Emley AFC News

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May 9th	Wakefield FC presentation night winners Wes Milnes scooped three awards at Wakefield's annual presentation evening at the Beluga Lounge in Wakefield on Friday night. Milnes won the awards for management player of the year and supporters player of the year along with the Peter Maude Award - given to the player with the most man of the match awards. Goalkeeper Andy Woods was the winner of the players player of the year whilst centre back Craig Laight was named most improved player. Reserve team award winners were Lee Cockerham (players player of the year) and Ian Brock (managers player of the year). Richard Lavery won the under 19 award for the players player of the year and Ryan Jagger took home the under 19 managers player of the year trophy.
Apr 26th	Mossley v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield were held to a goalless draw at Mossley in their final game of the season. Wakefield started brightly and had a glorious chance to open the scoring in the eleventh minute when Chris Howarth's through ball sent Tom Denton clean through on goal. The Wakefield striker's lobbed effort only found the side netting though, with the unmarked Delroy Ferguson screaming for a pass across the penalty area. Denton then had a header well saved by Mossley goalkeeper Ashley Connor. The best chance the home side could muster in the first half was a long range drive in the final minute that brought a finger tip save from Andy Woods. Wakefield had the ball in the net seven minutes into the second half, but unfortunately Howarth had strayed offside. Ferguson then saw his low drive kept out by another good save from Ashley Connor. Mossley's best chance of the game came on the hour mark when Paul Garvey found space in the box but he shot tamely at Woods. At the other end Ferguson had another good chance saved by Ashley Connor and Howarth dragged a shot wide from a good position after a superb through ball by Graham Marchant. Wakefield continued to enjoy the better of the chances with Howarth unlucky on two occasions in the closing moments. Firstly his low shot brought another good save from the in form Ashley Connor and then he flashed a shot inches over the crossbar. Mossley almost snatched victory in injury time as the ball bobbled dangerously around in the Wakefield area, Andy Woods pulling off a tremendous triple save to keep the scores goalless. Result - Mossley 0 Wakefield 0 WAKEFIELD FC MAN OF THE MATCH - Craig Laight. WAKEFIELD - Andy Woods (c), Steve Nicholson, Phil Turner, Declan Normaschild, Wes Milnes, Craig Laight, Delroy Ferguson, Tom Denton, Graham Marchant (Chris Hitchings 86), Chris Howarth, Jonathan Jackson. Subs not used - Barry Rothera, Richard Lavery. MOSSLEY - Ashley Connor, Michael Fish, Leon Henry, Martin Allison, Lee Connor (c), Nicky Thompson, David Boardman, Paul Garvey, Lee Blackshaw (Gareth Hamlet 23), Richard Conway (Daryl Weston 82), Danny Ryan. Sub not used - Stephen Sheil. Attendance - 151 Referee - Mr D W Stewart Assistant Referees - Mr S R Grove, Mr M Watson
Apr 22nd	Wakefield v Bamber Bridge Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield victorious against play off hopefuls Wakefield earned a deserved 2-0 win and dented Bamber Bridge's play off hopes after an outstanding performance at College Grove. Wakefield defended superbly well throughout the match and thoroughly deserved the three points after containing the visitors very well. Bamber had all the first half possesion but couldn't put the ball in the net. The closest they came was a Danny Mahoney header that was headed off the line by Phil Turner. Wakefield punished Bridge in first half injury time when Chris Howarth headed home Chris Hitchings' left wing corner. Wakefield extended their lead on 58 minutes. Good work by Adam Jones saw him win the ball, which was then picked up by Howarth. Howarth's low shot was pushed out by Bridge goalkeeper Terry McCormick but only into the path of Tom Denton, who finished well from a tight angle. Bridge continued to struggle to create chances, despite having a good share of the possession. Denton could have made the game safe for Wakefield on 69 minutes but he sliced wide from six yards after a good low ball in by Graham Marchant. A further Wakefield chance fell to Wes Milnes but he headed wide under pressure from McCormick. The best chance Bridge could muster was a late drive by Steve Brown that was well tipped over by the alert Andy Woods. Result - Wakefield 2 (Howarth 45+2, Denton 58) Bamber Bridge 0. WAKEFIELD FC MAN OF THE MATCH - Wes Milnes. WAKEFIELD - Andy Woods (c), Steve Nicholson, Phil Turner, Jonathan Jackson, Wes Milnes, Craig Laight, Adam Jones (Declan Normaschild 87), Tom Denton, Graham Marchant (Dominique Blair 87), Chris Howarth, Chris Hitchings (Delroy Ferguson 71). BAMBER BRIDGE - Terry McCormick, Glen Steel, Tom Ince, Steve Williams (Ryan Salmon 68), Adam Tong, Ryan Bowen, Steve Brown, Danny Mahoney, Neil Zarac, Ryan-Zico Black, Alex Porter (c). Subs not used - Martin Crowder, Mark Edmeads. Attendance - 85 Referee - Mr R W Martin Assistant Referees - Mr D P Godwin, Mr R Rees
Apr 19th	Wakefield v Harrogate Railway Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield leave it late to see off Railway Wakefield came from behind to score twice in the last twenty minutes to beat Harrogate Railway at College Grove. Wakefield started brightly with Declan Normaschild and Delroy Ferguson both forcing good saves from Tom Morgan. Chris Howarth then ran the length of the field before rounding Tom Morgan but opting to try and square the ball when it looked easier to score. Wakefield were made to pay for their missed chances when Rob Morgan placed a shot into the top corner after a scramble in the Wakefield penalty area. Wakefield gradually found their way back into the game during the second half. Graham Marchant's low drive was well saved by Tom Morgan after good work by substitute Chris Hitchings down the right. Wakefield threw Adam Jones and Tom Denton into the fold and the substitutions were to make all the difference. Denton had an immediate impact as he headed wide from Phil Turner's corner with his first touch. It was Howarth who put Wakefield back on level terms on 73 minutes when he headed in a superb cross from Hitchings. Four minutes later Wakefield were in front. The Harrogate defence were struggling to cope with Denton and he headed a deep cross from Steve Nicholson into the net off the far post. Wakefield survived some late Harrogate pressure to secure the three points. Result - Wakefield 2 (Howarth 73, Denton 77) Harrogate Railway Athletic 1 (R Morgan 26) WAKEFIELD FC MAN OF THE MATCH - Jonathan Jackson. WAKEFIELD - Andy Woods (c), Steve Nicholson, Phil Turner, Declan Normaschild (Adam Jones 62), Wes Milnes, Craig Laight, Delroy Ferguson (Tom Denton 68), Jonathan Jackson, Graham Marchant, Chris Howarth, Will Ryder (Chris Hitchings 45). HARROGATE RAILWAY ATHLETIC - Tom Morgan, Dan Thirkell, Matthew Morgan, Carl Fox, Rob Morgan (c), James Riley, Ryan Haigh (Chris Rosindale 70), Matthew James, Ben Jones (Nick Smith 89), Richard Marshall, Scott Ryan. Substitute Not Used - Garry Tyson. Attendance - 107 Referee - Mr J R Tyas Assistant Referees - Mr B P Ballantyne, Mr G Freer

Apr 15th	Wakefield v Newcastle Blue Star Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield outclassed by in form Newcastle Newcastle recorded their sixth straight victory with a deserved win at College Grove. Wakefield started the game brightly. Chris Howarth hit the outside of the post in the second minute and Declan Normaschild drove wide of the target shortly afterwards. It was the visitors who took the lead though in the 9th minute with a superb strike by captain Mark Birch. Birch struck a sweet volley from out on the right wing which looped over Andy Woods into the far side of the net. Wakefield came back at Newcastle as Will Ryder and Howarth both saw efforts fly just off target. The equaliser came on 31 minutes when a Delroy Ferguson header on was picked up by Graham Marchant, who did superbly well to hold off a challenge before finishing sweetly inside the far post. Marchant almost scored his second of the game five minutes later after Ferguson's jinking run left him with a clear shot at goal from 10 yards out. Newcastle goalkeeper Dan Lowson got down well, however, to make a smart save. Newcastle dominated the second period and deservedly went home with the three points. On 58 minutes no one picked up Lee Novak from a corner and he headed in unchallenged from inside the six yard area. Mark Sheeran then headed just over and Andy Woods pulled off a great save to tip over Neal Hooks' long range strike. Newcastle extended their lead with five minutes left when Dave McTiernan's shot deflected into the net off a Wakefield defender. Wakefield could find no response with their north eastern visitors looking more likely to add to their tally than Wakefield were to equalise. Hooks found space in the area on 88 minutes but fired just over and then in injury time McTiernan's low drive was well stopped by Woods. Result - Wakefield 1 (Marchant 31) Newcastle Blue Star 3 (Birch 9, Novak 58, McTiernan 85) WAKEFIELD FC MAN OF THE MATCH - Andy Woods. WAKEFIELD - Andy Woods (c), Steve Nicholson, Phil Turner, Declan Normaschild, Wes Milnes, Craig Laight, Delroy Ferguson (Tom Denton 71), Jonathan Jackson (Adam Jones 81), Graham Marchant, Chris Howarth, Will Ryder (Chris Hitchings 86). NEWCASTLE BLUE STAR - Dan Lowson, Mark Birch (c), Leon Scott, Chris Carr, Dean Gordon, Neal Hooks, David McTiernan, Ben Webster, Lee Novak (Ben Pringle 78), Mark Sheeran, Chris Emms. Subs Not Used - Sean Davies, Liam Atkin. Attendance - 50 Referee - Mr M Griffiths Assistant Referees - Mr R Critchley, Mr C Padgett
Apr 12th	Bradford Park Avenue v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield undone by late Bradford goals Wakefield surrended a half time lead to lose 3-1 at local rivals Bradford Park Avenue. The game was played on a very poor playing surface, with the start of the match delayed by 15 minutes to allow further time to remove standing water from the pitch. Wakefield made one change to the side that beat FC United with Adam Jones stepping into midfield in place of Will Ryder, who was unavailable. Wakefield had the better of the early exchanges. Inside 5 minutes Chris Howarth ran clear but his shot was blocked by the legs of Avenue goalkeeper Jon Worsnop. At the other end Andy Woods was on hand to deny Tris Whitman at his near post, after the Bradford man had beaten the offside trap with a well timed run. Steve Nicholson placed an effort just over the bar on 28 minutes as Wakefield continued to threaten the scorelines. It was Howarth who put Wakefield in front 9 minutes before the break with a superb goal. Wakefield's leading scorer picked up the ball 20 yards from goal after it was only half cleared, before taking a touch and curling it into the top corner. After half time Avenue came out and hit straight back, equalising within two minutes of the restart. Poor marking from a corner left Mark Betts with an easy headed chance. The excellent Jones drove inches wide for Wakefield after letting fly from 30 yards on 73 minutes, as the game could have swung either way with the teams locked at 1-1. However, it was the home side who were to run out the winners. With 7 minutes left substitute Mike Moseley forced the ball in after a deep free kick and then Paul Gedman headed in at the near post to leave a scoreline which flattered Avenue and was not reflective of the game. Result: Bradford Park Avenue 3 (Betts 47, Moseley 83, Gedman 85) Wakefield 1 (Howarth 36) WAKEFIELD FC MAN OF THE MATCH - Adam Jones. WAKEFIELD - Andy Woods (c), Steve Nicholson, Phil Turner, Declan Normaschild, Wes Milnes, Craig Laight, Delroy Ferguson (Dominique Blair 88), Adam Jones (Chris Hitchings 88), Tom Denton (Graham Marchant 65), Chris Howarth, Jonathan Jackson. BRADFORD PARK AVENUE - Jon Worsnop, Darren Hockenhull, Danny Warner, Mark Hotte, Paul Stoneman, Tom Baker (c), Chris Williams (Paul Collins 81), Gareth Morris (Ross Clegg 70), Paul Gedman, Tris Whitman (Mike Moseley 63), Mark Betts. Attendance - 574 Referee - Mr R J Holdsworth Assistant Referees - Mr M Castle, Mr D S Midgley
Apr 5th	Wakefield v FC United of Manchester Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield victorious in front of bumper crowd Wakefield held out to earn a deserved 3-2 victory against a lacklustre FC United side. Wakefield were the better of the two sides in a careful first half. Delroy Ferguson should have done better on the quarter hour mark after being put through by Will Ryder but he sliced his shot well wide. A Jonathan Jackson header was deflected wide after Chris Howarth's corner four minutes later. Wakefield took the lead on 32 minutes when Ryder's cross left Sam Ashton stranded in the FC United goal and Howarth was on hand to place the ball into the net at the far post, despite the best efforts of two defenders on the goalline. Howarth had two further chances to score before half time. First he sliced wide after Ferguson's through ball had released him and then he ran clear on goal, but failed to capitalise on a slip by Ashton, as the FC United keeper recovered to get a hand to the ball. Wakefield continued to dominate in the second half as Ferguson fired over the bar and then hit the defender on the line after beating Ashton to the ball. FC United began to get back into the game as the half wore on. Phil Power headed over from 8 yards and Jerome Wright's shot was well saved by Andy Woods. Wakefield extended their lead on 72 minutes when Declan Normaschild's weighted through ball sent Ferguson clear. Ferguson kept his cool to slot the ball past Ashton. Three minutes later, Howarth beat the offside trapand rounded Ashton but fired into the side netting from a tight angle. FC United pulled a goal back on 78 minutes. Power's shot struck a defender and hit the cross bar but fell for substitute Simon Carden who headed in from six yards. FC United began to threaten to equalise as Stuart Rudd headed wide at the far post and then struck the outside of the post with a low drive in the last minute. However, Wakefield broke away two minutes into injury time and Ferguson squared the ball well to leave Graham Marchant with a tap in to make the score 3-1. FC United pulled a further goal back in the final minute of added time when centre back Dave Chadwick curled the ball into the bottom corner from the edge of the area. But it was too late for FC United as Wakefield recorded a deserved win in front of a record crowd of 1,378. RESULT- Wakefield 3 (Howarth 32, Ferguson 72, Marchant 90+2) FC United of Manchester 2 (Carden 78, Chadwick 90+4 WAKEFIELD FC MAN OF THE MATCH - Chris Howarth. WAKEFIELD - Andy Woods (c), Steve Nicholson, Phil Turner, Declan Normaschild, Wes Milnes, Craig Laight, Delroy Ferguson (Adam Jones 90+3), Jonathan Jackson, Tom Denton (Graham Marchant 77), Chris Howarth (Chris Hitchings 88), Will Ryder. FC UNITED OF MANCHESTER - Sam Ashton, Kyle Harrop, Bradley Howard, James Holden (Rory Patterson 61), Dave Chadwick (c), Rob Nugent, Dave Swarbrick (Stuart Rudd 61), Jamie Baguley (Simon Carden 73), Nick Robinson, Phil Power, Jerome Wright. Attendance - 1,378 (College Grove record for Wakefield FC) Referee - Mr D Lawrence Assistant Referees - Mr M Birkett, Mr N Mason Phil Rann Report Wakefield taught FC United of Manchester a lesson in attacking football in an extremely entertaining game where the 3-2 scoreline flattered the visitors who came in large numbers to College Grove. With Jay Sobers out until the end of the season, Jonathan Jackson came back into the side at right back while Steve Nicholson moved into midfield. There were few chances early on in the match but one did fall to Delroy Ferguson but he sliced his left foot shot wide when well placed, and although FC United had more possession in the first quarter of the game, they caused few problems for Wakefield keeper Andy Woods. The home side took the lead just after the half hour mark when a deep cross from the left wing was left by FC United keeper Sam Ashton as he thought the ball was going out for a goal kick until Chris Howarth appeared. He managed to get the ball on target and two FC United defenders managed to fall over instead of clearing the ball and Wakefield were in front. It should have been 2-0 on the stroke of half time when Howarth was free again this time on the penalty spot from Ferguson's flick but he tried to chip Ashton instead of blasting the ball into the net and the keeper claimed the second attempt. There were plenty of chances in comparison early in the second half and they all fell to the home side. Ferguson only had the keeper to beat twelve yards out but curled his shot beyond the far post and then he was involved again minutes later when Ashton missed what looked like a simple catch from a Jackson cross. The ball fell to Ferguson but his shot was cleared off the line by a FC United defender. Wakefield didn't have to wait too long for a second goal though. On 70 minutes Declan Normaschild broke from a FC United corner, waited until Howarth and Ferguson were onside and then slipped a delightful ball through to Ferguson who this time made no mistake, passing the ball into the net past Ashton. It should have been 3-0 with fifteen minutes left when another excellent move forward set up Howarth, who rounded Ashton comfortably but then fired his shot into the side netting with Tom Denton waiting for the square ball into the net. Will Ryder fired well wide when well placed inside the penalty area as Wakefield were creating all the opportunities. As is always the case though when you don't take your chances, the match isn't safe and Wakefield handed FC United a way back into the match with just over ten minutes left. A nothing ball into the box was not cleared by the defence, Woods made a good block but the ball fell to another FC United player who couldn't miss from five yards out. Another good break from the home side gave Howarth a chance to finish the match off but his right foot effort was wide of the far post with Ashton beaten. It would have been a crime if FC United had found an equalising goal, but they nearly did in the 88th minute when a header from a corner struck the bottom of the post and went wide with Woods at full stretch. Wakefield substitute Graham Marchant looked to have finally put the game beyond doubt when he slotted home Wakefield's third in stoppage time after another excellent run from Ferguson and an unselfish pass across to him, but FC United scored again in the final minute of stoppage time when a game of pinball inside the Wakefield area led to a good finish past Woods from twelve yards. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson (Hitchings 90), Jackson, Denton (Marchant 81), Howarth (Jones 90), Ryder. Attendance: 1,378 MOM: Normaschild.
Mar 29th	Chorley v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield's unbeaten away run came to an end as Chorley came from behind to win the game at Victory Park. Wakefield were the better side throughout the first half and dealt with the torrential rain and the poor pitch much better than their opponents. Chris Howarth had a glorious chance to put Wakefield in front on 10 minutes when he raced clear but he fired straight down Peter Collinge's throat and the Chorley goalkeeper was able to beat the ball away. Howarth was causing the Chorley defence all sorts of problems down the right hand side and his drive across the face of goal was just in front of the arriving Tom Denton and the big Wakefield striker could not get a toe to the ball. A driven ball in by Will Ryder was then placed wide by Denton from six yards as he struggled to get the ball out from under his feet. Denton's goalbound shot was then well blocked after a good cross from Delroy Ferguson at the midway point in the half. Wakefield then finally went in front on 31 minutes. Steve Nicholson's ball in was misjudged by Collinge who was under pressure from Denton. The Chorley goalkeeper got a finger to the ball but could only push it further into the net to gift Wakefield the lead. Chorley were soon back on level terms however. There seemed to be no danger when Adam Farrell picked up the ball 25 yards out, but the Wakefield defence did not close him down quickly enough and he thundered an unstoppable drive past Andy Woods from long range. Will Ryder placed a curling shot inches wide and Howarth was only just off target with a close range near post header as the sides went in at half time on level terms. At half time Wakefield would have expected to come out and win the match in the second half, but Chorley upped their game and contained their opponents much better. Chorley scored the winning goal on 66 minutes when Cabbar Bagdagi was first to a right wing free kick to send a looping header past Woods. Wakefield were not creating chances and could not get back into the match. The closest they came was a Wes Milnes header deep into injury time that was tipped round the post by Collinge. Result: Chorley 2 - 1 Wakefield WAKEFIELD FC MAN OF THE MATCH - Steve Nicholson. WAKEFIELD - Andy Woods (c), Steve Nicholson, Phil Turner, Declan Normaschild, Wes Milnes, Craig Laight, Delroy Ferguson, Adam Jones, Tom Denton, Chris Howarth, Will Ryder. Sub: Graham Marchant (for Ryder), Chris Hitchings (for Ferguson), Jay Sobers (nu). CHORLEY - Peter Collinge, Paul Sparrow, Ian Taylor, James Mullineux, Liam Coyne, Chris Brookes (c), Daniel Pilkington (Martin Clark 89), Keiran Fletcher, Adam Farrell (Luke Walker 85), Daniel Douglas-Pringle, Cabbar Bagdagi (Jordan Goodeve 80). Attendance - 187 Referee - Mr B McGill Assistant Referees - Mr N Barnard, Mr A Worthington
Mar 25th	Wakefield v Garforth Town Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield were held to a goalless draw by Garforth at College Grove. The game was evenly contested with both sides in the end having to settle for a point. Tom Denton's header was hacked clear from inside the six yard box and Will Ryder fired inches wide after good work by Jay Sobers during the first half. At the other end Andy Woods was in fine form to make a finger tip save to keep out a header from point blank range. There was a long delay at half time as an injury to the referee, who was officiating his last game before retirement, meant a replacement official was required. Local referee Ian Knee was on hand and quickly made his way to the ground so the game could be completed. The second half saw few chances for either side. Wakefield did hit the cross bar early in the half following a deep cross but the ball was cleared off the line as it bounced down. Late in the game Wakefield had a couple of shots charged down but failed to really trouble the Garforth goalkeeper. Result: Wakefield 0 - 0 Garforth Town Wakefield FC man of the match: Wes Milnes. Attendance: 125. Referee: G Atkins. Assistant Referees: D P Burton, M Walsh. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Denton, Howarth, Ryder Subs: Jones (for Sobers), Hitchings (for Ferguson), Blair (nu) Garforth Town: Spratt, Turner, Small, Renshaw, Carrick, Harding C, Ryan, Williams D, Brown , Harding M, Kelly Subs: Simpkins (for Brown), Williams (nu), De Melo (for Ryan) Phil Rann's Report Wakefield drew with Garforth in a match that will probably only be remembered for it being 'a tale of two referees'. Neither side created much in either half though Wakefield did hit the bar from a corner early in the second period after the referee had been changed at the interval because of injury. A 15 minute delay was put into action as another linesman made his way to the ground. The draw helped neither team and left Wakefield five points behind FC United of Manchester in fifth. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson (Hitchings 81), Sobers (Jones 73), Denton, Howarth, Ryder. Sub not used: Blair Attendance: 125 MOM: Turner.
Mar 22nd	Bridlington Town v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield earned their sixth straight away victory in the league with a comprehensive 4-0 win at Bridlington. During the six games, Wakefield have only conceded two goals. There were several changes to the side that won at Mossley. Wes Milnes and Chris Howarth both returned after being unavailable for the previous two matches and replaced Jonathan Jackson and Adam Jones in the starting line up. Tom Denton returned after an ankle injury with Graham Marchant dropping to the bench. One further change saw Phil Turner return after an illness and start in place of Chris Hitchings who was unavailable due to work commitments. Dominique Blair had picked up an injury in the Reserves' 1-1 draw with Guiseley on Friday night so missed out on a place on the bench. Wakefield started brightly with Jay Sobers flashing a long range drive over in the twelfth minute. Tom Denton was brought down in the penalty area five minutes later and Chris Howarth stepped up to send Chris Hill the wrong way from the spot and open the scoring. Delroy Ferguson curled an effort just off target and Tom Denton saw his header hacked clear from underneath the crossbar with Hill stranded, just before half time. Bridlington looked a bit more lively at the start of the second half but failed to really worry the Wakefield defence. Then on 57 minutes Howarth's ball in found Will Ryder who jinked past two defenders before coolly slotting the ball home. Ferguson had a shot from point blank range somehow tipped over by Hill before Ryder scored his second goal with a low, rasping drive from the edge of the area. Substitute Marchant then made it four with a tap in from inside the six yard box after a good ball across the face of goal by Howarth in stoppage time. Result: Bridlington Town 0 - 4 Wakefield Wakefield FC man of the match: Chris Howarth. Attendance: 133. Referee: S D Rowntree. Assistant Referees: P Andrews, D Musgrave. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Denton, Howarth, Ryder Subs: Marchant (for Ferguson), Jones (for Sobers), McGahan () Bridlington Town: Hill, Slater, Smith, Giblin, Dexter, Harratt, Rhodes, Fleming, McGarry, Harrison, Love Subs: Dixey (nu), Frampton (for Harratt), Bunn (for Love) Phil Rann's Report Wakefield emphatically won their sixth straight away league match with a 4-0 win at Bridlington Town and the victory was as comfortable as the scoreline suggests. Wakefield had Wes Milnes and Chris Howarth back in the squad, while Tom Denton started after injury and Phil Turner returned at left back after illness, with striker Graham Marchant dropping to the bench. It was Denton that won an early penalty for the visitors when he forced his way past two Bridlington defenders in the area before he was tripped as he was about to strike the ball. Howarth stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way to score his 14th of the season. Wakefield were creating most of the chances playing with the wind, and Denton looked to have got himself on the scoresheet five minutes before half time but the Bridlington covering defender got back well to hook the ball away from under the crossbar. The home side improved early in the second half but Wakefield broke away through Howarth and Jay Sobers. Howarth set up Will Ryder who sidestepped past two defenders, steadied himself and found the corner with an excellent finish. Andy Woods was called into action on 70 minutes but he made a smart stop before Delroy Ferguson's close range effort at the other end was saved onto the crossbar, but Ryder made it 3-0 five minutes from time with perhaps an even better effort than his first as this time he found the corner from twenty yards. There was still time for Marchant to come off the bench and score his 10th of the season and his first since December 29th when Howarth's teasing cross beat the keeper and left him with a simple tap in past the defender on the line. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson (Marchant 77), Sobers (Jones 71), Denton, Howarth, Ryder. Sub not used: McGahan. Attendance: 133 MOM: Ryder.
Mar 15th	Mossley v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield bounced back from their heavy midweek defeat against leaders Skelmersdale to earn a well deserved away win at Mossley. Wes Milnes and Chris Howarth were still unavailable and Tom Denton missed the game with a twisted ankle. Phil Turner was still absent through illness. Jonathan Jackson was drafted into the side to cover for Milnes as original replacement Brian O'Callaghan had suffered a back injury in the midweek game. Wakefield dominated the game throughout the 90 minutes. Chris Hitchings had three good chances early in the game but each time his goalbound shot was blocked. Graham Marchant's looping header looked to have Mossley goalkeeper Ashley Connor finally beaten seven minutes before half time, but Connor managed to get a finger to the ball at the last moment and tip it over the crossbar. Wakefield continued to create chances throughout the second half. Jay Sobers' free kick was narrowly over the bar early in the half before Wakefield finally scored on 54 minutes. Chris Hitchings' through ball found Delroy Ferguson, who easily beat Mossley centre back Lee Connor for pace before slotting the ball past Ashley Connor from a tight angle. Four minutes later Hitchings stole in but his shot on the stretch was blocked by Ashley Connor. Marchant then saw his 20 yard drive whistle past the post. Craig Laight then headed a Will Ryder corner against the crossbar and Sobers sent a low drive just wide as chances came thick and fast for Wakefield. Ferguson ran clear again on 81 minutes but Ashley Connor beat away his hard drive. Wakefield got the second goal they deserved on 83 minutes when a mistake by Paul Quinn left Ferguson one on one with Ashley Connor and the Wakefield man kept his cool to finish well. Another mistake by Lee Connor saw Marchant break away but he drove over the cross bar and then Marchant was put in once more by Ferguson a minute later but Ashley Connor was on hand to deny him. Indeed, if it hadn't been for the Mossley goalkeeper, the scoreline would have been much larger. Adam Jones saw his low drive tipped round the post in the last minute, with Mossley unable to create any clear chances on goal throughout the match. Result: Mossley 0 - 2 Wakefield Wakefield FC man of the match: Delroy Ferguson. Attendance: 204. Referee: J Waring. Assistant Referees: P Adamson, M Popes. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Ryder, Normaschild, Jonathan Jackson, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Marchant, Jones, Hitchings Subs: Blair (for Hitchings), McGahan (for Sobers), Kendall (nu) Mossley: Connor A, Quinn, Henry, Allison, Connor L, Thompson, Fish, Boardman, Hamlet, Conway, Ryan Subs: Blackshaw (for Hamlet), Kirk (for Conway), Royle (nu) Phil Rann's Report Wakefield stretched their winning run away from home to five games with a 2-0 win at struggling Mossley. With Wes Milnes and Chris Howarth both still unavailable, Jonathan Jackson made his debut at centre half alongside Craig Laight. It was the away side that caused most of the goalmouth action in the first half but it remained goalless because of two fine saves from the Mossley keeper, first denying Chris Hitchings with his legs and then pulling off an even better save to deny Graham Marchant after the Wakefield striker had got on the end of a deep cross from Steve Nicholson. The second half was more of the same, and the Mossley keeper denied Delroy Ferguson early on, but Ferguson scored with his next chance on 54 minutes to settle the visitors down. Mossley rarely threatened, and it could have been 2-0 when Laight's fine header from a Will Ryder corner came back off the bar with the ball falling in the six yard box to a Mossley defender. Marchant was involved again after a good first touch set him up one on one with the keeper but the angle was tight and he lifted his shot over the bar, while Ferguson tested the keeper again with an effort from inside the area. The points were sealed when Ferguson scored his second of the game after Mossley's covering defender completely missed the ball and Ferguson prodded the ball past the outrushing keeper. Adam Jones' effort was tipped wide and Marchant had another shot just over as Wakefield finished the match the stronger. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Ryder, Normaschild, Jackson, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers (McGahan 89), Marchant, Jones, Hitchings (Blair 73). Sub not used: Kendall. Attendance: 204 MOM: Ferguson.
Mar 11th	Wakefield v Skelmersdale United Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield fell to a heavy home defeat against league leaders Skelmersdale at College Grove. The defeat leaves Wakefield with only four points taken from their last five home games, a complete contrast to their away form. Wakefield were forced into two changes to the side that won at Bamber Bridge. Both Chris Howarth and Wes Milnes were unavailable so Delroy Ferguson and debutant Brian O'Callaghan both started, ex Barnsley player O'Callaghan having being drafted in to cover for Milnes. Skelmersdale were playing with a gale force wind in the first half and the game was fairly open in the early stages. Craig Laight headed a Will Ryder free kick just wide before Andy Woods made a smart stop to deny Paul Prescott. Woods was on hand again to turn Chris Almond's header round the post before Jay Sobers blazed over from close range after a good quick free kick by Wakefield. Prescott had a shot charged down before the visitors took the lead on 16 minutes. Shaun Foster broke forward to drive into the bottom corner past Woods after the ball had only been half cleared. Foster went through on goal ten minutes later but dragged his shot wide. Chances continued to fall Skelmersdale's way as Prescott ran clean through on goal but Woods was once again to the rescue, saving well with his legs. Ten minutes before half time Skelmersdale doubled their advantage. The ball was only partially cleared by O'Callaghan and George Donnelly pounced to finish well. Wakefield had a glorious chance to get back in the game moments later when a free kick was deflected into the path of Laight, but his shot from close range was superbly tipped over by Ryan McMahon. The wind died down somewhat in the early stages of the second half but Wakefield enjoyed a better passage of play, until midway through the half when Donnelly ran clear of the defence to coolly slot the ball past Woods. Laight glanced a header wide for Wakefield before the arrears were reduced on 73 minutes. Graham Marchant's point blank range effort was charged down by McMahon but the ball fell for substitute Dominic Blair who placed the ball into the unguarded net. The weather then worsened once more with a torrential downpour hitting the ground. In amongst it, Almond's far post header restored Skelmersdale's advantage. The victory now leaves the Merseyside club with a four point advantage at the top of the league, with Wakefield still five points away from the play off places. Result: Wakefield 1 - 4 Skelmersdale United Wakefield FC man of the match: Steve Nicholson. Attendance: 79. Referee: S Ledger. Assistant Referees: C B Bailey, D Guest. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Ryder, Normaschild, Brian O'Callaghan, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Marchant, Jones, Hitchings Subs: Denton (for Jones), Turner (for O'Callaghan), Blair (for Hitchings) Skelmersdale United: McMahon, Foster, Hardwick, Akrigg, Duffy, Kelly, Birchall, Prescott, Burt, Donnelly, Almond Subs: McNally (nu), Mooney (nu), Lowe (nu) Phil Rann Report Wakefield were well beaten at home by table toppers Skelmersdale Utd at a wet and windy College Grove tonight. The home side were missing influential central defender Wes Milnes and top scorer Chris Howarth for the match with former Republic of Ireland under 21 international Craig O'Callaghan making his debut whilst on loan from Cork City. Skelmersdale played with the wind in the first half, but it was Wakefield that created the early chances and an excellent team move involving Graham Marchant, Chris Hitchings and Jay Sobers set up Marchant but his firm right foot shot was wide of the far post. Within two minutes, the visitors took the lead when right back Shaun Foster took the ball past Will Ryder, turned inside O'Callaghan who slipped at the vital moment, and fired a left foot shot inside Andy Woods' near post. Five minutes before half time, Skelmersdale doubled their lead when Wakefield were carved apart at the back and George Donnelly placed the ball past Woods. Wakefield improved after the break, and Craig Laight almost halved the arrears on the hour mark but Skem keeper Ryan McMahon was at full stretch to tip his shot wide. Donnelly scored his second and effectively killed off the game half way through the second half when he beat Laight for pace after Marchant had given the ball away and fired past the onrushing Woods into the net. Wakefield brought on Tom Denton and Dominic Blair to try and register a goal, and Blair scored with just about his first touch on his debut after Marchant was denied by McMahon. The scoring wasn't over though, but it was Skelmersdale who scored the next and vital goal with thirteen minutes remaining after Ryder was disposessed on the right wing, and Chris Almond headed past Woods from the resulting cross. A heavy storm with even stronger winds almost helped Wakefield register a second goal but McMahon made a couple more good saves as Skelmersdale deserved their three points. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Ryder, Normaschild, O'Callaghan (Turner 87), Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Marchant, Jones (Denton 59), Hitchings (Blair 71). Attendance: 79 MOM: Ferguson.
Mar 8th	Bamber Bridge v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield continued their superb away form with a well deserved victory at high flying Bamber Bridge. Bridge started the game on the back of a 9 match unbeaten run but Wakefield more than matched their hosts to take all three points back to West Yorkshire. Wakefield started the game without Phil Turner who was missing through illness. Steve Nicholson returned to the starting eleven to take his place. Declan Normaschild pushed forward into midfield as Will Ryder slotted into the left back position. The first 45 minutes was largely spoilt by a strong wind and torrential rain. Wakefield always looked most dangerous from set pieces with superb deliveries throughout the game. Their best chance of the first half was on 25 minutes when a corner resulted in a scramble in the Bamber Bridge box. The ball eventually broke to Craig Laight but he could only slice wide from 12 yards. Tom Ince tested Andy Woods in first half stoppage time with a low shot but Woods reacted well to save with his legs after the ball had travelled through a crowd of players. Bridge started the second half brightly in improving weather conditions althought the playing surface was still very poor. Ryan Bowen sent a free header straight at Woods and Danny Mahoney curled a free kick inches wide. Wakefield were soon on top, however and began to control the game. On 55 minutes Graham Marchants clever looping header had Terry McCormick beaten but the ball struck the underside of the crossbar and fell into the mud right on the goalline. Six minutes later Wakefield did score. Ryder's right wing cross found Marchant who sent a diving header towards goal. The ball was straight at McCormick, but the Bridge goalkeeper spilled it into the mud and Chris Howarth pounced to sidestep McCormick and drive into the empty net from inside the six yard box. Wakefield defended superbly throughout the remaining half hour to restrict Bridge to long range efforts on goal. The closest the home side came to an equaliser was eleven minutes from time when Woods pulled off a good save to keep out Alex Porter's free kick. Wakefield FC man of the match: Craig Laight. Attendance: 164. Referee: P Bankes. Assistant Referees: N J Badger, C Duckworth. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Ryder, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Hitchings, Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Jones Subs: Denton (for Marchant), Ferguson (for Hitchings), McGahan (nu) Bamber Bridge: McCormick, Edmeads, Glover, Fleming, Tong, Bowen, Brown, Mahoney, Ince, Eaton, Porter Subs: Beech (Edmeads), Banks(nu), Mason (Glover) Phil Ran Report Wakefield continued their excellent run away from home with a 1-0 win at high flying Bamber Bridge thanks to a goal on 61 minutes by Chris Howarth. Howarth's goal came after a spell of Wakefield pressure and when Graham Marchant's effort wasn't held by the Bamber Bridge keeper, Howarth was there to skip past him as he tried to reach the ball, and place the ball into the net. Marchant had hit the bar with a fine looping header just ten minutes earlier in a half where Wakefield were arguably the better side. The first half was badly affected by heavy rain and strong winds as both sides struggled to get on top, but when the wind dropped in the second period, it made for a better contest. The home side also had chances but centre backs Wes Milnes and Craig Laight were in excellent form while Andy Woods was only troubled with efforts straight at him except for one chance where he made a double save. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Ryder, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Hitchings (Ferguson 66), Sobers, Marchant (Denton 81), Howarth, Jones. Sub not used: McGahan. Attendance: 164 MOM: Laight. A good afternoon spoilt only by some idiot busting his nose on a railing trying to duck from a loose shot in the warm up
Mar 1st	Wakefield v Mossley Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield came from behind to defeat out of form Mossley at College Grove with a last gasp winner. Wakefield were without Steve Nicholson who missed the game through illness. Will Ryder returned after suspension with Declan Normaschild dropping into the right back position. Delroy Ferguson returned to the side as a substitute after a short period out injured. Mossley had the better of the early possession without troubling Andy Woods, whilst at the other end Jay Sobers saw his volley tipped round the post by Ashley Connor. On 20 minutes Woods was on hand to pull off a good save to deny Adam Morning after the ball had fallen well for the Mossley number 7 after ricocheting off Adam Jones' head. A good run by Gareth Hamlet three minutes later saw space open up for him, but he fired straight at Woods. Mossley took a deserved lead on 33 minutes. Adam Morning's right wing corner was misjudged by Woods in the low sun and strong wind and sailed over him. The ball was cleared by Ryder on the line, but unfortunately it was a good two feet over the line and the referee's assistant awarded the goal. Wakefield began to settle and come into the game more. On 37 minutes a great through ball by Chris Hitchings found Graham Marchant's run, but Marchant was stretching to reach the ball before Connor and placed his effort the wrong side of the post. In first half stoppage time Ryder's free kick was turned goalwards by Marchant, but Connor did well to get down and turn the ball round the post. Wakefield played much better in the second half and truck the woodwork in the opening minute when Sobers' low drive beat Connor but hit the base of the post. Wakefield introduced Ferguson for the last 25 minutes and he had an immediate impact on the game. With practically his first touch he crossed to Chris Howarth who took the ball down well before coolly lobbing it over Connor and into the net. Time was running out for Wakefield when Jones fed substitute Tom Denton in the first minute of stoppage time but the big Wakefield striker shot wide. The winning goal came in the fourth minute of stoppage time when a Sobers free kick was headed into the top corner by Wes Milnes, the ball bouncing into the net off the underside of the crossbar. Result: Wakefield 2 - 1 Mossley Wakefield FC man of the match: Jay Sobers. Attendance: 101. Referee: R J Holdsworth. Assistant Referees: I Johnston, N Kellett. Wakefield: Woods A, Normaschild, Turner, Jones, Milnes, Laight, Hitchings, Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Ryder Subs: Denton (for Ryder), Ferguson (for Hitchings), Mumbly (nu) Mossley: Connor A, Quinn, Henry, Allison, Connor L, Thompson, Morning, Fish, Hamlet, Johnson, Blacklaw Subs: Kirk (for Fish), Butters (nu), Weston (for Morning) Phil Rann Report Wakefield returned to winnings away against Mossley at College Grove this afternoon with two second half goals. Mossley went ahead with a goal straight from a corner with the help of a stong wind, as Wakefield were frustrated by a Mossley side that won their fair share of second balls in the middle of the park. Chris Hitchings' shot after cutting in from the left wing was as close as Wakefield came before the break but a good save and a lucky deflection denied him. The home side improved in the second period, and a fine run and left-foot shot from Jay Sobers came back off the post with the keeper well beaten, while Mossley and their goalkeeper in particular were happy to waste time at all opportunities. Chris Howarth levelled the scores with twenty minutes left after a good left wing cross with his first touch from substitute Delroy Ferguson with a delicate chip over the keeper. Mossley had an effort at the back post just wide and a couple of other shots that were well over the bar, while Wakefield looked dangerous on the attack and another substitute Tom Denton hit the side netting with five minutes remaining. However, the winning goal came in the stoppage time that had been accrued from Mossley's time wasting when Wes Milnes rose highest from a right wing cross and there was barely time for the visitors to respond. Team: Woods, Normaschild, Turner, Jones, Milnes, Laight, Hitchings (Ferguson 68), Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Ryder (Denton 83). Sub not used: Mumbly. Attendance: 101 MOM: Milnes.
Feb 26th	Wakefield v Curzon Ashton Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield failed to score at home once more as Curzon Ashton ran out the winners by a single goal at College Grove from a game in which the kick off was delayed by half an hour due to the heavy traffic in the area. Wakefield were the better side in the first half but could not get the ball in the back of the net. On 8 minutes Chris Hitchings' low drive was fumbled away by David Carnell in the Curzon goal and four minutes later good work by Chris Howarth set up Graham Marchant but his shot was somehow saved by Carnell from point blank range. On 16 minutes Jay Sobers fed Adam Jones but he poked the ball wide of the target as Curzon held on. Wakefield did have the ball in the back of the net 11 minutes from the break when Marchant's clever chip went into the goal off the far post. However, the goal was disallowed as the referee's assistant was flagging to indicate that a free kick inside the Wakefield half had been taken with the ball moving. Three minutes into first half stoppage time Wakefield gifted Curzon the lead when Declan Normaschild needlessly tripped an opposing player inside the penalty area. Michael Norton stepped up and made no mistake from the spot. Wakefield were playing with a strong wind in the second half but failed to create as many chances as in the first period. On 69 minutes Marchant's header was well stopped by Carnell and there were a few nervy moments for Curzon in the closing stages as Howarth almost got clear of the defence on a couple of occasions. Then in stoppage time Howarth's effort from point blank range appeared to have been stopped by a Curzon arm on the goalline, but the referee's assistant had his flag up for offside. Result: Wakefield 0 - 1 Curzon Ashton Wakefield FC man of the match: Phil Turner. Attendance: 98. Referee: A H Greenwood. Assistant Referees: G Freer, G S Hock. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Hitchings, Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Jones Subs: Denton (for Hitchings), Mumbly (for Normaschild), McGahan (nu) Curzon Ashton: Carnell, Birch, Mortimer, Watson, Parr, Ball, Giggs, Curley, Norton, Diaz, Allen Subs: Worsley (for Allen), Ogoo (for Ball), Stanford (for Diaz) Phil Rann Report Wakefield failed to score for the third successive match at College Grove as they lost 1-0 at home to Curzon Ashton but deserved three points against the league's second side. Chris Hitchings, Graham Marchant and Adam Jones all spurned good chances for the home side after the kick was put back half an hour because of traffic problems before Marchant scored with a fine chipped effort from the left wing before the linesman called play back because the ball from the free kick apparently was rolling, much to the relief of the Curzon players who had played on as normal. Hitchings stayed on his feet after a late tackle in the Curzon area and no penalty was given, while moments before half time, Curzon's Michael Norton went down far too easily from a Declan Normaschild tackle and was given a penalty, another reward for honesty, or not. Norton managed to dust himself down enough to take the penalty and beat Woods to his right and although Wakefield had dominated the entire half, they were 1-0 down at the break. The second half was dour as Wakefield pushed for an equaliser but it wasn't their night. Chris Howarth's effort at the back post was handled on the line by a Curzon defender but the flag was already up for offiside, and then the referee, who was presumably being observed again by a man from the FA, started handing out yellow cards like sweets. Curzon offered little in the way of attacking football and did not test Woods throughout the entire match except for the penalty. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild (Mumbly 81), Milnes, Laight, Hitchings (Denton 71), Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Jones. Sub not used: McGahan. Attendance: 98 MOM: Sobers.
Feb 23rd	Woodley Sports v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield returned to winning ways and moved within six points of the play off places with a well deserved victory at Woodley Sports Wakefield were without the injured Delroy Ferguson for the game and were also missing Jay Sobers through suspension. Demi Kyriacou, Bobby Stevenson and Rob MacQuarrie were also missing through injury. Wakefield started brightly and were the better side in the first half, despite playing against a strong wind. They took the lead in the eight minute after breaking well from a Woodley free kick. A superb pass from Chris Hitchings found Graham Marchant who flicked the ball out to Chris Howarth on the right. Howarth took the ball past a defender with ease before driving it into the far bottom corner of the net. A good ball through from Paddy Mumbly set up Howarth again on 18 minutes but he fired wide with a first time effort. Woodley almost snatched a goal on the half hour mark, but Andy Woods was in good form to make a block from point blank range.Wakefield doubled their lead four minutes before half time when Will Ryder's cross was headed home by Howarth at the far post. Wakefield were not as dominant in the second half, but Woodley never looked like getting anything from the game. on 67 minutes a Steve Nicholson cross was put wide by Marchant and on 77 minutes Wes Milnes placed the ball wide after Wakefield had again broken well from a Woodley set piece. A minute later Howarth took the ball inside the full back and saw his hard shot beaten away by Woodley goalkeeper Rick Whiteside. The ball almost fell to Tom Denton but he failed to connect from inside the area. Woodley were thrown a lifeline four minutes from time when the referee's assistant adjudged Nicholson to have handled inside the penalty box. Sam Walker stepped up and placed the penalty straight down the middle, with Woods chosing to dive to his left, to reduce the arrears. Wakefield played out the remaining moments well to secure the three points. Result: Woodley Sports 1 - 2 Wakefield Wakefield FC man of the match: Chris Howarth. Attendance: 75. Referee: D Unsworth. Assistant Referees: K Salisbury, K C Roberts. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Hitchings, Mumbly, Marchant, Howarth, Ryder Subs: Jones (for Ryder), Denton (for Hitchings), McGahan (for Mumbly) Woodley Sports: Whiteside, Pavey, Cjallenor, Charnock, Kay, Boothby, Walker, Buckley, Jones, Coward, Stubberfield Subs: Wignall (for Jones), Wild (for Stubberfield), Tasker (for Coward)
Feb 16th	Wakefield v Rossendale United Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield fell to a disappointing defeat after conceding three goals in eight minutes early in the second half. Wakefield started the game withouth Jay Sobers who served the first game of a two match suspension. Graham Marchant returned from injury to replace him in midfield. One other change to the side that won at Radcliffe Borough in midweek saw Tom Denton start in place of Delroy Ferguson who dropped to the substitutes' bench. The first half was fairly even throughout and saw few goalscoring chances for both sides. Wakefield's best opportunity fell to Chris Howarth after a great through ball over the top of the defence by Chris Hitchings. Howarth took the ball down well but pulled his shot just wide of the post. Rossendale came out after half time and went straight onto the attack. Tom Williams found himself unmarked at the far post but blazed over from 12 yards. The miss was not to make a difference to the outcome of the game, however, as the visitors did score, firstly on 52 minutes. The ball was only half cleared by Wakefield and Joe Booth lashed it into the top corner from the edge of the penalty area. Five minutes later Steve Nicholson and Phil Turner were both left grounded after clashing heads when jumping for the same ball. Rossendale took advantage as the referee did not stop the game and Phil Eastwood was able to score at the second attempt after Andy Woods had saved his initial effort. Only three minutes more had passed when the lead was up to three goals. Wakefield again failed to clear inside the penalty area and Eastwood scored his second, his low drive going into the net off the underside of Woods' body. Wakefield had chances to score late on but never really looked like turning around the huge deficit. Chris Hitchings lashed over and Wes Milnes headed a Nicholson free kick just over the cross bar. Further chances fell to Paddy Mumbly who had a shot well saved and Ferguson whose jinking run ended with him curing a 20 yard shot against a post. Result: Wakefield 0 - 3 Rossendale United Wakefield FC man of the match: Steve Nicholson. Attendance: 112. Referee: M J Foley. Assistant Referees: S Tolley, P R Wilson. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Marchant, Ryder, Denton, Howarth, Hitchings Subs: Ferguson (for Turner), Mumbly (for Hitchings ), Stevenson (nu) Rossendale United: Bracey, Heywood, Ingham, Watson, Whittall-Williams D, Ross, Williams T, Clarkson, Sergio-Daniel, Eastwood, Booth Subs: Stanford (for Eastwood), Turner (for Williams T), Eatock (for Ingham)
Feb 12th	Radcliffe Borough v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield moved within seven points of the play off places with a well earned victory at the Inn2gether Stadium. Wakefield made one change to the side that were beaten at Goole on Saturday, with Phil Turner returning to replace Bobby Stevenson in the starting line up. Wakefield enjoyed the better of the early possession but were almost caught out on 17 minutes when Steve Howson broke clear, but Andy Woods was on hand to make a good block. A minute later Delroy Ferguson's low drive was beaten away by Phil Priestley and Chris Howarth's delicate follow up struck the face of the crossbar. Wakefield couldn't find the back of the net and the scores were goalless at half time. In the second half Wakefield again enjoyed the better of the play and saved their best chances for the last fifteen minutes. On 76 minutes Will Ryder got to the byline and pulled the ball back to Ferguson, who took the ball down but slashed it harmlessly wide from close range and the chance was gone. Six minutes later Ryder saw his curling effort from 25 yards cannon back into play off the crossbar. The winning goal came with only four minutes remaining. Ryder was left with space inside the penalty area after picking up a loose clearance and curled a well placed right foot shot into the net off the underside of the crossbar from 15 yards. There was a nervy moment for Wakefield a minute later as Howson nipped in behind the defence but he placed his shot just wide of the post as Wakefield held on for the three points. Result: Radcliffe Borough 0 - 1 Wakefield Wakefield FC man of the match: Declan Normaschild. Attendance: 125. Referee: D W Stewart. Assistant Referees: A Clayton, S Durbin. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Hitchings, Howarth, Ryder Subs: Stevenson (nu), Mumbly (for Ferguson), Brock (nu) Radcliffe Borough: Priestley, Forrest, Whealing, Dawson A, Flynn, Dawson C, Connell, Chappell, Howson, McFadden, Waine Subs: Manning (for Dawson A), Murray (nu), Oates (nu) Phil Rann Report Wakefield deservedly picked up an away win at bottom club Radcliffe Borough tonight but it took them 86 minutes to find the breakthrough. The away side hit the bar half way through the first half through Chris Howarth, and although Radcliffe also had a couple of long range efforts, Wakefield had more of the possession but could not find another clear cut chance before the break. The second half was similar to the first but Wakefield played better as the half wore on. Delroy Ferguson shot wide when well placed on 70 minutes before Will Ryder's finely struck shot from the edge of the area crashed off the bar as Wakefield were denied for the second time in the match by the woodwork. However, Ryder was to have the last laugh when he cracked the ball past the Radcliffe keeper, this time with his right foot and the ball nestled in the top corner. It wasn't over yet though, and Radcliffe really should have equalised within a minute but a free header rolled inches wide, and then a shot from a good position moments later was hit well over the bar as Wakefield were fortunate to escape. A good move from Wakefield set up substitute Paddy Mumbly in stoppage time but he hit his shot well over. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Turner, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson (Mumbly 87), Sobers, Hitchings, Howarth, Ryder. Attendance: 125 MOM: Ryder.
Feb 9th	Goole v Wakefield Presidents Cup Quarter finals Wakefield bowed out of the President's Cup at the quarter-final stage after suffering a disappointing defeat at Division One South side Goole. Chris Hitchings earned his first start for Wakefield in place of the unavailable Tom Denton after Graham Marchant failed a late fitness test on a hamstring injury. Wakefield were also without Phil Turner who was cup-tied. Will Ryder slotted in at left back in place of Turner, with Bobby Stevenson returning in midfield after a recent spell out injured. Wakefield made a decent start to the game, but it was Goole who took the lead in the seventh minute. Chris Jenkinson picked the ball up down the left hand side and sent a dipping shot into the net off the far post for a superb opening goal. Wakefield then lost control of the game, but gradually came back into it as the half wore on. On 35 minutes Jay Sobers but Hitchings in down the right, but his deflected shot only found the side netting. Wakefield's best chance of the first half fell to Wes Milnes on 37 minutes. A good ball back across the area by Declan Normaschild, after a corner had only been half cleared, was headed just over the bar by Milnes. The equaliser came seven minutes into the second half. Chris Howarth powered away from the defenders before passing the ball into Delroy Ferguson inside the penalty area. Ferguson showed good composure to help the ball on to Hitchings at the far post who took a touch before slotting the ball past Craig Parry in the Goole goal. Two minutes later Hitchings had a glorious chance to put Wakefield in front and register his second goal of the game, but his point blank range header struck Parry on the goalline and was cleared to safety. On 58 minutes Howarth powered clear once more and had Parry beaten with a powerful volley, but the ball cracked against a post and the danger was cleared. Goole were then reduced to ten men as Steve Rollinson was dismissed for a second bookable offence. Few could argue with the dismissal, as Rollinson had made three bad challenges in the space of only ten minutes. The sending off seemed to spur Goole on and it was Goole who regained the lead in the 64th minute. Danny Buttle was left with a tap in from close range after Ryder had been dispossesed whilst trying to allow the ball to run out of play for a goal kick. Wakefield eventually began to create chances inside the last ten minutes but could not find the back of the net. Craig Laight had been thrown up front in the closing stages, and it was he who first headed over from a byline cross by Hitchings and then sent a more difficult headed chance straight into the arms of the grateful Parry. Result: Goole 2 - 1 Wakefield Wakefield FC man of the match: Wes Milnes. Attendance: 195. Referee: J R Price. Assistant Referees: D Bennett, A S Hayhurst. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Ryder, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Hitchings, Howarth, Stevenson Subs: Brock (nu), Mumbly (for Stevenson), McGahan (nu) Goole: Parry, Jenkinson, O'Neill, Hill, Chapman, Danby, Rollinson, Jackson, Tate, Bray, Buttle Subs: Brown (nu), Rose (Chapman), Robinson (Tate) Phil Rann Report Wakefield went out of the Unibond Presidents Cup at the Quarter Final stage this afternoon following a 2-1 defeat at Division One South side Goole. The away side were missing Graham Marchant, Demi Kyriacou, Rob Macquarrie, Phil Turner and Tom Denton from the squad that drew with Curzon Ashton last Saturday, while Chris Hitchings started following a good performance at Bridlington in midweek. Wakefield fell behind early after a promising opening spell when Jenkinson finished with a cool volley inside the box leaving Andy Woods no chance. Wakefield struggled to create chances after the goal, and the closest they came before the break was when Hitchings crossed for Wes Milnes but he headed over from six yards under pressure. Hitchings was involved again straight after the break when he levelled the scores at the back post after good work from Chris Howarth and Delroy Ferguson in the build up, and moments later, Hitchings was denied only by a fine save from the Goole keeper after arriving late with a back post header. Fine skill from Howarth and a sweet half volley canonned off the far post before Goole's number 7 was sent off for a second bookable offence following three late challenges in a five minute period. This seemed to change the game to Goole's advantage, and within a minute of the sending off, Will Ryder made a mess of a clearance and Buttle nipped in to put the home side back in front. Wakefield tried in vain to get back in the match and almost forced extra time when Craig Laight, who joined Howarth up front for the last ten minutes, headed well over from another excellent Hitchings cross when he should have done better. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Ryder, Normaschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Hitchings, Howarth, Stevenson (Mumbly 71). Subs not used: Brock and McGahan. Attendance: 195 MOM: Hitchings.
Feb 5th	Bridlington Town v Wakefield Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield continued their good form with a well deserved victory in very wet conditions at Bridlington. Wakefield were forced into two changes from the side that held leaders Curzon Ashton to a draw on Saturday. Graham Marchant dropped to the bench with a hamstring injury with Tom Denton brought into the starting eleven to replace him. Demi Kyriacou sufferred a knee injury on Saturday and was replaced in midfield by Declan Normaschild. Wakefield started well and took a deserved lead on 19 minutes. Bridlington goalkeeper Chris Hill sent a poor clearance straight to Will Ryder. Ryder slotted the ball through to Delroy Ferguson who kept his cool to slot the ball into the net past Hill who was trying to recover his position. Bridlington equalised with a scrappy goal on 36 minutes. A right wing corner was headed back across for Dave Gowens to be left with an easy tap in from close range. Wakefield were still the better side, with Denton's height causing the relatively small Bridlington defenders all sorts of problems. In first half injury time a Chris Howarth corner was headed back across by Denton and Normaschild to Craig Laight but he volleyed just over the bar with an acrobatic bicycle kick. Straight from the kick off for the second half, Wakefield won a left wing free kick. Phil Turner swung the ball across to Denton who was stood 15 yards out. He sent a looping header over Hill, who was stranded on his six yard line. The ball struck the underside of the crossbar, before bouncing just over the line and up into the roof of the net to put Wakefield in front. Six minutes later Wes Milnes had a header superbly pushed round the post by Hill and Normaschild sent a left foot curler from 20 yards just off target. Then, Howarth was put clean through on goal but Hill came out well to save with his legs. Wakefield were comfortable and always looked more likely to get a third goal than Bridlington were to equalise. On 65 minutes Denton sent a header straight at Hill from Howarth's corner and then Ferguson burst clear of the defence but Hill once again did well to make a good save with his body. The ball looped up back to Ferguson, but he was left with a very tight angle and could only head the ball onto the roof of the net. Wakefield's third goal came seven minutes from time. Howarth beat a defender down the right wing before pulling the ball back to Denton. The big Wakefield forward showed superb close control to jink the ball inside a defender before calmly poking it under Hill's body and into the goal. A minute from time substitute Chris Hitchings had a clear run on goal but powered the ball wide, then deep into injury time Ryder saw his low drive beaten away by Hill. The ball fell to Hitchings two yards out but somehow Hill managed to get a touch on the ball and it rolled agonisingly wide. Result: Bridlington Town 1 - 3 Wakefield Wakefield FC man of the match: Tom Denton. Attendance: 103. Referee: P A Cook. Assistant Referees: S Wade, A P Ward. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, Normanschild, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Denton, Howarth, Ryder Subs: Marchant (nu), Mumbly (for Sobers), Hitchings (for Howarth) Bridlington Town: Hill, Hyam, Smith L, Giblin, Dexter, Grayston, Lackie, Brennan, McGarry, Gowens, Fleming Subs: Harrison (for Lackie), Smith A (for Dexter), Hobley (for Hyam)
Feb 2nd	Wakefield v Curzon Ashton Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield came away from their first home match against league leaders Curzon Ashton with a well deserved point after a superb defensive display. Wakefield made one change to the side that beat Clitheroe, with Wes Milnes returning from suspension to replace Bobby Stevenson in the starting line up. Both Stevenson and Rob MacQuarrie had picked up groin injuries in the reserve game at AFC Emley in midweek. Wakefield had the better of the play in a fairly even first forty five minutes. On 6 minutes Graham Marchant headed on to Chris Howarth, who took the ball round a defender but could only shoot tamely straight at David Carnell in the Curzon goal. Curzon's best chance of the opening period fell to Mark Renshaw after 15 minutes. Renshaw broke clear of the Wakefield defence, but found Andy Woods in top form, the Wakefield goalkeeper making a tremendous block to deny Renshaw. Just before half time Marchant's looping header was well held by Carnell underneath the crossbar. Wakefield were forced into a change at half time with Paddy Mumbly coming on to replace the injured Demi Kyriacou. The second half continued in a similar fashion to the first until Wakefield were reduced to ten men on 61 minutes when Jay Sobers was dismissed for a second booking. Curzon dominated possession for the remainder of the game but could not find a way through a solid Wakefield back four. The visitors were restricted to only four shots on goal throughout the game. Wakefield still had a chance of a goal themselves, particularly from set pieces. Tom Denton was twice unlucky not to get on the end of balls into the box after coming on as a late substitute. Deep into injury time Curzon had a glorious chance to win the game, but a fantastic last ditch tackle by Craig Laight kept the score goalless. Curzon were then reduced to ten men themselves right at the death as substitute Josh Mitten was dismissed for striking Wes Milnes with a raised arm. Result: Wakefield 0 - 0 Curzon Ashton Wakefield FC man of the match: Craig Laight. Attendance: 94. Referee: W E Grunnill. Assistant Referees: P Hartley, P Ballantyne. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, Ryder, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Kyriacou Subs: Denton (for Marchant), Mumbly (for Kyriacou), Normanschild (for Ferguson) Curzon Ashton: Carnell, Allen, Mortimer, Birch, Watson, Ball, Curley, Ogoo, Norton, Renshaw, Stanford Subs: Mitten (for Renshaw), Whelan (nu), Giggs (for Watson) Phil Rann Report Ten-man Wakefield held league leaders Curzon Ashton to a 0-0 draw at College Grove in a game of few chances but not lacking in talking points. Curzon arguably had the best of an even first half but their only real chance was well saved by Wakefield's Andy Woods, while at the other end, Chris Howarth had two efforts both at the Curzon keeper. The home side started the better in the second period and Will Ryder's goalbound shot was well blocked by a defender, and Graham Marchant was unlucky that the ball bobbled just before it fell to him eight yards out. However, Wakefield's Jay Sobers was sent off for a second bookable offence after an hour and it looked as if Curzon would win. Although most of the play was in Wakefield's half, there were few chances; the best fell to Michael Norton after Phil Turner's backpass was short, but Craig Laight made a superb saving tackle before Norton could pull the trigger. At the other end, Howarth had another effort straight at the keeper while substitute Tom Denton caused problems and almost set up Delroy Ferguson, but a poor first touch from the winger let the defender back in to clear. In stoppage time, Curzon's number 7 was shown a straight red card for an elbow on Wes Milnes. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Turner, Ryder, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson (Normaschild 86), Sobers, Marchant (Denton 66), Howarth, Kyriacou (Mumbly 45). Attendance: 94 MOM: Nicholson.
Jan 29th	Wakefield v Clitheroe Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield came away with all three points from a game in which they struggled to control all the way through. Wakefield welcomed back Jay Sobers and Will Ryder following suspensions, but were missing Wes Milnes who sat out a one match ban with Rob MacQuarrie dropping to the bench. Phil Turner switched to centre back in place of Milnes with Ryder filling the void at left back. Clitheroe took the lead in the 6th minute when captain Paul Osborne arrived late to slot home from close range with the Wakefield players slow to react. Wakefield's best chance of the first half was a Craig Laight header following Turner's corner which clipped the top of the cross bar. Clitheroe continued to prevent Wakefield from playing early in the second half and Tom Denton was introduced with 23 minutes remaining in place of Demi Kyriacou. Denton had an immediate impact on the game and pulled Wakefield level on 74 minutes after a Clitheroe defender took his own goalkeeper out of the game, leaving Denton with an easy tap in. With ten minutes remaining Denton scored Wakefield's second, this time climbing highest to plant a superb header beyond the reach of James Mann following another superb corner from Turner. Despite some late corners and free kicks, Clitheroe failed to find a response and Wakefield defended the game out well to secure the points. Result: Wakefield 2 - 1 Clitheroe Wakefield FC man of the match: Tom Denton. Attendance: 84. Referee: M McGrath. Assistant Referees: W Pharoah, C Whitaker. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Ryder, Stevenson, Turner, Laight, ferguson, Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Kyriacou Subs: Denton (for Kyriacou), MacQuarrie (for Marchant), Mumbly (nu) Clitheroe: Mann, Clarke, Suttleworth, Flanner, Smith J, Fisher, Osbourne P, Stopforth, Lomax, Saunders, Reynolds Subs: Osbourne J (nu), Pilkington (for Osbourne P), Smith P (Reynolds)
Jan 23rd	Wakefield v Harrogate Railway Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield returned to form with an impressive display against Harrogate at College Grove. Wakefield started the game missing three players through suspension - Will Ryder, Jay Sobers and Declan Normaschild - which made the victory even more impressive. Wakefield had the better of the first half possession but failed to find the back of the net before the break. Chris Howarth headed wide at the far post in the 2nd minute and Delroy Ferguson saw a couple of long range efforts fall harmlessly to Jacob Giles in the visitor's goal. On 22 minutes Harrogate almost took the lead against the run of play when the ball hit the base of a post whilst at the other end Howarth saw a 20 yard volley well saved by Giles. Harrogate did take the lead on 31 minutes when sloppy defending allowed David Conway to slot the ball home from close range. Graham Marchant had an effort deflected wide and Craig Laight thundered a header against the crossbar with the last touch of the first half following a corner. Early in the second half, Demi Kyriacou saw a shot tipped over by Giles and a header cleared away off the line but Harrogate did not hold out for long. On 56 minutes the ball fell to Howarth in the penalty area and he scrambled home the equaliser. From then on Wakefield cruised to victory. Wes Milnes put them in the lead with a header after another corner kick before Howarth scored his second as he sent a 25 yard shot into the bottom corner. Delroy Ferguson beat Giles to the ball to slip it into the open goal with seven minutes remaining to extend Wakefield's lead and Harrogate could not find a response. Result: Wakefield 4 - 1 Harrogate Railway Wakefield FC man of the match: Chris Howarth. Attendance: 70. Referee: M A Powell. Assistant Referees: N A Haycock, J Illingworth. Wakefield: Woods A, Nicholson, Turner, MacQuarrie, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Stevenson, Marchant, Howarth, Kyriacou Subs: Denton (for Marchant), Mumbley (for Kyriacou), McGahan (nu) Harrogate Railway: Giles, Haigh, Lowe, Conway, Morgan R, Riley, Ryan S, Fox, Hillier, Marshall, Morgan M Subs: Littlefair (for Conway), Smith (for Morgan M), Ryan L (for Ryan S) Phil Rann Report Wakefield won their first league match of 2008 with a convincing 4-1 home victory over rivals Harrogate Railway. All four goals came in the second half after the visitors were 1-0 up at the break though they were not the better side and Wes Milnes had headed against the bar in first half stoppage time for the College Grovers. Earlier, Harrogate had hit the post when clean through and then gone ahead after half an hour after sloppy defending let in Conway to slide the ball past Andy Woods. The second half was a different story though, and after a succession of corners, Chris Howarth bundled the ball home to level the scores. Soon after Wes Milnes headed past the Railway keeper to turn the game on its head, and the three goals in ten minute spell was completed when Howarth's 25 yard effort found its way into the corner. Howarth almost completed his hat-trick with another long range shot but this time the Harrogate keeper managed to claw it around the post. The scoring was complete ten minutes from time when Delroy Ferguson beat the keeper to the ball, and placed the ball into the empty net. Team: Woods, Nicholson, Turner, Macquarrie, Milnes, Laight, Ferguson, Stevenson, Marchant (Denton 82), Howarth, Kyriacou (Mumbly 74). Sub not used: McGahan. Attendance: 70 MOM: Howarth.
Jan 12th	Wakefield v Lancaster City Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield fell to their third straight league defeat in a game which was dominated by visitors Lancaster in the first half, but Wakefield came back into more and more as the second half wore on. Lancaster came straight out of the blocks and could have been 2-0 up inside ten minutes but Michael Stringfellow dragged his shot wide when he had time and space in the penalty area and Dave Foster sent a free header inches wide following Neil Marshall's left wing cross. The only goal of the game came on 24 minutes when Marshall again did well to get over a low cross which Mark Jackson converted, unchallenged six yards out. Wakefield were denied a penalty by the referee before half time when Chris Howarth looked to be clearly upended in the area. Wakefield played better in the second half. They were denied a penalty again early in the half when Will Ryder was fouled, the referee somehow adjudging the offence to have taken place outside the penalty area when it was clealy a good yard inside. On 70 minutes substitute Tom Denton failed to get a proper connection on the ball at the far post and sent it harmlessly wide with the goal gaping, following a superb corner from Phil Turner. Five minutes later Howarth got to the byline and pulled the ball back through a defender's legs to Graham Marchant but he spooned his shot over from 6 yards. Turner's volley was blocked by a defender and Denton headed over deep into stoppage time as Lancaster somehow hung on for all three points. Result: Wakefield 0 - 1 Lancaster City Wakefield FC man of the match: Steve Nicholson. Attendance: 102. Referee: J Hermuzi. Assistant Referees: D Bradshaw, S Hunter. Wakefield: Woods A, Normaschild, Turner, Ryder, Milnes, Laight, Nicholson, Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Kyriacou Subs: Ferguson (for Kyriacou), MacQuarrie (for Normaschild), Denton (for Ryder) Lancaster City: Thornley, Rigby, Redhead, Greenwood, Swann, Stringfellow, Zico - Black, Entwistle, Foster, Jackson, Marshall Subs: Love (for Entwistle), Helliwell (for Jackson), Uberschar (for Redhead) Phil Rann Report Wakefield suffered their third straight league defeat at home to Lancaster City in a match where they only had themselves to blame. Lancaster ran the first 35 minutes of the match but created little until Craig Laight played a ball across his own area and allowed Lancaster the get the ball back. A run and cross saw Jackson amble in and tuck the ball past Andy Woods to put the visitors ahead. The home side came into the game as the game approached half time but Lancaster deserved their first half lead. The second half was a different story, and Wakefield had the best of the chances, in and amongst Lancaster's players rolling around on the floor every five minutes. Substitute Tom Denton missed the ball from a good Phil Turner corner when almost any contact would have brought an equaliser, and then with ten minutes left, great wing play from Chris Howarth and an even better cross left Graham Marchant with an open goal four yards out. He somehow placed the ball well over when it seemed easier to score. Team: Woods, Normaschild (Macquarrie 75), Turner, Ryder (Denton 75), Milnes, Laight, Nicholson, Sobers, Marchant, Howarth, Kyriacou (Ferguson 75). Attendance: 102 MOM: Howarth.
Jan 5th	Wakefield v Belper Town Presidents Cup 3rd Round Report by Dan Brownhill Wakefield moved into the quarter final stage of the President's Cup after coming from behind to beat Belper in a game which saw nine yellow cards awarded and one red. Wakefield made several changes to the side that