2007/2008 Season Archive

9th July - Hesketh Bank Association Football Club are holding their annual Family Fun Day at All Saints Church Hall and grounds on Saturday 19th July beginning at 2pm.

There will be lots of fun for all the family and all are welcome to attend during the day and in the evening when a disco will be held starting at 8pm.

22nd June - Following the West Lancashire Football Leagues Annual General Meeting last week the first team have once again been saved from relegation. The league have decided that the 1st Division must have at least 14 teams in it and this has meant that only one team was relegated with Milnthorpe Corinthians and Crooklands Casuals being promoted from Division Two. Near neighbours Fleetwood Hesketh and Wyre Villa join them from the Premier Division. The season kicks off on Saturday 9th August and the new ‘Medals' competition will begin about 3 weeks earlier with details to follow. Meanwhile the players will begin preparation for the new season with training sessions beginning this coming week at Shore Road on Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm. All existing and any prospective members are invited to attend these sessions which will continue every Tuesday and Thursday thereafter.

13th May - The reserves finished their season losing 4-1 at home to Todmorden to finish in 6th spot. Final league tables and results are available by clicking on league above.

THE FERMOR HESKETH MEDAL COMPETITION
The Club has decided that for the first time in 87 years the traditional end of season ‘Medals' competition will not be held. This is mainly due to the football season running on well into the middle of May and FA regulations do not allow football to be played in June. However the club is going to re-launch the competition as a pre-season tournament played over 2/3 weeks from the middle of July and announcements will be made towards the end of June.

Meanwhile the Saturday morning Soccer School in conjunction with Preston North End is well under way and turnout has been high thanks to the recent fine weather.

4th May - The first team ended another disappointing season finishing next off bottom for the second year running and they will once again have to wait until the leagues AGM in June to see if they will be relegated to the 2nd Division for next season. Travelling to Keighley in Yorkshire to play Crosshills to replay a match which was abandoned a few weeks earlier the first team found themselves 3-0 down at the interval despite having two goals disallowed for offside and hitting the woodwork. The home side went further ahead straight after the interval but the first team hit back with headed goals from Will Morris and Josh Norgate and when Shaun Royle hit a third an unlikely comeback was on the cards, however Crosshills held on to claim the points. The reserves should have completed their season but their opponents Todmorden Borough were unable to raise a side and must now travel to Station Road one evening later this week to complete the fixture. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.

HESKETH BANK AFC JOIN FORCES WITH
CHAMPIONSHIP CLUB PRESTON NORTH END

Hesketh Bank AFC are pleased to announce that they are joining forces with Championship club Preston North End to hold a series of Saturday morning coaching sessions for Juniors on the Centenary Sports ground at Station Road Hesketh Bank.

The sessions will begin on Saturday 3rd May 2008 and continue to the beginning of the school holidays around the 2nd week in July 2008, commencing at 9.30am – 10.30am for 5 to 9 year old boys and girls and 10.45am -11.45am for 10 to 15 year olds at a charge of £3 per child.

Preston North End will provide fully qualified professional coaching staff to oversee these sessions.

Numbers may have to be restricted so If you wish to register your child in advance please call Shirley Iddon on 01772 816328.

27th April - The first team finished their last home match of the season with a 2-2 draw against BAe Barrow Sports Club. They were given a great start when John Ascroft opened the scoring in the 1st minute and when he added a second after 20 minutes it looked as though the 3 points were in the bag. However the visitors obviously responded to their manager's half time team talk although the turning point was probably when John Ascroft was put through but his effort was blocked by the keeper with what looked like his hand even though he was a couple of yards outside the box. Almost immediately Barrow broke free to score and with 15 minutes left they gleefully scored the equaliser past stand in keeper Morgan Dodgson who had to don the gloves following young Marc Sergeant's injury in the warm-up. The reserves went down 2-1 at Haslingden St Marys and they are at Station Road on Monday evening with a 6.45pm kick off against Stoneclough. Next Saturday the first team finish their season with a trip to Keighley against Crosshills and the reserves entertain Todmorden at Station Road with both games kicking off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
20th April - The first team's slim chance of avoiding finishing the season in one of the two relegation spots was delivered a severe blow as they were beaten by fellow strugglers Crosshills from Keighley by two goals to nil. After surviving the first half playing against a bitterly cold easterly wind they began the second half optimistically but in truth it was the visitors who mastered the conditions and after they opened the scoring on the hour they never looked like conceding as the first team didn't really create a worthwhile chance. The result was over when Crosshills broke free again to score a second after 75 minutes and if they win their next match at home to bottom club Whinney Hill this Tuesday then the first team will finish in a relegation spot. The reserves came away with a fine 3-1 win away at Bolton County and they play again on Monday evening with a trip to Burley Belvedere which kicks off at 6.45pm before another away trip next Saturday at Haslingden St Mary's with a 3pm kick off. Meanwhile the first team will entertain BAe Barrow at Station Road next Saturday also with a 3pm kick off.
16th April - The first teams mini revival came to an end last night as they were beaten 2-0 by Tempest United. In a close first half both teams cancelled each other out, however a couple of good chances were missed and as always happens when a team is at the wrong end of the table a mistake with 15 minutes left saw Tempest take the lead and with the first team now chasing an equaliser they added a second in the final minute. This Saturday they have a real ‘six pointer at home to Crosshills from Keighley and the reserves return to action with a trip to Bolton County with both games kicking off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
13th April - Heavy overnight rain put paid to the reserves home match against Stoneclogh. The first team will hopefully return to action on Tuesday evening when they entertain Tempest United at Station Road which kicks off at 6.30pm. Then on Saturday they face Crosshills at home whilst the reserves travel to Bolton County with both games kicking off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
6th April - Two first half strikes from Eion Bond gave the first team their second win on the trot as they beat Furness Rovers 2-0 at Station Road. The first came after 15 minutes when he dribbled his way into the box before hitting low past the keeper. The second 10 minutes later when he ran clear to slot the ball home. Excellent defensive teamwork for the rest of the game meant that keeper Henry Highton did not have a serious save to make. With three more points in the bag and third from bottom Crosshills to play twice the first team now have a chance of avoiding relegation whereas a couple of weeks ago all seemed doomed. They will have to wait a while though as they don't play again for a couple of weeks. Meanwhile the reserves lost 1-0 at Coppull United and this coming Saturday they entertain Stoneclough at Station Road which kicks off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
3rd April - Last night the under 18's lost by a single goal scored 15 minutes from the end in the final of the Lancashire Evening Post Syndicate Trust Youth Trophy against Lytham St Annes. Manager, Dave Sherwood can be proud of his team and the way they played the game in a closely contested match between two well organised sides who both played some excellent football and provided first class entertainment for the large crowd at Bamber Bridge FC.
30th March - Even though Station Road was playable at 10am the first teams match at home to BAe Barrow was postponed with heavy rain forecast and this proved to be the correct decision to save the visitors a wasted journey from Cumbria. The reserves were 1-0 in front at the interval in their match at Burnley Belvedere but the game had to be abandoned with the pitch waterlogged. This Saturday the first team entertain Furness Rovers and the reserves travel to Coppull United with both games kicking off at 3pm. For further details please click on LEAGUE above.

The under 18's who play in the Lancashire Evening Post Sunday Youth League will play in The Syndicate Trust Youth Trophy Final v Lytham St Annes YMCA FC which takes place at Bamber Bridge FC, Irongate Ground on Wednesday 02 April 2008, kick off 7.00pm.

25th March - After 10 straight defeats the first team tasted victory for the first time since October last year as they defeated Millom by the odd goal in three at Station Road on Easter Monday. On a bitterly cold day the first team began well and were rewarded by a goal from Daniel Birkby following good work from Eion Bond. They then found themselves two up within half an hour from an almost identical move with Daniel Birkby once again scoring. In the second half the visitors came out strongly and with 20 minutes to go reduced the arrears but the first team held on and the valuable three points moves them off the foot of the table. On Saturday they entertain BAe Barrow at Station Road and the reserves travel to Burnley Belvedere with both games kicking off at 3pm. For further details please click on LEAGUE above.
23rd March - The first teams home fixture was postponed a couple of hours before the kick off on compassionate grounds by the league after they had received a request from their scheduled opponents Tempest United. Meanwhile the reserves moved into 4th place after they defeated Milnthorpe Corinthians by the odd goal in three. The first team entertain Millom on Easter Monday and then next weekend they are at Station Road again with BAe Barrow the visitors whilst the reserves travel to second placed Burnley Belvedere. All matches kick off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
16th March - The first team suffered another heavy defeat as they lost 6-1 at home to second placed Trimpell from Morecambe. They found themselves 2-0 down after just 5 minutes but fought back well with Eion Bond pulling one back on the half hour. However any thoughts of a comeback were thwarted when just after the interval Trimpell struck again following a defensive mistake to go 3-1 up. Yet another poor error at the back on the hour put the result beyond doubt and two late goals added to their misery as the visitors eventually ran out easy winners. The reserves match was postponed and they will return to action next week as they travel to Milnthorpe next Saturday. Meanwhile the first team will entertain Tempest United on Saturday and then Millom on Easter Monday with all games kicking off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
9th March - The first team will have to travel back to Yorkshire as their match at Crosshills was abandoned early into the second half due to a waterlogged pitch. The match began on an already saturated surface with steady rain falling and it was a dream start for the first team as Jordan Smethurst shot them into the lead from 20 yards after 2 minutes. Eion Bond was denied a second via the linesman's flag on 10 minutes as the home side struggled to get in the game. However they were gifted an equaliser when Andy Cope's back pass was easily intercepted and then another defensive mistake shortly after put the home side in the lead. A deflected shot from Shaun Royle on the half hour brought the first team level before Crosshills again went in front after 35 minutes. The rain was now falling heavier and the pitch was turning into a paddy field as the players left for the half time interval. The referee began the second half but after 10 minutes he decided that the pitch was now not fit to continue play and called a halt to the proceedings. Meanwhile the reserves defeated Crosshills reserves 4-0 at Station Road. This coming weekend the first team entertain Trimpell whilst the reserves travel to Bolton County, both kicking off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
2nd March - With the first team having no fixture the spotlight should have fallen on the reserves but their match at a waterlogged Station Road was postponed due to the heavy rain on Friday. This coming weekend the first team travel to Keighley in Yorkshire to play their last away game of the season against Crosshills. The reserves entertain their reserves who will travel in the opposite direction to Station Road and both matches kick off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
24th February - The first team bowed out of the Presidents Cup against Vickerstown at Station Road but not without a fight. The first 15 minutes was all the home side but in the visitors first attack they struck to take the lead and then 5 minutes later when the referee awarded them a controversial penalty which was duly dispatched it looked as though it would be a case of how many the visitors would win by. However shortly before half time Eion Bond reduced the arrears. In the second half David LeMarinel hit the inside of the post from 20 yards as they pressed for an equaliser but in the space of 5 minutes on the hour Vickerstown took advantage of defensive errors to increase their lead to 4-1. The result seemed inevitable but substitute John Ascroft clinically finished on 80 minutes and then 2 minutes later a great strike by Daniel Birkby gave them hope as the visitors were now hanging on but time ran out and Vickerstown move into the next round. Next week the first team have no match but the reserves return to action after their blank weekend when they entertain Todmorden Borough at Station Road which kicks off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
17th February - The first teams run of defeats continued as they travelled to Cumbria for their first ever visit to play Vickerstown. Despite a much improved display from last week, a goal in each half was enough to give the home side the three points and move them to second in the table and leave the first team rooted at the bottom. The reserves gave a lack lustre display at home to Bolton County and lost 1-0. This coming Saturday the first team must face Vickerstown again as they entertain them at Station Road in the Presidents Cup which kicks off at 2.30pm. The reserves have no fixture. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
10th February - The first teams dismal run continued as they were well beaten by near neighbours Croston at Station Road. Playing at home for the first time in 3 months they started badly conceding possession from the kick off and from the resulting corner Croston went into the lead. On fifteen minutes the visitors scored again and added a third after 35 minutes to go in at the interval 3-0 to the good. Any thoughts of a comeback were quickly thwarted as Croston added a fourth early in the second half. The match then petered out and the 4-0 defeat was their 7th in a row and leaves them rooted to the foot of the table. Next week they travel to Cumbria to play a difficult match against Vickerstown who defeated them 6-0 at Station Road earlier in the season. Meanwhile the reserves return to action following their week off as they entertain Bolton County at Station Road. Both matches kick off at 3pm. For further details click on league above.
3rd February - The first team returned to action as they travelled to Morecambe to play second in the table Trimpell. On a bitterly cold day with the biting wind in their favour skipper Daniel Birkby had the first chance of the match but he cleared the bar from close range. The home side hit back and opened the scoring after 25 minutes when a cross from the right was flicked passed Henry Highton at the near post. This spurred on Trimpell and keeper Highton kept his side in the game with a couple of brilliant saves to keep the score to 1-0 at the interval. Despite playing against the elements the first team had most of the possession in the second half but could not break down Trimpell who decided to defend their single goal lead the longer the game continued to earn the three points, a result that keeps the first team at the foot of the table. The reserves also lost 1-0 as they bowed out of the reserve cup at home to Barnoldswick. This coming Saturday the first team entertain near neighbours Croston which kicks off at 3pm whilst the reserves have no fixture. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
27th January - With Station Road still not recovered enough to allow their Cup tie against Vickerstown to go ahead due to the monsoon type conditions earlier in the week the spotlight fell on the reserves who travelled to Keighley to play Crosshills. However their promotion hopes were delivered a blow as their lowly opponents won by 2-1 snatching the three points with an injury time winner. This coming Saturday they entertain Barnoldswick United at Station Road in the quarter final of the reserve cup which kicks off at 2.30pm. The first team travel to Morecambe to play Trimpell which kicks off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
20th January - As one of only three matches to survive the weather in the West Lancashire league the first team travelled to Cumbria to play against BAe Barrow Sports Club in a vital bottom of the table clash. Despite the recent wet weather the pitch was in good condition and in a very even first half the it was the home side who went into the interval a goal in front scored in the 40th minute due to a defensive mix up. The second half saw the first team hit back and it was no surprise when they equalised through Kaffo who hooked the ball in following a corner. The game then appeared to be heading for a draw but the referee had other ideas when he awarded the home side a controversial penalty 2 minutes into injury time which was gratefully converted to give Barrow the three points. Next weekend the first team are at home in the Presidents Cup to Vickerstown which kicks off at 1.30pm whilst the reserves travel to Keighley to play Crosshills which kicks off at 2pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
13th January - With the first team fixture at Station Road being called off due to a waterlogged pitch the spotlight fell on the reserves who travelled to Accrington to play Whinney Hill. For the first 20 minutes the game was even and there was no indication of how easily the reserves would end up winning the game. However once Oliver Sumner opened the scoring they quickly moved into halftime with a 3-0 lead with further goals from David Hogg and Josh Norgate. In the second half they continued to dominate and Qwolabi added the fourth before a lapse in concentration at the back gave the home side a soft goal. Sumner then added his second and Daniel Birkby slotted home the final goal for a 6-1 victory which keeps them in touch of a promotion spot in the table. This Saturday the first team travel to Cumbria to play BAe Barrow whilst the reserves entertain Stoneclough at Station Road with both games kicking off at 2pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
6th January - As the first team had no fixture the spotlight fell on the reserves as they returned to action with a 2nd round reserve cup tie at Station Road against runaway league leaders Garstang. Having been closely defeated twice by Garstang in the league the reserves were clearly looking for revenge and although the final score was a close 2-1 win it could have easily been by a bigger margin. Daniel Birkby scored the opening goal mid way through the first half and Eion Bond increased the lead 10 minutes into the second half. Mark Harrison then missed a penalty before the visitors hit back 20 minutes from the end but the reserves hung on to the lead without too many scares to move into the quarter finals. Next week the first team return to action with the visit of Crosshills from Keighley to Station Road whilst the reserves travel to Whinney Hill. Both these league matches kick off at 2pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
16th December - With the first teams match at Trimpell in Morecambe postponed the spotlight fell on the reserves in their clash at home to 3rd placed Haslingden St Marys. A solid display saw them run out 3-0 winners, a result which moves them just one point behind Haslingden thanks to first half goals from Daniel Birkby and Llyod Balzas. Birkby secured the points in the second half with his second goal. The first team don't return to action until Saturday 12th January when Crosshills are the visitors to Station Road with a 2pm kick off. However the reserves are at home the week before as they entertain runaway league leaders Garstang in the 2nd round of the Reserve Cup which kicks off at 1.30pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
9th December - Due to the very wet weather both the first and reserve team matches were postponed, in fact only two matches in the whole of the league programme survived. Should the weather relent, next week the first team travel to Morecambe to play Trimpell and the reserves entertain Haslingden St Marys at Station Road with both matches kicking off at 2pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.

Before the weekend the AGM will be held on Tuesday starting at 7.30pm in the Cricket Pavilion.

2nd December - The 1st team's dismal away form continued as they lost 5-3 at league leaders Stoneclough. On a sodden surface the eventual score line never looked likely in the first 43 minutes with both teams evening themselves out. However a long ball by the keeper caught out the defence and with Henry Highton in goal deciding to stay on his line the home team centre forward opened the scoring and within a minute they made the half time score 2-0. This quickly became 3-0 straight after the interval but Jordan Smethurst reduced the arrears five minutes later. On the hour Stoneclough again scored twice in a minute to lead 5-1 but the 1st team seemed to find a new lease of life as the leaders appeared to take their foot off the pedal. Daniel Birkby hit the bar, substitute Andrew Burns had one cleared off the line and also hit a post. Eventually they were rewarded when Jordan Smethurst scored his second in the 80th minute and Daniel Birkby rounded off the scoring with a fine strike from 25 yards 2 minutes from time. The reserves home cup tie against Garstang was postponed due to a waterlogged Station Road. Next week the first team entertain BAe Barrow in a typical ‘six pointer' whilst the reserves travel to second placed Burnley Belvedere. Both games kick off at 2pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.

PLEASE NOTE -
Due to clashes with other functions on the 10th December, please note that the AGM will now be held on Tuesday 11th December commencing at 7.30pm in the cricket pavilion.

25th Novembar - The first teams fixture at home to Millom was called off at 10am as rain was falling on an already sodden Station Road to stop the visitors travelling the long distance from Cumbria for a match that may have had to be postponed. The reserves were without a fixture but this coming Saturday they entertain league leaders Garstang in the 2nd round of the Reserve Cup at Station Road which kicks off at 1.30pm. The first team also face their league leaders as they travel to play Stoneclough which kicks off at 2pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
18th November - Both the first team and reserves had no fixtures this Saturday and the reserves also have no match next week. However the first team return to action when they entertain Millom at station Road which kicks off at 2pm. For further details please click on LEAGUE above.

The AGM is now rescheduled as below:

Annual General Meeting
The Executive Committee of Hesketh Bank Association Football Club hereby announce as per the constitution of the Club, the holding of the Annual General Meeting at the Hesketh Bank Cricket Cub Pavilion, Station Road, Hesketh Bank on the evening of Monday, 10th December 2007 and commencing at 8.00 p.m.

AGENDA

1. Minutes of previous AGM

2. Matters arising

3. Chairman's Report

4. Secretary's Report

5. Treasurer's Report

6. Election of Officers · President, Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Executive Members

7. Rule Changes

Any proposals for Election of Officers and Rule Changes must be lodged in writing with the Secretary no later than 2 weeks prior to the meeting.

As per Rule 9 (d), parents of Junior Members have the right of one vote per playing member.

11th November - The first team's dismal run of results continued as they went down 3-2 at home to Lostock St. Gerards, although the performance was a vast improvement on the previous two defeats. On a breezy day they faced the elements in a goalless first half and the only scare was when the visitors hit the crossbar. 15 minutes into the second half John Ascroft opened the scoring and 5 minutes later when Ben Goodson's effort beat the keeper and John Ascroft bundled the ball over the line to make it 2-0 it appeared as if the game was won. However the visitors had other ideas and within the space of 10 minutes scored 3 times to take the points. Meanwhile the reserves hit a club record breaking away victory as they put 12 past Lytham without reply. Both teams have no fixtures next week and the reserves also have no game the week after but the first team entertain Millom at Station Road with a 2pm kick off. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
4th November - Vickerstown from Barrow certainly enjoyed their first ever trip to Hesketh Bank as they thrashed the home side scoring six without reply. This result pushed the first team further down the table and back into what is now appearing like another season trying to avoid relegation. Meanwhile the reserves returned from Wyre Villa with all the points as they moved up into 4th spot following their 3-1 win. Next weekend the first team have another difficult home game as they entertain Lostock St Gerards at Station Road whilst the reserves travel to Lytham Town. Both matches kick off at 2pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
28th October - The first team returned to action with a trip to Norcross & Warbreck who duly completed the double over the first team with a 4-1 win having previously beaten them 2-1 at Station Road earlier in the season. Despite playing some good passing football it was Norcross's more direct style of play that sent them in 2-0 up at the interval. Any hopes of a fight back were quickly dispelled from the kick off when possession was lost and the home side went three up. With 25 minutes remaining matters got worse when Adam Birkby got a nasty facial injury and had to leave the field. Having used the substitutes the first team were down to 10 men and Norcross immediately took advantage to add a fourth. Tony Sergeant returning to first team action over 15 months since breaking his leg scored a consolation from close range from a corner but it was too little to late to avoid another away day defeat. Meanwhile the reserves moved into the next round of the reserve cup with an excellent 3-1 win at Blackpool Wren Rovers. Next weekend the first team entertain Cumbrian side Vickerstown whilst the reserves travel to Stoneclough. Both games kick off at 2pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
21st October - With the first team fixture at Crosshills being cancelled due to their opponents being involved in the Keighley County Cup the spotlight fell on the reserves at home to runaway leaders Garstang. On a lovely sunny autumn day a decent sized crowd were entertained with the reserves dominating the first half and deservedly leading 1-0 at the interval thanks to a goal from Josh Norgate. However the visitors produced the goods in the second half showing why they are the leaders battling back to score twice without reply and take the points. Next weekend there is no senior fixture at Station Road as the first team return to action away at Norcross & Warbreck whilst the reserves will be looking to get back to winning ways as they travel to Blackpool Wren Rovers in the first round of the reserve cup. This match kicks off at 2.30pm whilst the first team fixture kicks off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
14th October - The first team gained a valuable three points against fellow strugglers Whinney Hill from Accrington with a 2-0 win at Station Road. The crowd was as thin as the visitors bench who had sacked their manager during the week and they turned up with just 11 players. To their credit they defended very well to such an extent that the first half passed by with virtually no chances created by either team. However the second half began with the first team beginning to press forward with more purpose. Eventually they were rewarded with 20 minutes remaining when Jordan Smethurst celebrated his 18th birthday by smashing home with a left foot strike which gave the keeper no chance. John Ascroft killed the game off in the final 10 minutes to earn his side the three points. The reserves suffered a second defeat in row losing 4-1 at Stoneclough. This coming Saturday the first team travel to Yorkshire to play Crosshills whilst the reserves entertain league leaders Garstang at Station Road. Both games kick off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.

8th October -

Annual General Meeting

The Executive Committee of Hesketh Bank Association Football Club hereby announce as per the constitution of the Club, the holding of the Annual General Meeting at the Hesketh Bank Cricket Cub Pavilion, Station Road, Hesketh Bank on the evening of Tuesday, 13th November 2007 and commencing at 8.00 p.m.

AGENDA
1. Minutes of previous AGM
2. Matters arising
3. Chairman's Report
4. Secretary's Report
5. Treasurer's Report
6. Election of Officers
• President, Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Executive Members
7. Rule Changes

Any proposals for Election of Officers and Rule Changes must be lodged in writing with the Secretary no later than 2 weeks prior to the meeting.

As per Rule 9 (d), parents of Junior Members have the right of one vote per playing member.

7th October - The first team suffered another heavy defeat on their travels this time losing 5-2 in Cumbria at Furness Rovers. Once again poor defending early in the game saw them 2-0 down and eventually 3-0 down at the interval although at 2-0 Oliver Greaves missed an opportunity to reduce the arrears but he missed a penalty. However Adam Thompson did score early in the second half only for the home side to quickly regain their three goal advantage. Young Shaun Royle scored his first senior goal but once again the home side finished the scoring and the end result puts 1st team back into the relegation zone. Meanwhile the reserves were surprisingly beaten 2-0 away at Todmorden Borough. This coming Saturday the 1st team have a real ‘six pointer' as they entertain bottom club Whinney Hill at Station Road whilst the reserves will be looking to quickly get back to winning ways as they travel to Stoneclough with both games kicking off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
30th September - With the first team having no game, it was the turn of the Reserves to take the spotlight by moving up to 2nd place in the League following a 4 -1 victory over West Lancs League newcomers Lytham Town. Hesketh Bank had several chances to take the lead but were denied twice by the woodwork before Lytham went ahead against the run of play. Their lead was short lived however with David Hogg equalising soon after. Hesketh duly took the lead before half time when Oliver Sumner slotted home. The second half was a matter of how many we could score but in the end it was only two. Yousuf Kaffo scored his first goal for the club to make it 3-1 and Oliver Sumer made it 4 when he grabbed his second of the match

This weekend sees both teams on long journeys with the First Team at Furness Rovers in Barrow and the Reserves at Todmorden Borough in Yorkshire.
24th September - Following last Saturday's fine victory at Croston, the first team came crashing down to earth this week being humiliated 6-2 at Lostock St. Gerard's. Following a goal inside a minute, defensive errors continued and 20 minutes later Lostock were ahead 4-0. A mini revival then took place and goals from Lee Malliband and a penalty converted by John Ascroft saw the home team take a 4-2 lead into half time. The second half Hesketh played much better overall but the defensive frailties were again apparent as Lostock added another two in the second half.

The Reserves moved up into 3rd place in Reserve Division 2 with a comprehensive 5-0 victory over Mill Hill St Peters despite playing all but 10 minutes of the match with 10 men. Eion Bond notched a hat trick with the other scorers being Oliver Sumner and Turgay Arli.
15th September - The first team made the short trip to near neighbours Croston and on arrival were immediately impressed by the home side's new pitch which was in excellent condition. The match began with both sides playing good passing football and the first team had the better of the early exchanges. This was eventually rewarded when Richard Burns headed home from close range after 20 minutes. Several opportunities were created but Croston equalised 15 minutes later with a bizarre goal when keeper Henry Highton's clearance hit the back of a defender and fell invitingly for the home side's centre forward to go in at the interval all square. Croston were in control for the best part of the second half and missed a couple of clear opportunities before they eventually took a deserved lead with 20 minutes remaining. Not to be out done the first team dragged themselves back into the match and with 5 minutes remaining following a flurry of corners skipper Morgan Dogson powerfully headed home the equaliser. In the second minute of extra time a cross from the right caused confusion in the home defence and the ball fell kindly for Jamie Shaw who gratefully accepted the chance to score the winner. The reserves drew 0-0 at home to league leaders Burnley Belvedere and they felt they should have claimed all three points especially with veteran Andy Cope missing a penalty on his 40th birthday. Next weekend the first team travel the short distance to Lostock St Gerrads whilst the reserves entertain Mill Hill St Peters at Station Road with both games kicking off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.
15th September - Hesketh Bank Association Football Club are pleased to announce that their planning application submitted to West Lancashire District Council was successful for the erection of single storey clubhouse comprising changing rooms, physiotherapy, fitness rooms and clubroom. Provision of two all-weather sports pitches together with 4m high boundary fencing and 10m high lighting masts and a new car park and alterations to existing vehicular/pedestrian access. The club are keen to stress that this facility is not just for football but is open for the general community of Hesketh Bank and surrounding areas and welcomes input from any interested parties.

The club are now in the process of consulting the architects about building in two stages. The first stage will be erecting the all weather pitches and changing facilities and detailed plans will be submitted in due course. In the meantime an application will be made to the Football Foundation for significant funding for the project and other interested bodies. The Parish Council have already pledged £50,000 to the project subject to the main funding from the Football Foundation being successful.

9th September - The first team entertained top Manchester Premier League side Prestwich Heys in the first round of the Lancashire Amateur Shield at Station Road and although they eventually lost 3-2 they gave a good account of themselves. On a lovely sunny day with the visitors bringing several supporters the first team began the better of the two sides and took an early lead thanks to a fine move being finished well by Richard Burns as their opponents struggled to get themselves into the match. Adam Thompson added a second after 25 minutes following a challenge on the keeper by Richard Burns. The visitors had a chance to get back into the game ten minutes later when the referee awarded them a penalty but the spot kick was smashed against the crossbar. However the referee awarded a second penalty five minutes later this time adjudging keeper Henry Highton had brought down their forward and this time they made no mistake to go in at the interval 2-1 down. Almost straight from the kick off they equalised with ease as the defence was split with an excellent through ball. Prestwich Heys then took control of the match but did not create any clear cut chances and with 5 minutes to go the referee gave the home side a penalty for hand ball but John Ascroft hit the kick high and wide. With extra time looming the visitors pounced when keeper Henry Highton couldn't hang on to a high ball under a strong challenge and the loose ball was smashed home. The tie looked settled but Richard Burns and substitute Zac Gibbs both had chances to equalise in the dying minutes. Meanwhile the reserves suffered their first defeat of the season losing 2-0 at Garstang. Next week the first team return to league action with the short trip to Croston whilst the reserves will be looking to get back to winning ways with the visit of league leaders Burnley Belvedere to Station Road. Both games kick off at 3pm. For further details click on LEAGUE above.

2nd September 2007 - The first team gained their first win of the season with a 4-2 victory at Whinney Hill and as a result they moved out of the relegation zone. On a typical windy day at Whinney Hill the first team had the best of the elements in the first half and made full use of them. It was no surprise when after 10 minutes John Ascroft opened the scoring sliding the ball under the advancing keeper. Adam Thompson added a second 15 minutes later with a glancing header from a free kick on the right. He added his second goal when his direct free kick was deflected by the wall past the keeper shortly before the interval which gave his side a commanding 3-0 lead at half time. Now facing a strong wind it was thought more would have been seen from the hosts but for the first ten minutes it looked more likely that the visitors would increase their lead. John Ascroft duly obliged with his second goal of the afternoon smashing the ball past the keeper having been put through by Jamie Shaw. Then they took their foot off the pedal and this allowed Whinney Hill to get back in the game with two quick goals. The first a fine individual effort with a finish which gave keeper Henry Highton no chance and the second shortly after from the penalty spot. With more than 20 minutes left the hosts pushed on to try and reduce the arrears but the visitors responded well and should have gone further ahead but substitute Josh Norgate missed from close range. Henry Highton was called upon to make one fine save but the points were in the bag when the referee blew for time.

The reserves returned to action after their blank weekend and dispatched Coppull United at Station Road hitting them for six without reply.

Next week the first team are involved in the Lancashire Shield and have been handed a tough home match against top Manchester League side and one of the favourites Prestwich Heys. This match kicks off at 2.30pm whilst the reserves travel for a top of table clash at Garstang which kicks off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.

26th August - The first team finally got their first point of the season from their 4th game which was enough to take them off the foot of the table. Entertaining current leaders Stoneclough at Station Road was never going to be easy although the visitors did not have a very good first half and on reflection this was were they could have been well beaten. Nevertheless Oliver Sumner eventually bundled the ball over the line following a fine save by the keeper from Adam Thompson's close range effort after 20 minutes to give them a well deserved lead. Good work from Ben Goodson carved open a great chance to double the score shortly after but his shot went just over the bar. Stern words from the Stoneclough manager did the trick for the visitors who had the better of the second period and were worth an equaliser although keeper Henry Highton will have been disappointed as he was caught in no mans land and was coolly lobbed by the Stoneclough centre forward. Thy now travel to Whinney Hill next week and victory will move them out of the relegation zone. The reserves return to action after their blank weekend with a home fixture against Coppull United. Both matches kick off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
19th August - The first team are still looking for their first point of the season after losing 6-3 at Tempest United. The match was delayed for 15 minutes whilst a replacement referee was found and eventually the match got underway on a lush surface with rain steadily falling. The home side settled first and opened the scoring after 10 minutes. The defence was weakened when Sam Bamber had to leave the field following a bad challenge which went unpunished by the referee. Tempest added a second 15 minutes later but on the stroke of half time Jordan Smethurst reduced the arrears following good work from Daniel Birkby. After 10 minutes into the second half Tempest increased their advantage to go 3-1 up but a spirited reply saw the home keeper saving well from Jamie Shaw and a couple of further efforts being cleared off the line. Eventually a Daniel Birkby header at the far post pulled one back only for the home side to score again shortly after. Not to be out done left back James Clegg made the score 4-3 with a 20 yarder which was deflected past the keeper. Tempest scored two late goals to give them a flattering scoreline and the final result leaves the first team stranded at the bottom of the table. Meanwhile the reserves who had drawn 1-1 at home to Whinney Hill the previous Monday found themselves 2-0 down at home to a strong Milnthorpe Corinthians but stormed back to record a fine 3-2 victory which moves them into 3rd spot in the table. They are without a fixture over the Bank Holiday weekend but the first team will be looking to open their account as they entertain Stoneclough at Station Road on Saturday which kicks off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
12th August - For the second week running a debatable penalty cost the 1st team as they lost 2-1 at home to Nocross & Warbreck. In contrast to last week's opening fixture at Millom the summer had finely arrived and on a good surface it should have suited the 1st teams passing game. However in truth it was the visitors who began well and were rewarded after just 10 minutes with a fine shot from outside the area which gave Henry Highton no chance as it hit the back of the net. Richard Burns should have equalised almost immediately after when he found himself clear with just the keeper to beat but his lofted shot over the keeper went wide. Worse was to follow when Jordan Smethurst's last ditch tackle was adjudged to have been a foul and the referee awarded a penalty from his view and booked the player. This was duly despatched to put the visitors two up after 25 minutes. Ten minutes from the interval Jamie Shaw won the ball on the halfway line and a then dribbled his way past several opponents before coolly slotting the ball past the keeper to reduce the arrears with a fantastic individual goal. The second half was a dull affair with the visitors happy to hold on to their lead but were rarely threatened and they duly won the points. In contrast the reserves have made a solid start to their season returning from Blackburn with another 3 points and a clean sheet in their 1-0 victory at Mill Hill St.Peters. They are at home on Monday night against Whinney Hill which kicks off at 6.30pm. On Saturday the first team will be looking to open their account as they travel to play Tempest United whilst the reserves entertain Milnthorpe Corinthians at Station Road. Both matches kick off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
6th August - The first team began the new season with the long trip to Cumbria to play Millom. On an immaculate pitch in drizzely rain a Daniel Birkby strike gave them a 1-0 advantage at the interval. However a five minute spell early in the second half saw the home side score three quick goals without reply. Despite this setback the team did not give up and rallied with Daniel Birkby scoring twice to complete his hatrick and draw the sides level. Young Jordan Smethurst then hit a post but with time running out the referee gave a controversial penalty to Millom who glady converted to give them the points. Meanwhile the reserves made a solid start to their season at Station Road with a 2-0 win over Wyre Villa with both goals from David Hogg. This coming Saturday the first team are at home to Norcross & Warbreck whilst the reserves travel to Mill Hill St Peters in Blackburn. Both games kick off at 3pm. For further details click on ‘LEAGUE' above.
15th July - The first team have arranged a couple of more friendlies before they start their West Lancashire League campaign with a trip to Millom on Saturday 4th August.

All matches are at Station Road as follows:

Tuesday 24th July v Royal Garrison – kick off 7pm

Thursday 26th July v. Fleetwood Hesketh – kick off 7pm

Saturday 28th July v Holker Old Boys –kick off 3pm

Tuesday 31st v Halsall – kick off 7pm

8th July - Pre-season training is now well underway as the seniors prepare for the new season. With Kirkham & Wesham joining the North West Counties League the knock on effect is that the 1st team escape relegation and begin their season with a trip to Cumbria to play Millom on Saturday 4th August. Meanwhile the reserves entertain Wyre Villa at Station Road kicking off at 3pm. Before that however there will be a series of friendly matches with confirmation at present of the 1st team playing Premier League side and near neighbours Fleetwood Hesketh on Thursday 26th July with a 7pm kick off and Holker Old Boys from the North West Counties League travelling down from Cumbria to play us on Saturday 28th July with a 3pm kick off. Further friendlies for the 1st and reserve teams will be announced when confirmed. For further details about the opening fixtures in August in the West Lancashire League click on ‘LEAGUE' above.