were limited to chances from set pieces as needless fouls were conceeded and it was one of which that got them a goal back. A free kick on the left was floated in and a blatant push on P. Burrows was missed by the man in black allowing for the striker to head home a mere consolation for the away side.

The game was played out with no further goals being added, in a game that could have seen Greenfield easily score at least four or five more. Houghton will know that his side will have to be more clinical in front of goal as against stronger opposition they could be made to pay. Nevertheless he can be pleased with the performance in brushing aside a team that are a league above them, in a cup they have a big chance of doing well in.

Burrows and Smith in particular doing well today, dominating the midfield and allowing the opposition no time to settle on the ball. Butcher was a constant menace as well but MOM was Duffy for an impressive return to the side. Worked really hard on the left with some good running and neat skills too much for Pilks to handle, also getting his name on the scoresheet.

Saturday 10th November 2007 k.o 14:00

Old Instonians 2-2 Greenfield F.C AET pens 0-3 (W)
Greenfield continued their quest for glory in all four cups this season with a tricky draw away to Old Instonians of the Liverpool Old Boys league. In what was sure to be one of their biggest tests this season Houghton was left with a depleted squad still missing Bayliss, Garland, J Burrows, Mulligan and Ablewhite. Bishop replaced Burrows in goal and Gallagher made a welcome return at left midfield. Stead and Barrigan playing at right and left back respectively.

On a cold and very windy day conditions for football were far from ideal and with skipper Burrows winning the toss chose to use the wind to their advantage in the first half. They certainly did that and from the opening minute got in amongst the team in white with some direct football. It was clear to see that the home side liked to play the ball out from the back, but Veidman and Butcher gave them no time on the ball and panic soon started to set in as they failed to cope with the pressure.

It wasn't too long before chances started to be carved out and it was the lively Butcher who came closest to opening the scoring. The strong wind was playing a vital part in the game and was keeping the Instonians side pinned into their own half. Twenty minutes into the game and Greenfield got the goal they had been threatening. A free kick inside their own half was awarded and a long ball upfield caught out the defence as they played a high line. Duffy broke through and jumped with the keeper as he attempted to claim the ball, only for the in form midfielder to bravely head home the opener. His second in successive games.

Greenfield didn't relent and went in search of the second, knowing full well that one would not be enough in these conditions. Space was opening up all over the large pitch and the away side looked to utilise Gallagher on the left. They were creating chances, but like in previous weeks, failed to put them away. Good link up play from Duffy and Burrows saw the captains effort from distance produce a good stop from the keeper. Veidman and Butcher were again terrorising the back four and chance after chance came and went.

Instonians were limited up front as Roberts and Stead in particular dealt with any threat competently. Bishop, showing excellent handling, was a mere spectator in goal. Although the home side almost got back in the game minutes before half time. Some sustained pressure saw a ball played across the six yard box only for Burrows' attempted clearance to cannon back off the post and cleared to safety. A welcome let off.

The half time whistle went and Greenfield would be dissappointed to have gone into the break only one goal to the good knowing that they would be playing into a wind that showed no sign of relenting.

The second half got underway and it was Greenfield who again started the brighter. The referee was not helping matters with some baffling decisions at time, which didn't help a game that was already struggling to get going. This only frustrated both sides as the game started to get a little big niggly. Five minutes into the half and the blue and whites got their second. Duffy did well on the right and managed to dig out a decent ball into the box for Veidman. He took a touch and drilled the ball low beyond the keeper to give Greenfield a two goal advantage.

The away side knew they would now have to deal with some increased pressure as Instonians looked to utilise the wind. Defending became more and more difficult with it becoming a guessing game with the ball swirling around in the air. The home side were looking to get the ball in the box at every opportunity but Bishop was again upto the task with some excellent handling.

Williams came on for the hard working Gallagher who had made an excellent return to the side down the left linking up well with the solid Barrigan. Greenfield continued to carve out chances but lacked the killer touch in front of goal as they failed to hit the target. With twenty minutes to go Instonians grabbed a lifeline. A mix up in the Greenfiled back four saw a high ball into the box not cleared, only for the ball to evetually come off Innes. 2-1 and it was game on.

The home side now had the momentum with them and Greenfield looked somewhat deflated as they knew they only had themselves to blame for not putting the game to bed. Smith and Burrows were unable to get a foot on the ball with much of the play by-passing the midfield. With ten minutes remaining Instonians got the equaliser that had been threatening to come. Roberts' attempted clearance in his own area went up high and with no assisatance from the referee Bishop was unsure whether it would be deemed a back pass. He went up with his head and the ball fell kindly to the waiting striker who finished from close range. A goal that had come very much courtesy of the wind.

With the game heading into extra time Instonians were reduced to ten men as the striker was dismissed for two late challenges in quick succession. But there was no time for Greenfield to take advantage of the spare man and extra time was to be played.

With conditions continuing to deteriorate thirty extra minutes were played in much the same way as the ninety, with Greenfield failing to take their chances. Butcher, Veidman and Burrows all went close but it wasn't to be their day. The away side were given a let off when the referee harshly disallowed an Instonians goal for offside and the match would be decided by penalties.

Greenfield have been in this position before and they didn't let the pressure get to them. Burrows would be the first to bury his bottom left, only for the Instonians winger to blast his over the bar. Next up was Innes who made no mistake curling his in middle right. Again the home side missed with a good stop from Bishop low to his right and it was definitely advantage Greenfield. Smith kept his composure and found the bottom right hand corner to leave all the pressure on the substitute striker for the whites. He had to score to stay in it, but struck his effort high over the bar and it was Greenfield who progressed into the last 16.

Not the best performance on a difficult day for football with Bucther and Veidman again catching the eye but MOM goes to Duffy for a solid performance as he continues his good run of form for a Greenfield side that could do with his talents over the coming winter months.

Saturday 17th November 2007 k.o 14:00

Greenfield F.C 6-3 Eccleston Utd (W)

Title hopefuls Greenfield returned to league action against local rivals Eccleston in a game that they had to win to maintain the pressure on the league leaders. Manager Houghton still had a number of key absentees but was able to welcome back keeper Burrows and front man Mulligan. Williams came in for Duffy who dropped to the bench along with Bishop.

On a cold and windy day at Bishop Road it was clear that the conditions would again play a massive part in this game. Playing with the wind in the first half Greenfield looked to take advantage and get an early goal to ease the pressure. It was a scrappy opening ten minutes with Eccleston doing well to hold their own and keep the home side at bay. But that was before a moment of brilliance from Veidman. Smith broke the play up well in midfield and found the pacey wideman in space. He controlled the ball well and unleashed a fantastic half volley from 25 yards out that the keeper could only watch as it sailed into the roof of the net. A great individual goal.

Greenfield should have used this to go on and get another but instead it was the away side who got the next goal. A free kick was awarded ten yards from the edge of the area and the blue and whites failed to get organised. Expecting a shot, the ball was chipped into the back post and poor marking allowed the forward a free header at goal. Burrows made a great point blank save to deny them but they were first to react to the loose ball to poke home and level matters at one apiece.

The wind had by now picked up and was causing havoc for the players. Eccleston were penned into their own penalty area and Greenfield were now starting to attack. Skipper Burrows came close after some good work when he evaded two tackles and his mazy run culminated in him failing to hit the target from a narrow angle. Set pieces looked to be causing the most problems with the keeper flapping at every ball.

But it was another moment of brilliance from a man in blue and white that regained the one goal lead. Front man Butcher received the ball 20 yards from goal on the left and was given too much time, as he looked up and executed an excquisite inch perfect lob over the stranded keeper. A fine effort and Greenfield were 2-1 up after twenty minutes. By now Eccleston were struggling to cope with the wind and the home side knew they needed another goal to take into the second half.

Gallagher and Williams were linking up well on the left and feeding Mulligan up front who himself had chances to get himself on the scoresheet. The yellow and blacks were reduced to counter attacks that didn't cause Roberts or Houghton in defence much trouble. Greenfield looked to utilise the strong wind behind them and had a number of corners that seemed to be casuing some panic in the opposition defence and it was a set piece that got them another goal. Butcher was cynically brought down on the left touch line some way from goal. He himself took the free kick and with everyone expecting a cross, he used the wind to his advantage and floated a great effort over the keeper and into the roof of the net to give them a two goal cushion.

A much needed goal to take into the break with Greenfield wondering if they had done enough to make the game safe and out of reach of their local rivals. They knew the second half would be battling against the wind as well as a resolute Eccleston outfit.

The second half kicked off and straight away it was clear to see Eccleston's gameplan as they looked for the long ball at every opportunity. But their front men looked isolated up top and there was no real attacking threat. Nonetheless, Greenfield knew they would have to dig deep to ensure the three points. But they lost their concentration and gave away a needless free kick on the left, a fair distance from goal. The ball was played in and number one Burrows completely misjudged the flight of the ball and somehow managed to palm the effort into the back of the net. Eccleston were back in the game.

The home side were not looking like championship contenders and were not coping well in the difficult conditions. The players knew this wasn't good enough and needed to raise their game. Which they duly did. Not for the first time this season Butcher was causing the away defence all kinds of problems with his trickery and he managed to break free on the right. He produced a good ball into the box that found Mulligan on the right edge of the area, who produced an excellent turn and shot that found the bottom corner. A well deserved for the front man who had worked hard all game.

Duffy came on as an emergency right back after Stead went off with a knee injury and at 4-2 surely now Greenfield could see out the game and ensure another 3 points. But again they let their concentration levels slip and Eccleston pulled another back. Some sloppy defending saw the ball come in from the left which rolled along the six yard box. With the back four failing to mark their men it was left for the winger to slide home their third, a goal that Greenfield would have been especially disappointed to concede.

It was a goal that the home side appeared to have been waiting for and with twenty minutes still to play Eccleston knew they were still in the game. Greenfield again had to raise their game and chances were still being created, without managing to get another goal. Eccleston were becoming more of a threat from set pieces as they knew the wind was a major hinderance to the home defence and Burrows in net. But they coped well under the pressure.


With only five minutes left on the clock and the away side chasing the game the lively Veidman was played in by Duffy on the right. He managed to dig out a cross that found Mulligan who kept his composure brilliantly to slide the ball under the keeper to regain the two goal advantage. Eccleston were now deflated and that seemed to wrap up the game. Their was still time for Butcher to complete his hat-trick when Smith made a challenge in the oppostion half. Butcher was given a free run on goal and slotted home to make the final score 6-3 and confirm another three points for Greenfield.

Not the greatest performance from Greenfield but not playing well and getting maximum points is the sign of a good team. Manager Houghton won't have been to pleased conceding three today, but it was a day in which conditions did not help matters. Both Mulligan and Gallagher looking strong today but MOM for a superb hat-trick and lively performance goes to Butcher who has now scored 16 this season.

Saturday 24th November 2007 k.o 13:45

Greenfield F.C 5-1 Royal Oak (W)
This week Greenfield took on Royal Oak knowing a winning margin of three goals would be enough to claim top spot for the first time since they were established just over two seasons ago. Despite missing long term absentees Innes, Bayliss and Barrigan, manager Houghton was able to welcome back Ablewhite and Garland to what was a strong looking side.

Despite the gulf in league positions the game would never be easy with playing conditions rapidly deteriorating in the pouring rain on a mud bath of a bishop road pitch. It was actually the away side that enjoyed the upper hand in the first five minutes of the game without really testing the Greenfield goal. The sloppy start only seemed to give the blue and whites that kick start they needed.

Greenfield soon realised they would have to get into the game and started to dominate. After ten minutes, true to league form, they took the lead thanks to their top scorer Craig Butcher. Burrows closed down the midfield and his challenge saw the ball find Butcher, who from 25 yards on the left cut inside two defenders and curled another tremendous strike beyond the helpless keeper.

Shortly afterwards Greenfield added another, courtesy of their other in form striker Mulligan. Intelligent link up play between the two centre forwards saw Butcher play Mulligan through on goal on the right. He kept his composure superbly as the keeper came out, to cooly slot home with the outside of his right foot and into the bottom corner. A fine finish from Greenfield's all time leading scorer and thus doubling his sides lead.

Despite a terrible playing surface the home team were playing some excellent football with some neat passing on display, midfield man Smith at the heart of most of it. Duffy was a persistent menace on the left and with Veidman on the right, there was an attacking threat from all over the pitch.
Greenfield could have extended their lead again when Burrows' strong run down the left saw his cut-back find Mulligan in space, but the defender managed to get back and get in a good block.


With half an hour on the clock Greenfield were looking as though they would score on every attack as they carved open the Royal Oak team at will. A third soon followed with a fantastic team move when a quick one-two with Smith and Burrows saw Smith find Veidman on the right. He played in Mulligan who once again slotted beyond the keeper with another delightful finish. A great goal and one which epitomised the way the title hopefuls had been playing.

Chances continued to be created with Butcher, Veidman and Mulligan all coming close to making it four. The back four looked solid with Garland and Ablewhite slotting back in well. Half time came and Greenfield were looking comfortable but they knew they'd have to keep up the tempo to ensure another victory.

As the second half kicked off conditions worsened, with a strong wind now favouring the Royal Oak side. This gave the younger team in yellow extra impetous as they knew an early goal would throw a cat amongst the pigeons. Greenfield started to panic and looked far from the confident and composed side they did in the first half. The men in blue and white were getting pinned into their own half and were forced into some last ditch defending. During this period of added pressure came a massive let off for Greenfield as the number nine broke free to race through on goal and drive his effort beyond Burrows. But fortune favours the brave and a muddy puddle in the centre of the goal mouth held up the ball.

Having survived this mini onslaught the Greenfield defence regained their composure and began to show just why they have the best defensive record in the league. Roberts and Ablewhite again looking very assured as a centre back pairing with the hard working Garland and composed Bishop supporting on either side. Keeper Burrows was also having his best game of the season, looking sharp in coming off his line and making some excellent saves to ensure a clean sheet.

Smith continued his first half performance, with his aerial dominance and array of passing creating more chances for his team mates. Greenfield didn't take long to kill off the game as they went up the other end and added a fourth. As is becoming a common theme this season the home side proved too powerful for their opponents. Butcher's direct running released skipper Burrows, who had broke from midfield, on the left. He powerfully drove to the byline and squared the ball to Mulligan who took a touch to control and then tucked home his hat-trick from close range.

Royal Oak were now soundly beaten and as in most games this season Greenfield failed to capitalise on their dominance with more goals as Veidman came close. But not to be too harsh with conditions obviously taking its toll on both teams. The away side did manage to pull a goal back however, when Smith was penalised for a handball in his own box. The referee pointed to the spot, only for keeper Burrows to pull off a fantastic diving stop to his right. Unfortunately, the forwards were the first to react and managed to tap in the rebound. It was 4-1 and both sides knew Greenfield had the three points in the bag.

In stoppage time Butcher, with his confidence sky high, scored directly from a corner on the left to grab his second of the game and the final whistle blew. Full time and an eleventh straight win sees Greenfield finally take their place at the top of the division one table, just what they deserve for their continued efforts.

Another gritty, had working team performance in very difficult conditions. The second half performance didn't quite match that of the first but some excellent displays all round. In particular Smith and John Burrows in goal. MOM was awarded to hat-trick hero Mulligan for three excellent finishes and an all round confident performance.

Saturday 15th December 2007 k.o 13:30

East Villa Res 5-1 Greenfield F.C (L)
Greenfield travelled to Liverpool to face by far their toughest test of the season, as the top of division one faced the top of the premier in the Hospital Cup second round. Manager Houghton was hit with some last minute withdrawals that badly affected his team selection, doing him no favours on a day when Greenfield wanted to test themselves against the best around.

Due to a number of reasons the blue and whites were late arriving and some poor organisation meant them kicking off the game with players still in the changing rooms. Before the away side could get to grips with the game or the conditions, they were three nil down within ten minutes as East Villa capitalised on the many unforced errors. That effectively sealed the result and Greenfield would face an uphill battle to stay in the competition, against not only a quality footballing team but against the harsh weather conditions as well.

Playing into the wind the Bishop Road side were penned into their own half and were forced to defend throughout the first period. Although they did have chances to get on the scoresheet with Burrows, Buthcer and Veidman all testing the keeper. But they lacked the clinical touch of their Premier rivals and they went in at the break three nil down.

With the strong wind dying in the second half, Greenfield did have a go and again came close to getting back in the game. But it was Villa who scored the next and that was for sure game over. The home side passed the ball around at will and were creating chances from all over the pitch. Mulligan grabbed a goal back when his twenty five yard daisy cutter bounced over the keepers hands, but at 4-1 this was hardly a lifeline. East Villa added another and the game ended 5-1 and a footballing lesson for Greenfield.

Having not trained in the week and with a number of players letting the squad down, Greenfield could hardly have expected anything more against arguably the best side in the combination. It simply was not good enough from start to finish and a number of the players need to have a long hard look at their committment to the team. There were too many bad individual performances and this was nothing more than a stroll in the park for East Villa. If Greenfield want to stand any chance of making an impression in the Prem next season they are going to have to make vast improvements both on and off the pitch.

Saturday 22nd December 2007 k.o 14:00

Sanbach Town 0-7 Greenfield F.C (W)

Greenfield made the long trip on the M6 to face Sandbach as they continued in their search for more Northern Cup glory. In terrible conditions the side from Bishop Road were looking to put their dismal performance against East Villa behind them and get back to winning ways. With an ever increasing injury list to deal with, manager Houghton reinstated himself at centre back and brought in Barrigan to replace the missing Garland at left back. Ablewhite was pushed into a more attacking position on the right of a four man midfield.

On a wide pitch Greenfield knew they had the attacking capabilities to put their opponents to the sword. Something which they did right from the first whistle. It looked like a completely different outfit from the one that had performed so poorly in their last match. Every player with their mind focused on reaching the next round of the cup. But Greenfield did suffer an early blow when Roberts, suffering from a heavy cold, had to be replaced by Bishop who himself was carrying a knock ten minutes into the game.

That didn't prevent the blue and whites from attacking though and attack they did. Some neat passing was causing Sandbach all kinds of problems and space was starting to appear all over the pitch. It wasn't long into the game when Greenfield took the lead, courtesy of a Butcher corner. His well taken corner evaded everyone and found its way into the back of the net to give the away side the advantage they certainly deserved.

Shortly afterwards and some neat interplay between midfield and attack saw Mulligan with a free run on goal. He was cynically brought down by the last man, just as he was about to shoot. Despite the foul taking place inside the penalty area, to everyones dismay the referee awarded a free kick on the edge of the box and failed to administer a card of any colour. A huge let off for the home side as they should have gone down the ten men.

But the away side didn't let this effect them and got right back to it as they started to dominate proceedings. Burrows and Smith in the middle of the park were first to everything and fed the wide men of Ablewhite and Veidman well. Butcher's direct running was causing mayhem for the opposition, not for the first time this season, with Mulligan also looking sharp.

Keeper Burrows made a good save from a Sandbach free kick that looked to be dipping in and they also saw another long range effort clear the bar. Greenfield were looking solid all over the pitch, Barrigan at right back in particular catching the eye going forward as well as in defence. Twenty five minutes into the match and the score was two nil. Bucther broke down the left and took on almost the entire Sandbach defence, cutting the ball back as he reached the byline. Smith had done well to support him and took his time to register his second of the season with a neat right footed finish from eight yards out.

Despite Greenfield having further chances to extend the lead, the scores remained the same going into half time.

Not long into the second half and Sandbach were dealt a massive blow, when their right midfielder needlessly kicked out at Barrigan and deservedly saw red and the home side would play out the rest of the game with ten men. They faced an even greater task when Butcher netted his second and Greenfield's third of the game not long after. He was played in by the impressive Smith and the striker didn't need a second inivitation as he finished well.

Greenfield were rampant and they knew there were more goals to be had, as they passed the ball about confidently. Bishop and Houghton were looking composed at the back and Sandbach didn't have any real chances at goal. Fifteen minutes into the half and Smith again released Butcher, who with space in the box, had time to shoot. But he unselfishly laid the ball off to skipper Burrows who's poor first touch allowed the defender to get back and make the challenge. The referee pointed to the spot as the away side were awarded a somewhat contentious penalty. Burrows picked himself up and placed the ball beyond the keeper and it was game over at four nil.

Chances continued to be created with some impressive football on display. Ablewhite on the right was getting plenty of the ball and feeding the front two. Mulligan broke down the right after being played in and his cut back saw Ablewhite on hand just inside the area to produce a wonderful finish, just rewards for his efforts. Sandbach heads had now dropped and they were second to every ball as Smith and Burrows continued to put themselves about in the middle of the park.

With only fifteen minutes of the game remaining Greenfield were awarded a corner on the right with Butcher getting the ball into the box. The attempted clearance fell to Houghton on the edge of the box. He played a good ball inside to Mulligan, who's powerful shot found the bottom corner to get his name on the scoresheet. With the game safe Stringer came on to replace the hard working Duffy at right back and was immediately called into action, clearing a Sandbach effort off the line to ensure a clean sheet.

With the game won Mulligan added his second and rounded off an impressive team performance with another goal as he finished well from Ablewhite's cut back after a neat one-two. Seven nil and the final whistle blew to put Sandbach out of their misery and Greenfield progress to the next round of a cup they have high hopes of retaining this season.

An excellent team performance, some of the best football played all season from the blue and whites. Smith and Burrows were back to their best and Ablewhite excelled on the right. The whole back four looked solid throughout but MOM awarded to Butcher. Not only for his two goal's and two assists but he was a constant threat as he ran the oppostion defence ragged all afternoon.


Saturday 2nd February 2008 k.0 14:00

Naylorsfield 5-0 Greenfield F.C (L)
After six weeks without a game, Greenfield returned to action in the Liverpool Intermediate cup agaianst a Naylorsfield side top of their respective league and strong favourites for this cup. Due to the recent bad weather the tie was switched from Bishop Road to Long lane and Greenfield travelled with a squad of 14 lacking match practice. Tasker made his long awaited return at the centre of defence alongside Roberts, with Duffy filling in at right back. With a number of absentees there was a welcomed return for Gallagher on the bench.

For thirty five minutes of the first half Greenfield were more than in this cup tie, despite falling behind early on. The blue and whites had numerous chances to take the lead with Burrows, Butcher and Ablewhite all guilty of missing decent chances. It was clear to see that Naylorsfield had underestimated their opponents and took the lead only through a disputed penalty. A hopeful cross into the box was adjudged to have been handled by Duffy and the referee pointed to the spot, somewhat harshly. Keeper Burrows was sent the wrong way and it was one nil.

This only spurred Greenfield into action and again they had chances with Veidman trying his luck. The home side were now arguing amongst themselves and tried their best to influence the referee. Ten minutes before half time came the turning point. Through on goal the Naylorsfield striker was brought down by Roberts and the referee had little choice but to produce the red card. Despite the incident occurring outside the area the referee again pointed to the spot and the number eight had the chance to double their lead. But it wasn't to be as Burrows pulled off a superb save diving to his right.

With Greenfield all over the place the reds were now firmly on top and had chances to put the game beyond any doubt as the men from Bishop Road looked for the half time whistle. But they couldnt get past the inspired Burrows who made some excellent saves as he began to look like the keeper of old. If not for him it could have been at least five nil by half time, but just the one goal seperated them as the half ended.

As the second half kicked off Greenfield raced forward and almost equalised but Mulligans pass was too far in front of the supporting Burrows. Naylorsfield knew this game wasnt yet won and they again tried to imtimidate their opponents, as well as the referee. The blue and whites worked hard to try and get back into the game but ten minutes into the half and the lack of game time started to kick in as the home side added a second. They went on to add three more as the extra man started to count. This despite away keeper Burrows being in outstanding form as he pulled off four or five quality saves to spare his team mates blushes.

It wasn't to be for the combination pace setters though as despite creating chances, they struggled in front of goal and failed to get on the scoresheet. The match ended and Greenfield bowed out of this competion without much fuss. Not many positives to take out of the game but not too much can be read into it as they played sixty minutes a man down in difficult conditions, having had no competitive game in six weeks. On a brighter note MOM was awarded to John Burrows for a fine individual display between the sticks, not only saving a penalty but making some excellent stops in open play.

Saturday 9th February 2007 k.o 14:30

Greenfield F.C 5-2 Prescot Leisure Reserves (W)
It was back to league action this weekend as Greenfield looked to put last weeks cup drubbing behind them and continue their push for the title against Prescot Leisure. On a beautiful day for football, manager Houghton rang the changes bringing in Bishop and Gallagher for Tasker and Duffy. There was also a welcomed place on the bench for the fit again Innes, who they've had to do without for the past two months.

Greenfield lost the toss and would have to play into the sun in the first half, which did not seem to prove much of a problem. From the first whistle the home side looked hungry to get back to winning ways and the better of the early play. The back four looked a lot more solid and dealt well against a physical Prescot front pairing. It wasn't too long before chances were being carved out and it was Mulligan and Butcher who looked the most likely to score.

The away side looked shaky at the back and Greenfield's wide men, Ablewhite and Veidman were attacking at will. Smith in the middle of the park was winning the majority of the aerial battle and supplying the front two with some neat passing. Twenty minutes into the game and Greenfield took the lead. Butcher laid the ball back to Burrows on the half way line and his through ball down the middle of the pitch played Butcher in on goal. His acceleration took him away from the defender and he finished neatly under the on rushing keeper to grab the games opener.

Greenfield did not sit back and again went in search of another, which duly followed. Good link up play from Barrigan and Veidman on the right won a throw in a dangerous position. As the home side got men in the box Veidman's long throw was flicked on by Burrows. The ball ricocheted back off the helpless defender and fell at the feet of Burrows, who from eight yards out produced a nice curling effort with the outside of his foot into the left side of the net. Two nil and Greenfield were cruising.

There was some neat football on display from the league one pace setters, despite the referee doing his best to disrupt the flow of the game. Precot were limited in their attacks but the back four were coping well, Barrigan in particular on the right catching the eye. Keeper Burrows continuing his good form with some safe hands and confident keeping. The third soon followed when Mulligan held onto the ball in the opposition's half. He used his strength to hold off the defender and laid the ball back to Veidman, supporting on the right. He took a touch and unleashed a superb swerving 30 yard effort that decieved the Prescot keeper and flew into the back of the net. A great strike and at three nil there was surely no way back for the away side.

Ablewhite almost extended the lead with some quick thinking from a free kick on the left, with the defence still getting organised his effort was palmed away as the keeper made a good save diving to his left. Greenfield were dominating proceedings and a precise through ball over the top from Smith set Butcher away, but the usual clinical forward couldn't net his second. But it didn't take long for him to make up for that as he did get Greenfield's fourth moments later. Burrows, tight to the right hand touchline seemed to be going nowhere, but his ball over the top found Butcher some way from goal. With work still to be done his mazy skills took him away from the defender and he executed a thumping finish into the roof of the net from a tight angle to wrap up the three points. Another superb effort.

The half time whistle blew and Houghton knew his side were in a good position and just needed to keep his players motivated and not to let their foot off the pedal. They almost grabbed their fifth not long into the second half when Mulligan released Burrows on the left, who's first time cross found Butcher with the chance to get his hat-trick, but his touch let him down. Ten minutes into the half and Prescot were looking the stronger side as Greenfield started to tire after their first half display. They managed to get a goal back after the home side failed to clear their box on several occassions. The referee was again not helping the game as he dished out needless cautions to both sides.

The away side now had the wind in their sails and grabbed another, courtesy of a good finish just inside the area on the left, leaving keeper Burrows little chance. At 4-2 Greenfield knew they had to step it up and Houghton introduced Tasker for Gallagher, looking steady on his return. The game was starting to get more heated as Prescot attempted the physical approach which Greenfield more than matched. Veidman and Smith both playing their parts. The defence also started to sure up, limiting the away side to few chances. Innes came on for the hard working Smith and Houghton replaced Roberts with himself.

With only a few minutes left on the clock Butcher's clever back heel deceived two defenders and released the supporting Burrows. He took the ball around the oncoming keeper and despite going slightly wide managed to recover to find the bottom corner of the net to finally seal the win. A welcomed three points for Greenfield as they looked to regain top spot in the league. Having gone four goals up in the first half they won't be too pleased with their second half performance as they conceeded two sloppy goals. But with players still lacking match practice that could have been expected and Houghton can be happy with maximum points.

Some good performances all over the pitch today Smith, Barrigan and Butcher all playing a vital part. MOM goes to Veidman for a typically hard working display and a wonderfully taken goal.

Saturday 16th February 2008 k.o 14:30

Greenfield F.C 3-1 New Street (W)
Bishop Road was the venue as Greenfield faced a strong New Street outfit, the only team to have beaten them in the league this season. This would prove to be a difficult game with the well organised away team boasting the best defensive record in the league. The only change saw Houghton bring Garland in for the absent Barrigan, with a strong looking bench in the shape of Innes, Duffy and Tasker.

Greenfield knew that nothing less than a victory would do as they looked to keep their title push on track and got about their opponents from the first whistle. There was not too much between the two sides in the opening twenty minutes but then came a touch of quality from the home side. Some good build up play and neat passing saw Butcher cross for Veidman, who was left unmarked in the box. He kept his composure and scored for the second week running with a typically drilled finish.

New Street didn't let their heads drop though and within ten minutes of going a goal down, managed to get back into the game. A corner was conceeded and from the resulting set piece, poor marking allowed the number 17 a free header which looped over keeper Burrows and into the top right hand corner. A sloppy goal to give away, but one that the red and whites probably deserved. They almost took the lead moments later when a low cross from the right allowed the number 8 a tap in from five yards out, only for skipper Burrows to get back and make a vital challenge on the line.

In an entertaining opening half chances were being created, with Butcher and Mulligan both guilty of missing good opportunities. With the half drawing to a close Greenfield managed to regain the lead. They were awarded a free kick on the right, halfway inside their oppostions half. Butcher's delivery was perfect for Ablewhite who rose highest to see his header cannon back off the bar. But Mulligan was on hand to tap in from close range and the lead was restored. The scores remained the same going into half time.

Greenfield knew all they had to do was to not give away another goal and the game would be won. The defence was holding strong with Bishop and Gallgher in particular looking impressive. Twenty five minutes into the half and it looked like Greenfield had secured the three points when good work on the right from Veidman saw his cross find Ablewhite, unmarked in the centre. With the keeper stranded he was left to head home from close range and that was surely victory assured.

New Street had by now let their heads drop and didn't look as though they would get back into the game, especially considering they are one of the lowest scoring teams in the league. Mulligan and Butcher, despite their hard work, were still wasteful in front of goal and the score remained the same. Ablewhite could have grabbed his second of the game from Mulligan's cut back but for the defender clearing off the line. With the game having being played at quite a frantic pace both sets of players looked to have tired. Butcher and Smith made way for Innes and Duffy as Houghton looked to wrap up the gane.

Final whistle and an impressive result for the blue and whites as they maintain their excellent record at home, against a side with their own promotion hopes. To score three against a team that have only conceeded twelve so far in the league speaks volumes about the performance of the players all over the park. Excellent individual performances from Veidman and Bishop in particular but MOM was awarded to Gallagher who was a rock at the heart of the impressive back four. With other results going their way, Greenfield know that the outcome of the title race is now firmly in their own hands.

Saturday 23rd February 2008 k.o 14:15

Greenfield F.C 2-3 Digmoore Reserves (L)
Holders Greenfield crashed out of this seasons Northern Cup at the quarter final stage, in a game that they should have won. No doubt the opposition were the best they have faced in the competition this season, but the home side were made to pay for missing chance after chance. The away side took the lead, against the run of play, when a corner was headed clear by Burrows. It fell to the number seven who produced a spectacular half volley from 35 yards out, into the top right hand corner. Keeper Burrows could do nothing but watch it fly in.

Greenfield didn't let this deter them and should have turned their possession into an equlaiser. Digmoor were all long ball as they hoofed it forward at every given opportunity. Ten minutes before half time and the blue and whites were handed a lifeline. A long throw was aimed toward Smith in the penalty area and with the defenders arms all over him the referee pointed to the spot. A somewhat harsh decision for the defence, but nevertheless Greenfield were not going to complain. Skipper Burrows stepped up, but his poorly taken penalty was saved by the keeper.

It remained one nil going into half time and Greenfield knew they were 45 minutes from going out of a competition that they'd done so well to win last season. The second half continued in the same way as the first with the home side having the better of the chances. But the opposition keeper was in fine form denying Mulligan and Viedman. Ten minutes into the half and the equaliser came. Burrows on the halfway line dug out and a long cross field ball to Butcher on the left. The ball eventually fell to Ablewhite who produced a good finish and Greenfield were back in the game.

Almost immediately the tie was turned on its head as Garland received the ball on the edge of the Digmoor penalty area. His neat through ball found Viedman who's emphatic finish made it 2-1 for the cup holders. Greenfield had their tails up and sensed victory as they continued to attack. Smith had a glorious chance from six yards out with the goal gaping but he somehow managed to fire over. Then it was Mulligans turn to miss a guilt edged chance and Greenfield were made to punish.

The away team managed to regain their composure and an infrequent attack from the excellent number ten led to them getting back in the game. With Greenfield short of numbers at the back an effort was cleared off the line by Ablewhite with the referee adjudging he used his arm and a penalty was awarded. This was duly dispatched and it was game on. Greenfield knew they were fighting to stay in the game and the opposition keeper was having a blinder as he again repelled any attacking threat the blue and whites offered. The team in black were starting to get more and more physical as knew they were losing the battle.

But with ten minutes left, disaster struck. A needless free kick was awarded inside the Greenfield half and was floated over toward the right. Barrigan misjudged the header and the ball cannoned back of Ablewhite and fell kindly at the feet of the number seven. His well struck shot found the back of the net and it was 3-2 Digmoor. A harsh blow.

The game played out and Greenfield would not be retaining the Northern Cup this season and will now just have the Tom Worrall and the league title to play for. A dissappointing end to a game that they could and should have won. But again they let themselves down with their finishing when it mattered and the players only have themselves to blame. If Greenfield hope to compete against the best next season they really need to pick up their performances in the big games.

Saturday 15th March 2008 k.o 14:30

Boilermakers F.C 5-2 Greenfield F.C (L)
After crashing out of the Northern cup last week, Greenfield needed a good performance and all three points to get their season back on track after some recent indifferent displays. Despite missing top scorer Butcher, Houghton was able to field a strong attacking line up with Veidman partnering Mulligan in attack with the fit again Innes on the right. There was also a place for new signing Vickers on the bench.

The away side had two glorious chances to score in the opening few minutes, that Mulligan and then Veidman wasted when they should have done better. In difficult conditions on a terrible pitch Boilermakers seemed to cope better and managed to score three quick fire goals, due to some awful individual Greenfield errors. Three nil down inside twenty five minutes and the blue and whites had it all to do. Houghton had to gamble and brought himself off to be replaced by Vickers as they looked to attack.

The score remained the same going into half time and Greenfield were reeling. They knew they had to improve and that they did at the start of the second half as they began to get back into the game. Not long into the half and Innes managed to pull a goal back after a mazy run and delightful finish and Greenfield sprang into life. Moments after and a fine long range left footed effort from Veidman cannoned back off the bar as Boilermakers rode their luck. Greenfield did now have the impetous but needed to score to have any chance of getting anything out of the game.

But it was not to be and Boilermakers finished off their only two chances of the half to put the game to bed, as Greenfield pushed men forward. The home side had five chances and had scored five goals. The impressive Innes managed to pull another goal back to reduce the defecit with a close range finish, but it was to little to late and Boilermakers were deserved victors.

No real positives to take out of the game today, apart from the performance of MOM Innes, as too many players failed to perform. Three defeats in five now for the championship hopefuls and they need to regain their confidence if they want to make sure of the league title this season.