Freshfield FC Freshfield Football Club

Not content with consistently excellent performances, Freshfield's brand new under-14 team, formerly Whiston Juniors, took the Craven Minor League by storm, winning an impressive league and cup double. In a league of 11, Freshfield won 12 and drew 3 of their 15 games, not needing to play their remaining games. Their titanic struggles against closest rivals Waterloo culminated in a very disappointing walk-over in the cup final at Haig Avenue.

Click on any result below for a full match report. The League Table can be found here.

Freshfield's pre-season had gone well, culminating with a 9-1 thrashing of Formby JSCOB. Seal's, like Freshfield, had moved to the Craven Minor from another league and are expected to be one of the teams pressing for honours at the end of the season. It was important that the home team, playing in their new colours and on their new home ground, got off to a good start and Craig Davies calmed Freshfield's nerves when he put them 1-0 up early in the first half. With twenty minutes gone Craig Hughes added to the lead, and it remained 2-0 until half-time. It was even after the break until birthday boy Kris Jones scored the goal of the match and possible the season as he passed 3 Seal's players before unleashing a 20-yard thunderbolt which left the opposition 'keeper with no chance. Seal's pulled one back before Jake Johnstone made the score a comfortable 4-1. Seal's scored another late consolation goal but there was still time for substitute Jamie Noone to add the fifth and let the scoreline reflect Freshfield's supremacy. This was a promising debut in this League for Freshfield.

Freshfield's failure to convert several easy chances, including a penalty, meant they couldn't add to Craig Hughes' decisive first half strike. Ten minutes after the restart Cave levelled the score with a free kick, reward for a battling performance, although by that stage Freshfield should have put the game out of reach. Freshfield continued to push forward in search of the winning goal, coming closest when hitting the bar, but it wasn't to be and they finally had to settle for an away point.

This tie was a potential "banana skin" for Freshfield, away on a small pitch and against one of the top Second Division sides. Early nerves were settled, though, when from just inside the box James Daley unleashed a volley into the top corner of the goal. Freshfield maintained the pressure and it wasn't long before Craig Davies turned smartly on the edge of the box and fired into the bottom corner to make it 2-0. Further goals from Kris Jones and Craig Davies gave Freshfield a 4-goal lead at the break. With the tie safe Freshfield made 5 substitutions at half time, and although Georges got an early goal back Freshfield continued to dominate and substitute Jamie Noone made it 5. Kris Jones got his second and Freshfield's 6th with a seemingly effortless dipping volley from just inside the box and a typical Craig Hughes goal made it seven. As well as the result, it was a great boost for Freshfield that Mike Fargher, on returning from injury, managed to complete the first half without any ill effects.

Although Burscough had lost their opening two league games they are still expected, along with Freshfield, to be involved in the title race come the end of the season. Therefore it was no surprise that this fixture attracted a large crowd, all of whom expected to witness a classic and this thrilling game left none of them disappointed. First blood went to Freshfield when Mike Fargher coolly finished a slick passing move for his first competitive goal since joining Freshfield in pre-season. It wasn't long though before the score was level and only moments later and with the game still young Paul Doyle pulled off a truly "world class" save to stop Freshfield falling behind. The response from Freshfield was immediate, Craig "Yozza" Hughes raced on to a through ball and deftly diverted his shot into the bottom corner. James Daley made it 3-1 when he rifled a shot from the edge of the area into the same bottom corner. Immediately from the restart Burscough pulled a goal back with an unstoppable volley but there was still time for Craig Davies to race clear and steer a shot between the goalkeepers legs to give Freshfield a 4-2 half time lead. After the break another goal each for both Craig Davies and Craig Hughes gave Freshfield a seemingly comfortable 6-2 lead. Yet this extraordinary game was far from over and 2 Burscough goals in quick succession midway through the second half saw Freshfield's lead reduced to 6-4. with ten minutes remaining James Daley finally calmed Freshfield's supporters' nerves when he converted from the penalty spot to give Freshfield a 7-4 victory. Both sets of players contributed to an enthralling game but special mention must be given to Kane Davies, Freshfield's right back, who as well as defending superbly worked tirelessly to support the attack. Although they have played a game more than their closest rivals, it was good to see Freshfield climb to the top of the League with this important victory.

This was not a good performance from Freshfield. They looked lacklustre - but they got the win that mattered. The last time these two clubs met was just over a month ago in a pre-season friendly and Freshfield ran out 9-1 winners but this was the Maric Cup and such a comfortable scoreline never looked likely. In fact it was no surprise when Formby "A" took the lead, but they failed to make the most of their promising early start. Going a goal behind actually, inspired Freshfield to produce the only decent football of the whole game. The fight back came in a 20 minute spell just before half time and saw Freshfield score 3 goals. Craig Hughes grabbed the equaliser with a neat finish after a fine run and lay off by James Daley. Shortly afterwards Craig Davies powerfully headed Freshfield into the lead off a pinpoint cross by Jake Johnstone. Freshfield, though, had saved the best goal till last. Phil Eden. Freshfield's tall, classy central defender, left the goalkeeper with no chance as he sent a thunderous 25-yard volley crashing into the roof of the net. This majestic finish was by far and a way the highlight of an otherwise dull game. All that matters though is that Freshfield's name goes into the hat for the next round.

Four consecutive weeks of postponed fixtures was certainly not the ideal preparation for what was considered to be Freshfield's sternest test of the season so far. Both sides started off nervous with neither wanting to make any mistakes but it was Freshfield who settled the quicker and started to apply the early pressure. Unfortunately, for Redgate it was a mistake that led to the first Freshfield goal, a speculative long range effort from James Daley somehow squirmed out of the goalkeeper's hands and into the back of the net. The goal gave Freshfield extra confidence and they began to take control and it wasn't long before an excellent Leon Quarless corner was superbly headed home by the impressive Anthony Hansard on his debut. At this stage many sides would have caved in but credit must be given to Redgate for the fighting spirit they showed. the second half was a much more even contest with few chances created and both defences coming out on top. On a week when most fixtures were postponed this victory saw Freshfield pull clear at the top of the league.

Many people believe the title will be won by one of these two teams and this enthralling game only helped to support their claim. This game contained everything that is good about Junior football and nothing that is bad. Two highly talented sides put on a display that everyone connected with either club can be extremely proud of. The respect both sides have for each other was obvious, the tackling was ferocious yet there was never a hint of retaliation. In fact a lot of credit must be given to not just both teams but to the supporters as well for the sportsmanship shown throughout such a competitive and eagerly contested game. Freshfield took the lead, in the first half, when Kris Jones showed great control on the edge of the box before unleashing an unstoppable volley into the roof of the net. Waterloo responded in the second half with an extremely well taken goal of their own. With both goalkeepers in such fine form it needed something special to beat them. On the balance of play it will be Freshfield who feel more aggrieved at not taking all 3 points and they will be left to rue several missed chances but overall a draw was probably a fair result as neither side deserved to go away empty handed.

There was as much drama before this game as there was during it. For one reason or another Freshfield only had 11 players available, none of them being a Goalkeeper. With none of the lads available ever having displayed any ability to play in goal it was decided to ask for volunteers. Understandably none of the boys wanted to fill the vacant jersey in fear of making a mistake. Therefore it was decided to rotate various players in this position. Special mention must be given to Kris Jones who had the unenviable task of going in goal first while the score was still level. It's at times like these, with all the problems before the game that a Manager asks himself why he does the job? The answer, came in the performance given by the eleven lads on the pitch. The character, commitment and not least ability shown by all eleven boys was outstanding. Although this should have been a home game for Freshfield the tie had to be switched to Southport and the pitch was only just passed fit for play by the referee. On both a bitterly cold day and muddy pitch, with no Goalkeeper most young teams would have wallowed in self pity but not this team; they showed great team spirit and even greater skill to put on a display of which they and their parents and most notably their Manager can be proud. Tom Sweeney (Captain) led by example encouraging his team-mates at every available opportunity, not that they needed much encouragement, for this was a near faultless display of quality football. There were too many quality moves to mention and although Freshfield registered an impressive 9 goals ( James Daley 2, Craig Hughes 2, Craig Davies 1, Kane Davies 1, Anthony Hansard 1, Jake Johnstone 1, Kris Jones 1) numerous others chances were created. On a final note special mention must be given to Paul O'Neill who epitomised the team spirit shown by those who were playing, by turning up on crutches, with a broken bone in his foot, to support his team-mates. Paul, best wishes and get fit soon from all the lads.

For the second game running Freshfield Juniors only had eleven players available, though fortunately this time it included their goalkeeper. With the transfer deadline looming and certain players sidelined with injuries the management have been left with the dilemma of trying to find and then sign suitable players by the end of this month otherwise they will be forced to finish the rest of the season with a squad that is painfully thin on the ground. Although lacking in numbers this squad isn't lacking in ability or belief and another fine team performance saw them run out easy winners against a spirited Formby side. Anthony Hansard, Freshfield's makeshift centre forward started the scoring and went on to develop a useful understanding with regular striker Craig Hughes. Both players linked up well throughout and eventually ended up with 2 goals each. With the score at 2 - 0 James Daley coolly converted a penalty to put the game beyond any doubt. Kris Jones completed a memorable hat-trick with an acrobatic overhead kick after a fine team move. Mike Fargher wrapped up the scoring for Freshfield, finishing off yet another great team move, with an unstoppable shot into the top corner. Freshfield could have scored many more if it wasn't for a fine performance from the Formby goalkeeper, he made several spectacular saves, the best of which was when he managed to touch a 30 yard blistering shot from Gary Laidler, Freshfield's left back, onto the bar. It wasn't all good news for Freshfield though and the afternoon was somewhat soured when the energetic Jake Johnstone had to be withdrawn at half time with a recurring foot problem, forcing Freshfield to play the second half with only ten men.

Having only 11 players available is now becoming a regular occurrence for Freshfield Juniors but this week the worry was that they were lining up against stronger opposition to that of the last couple of weeks. With that in mind Freshfield have to be extremely satisfied with this result but the performance itself left a lot to be desired. Although Freshfield dominated the game from start to finish they never really got into their stride and rarely produced the pass and move football for which they are renowned. Jake Johnstone opened the scoring when he battled well to win the ball in a tightly congested penalty area and then shot low into the bottom corner. The score was doubled when James Daley sent an unstoppable shot from 20 yards into the top corner of the goal; this strike lit up another wise dull game. The only other highlight came when with the score at 2-0 Paul Doyle, Freshfield's goalkeeper, did extremely well to get his hand to and take the pace off what looked to be certain Seal's goal, but with the ball still slowly bouncing into the Freshfield net it took an equally impressive goal line clearance from Kane Davies to make sure the ball stayed out. The tie was put beyond doubt when Kris Jones tapped home the third shortly before the end.

This result was the perfect start to a new year for Freshfield. Burscough Prima are a very good side with some excellent individual players but they were made to look less than ordinary by a superb Freshfield team, who produced a near faultless display of pass and move football. To recall individual moves and describe each goal would take forever, such was the high level of skill reached and more importantly maintained by this Freshfield squad. Therefore, this report concentrates more on what can only be described as an emphatic team performance. It just goes to show what such high standards can be achieved by this side when they display a willingness to work for one another, keep things simple and play the easy ball, all of which was done with regularity throughout this game. All outfield players used would have received a rating of 10 out of 10 and even Freshfield's goalkeeper and captain did everything asked or him the one and only time he was called upon. i.e. he won the toss.) Seriously, this was one of Freshfield's (formerly Whiston Juniors) greatest ever performances and one of which all concerned can be extremely proud. To single out any individual player for this would only detract from the overall team performance, but mention must be given to the impressive Matthew McCracken who was making his debut yet performed like he had been with the side for years, testimony also to the rest of the team. The goalscorers were Leon Quarless (2), Jake Johnstone (2,) Craig Davies, Kris Jones and Mike Fargher.

After last weeks brilliant performance against Burscough it was important that Freshfield remained focused and went into today's game with the right attitude. This game was never going to be a stroll in the park and it was certain that Cave, who are a physically strong side, would work tirelessly to close Freshfield down and not allow them any time to settle on the ball. It was therefore important that Freshfield matched their aggression and commitment and earned the right to display their superior skills. Once again Freshfield were up to the task and more than matched Cave's competitiveness whilst also producing some excellent football. This was highlighted when some fine teamwork led to James Daley delivering a pinpoint pass which Matthew McCracken, making only his second appearance for the club, latched onto and coolly finished for his first Freshfield goal. It wasn't long before Matthew McCracken doubled his tally and scored the second of what will surely be many goals for the club. With half-time approaching and Freshfield clearly dominating the game a momentary lack of concentration allowed Cave to get a goal back. Immediately after the break Freshfield restored a two goal cushion when a fine right wing cross by Michael Fargher was powerfully headed home by Craig Hughes. Although the football produced by Freshfield never reached the breathtaking standards of the previous week, it was once again a fine team performance. Leon Quarless was a constant thorn in Cave's side and Tom Sweeney made an impressive return to the heart or the Freshfield defence, after a two game layoff through injury. Craig Davies another player returning to the side from injury, came off the substitute's bench to devastating effect scoring a stunning right foot volley to make it 4 - 1 and then watched an equally impressive long range left foot shot cannon off the bar. This was another well deserved 3 points for Freshfield.

This was certainly not one of Freshfield's better displays. Too many players chose to hang onto the ball and tried to dribble their way through Birkdale, rather than opting for the simple and far more effective pass and move. Most seemed hell bent on losing possession and few worked hard to try and win it back. The latter certainly did not apply to Jake Johnstone who worked tirelessly to gain possession for his side and cannot be criticised for lack of effort. Having said all that Freshfield never looked threatened and once again ran out comfortable winners, without ever reaching their own high standards. Phil Eden started the scoring for Freshfield, tapping home from close range and Craig Davies celebrated his return to the starting line-up with 2 identical poachers goals, both scored with his knee. After the break Freshfield made it 4 - 0 when a superb run by Phil Eden saw him dribble through the Birkdale defence, his finish though didn't match his run and the goalkeeper managed to parry his shot only for James Daley to drill home the rebound.

Freshfield 6-0 Town Green
2nd February 2003

This performance was quite simply Freshfield at their best, from start to finish it was one-way traffic and the scoreline could have been far greater if it wasn't for Town Green's goalkeeper. From the first whistle Freshfield took the game to their opponents, although they lost the toss and were forced to kick into a strong wind, they created attack after attack. It was only a matter of time before their pressure produced a goal and this came when Paul O'Neill Freshfield's goalkeeper, with one of his rare touches, sent a mighty kick downfield. It was collected by Freshfield and after some neat passing interchanges the ball reached James Daley who sent a slide rule pass into the path of Kris Jones, who had made a great run in behind Town Green's defence, he then turned and smashed his shot into the roof of the net. This was a special moment for the lad who had chosen to sign for Freshfield ahead of Town Green at the start of the season. Before the break Freshfield doubled their lead when Matthew McCracken powered down the right and flashed a low drive across the face of the goal which was met at the far post by Anthony Hansard who slid the ball home. At the interval Freshfield had to withdraw Kane Davies, their right-back, with a nasty head injury and although it's hard to replace such a quality player, Jake Johnstone, Freshfield's energetic midfielder proved what a versatile player he his and filled the role admirably. Kicking with the wind in the second half Freshfield presented even more of a threat to the Town Green goal and it wasn't long before they increased their lead. Kris Jones's shot was parried by the goalkeeper and James Daley did well to follow up the rebound, he quickly turned the ball back across the goal and into the path of Craig Davies who showed a typical poachers instinct, to be in the right place at the right time, and tapped the ball home. Freshfield's fourth came when Anthony Hansard grabbed his second with a blistering 25-yard drive which screamed into the bottom corner. Craig Davies grabbed his second and Freshfield's fifth with a bullet header after a superb run and cross by Leon Quarless. Freshfield's pressure was relentless and they scored their sixth and final goal when Anthony Hansard did well, with his back to goal, to lay the ball off to James Daley who from the edge of the area powered a snap shot into the bottom corner. With Tom Sweeney and Phil Eden showing, once again, they are arguably the best central defensive partnership in the league, Town Green only once threatened the Freshfield goal and this surely produced one of the comic moments of the season. With only a minute to go a Town green player raced through on goal and crashed his shot against the post, the ball rebounded and hit the diving Paul O'Neill (Freshfield's goalkeeper) in the face knocking him out cold. Fortunately, the ball went for a corner and not in the goal,. Oh and Paul recovered as well.

H.C.C. 1-3 Freshfield
9th February 2003

This was a much closer contest than many had imagined with numerous chances at either end. Played on a heavy pitch and at a frantic pace with some ferocious tackling neither side had time to settle on the ball. Although this restricted the quality of football played it certainly didn't reduce the excitement. Freshfield started well and created a few early chances, the best of which saw Craig Hughes' powerful strike unluckily hit the woodwork with the goalkeeper beaten. It wasn't long, though, before Freshfield did open the scoring. Under pressure from Craig Hughes, an H.C.C defender gave the ball away to James Daley whose right foot cross was well controlled and neatly finished by Craig Davies. Credit, though, must be given to H.C.C who responded well and started to create chances of their own. Fortunately, Paul O'Neill, Freshfield's goalkeeper was in fine form and made two outstanding saves to keep Freshfield in the lead. There was nothing he could do though to stop H.C.C from equalising with a well taken glancing header from a corner kick. Freshfield's response was immediate, from the restart they were awarded a free kick midway into H.C.C's half. Whilst the H.C.C. team had switched off James Daley's quick free kick split their defence and released Michael Fargher, who had made a great run through on goal. As the goalkeeper came out to narrow the angle Fargher spotted him off his line and superbly chipped the ball over his head and into the goal. Freshfield made it 3 - 1 before half time when Craig Davies latched onto a backpass and coolly rounded the goalkeeper to slot the ball home. Moments later Davies created a chance out of nothing and was only denied a hat-trick by a great save. After the break, with the introduction of Mathew McCracken, Freshfield became far more dominant. McCracken's pace unsettled H.C.C's defence and Freshfield created a host of chances, unfortunately none were converted. This was a hard fought yet well deserved victory just reward for the commitment and desire shown throughout the team.

Waterloo 3-3 Freshfield (Waterloo won 9-8 on penalties)
16th February 2003

This cup tie went right to the wire but unfortunately for Freshfield the fact that they have recently lost their Goalkeeper and currently have no recognised replacement cost them dear. With only 10 minutes remaining Freshfield were ahead 3-1 but 2 handling errors by Freshfield's stand in Goalkeeper meant Waterloo were able to draw level and take the game into extra time. Freshfield's Managers stated no blame whatsoever can be labelled towards the Goalkeeper who is normally an outfield player and they said the commitment, character and not least ability he shown throughout the game was a credit to his side and in fact credit must be given to Waterloo for a spirited comeback.

The day started badly for Freshfield as they lost the toss and were forced to kick into a strong wind. With this in mind and the fact that Waterloo's Goalkeeper possesses an almighty kick, Freshfield were forced onto the back foot and with only 15 minutes gone Waterloo took the lead. Although under pressure for most of the first half, good defending by Freshfield limited their opponents to only a few clear shooting opportunities and in fact it was Freshfield themselves who managed to grab an equaliser on the stroke of half time, Leon Quarless converting from the penalty spot after Craig Davies had been fouled in the area. In the second half, although the wind had dropped considerably, Freshfield began to take control of the game and after a long period of sustained pressure Freshfield took the lead when Craig Davies tapped home from close range. Minutes later Freshfield extended their lead to 3-1 when Leon Quarless raced onto a superb ball from Craig Davies and coolly curled his shot into the bottom corner of the goal. This was quite simply a class finish which deserved to win any game. Unfortunately, it wasn't to be and Waterloo rallied with 2 late goals to take the game into extra time. In extra time neither team could break the deadlock and the game had to be settled on penalties which Waterloo won 9-8.

Freshfield w/o Birkdale "B"
16th February 2003

Birkdale "B" failed to raise a team for this Maric Cup quarter-final and Freshfield were awarded the match.

Waterloo 1-2 Freshfield
9th March 2003

One thing is for certain the League Championship will be won by one of these two sides. This was a must win game for Freshfield, victory would mean their destiny would be in their own hands, defeat would mean they would be relying on others to take points off Waterloo. Quite simply then, this was the most important game of the season so far although victory wouldn't guarantee either side the title, with some very tough games still to come, it would put either side in pole position.

The day didn't start well for Freshfield because as in the cup game they lost the toss and were forced to kick into a strong wind. This time though they coped much better with the wind and straight from the off started to dominate proceedings. The game was only minutes old when Matthew McCracken's strength and speed saw him burst through Waterloo's defence only to squander a glorious chance by shooting straight into the Goalkeeper's arms. Freshfield continued to press forward in search of the opening goal and had Waterloo on the back foot for most of the first half yet right on the stroke of half time and totally against the run of play Waterloo managed to snatch the lead.

The manner and timing of this goal plus what had happened in the cup tie would have seen many lesser sides collapse and for the first ten minutes of the second half that seemed to be the case with Freshfield. This Freshfield team, though, has a remarkable team spirit and more importantly self belief. This was displayed by no one more than Craig Davies, Freshfield's striker, who unluckily for tactical reasons had found himself substitute for the day. From the sideline he encouraged his team-mates throughout and when introduced he provided the spark Freshfield needed. The introduction of Davies seemed to lift the whole team, Freshfield visibly began to grow in confidence and once again began to take control of the game. Then with only 12 minutes remaining it was Davies himself who grabbed the equaliser when from just inside the box and with his back to goal he received the ball. With a defender at his back he turned instantly and began to run across the box and when a gap appeared in the Waterloo defence he fired low into the bottom corner.

This gave Freshfield a lifeline they now had 12 minutes to get the win they desperately needed. Freshfield pushed forward at every available opportunity but try has they might they couldn't breakdown Waterloo's resolute defence. With the clock ticking down it looked like Freshfield would have to settle for a draw then with only 2 minutes remaining Freshfield won a corner, this was surely their last chance. Freshfield piled everyone, except for their Goalkeeper, forward. The corner came in, everyone went up, it glanced off a Freshfield players head and bounced at the edge of the area where Matthew McCracken was waiting to unleash an unstoppable volley into the roof of the net, this more than made up for his earlier miss. Freshfield's supporters and players alike went absolutely berserk.

Freshfield J 7 v 1 Birkdale Utd "A"
23rd March 2003

This wasn't as convincing a performance by Freshfield as the scoreline suggests, in fact the first half was as poor a display as they have produced all season. Throughout the first half Freshfield made basic errors and far too often chose to complicate matters while refusing the much easier and far more effective "simple ball". However, goals from Craig Davies and Anthony Hansard meant they did hold a slender 2-1 lead at the interval. After the break Freshfield were a much-improved side and began to show glimpses of the high quality "pass and move" football for which they are renowned. In the end Freshfield ran out comfortable 7-1 winners with the in-form Craig Davies adding more goals to his earlier strike. The other goalscorers were Matthew McCracken and Jake Johnstone, who scored the goal of the game when after some slick passing he picked upthe ball and ran directly at the Birkdale defence, before firing a low shot from the edge of the area into the bottom corner of the goal. Freshfield could and should of had 8 when Tom Sweeney superbly curled a 25-yard free kick in off the post only to see his effort disallowed. Thereferee claimed that a Freshfield player had strayed into an offside position and in his opinion was interfering with play much to the amazement of all those watching. With all the other teamsjust below Freshfield not playing this result allowed Freshfield to increase their lead at the top of the league.

Freshfield J 5-0 Georges
30th March 2003

This Jekyll & Hyde performance was enough to book Freshfield a place in the Maric Cup final. Freshfield's first half display was full of composure, they stroked the ball round effortlessly and created chance after chance with some fine pass and move football. After the interval, with a 3-0 lead and the tie already safe, their second half display was quiet simply "shocking".
Freshfield couldn't have asked for a better start when after only a few minutes of play the referee awarded them a penalty, which was duly converted by James Daley. The early goal certainly helped to calm Freshfield's nerves and they quickly began to dominate proceedings, with Mike Fargher a constant threat to the opposition defence throughout the first half. Craig Davies got Freshfield's second goal which meant he had now scored in all of Freshfield's last 9 games and Kris Jones made it 3 with a volley from close range.
With Freshfield in complete control it looked like they would go on to a landslide victory but credit must be given to Georges for a battling second half display which kept the scoreline respectable. The only highlights of the second half from a Freshfield point of view were a rare Leon Quarless headed goal, a return to the score sheet for Craig Hughes and a cracking performance from Gary Laidler. Freshfield will now meet Waterloo in the final.

Town Green 1-3 Freshfield
2nd April 2003

The clocks going forward at the weekend saw the introduction of midweek games to help solve the fixture backlog. With rigid kick-off times and parents work commitments these fixtures are always a worry for team Managers, as to the availability of their players. This is of special concern to Freshfield as the majority of their side have a long way to travel, the early arrival of all available players was therefore a big weight off both Managers shoulders and thanks must be given to all parents concerned for their help and co-operation.
With a strong wind, blowing diagonally across the pitch and a slightly under strength squad this was never going to be "a stroll in the park" for Freshfield and a repeat of the 6-0 hammering which they dished out to Town Green earlier in the season never looked likely. In fact, credit most be given to Town Green who were a much improved side and certainly helped contribute to a very good game. Leon Quarless opened the scoring for Freshfield when he cleverly used the wind to curl a free kick into the top corner of the goal, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance although he did make a valiant effort to keep it out. It wasn't long though before Town Green were level with a well-worked goal of their own. Freshfield responded well to this setback and gradually began to take control of the game and before the break a fine passing move was coolly finished by Craig Hughes, with a deft lob over the advancing Keeper.
After the break, Freshfield extended their lead when a great pass from Gary Laidler fed Leon Quarless who used his blistering pace to get to the by-line and deliver an excellent cross. This was cut out by a Town Green defender but he could only manage to divert it into the path of Hughes who fired home his second goal of the game. With ten minutes to go a fantastic recovery tackle by Phil Eden kept the scoreline at 3-1. The Town Green striker was clearly 10 yards offside but was somehow allowed to continue by the referee, Eden raced back and just when the striker was about to shoot Eden slid in with a superbly timed tackle. If Town Green would have scored then it could have been a nervy last 10 minutes for Freshfield but Eden's crucial challenge meant Freshfield eventually ran out comfortable winners.

Freshfield w/o Formby
6th April 2003

Freshfield were awarded the game as Formby couldn't raise a side.

O.W.E. 0-0 Freshfield
13th April 2003

This was a dire display from Freshfield matched only by the terrible weather conditions. Some onlookers may use the blustery wind as an excuse for this dreadful display, it certainly didn't help but the main reason for this poor performance was the lack of effort shown by the majority of the team. Only a few players came out of this game with any credit, Paul O'Neill (Goalkeeper) showed good handling in difficult conditions, Kane Davies (Captain for the day) did his best with a committed performance to lift his team-mates and Tom Sweeney (Freshfield's regular Captain) played as well as anybody when he came on as substitute. Freshfield's inability to keep the ball on the floor meant they never looked like the side currently sitting on top of the league. This dull game was a big disappointment for Freshfield and could have been very costly but has it happens Waterloo, Freshfield's closest rivals, actually lost allowing Freshfield to extend their lead at the top to 4 points.

Freshfield 6-0 O.W.E.
16th April 2003

Only 3 days ago Freshfield had to settle for a 0-0 draw against tonight's opponents, a result that could have been costly in their Quest for the League Championship. As it happens, Waterloo, their closest challengers actually lost, allowing Freshfield to extend their lead to 4 points with only 4 games remaining. After such a long hard season, that slender points lead could be vital because many of the players are beginning to show signs of both mental and physical fatigue and this is beginning to produce some shock results throughout the League. With this in mind it was music to Freshfield's ears to hear that O.W.E only had 10 players available for this game and it was for this reason and no other that Freshfield ran out comfortable 6-0 victors.
The scoreline certainly didn't mirror any improvement in performance, from that given 3 days earlier, this display was every bit as bad. Freshfield's passing, movement off the ball, tackling, work rate, commitment and most of all finishing was poor to say the least. In fact the only thing worse than the forwards finishing was their ability to stay onside as time and time again they inexcusably strayed offside. The only positive thing that can be said about this performance is that it did get better as the game went on and what's the old saying " it's a great side that can play badly and still win. "
The goal scorers were Craig Davies 1, Craig Hughes 1, Jake Johnstone 1, Kris Jones 1, James Daley 1 & Anthony Hansard 1.

Seals 1-3 Freshfield
25th April 2003

From the first whistle Freshfield never looked in any real danger of losing this game. It was played in an atmosphere and at a pace typical of that of two mid-table teams playing out a meaningless end of season fixture, the difference being Freshfield are currently sitting top of the league and need to win 2 out of their last 3 fixtures, including this 1, to ensure they win the championship. With that in mind Freshfield never displayed the urgency in their play that you would expect and were content to play the game at a relaxed tempo but they did manage to produce better quality football to that of recent performances.
Freshfield opened the scoring when Matthew McCracken found himself through on goal and he made no mistake, coolly stroking the ball past the keeper into the bottom corner. Freshfield doubled their lead when Jake Johnstone, from at least 25 yards out, sent a thunderous right foot shot into the roof of the net leaving the Seal's goalkeeper, who had earlier impressed with some fine saves, with absolutely no chance. With Mike Fargher putting in his best performance for a few weeks Freshfield looked a constant threat down the right hand side and on several occasions could quite easily of extended their lead but it remained 2-0 at the break.
After the interval Kane Davies, Freshfield's attacking right back, made the game safe when he surged down the right and rifled home his shot, from an acute angle, for Freshfield's third goal. There was then a big disappointment for Freshfield when Craig Davies had to be withdrawn, after a seemingly harmless challenge, with what turned out to be a cracked fibula. This will be a big blow to Freshfield in their pursuit of a league and cup double. Best wishes Craig get fit soon from all the lads. Seal's did manage to grab a goal back before the end with a superb strike from distance which Paul O'Neill, Freshfield's ever improving goalkeeper could do nothing about and this was just rewards for a team who always try to play good football.

Freshfield 2-1 Redgate
25th April 2003

Freshfield Juniors were today crowned League Champions after a marvellous 2-1 victory against Redgate Rovers. Freshfield certainly kept the best to last with this superb performance against class opposition. Credit must be given to Redgate for the way in which they bounced back, after last week's Cup Final defeat, to make this such an enthralling spectacle but nothing and no-one was going to stand in the way of Freshfield Juniors (formerly Whiston Juniors) claiming their fourth consecutive League title. After winning 3 consecutive League and Cup Doubles while at Whiston Juniors it was decided by the Managers and parents that these lads needed new and more difficult opposition. Whiston Juniors made it clear that the side couldn't move Leagues and play under their name. Therefore at under 13's and with the side sitting on top of the League and through to the quarter finals of the Cup, the Managers made what seemed a somewhat strange decision and chose not to fulfil their remaining fixtures and instead set out on their pursuit of finding a new club and a higher standard of League.
By the start of the under 14 campaign they had achieved both, they were now part of Freshfield F.C and as such played their home games at the impressive new Formby F.C stadium and had been accepted into the Craven Minor League, which with the introduction of several other top quality sides was now arguably the best League in the North West region at under 14's. Taking all this into account capturing this title is undoubtedly the greatest of all Freshfield's (formerly Whiston's) achievements and this current squad proved just how good a team it really is with unquestionably one of it's finest ever displays against Redgate.
Jake Johnstone scored the first after a fine run but Redgate levelled just before the break. With 15 minutes to go it was Phil Eden Freshfield's classy central defender who tapped the ball home, after a goalmouth scramble to win Freshfield the game and the League. The courage, commitment, team spirit and not least skill everyone in the side showed throughout this game proved they deserved to become League Champions.

Freshfield won a fantastic league and cup double in their first season in the Craven Minor League, but unlike the exciting way in which they clinched the League title, this cup victory was most unfulfilling. Freshfield had won, drawn and lost against Waterloo this season, and the final provided a most mouthwatering spectacle. However, none of that was to be, as Freshfield were awarded the cup in controversial circumstances. Haig Avenue was the venue for the final and supporters turned up in their droves. Unfortunately, there were strict rules governing the numbers of players allowed into the changing rooms and when Waterloo were not allowed to take in their extra 2 squad members they refused to partticpate further. The game was awarded to Freshfield, and with it the league and cup double they so dearly wanted, but the victory would have been so much more memorable after a hard-fought match. Chances to play at venues like Southport F.C.'s are few and far between, but the disappointment at losing out on that chance should not reduce the pride and pleasure that this team can take from an enjoyable and rewarding season.

Date	Fixture/Result	Competition

8/09/02	Freshfield 5-2 Seal's	League
15/9/02	Cave Canem 1-1 Freshfield	League
22/9/02	Georges 1-7 Freshfield	Langfeld Cup
29/9/02	Freshfield 7-4 Burscough Prima	League
6/10/02	Formby A 1-3 Freshfield	Maric Cup
10/11/02	Redgate 0-2 Freshfield	League
24/11/02	Freshfield 1-1 Waterloo	League
1/12/02	Freshfield 9-0 Southport	Maric Cup
15/12/02	Formby A 1-9 Freshfield	League
22/12/02	Seal's 0-3 Freshfield	League
12/1/03	Burscough Prima 0-7 Freshfield	League
19/1/03	Freshfield 4-1 Cave Canem	League
26/1/03	Birkdale A 0-4 Freshfield	League
2/2/03	Freshfield 6-0 Town Green	League
9/2/03	H.C.C. 1-3 Freshfield	League
16/2/03	Waterloo 3-3 Freshfield (Waterloo won 9-8 on penalties)	Langfeld Cup
2/3/03	Freshfield w/o Birkdale "B"	Maric Cup
9/3/03	Waterloo 1-2 Freshfield	League
23/3//03	Freshfield 7-1 Birkdale A	League
30/3/03	Freshfield 5-0 Georges	Maric Cup Semi-Final
2/4/03	Town Green 1-3 Freshfield	League
6/4/03	Freshfield w/o Formby A	League
13/4/03	O.W.E. 0-0 Freshfield	League
16/4/03	Freshfield 6-0 O.W.E.	League
25/4/03	Seals 1-3 Freshfield	League
27/4/03	Freshfield 2-1 Redgate	League
29/4/03	Freshfield w/o Waterloo	Maric Cup Final
2/5/03	Freshfield v H.C.C. not played as Freshfield had already won the league