Weekly Round Up - 02nd March 2024

The weekend's fixtures brought plenty of excitement and competitive play across the divisions, with particular attention on the Cherrybrook vs Norcross FC match. This fixture not only delivered on the pitch but also in capturing the essence of the game, with full photos available here and video highlights of the goals available here. The imagery and video content provide a closer look at the intense battle that unfolded, showcasing the skills, celebrations, and pivotal moments that defined this closely contested match. Photos from Donna Artis Photography.

Premiership
In a thrilling match, Eccleston & Heskin were defeated at home by Newburgh Harrock Utd with a scoreline of 1-3. Luke Drummond managed to find the back of the net for the home side, but it wasn't enough to secure a victory. Newburgh's triumph was secured through goals from Kal Fitzjohn, Phillip Marsh, and Marc Rees, showcasing their attacking prowess and securing crucial points in their campaign.

Division One
Astley FC and Appley Bridge put on a spectacular show, with Appley Bridge edging out Astley in a high-scoring affair, 3-4. Luke Robinson was the standout performer for Astley, scoring a remarkable hat-trick, but it was Appley Bridge's collective effort from Rhys Evans, Liam Hilton, and a crucial goal from substitute James Lappin that sealed the win in a closely contested match.

In another closely fought battle, Cherrybrook emerged victorious over Norcross FC with a 2-1 scoreline. Matthew Glover and Lewis Barlow were on target for Cherrybrook, providing the goals needed to secure all three points. Jack Hayton's effort for Norcross showcased their fighting spirit, but it wasn't enough to overturn the deficit.

Ribchester Rovers and Standish St Wilfrids Reserves entertained the fans with a seven-goal thriller, with Ribchester coming out on top with a 4-3 victory. Rick Coar's hat-trick and Jack Fletcher's goal were crucial for Ribchester's success, overcoming a resilient Standish side that saw Ben Flynn scoring twice and James Harrison once in a valiant effort.

Division Two
AFC Ainsdale secured a comfortable 3-1 victory over Wyre Villa Reserves. The game was marked by efficient finishing from Ainsdale, although the scorers' details remain unnoted, contrasting with Wyre Villa's single consolation goal.

Bickerstaffe Reserves dominated Ribchester Rovers Reserves with an impressive 6-0 win. The match featured standout performances from Adam Jarman and Jake Williams, who both netted three times, demonstrating Bickerstaffe's offensive firepower and leaving Ribchester with much to ponder.

Middleton & Overton Sports FC faced a tough challenge against New Longton Rovers Reserves, with the latter emerging as 2-4 victors. Despite the home team's effort, Alexander Jackson and Joseph Richardson, who scored a hat-trick, were instrumental in securing the win for New Longton, showing their clinical edge in front of goal.

Guildhall Cup - Quarter Finals
In a gripping Guildhall Cup quarter-final, Burscough Dynamo and Bickerstaffe ended regular time locked at 3-3. The match was decided by penalties, where Bickerstaffe triumphed 0-3, showcasing their nerve and composure. Curtis Carberry and Lewis Corke (with two goals) were on the scoresheet for Burscough, but Bickerstaffe's James Garland, Daniel Huyton, and Shaun Smyth ensured the tie would go to a shootout, where they ultimately prevailed.

Standish St Wilfrids advanced to the next round of the Guildhall Cup with a solid 3-1 victory over Broughton Amateurs AFC. Johan Du Toit and Callum Duffield, who scored twice, were the heroes for Standish, providing the crucial goals. Dave Westwood scored for Broughton, but it wasn't enough to challenge Standish's dominance on the day.