WAKEFIELD FC
News 2010/11 June - December

 

Date of Game  
Dec 29th 2010

New Signings at College Grove

Wakefield FC have re-signed goalkeeper Jan Zolna and youth player Ashley Brooke on work experience from Rotherham United.

Zolna played for The Bears early in the season before leaving for Yorkshire Amateur. However, in recent matches Wakefield have been leaking goals and manager Steve Nicholson has persuaded Zolna to return.

Ashley Timms, who has been the regular number one choice goalkeeper in recent weeks, did not wish to stay and fight for his place. His registration with Wakefield FC has therefore been cancelled by mutual consent.

18 year old defender Ashley Brooke is based in Wakefield and has impressed after training with Wakefield in recent sessions.

 
Dec 11th 2010

Cammell Laird 3 Wakefield 2

Wakefield's poor form continued as Cammell Laird came from behind to beat the Bears 3-2 in Merseyside.

New signings Pat McGuire and Rob Tonks both started for Wakefield who were missing Wes Milnes due to work commitments and Marc Roberts who failed a late fitness test.

Wakefield took an early lead as Tonks was on hand to smash the ball home from 12 yards. The Bears continued to play well for much of the first half, although Ashley Timms did have to make a couple of good stops to keep the score at 1-0.

However, the home side equalised just before half time when Adam Wilson's sliced cross flew straight in at the near post.

Marc Stevens increased Cammell Laird's lead just before the hour mark, despite looking several yards offside. Wakefield were left furious with the referee's assistant who appeared to be busy asking the home bench to sit down and therefore missed the action and didn't raise his flag.

Paul Wheeler stole in to extend Cammell Laird's lead with ten minutes left. The home side had Danny Andrews dismissed for a second bookable offence after he kicked the ball away after the referee had blown for a free kick.

Wakefield pulled a goal back through substitute Wayne Shooter's low drive which found the bottom corner in the closing stages.

Shooter was then sent off for violent conduct after raising his arms during a melee near the Cammell Laird penalty area.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Pat McGuire.

Wakefield: Timms, Kane (South 63), Tonks, Nicholson, Kyriacou, Stansfield (c), Ferguson (Shooter 63), Jones, McGuire, Denton, Hunter. Subs Not Used: Glavin, Torbitt.

 
Dec 9th 2010

Tonks Returns To Wakefield

The Bears have completed the signing of Robert Tonks from Bradford Park Avenue. 34 year old Tonks returns to the club after spending several seasons with Wakefield from the late 90s onwards. Tonks is a versatile player who is equally at home in midfield or at full back and goes straight into the squad to travel to Cammell Laird on Saturday.
Nov 22nd 2010

Nicholson Appointed As Wakefield FC Manager

Wakefield FC are pleased to announce the appointment of the management team comprising Steve Nicholson, Manager and Will Ryder, Assistant Manager.

Chief Executive Pete Bevils said "The guys have done really well, despite some adverse results. We've seen a lift and togetherness that has been lacking for a while, the players have responded very positively. It's difficult to step into Ronnie's shoes, who is such a good coach, but to be fair to Steve and Will they are doing a terrific job"

"We've had a lot of interest in the position from some extremely good candidates, we thank them for their interest. We wanted to give Steve and Will some time to see if the position suited them and vice versa, which is why it appeared nothing had been decided. It clearly does suit them and we're pleased for them and the players who have been great"

"I'm sure we will see an upturn in results-it's just a matter of a little bit of time and some luck. We're playing good football which has pleased everyone no end. We're due a massive lump of luck, and I'm sure when it arrives someone is going to be on the receiving end of a real drubbing as we climb the table"

Steve Nicholson said "the players have been very positive. We started really well then had a few dodgy results. We have a really young squad who are just learning. The atmosphere in the dressing room is great, and I think with the addition of a couple more players we'll have a quality squad. I'm really enjoying the challenge, it's been very busy but I've had a lot of help from all over the place and great support from the board of directors. I'm just hoping we can give the fans what they want-good football but winning football"
 
Nov 20th 2010

Wakefield's poor away form continued as they were beaten 4-0 at local rivals Garforth Town.

Wakefield were forced to field a makeshift defence as Brandon Kane, James Stansfield, Marc Roberts and Luke Danville were all out injured. With Adam Sparkes unavailable, Demi Kyriacou was forced to start at centre back and Steve Nicholson at right back, despite both not been fully match fit.

Wakefield enjoyed the lions share of the possesion throughout the game and controlled the match throughout, but failed to score and were beaten by four swift counter attacks from Garforth.

Paul Walker fired the home side into a fourth minute lead with a shot that went in off the inside of the post. Walker then doubled the advantage on the stroke of half time.

Wakefield continued to control possesion after the break, but Garforth went further in front when Adam Priestley slotted home after another quick break away.

Ex Wakefield forward Chris Howarth scored the fourth goal with ten minutes left.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Ian Robinson.

Wakefield: Timms, Nicholson, Morris, Robinson (Shirtliff 78), Milnes (c), Kyriacou, Shooter (Ferguson 70), Jones, South, Denton, Hunter. Subs Not Used: Firth, Glavin, Torbitt.

 
Nov 16th 2010

Wakefield 1 Harrogate Railway Athletic 3

Wakefield bowed out of the President's after a below par performance against Harrogate Railway at College Grove.

Wakefield were forced to make several changes to the side that held Chorley to a 2-2 draw on Saturday.

Marc Roberts missed the game after picking up a knock at the weekend but should be fit for the visit to Garforth Town this coming Saturday. With James Stansfield suspended and Luke Danville out until after Christmas with torn knee ligaments, Under 18 defender Adam Sparkes filled in at centre half. With Aidan Morris also unfit to play, Matt Torbitt started the game at left back. Adam Jones had also picked up a knock so Danny South dropped back to join Conor Glavin in midfield, with Ian Robinson playing in behind Tom Denton up front. There was also a place in the starting eleven for Delroy Ferguson, with Wayne Shooter dropping to the bench.

Harrogate enjoyed the better of the first half chances, with Ashley Timms forced to make several fine saves in one on one situations. Colin Hunter slotted Harrogate in front after 16 minutes after capitalising on a poor pass across defence by Wes Milnes.

Danny South got the last touch to score for Wakefield following a corner to pull the scores back level five minutes later.

But Harrogate continued to look dangerous when breaking forward and went back in front when Paul Stansfield raced clear to score after half an hour.

The second half saw fewer chances at both ends, with Wakefield searching in vain for an equaliser.

Harrogate wrapped up the win ten minutes from time when Kevin Ryan scored to put them into the quarter-finals at Wakefield's expense.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Danny South.

Wakefield: Timms, Kane (Woodhead 90+1), Torbitt, Glavin (Shirtliff 57), Milnes (c), Sparkes, Ferguson (Shooter 70), Robinson, South, Denton, Hunter. Subs Not Used: Morris, Nicholson.

 
Nov 13th 2010

Just a general update to keep everyone posted on the 'goings on'!

We're pleased with the affect Steve and Will have had on the first team squad. They're doing a good job as interim management. We're considering the strategy at the moment.

We've had some very interesting and good applicants for the job, should we ultimately decide to open the position up. The applicants will be contacted once we have decided on the way forward.

In the meantime Steve and Will will continue to manage the first team squad.

I dont know where 'club for sale' has come from, as it is not for sale!!!

We'll update as and when we have some news to put out

Cheers

Pete Bevils
Nov 13th 2010

Battling Bears Hold Title Chasing Chorley

Wakefield twice came from behind to hold promotion hopefuls Chorley to a 2-2 draw at College Grove.

Wayne Shooter earned a start for Wakefield in place Conor Glavin as The Bears switched to a 4-4-2 formation.

Steve Flitcroft's deflected shot put Chorley ahead on the quarter hour mark, but Wakefield continued to frustrate the visitors and Tom Denton lashed home an equaliser from close range after a corner.

Chorley hit straight back as Jordan Stepien stole in unmarked to divert the ball into the bottom corner to give them a half time lead.

Chorley continued to enjoy the better of the possesion in the second half but found the Wakefield defence difficult to break down and struggled to create efforts on goal.

The home side punished them with fifteen minutes left when subsitute Ian Robinson converted at the near post.

Wakefield survived some late pressure from Chorley to leave the final score at 2-2.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: James Stansfield

Wakefield: Timms, Kane, Morris, Roberts (Glavin 77), Milnes (c), Stansfield (Danville 90+1), Shooter (Robinson 65), Jones, South, Denton, Hunter. Subs Not Used: Ferguson, Nicholson.

 
Nov 6th 2010

Wakefield Lose 4-1 At Bamber Bridge

Wakefield slipped to a 4-1 defeat at Bamber Bridge, although the scoreline flattered the home side.

Bridge were gifted their first goal in the 13th minute when a poor kick by Ashley Timms fell straight at the feet of Warren Beattie who curled the ball into the open goal from 30 yards.

The home side's advantage was doubled ten minutes later when full back Michael White headed in unmarked at the far post.

Marc Roberts pulled a goal back for Wakefield on the half hour mark via a Marc Roberts header and began to search for an equaliser.

The Bears played some excellent football after the break, with Wayne Shooter entering the field as a substitute at half time and making a real difference on the right hand side of midfield.

But the goal just wouldn't come for The Bears and White scored Bridge's third goal from the penalty spot with eleven minutes left after Timms was adjudged to have upended a Bridge striker in the penalty area.

Alistair Waddecare made sure of the points by converting a low ball into the box with just a few minutes remaining.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Wayne Shooter.

Wakefield: Timms, Kane, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Stansfield, Glavin (Shooter 46), Jones (Edwards 87), South, Denton, Hunter (Firth 79). Subs Not Used: Torbitt, Ferguson.

 
Nov 2nd 2010

Bears Out of West Riding Cup After Defeat at Harrogate

Wakefield suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat at bottom of the table Harrogate Railway to go out of the West Riding Cup at the first round stage.

Wakefield made one change to the side that drew with Warrington, with Matthew Torbitt coming into the side at left back and Steve Nicholson moving to right back in place of Brandon Kane who was unavailable.

Wakefield were much the better side for the opening quarter of the match. Lawrance Hunter rattled the crossbar with a curling free kick and The Bears were denied a penalty when Danny South looked to be clearly pulled down inside the area.

But it was the home side that took the lead when Jon Maloney scored after a break down the left hand side.

Danny South had a shot well saved by Railway goalkeeper Leigh Walker as Wakefield searched for an equaliser.

The Bears were second best throughout the second half as Railway dominated for long periods.

Nicholson limped off with a hamstring injury and Wakefield were forced to play with Adam Jones at right back and Ryan Pleasants at left back for the latter part of the game.

Kevin Ryan doubled Railway's lead on the hour and late goals from Luke Durham and Steve Palfrey added to Wakefield's woes.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Wes Milnes

Wakefield: Timms, Nicholson (Edwards 50), Torbitt (Pleasants 65), Roberts, Milnes (c), Stansfield, Firth (Glavin 79), Jones, South, Denton, Hunter.

 
Oct 30th 2010

Plucky Wakefield Earn Home Point Against Warrington

Wakefield picked up a good home point against Warrington Town at College Grove.

Wakefield started with Steve Nicholson at left back in place of the injured Aidan Morris and Brandon Kane taking up the right back slot. James Stansfield returned at centre half after being cup tied in midweek. Danny South partnered Tom Denton up front in a 4-4-2 formation.

Wakefield matched their opponents, who had only lost one league game all season, throughout the first half.

Good work by Danny South just before half time saw him get the better of the Warrington defender before crossing for Tom Denton to plant a header into the net to give The Bears a half time lead.

Warrington came out after half time and attacked from the off. The Wakefield defence stood firm until twenty minutes from time when Chris Gahgan stole in to equalise.

Their were chances for both sides to win the game, but in the end a 1-1 draw was probably a fair result.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: James Stansfield

Wakefield: Timms, Nicholson, Kane, Roberts, Milnes (c), Stansfield, Firth (Robinson 46), Jones, South, Denton, Hunter (Pleasants 77). Subs Not Used: Edwards, Torbitt, Danville.

 
Oct 26th 2010

Bears Through In President's Cup After Victory at Woodley

Wakefield recovered from conceding an early goal to win 2-1 at Woodley Sports.

The Bears made several changes to the side that lost at Salford. Brandon Kane and Matt Torbitt came in at full back in place of Steve Nicholson and Aidan Morris who dropped to the bench. Marc Roberts partnered Wes Milnes at centre half, with James Stansfield cup tied.

Conor Glavin replaced the unavailable Adam Jones in midfield, alongside Jay Edwards. New signing from Silsden Lawrance Hunter started on the left wing with Josh Burgin handed a start on the right. Danny South returned from a long suspension, partnering Tom Denton up front.

Woodley took a fourth minute lead with a headed goal, but it was Wakefield who were to go on and enjoy the better of the first half possesion, without finding the back of the net.

The Bears always looked to have the beating of the Woodley defenders on set pieces and it was no surprise when South headed in a corner for a deserved equaliser early in the second half.

Milnes stabbed home Wakefield's second goal from another corner just after the hour marke after Edwards had headed down Hunter's ball into the box.

Wakefield survived five minutes of stoppage time, with Woodley hitting the cross bar from long range but unable to find an equaliser.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Marc Roberts

Wakefield: Timms, Kane, Torbitt, Roberts, Milnes (c), Glavin, Edwards (Shirtliff 82), Hunter, South, Denton, Burgin (Lyn 54). Subs Not Used: Morris, Nicholson, Woodhead.

 
Oct 16th 2010

Bears Run Out Winners in Nicholson's First Game in Charge

Wakefield ran out 1-0 winners after a close first game as manager for right back Steve Nicholson.

Wakefield started in a 4-3-3 formation. Nicholson returned from injury in place of Brandon Kane at right back. Adam Jones joined Marc Roberts and Jay Edwards in midfield, and there were places in the starting eleven for both Ian Robinson and Wayne Shooter who played out wide of central striker Tom Denton.

Good work by Ian Robinson saw the Wakefield winger reach the byline and pull the ball back to Tom Denton who made no mistake, slotting home from the edge of the six yard box on 18 minutes for the only goal of the game.

Woodley were reduced to ten men six minutes later when Mike Clarke was dismissed after the referee saw him raise his arms towards a Wakefield defender.

There were half chances at both ends in the second half, but Woodley's shooting was wayward and Ashley Timms in the Wakefield goal was rarely troubled. At the other end Denton came close to adding his second with a header, but was denied by the save of the match by Woodley's Liam Higginbotham.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Ian Robinson

Wakefield: Timms, Nicholson, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Stansfield, Edwards, Jones (Glavin 85), Shooter (Firth 69), Denton, Robinson (Ferguson 89). Subs Not Used: Kane, Danville.

 
 

Management Restructuring at College Grove

Wakefield FC manager Ronnie Glavin is stepping down from first team management duties to concentrate on a new role as Director of Youth Development.

In continuing to build the club from the foundation up, Wakefield FC is delighted to appoint Ronnie Glavin as Director of Youth Development at the club with immediate effect.

The plan to build the club from the base up is at the end of it’s beginning, and the Board feel it would be another positive move for Ronnie to concentrate all his efforts on the Youth Development Programme.

Pete Bevils, CEO commented “In recent years Ronnie has attracted and mentored many youth players to great effect, reaching the first round of the FA Youth Cup and winning both the U18 and U19 leagues last season, a year after the U18’s won every game on their way to the league title and winning every regional cup competition they entered.

The club is also working closely with Wakefield College in order to develop and educate students on the sports courses. With the club expanding in this manner and at this rate Ronnie is spread too thinly, so Ronnie and the board decided that the most effective way to restructure was in this way. The Youth Development Programme is very important to us and Ronnie has done a brilliant job over the last 3 years. We need that to continue if we’re going to give this City a successful football club in years to come and we believe this is the best way to do it. Our dedication to youth has just been highlighted by the recent partnership with Unison who are now supporting our Youth Development Programme too”

Today there are no less than 6 players from the club’s Youth Development Programme in the first team squad, a good sign of the club’s progress and steady building plan. The U18’s are also looking to continue their good run in the FA Youth Cup.

In order to concentrate on the Youth Team Programme, Ronnie has stepped aside from first team duties. First Team duties will be taken up in the interim by Steve Nicholson, aided by club captain Wes Milnes. The position will be advertised in the coming weeks to replace Ronnie in that role.

Ronnie said “The club is fortunate in being able to hand over the reins temporarily to Stevie Nicholson, who for many years has been a loyal and dedicated player at the club. I am sure everyone will join me in wishing him every success.

We are privileged to have a large number of up-and-coming talent in these teams and I hope to develop them to their full potential, hopefully becoming first team players and even playing to a higher level. 

Finally, I would like to thank everyone who has given me their support over the years, and hopefully they will continue to do so in my new role within the club”

 
Oct 12th 2010

Wakefield Beaten After Penalty Shoot Out

Wakefield twice took the lead against Durham, but were beaten on penalties after a 2-2 draw in the League Cup First Round tie at College Grove.

Josh Herring started in goal for Wakefield and midfielder Adam Jones started on the substitutes bench. Jay Edwards returned from injury and took Jones' place in the centre of midfield. Elliott Firth also returned to the side in place of the unavailable Wayne Shooter. Delroy Ferguson started in wide midfield and there was no place in the squad for Cameron Lyn.

Wakefield went in front midway through the first half when an excellent run by Firth led to him pulling the ball back for Tom Denton to slot home.

Durham equalised on the stroke of half time with a Craig Harbord free kick that was curled into the top corner.

Wakefield regained the lead early in the second half when Denton scored his second goal of the game after meeting a deep cross at the far post.

Substitute Ryan Pleasants hit the post as Wakefield enjoyed a good spell of play, but Durham settled again and equalised through Jack Pounder with 20 minutes left to play.

The game went into extra time but neither side could find a breakthrough and the tie was eventually decided by the lottery of a penalty shoot out.

Durham took the first penalty, which was blazed high over the bar, and when Brandon Kane scored for Wakefield and Durham missed their second spot kick, the advantage was with the Bears.

But Conor Glavin and Marc Roberts both missed for the home side and with Durham netting their last three penalties and Adam Jones scoring for Wakefield the game went into sudden death.

Durham scored their sixth spot kick and it was left to Aidan Morris to keep Wakefield in the game. Morris' low kick was saved by the Durham goalkeeper to send the visitors through to the next round.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Brandon Kane

Wakefield: Herring, Kane, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Stansfield, Firth (Glavin), Edwards (Jones), Robinson (Pleasants), Denton, Ferguson. Subs Not Used: Burgin, Danville.

 
Oct 2nd 2010

Bears Hammered At Skelmersdale

Wakefield were beaten 5-1 in their FA Trophy Preliminary Round tie at Skelmersdale.

A stunning 25 yard free kick in the sixth minute put Skelmersdale ahead and when an error by goalkeeper Ashley Timms gifted the home side their second goal Wakefield were already staring at defeat with only part of the first half played.

Skelmersdale added two further goals before half time to leave the score at 4-0 at the break.

Another blow for the Bears saw midfielder Marc Roberts limp off with an ankle injury at half time after falling awkwardly during the first half.

Wakefield were much better in the second half, but Skelmersdale already had the game won and added a fifth goal to the score sheet midway through.

Tom Denton headed in a consolation for Wakefield in stoppage time.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: James Stansfield.

Wakefield: Timms, Kane, Morris, Roberts (Glavin 46), Milnes (c), Stansfield, Shooter, Jones, Robinson (Burgin 66), Denton, Lyn (Ferguson 46). Subs Not Used: Danville, Torbitt.

Wakefield have signed experienced centre back James Stansfield ahead of tomorrow's FA Trophy tie at Skelmersdale.

32 year old Stansfield has played for Halifax Town in the football league and also played for Ossett Town, Bradford Park Avenue, Liversedge, Guiseley and Frickley Athletic, along with more recently featuring for Wakefield's Division One North rivals Ossett Albion.

 
Sep 29th 2010

Bears Beaten by Huddersfield in Friendly

Wakefield were beaten 2-0 by Huddersfield Town in the rearranged friendly fixture.

The Wakefield side gave a good account of themselves and were only down 0-1 at half time.

A late first half penalty and an own goal in the second half saw The Bears beaten 2-0.

match report at Hudd Town website
 http://www.htafc.com/page/Rese..
 
Sep 28th 2010

Durham City 3-1 Wakefield

Despite a much improved performance, Wakefield fell to a 3-1 defeat at Durham City.

New signing from Garforth Town Cameron Lyn debuted in wide midfield. A defensive change saw Marc Roberts partner Wes Milnes at centre back, Luke Danville started the game on the bench. Steve Nicholson was ruled out after pulling a hamstring in training on Monday night with Brandon Kane taking his place at right back.

Wakefield controlled the game from the word off, enjoying two thirds of the possession over the 90 minutes, with Durham struggling to cope with Wakefield's much better football.

However, it was the north east side that took the lead midway through the first half. A poor kick out from Ashley Timms was fired straight back by Jay Edwards, leaving Durham's Stephen Thompson clean through goal and he made no mistake in slotting the ball home.

Wakefield continued to play good football and got the equaliser they deserved on the stroke of half time. A counter attack saw good interlinking play between Cameron Lyn and Delroy Fergusn before the ball was played through to Aidan Morris who had made his way forward from left back. Morris held off the challenge of the Durham defenders and coolly slotted the ball past the onrushing Durham goalkeeper Lewis Graham.

At half time it looked like only one side would come out and win it but Durham had other ideas. Amar Purwal somehow got the better of three defenders to fire through Timms' legs within ten minutes of the restart.

Moments later giant centre half Ross Wilkinson beat Tom Denton to a free kick to power a header into the net. Timms got a hand to it, but couldn't prevent the ball from continuing into the goal.

Wakefield did have a goal disallowed when Wes Milnes converted after a Denton head down following a set piece, the referee adjudging that Denton had been climbing on a Durham defender.

But otherwise they struggled to make their possession and football turn into goalscoring opportunities with Lewis Graham not tested enough during the game.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Wes Milnes

Wakefield: Timms, Kane, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Edwards (Glavin 46), Firth (Danville 80), Jones, Lyn, Ferguson (Torbitt 82). Sub Not Used: Burgin.
 
Sep 25th 2010

Bears Beaten at Home By Trafford

Wakefield slumped to a 3-0 home defeat against Trafford at College Grove.

Delroy Ferguson and Marc Roberts returned from injury in place of Elliott Firth and the injured Ian Robinson in the starting line up for Wakefield.

Trafford worried the Wakefield defence with their swift attacking play from the start and went in front on 24 minutes when Andy Lundy was on hand to convert a low cross at the far post.

Delroy Ferguson hit the post for Wakefield as The Bears looked to find an equaliser before half time.

The second half started pretty evenly, but Trafford extended their advantage on 72 minutes when captain Paul Ashton curled a free kick into the net from the right wing.

Callum Byrne added a third Trafford goal deep into stoppage time.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Wes Milnes.

Wakefield: Timms, Nicholson, Morris, Roberts, Milnes, Danville, Torbitt (Shooter 47), Jones, Edwards (Glavin 84), Denton, Ferguson (Firth 73). Subs Not Used: Laight, Kane.

 

 
Sep 21st 2010

Last Gasp Winner Sees Bears Through In Cup

An Adam Jones goal in the seventh minute of added time saw Wakefield beat their Division One South opponents Brigg Town in the President's Cup.

Wakefield were without Marc Roberts (hamstring) with new signing Matt Torbitt (ex Stockport County and New Mills) replacing him in the starting line up. One other change saw Luke Danville return and Craig Laight drop to the bench. There was also a place for Wayne Shooter on the substitute's bench who has recovered from an ankle injury.

Tom Denton fired Wakefield into a 17th minute lead, but Brigg were soon back on level terms as Sam West stole in unmarked to glance home.

The sides were pretty even and went in level at 1-1 at the break.

In the second half both sides had chances to score. Adam Jones skipped over three challenges only to be denied by Brigg substitute goalkeeper Danny Minshall who had entered the field of play after half time.

Just as extra time was looming, Brigg cleared off the line at one end and Wakefield just about cleared their lines at the other.

Then The Bears broke up field and substitute Shooter got away from his man down the right to pull the ball back to Adam Jones who squeezed it home from eight yards.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Adam Jones

Wakefield: Timms, Nicholson, Morris, Edwards, Milnes (c), Danville, Firth (Glavin 56), Jones, Robinson (Shooter 46), Denton, Torbitt. Subs Not Used: Laight, Kane.
 
Sep 18th 2010

Heavy Defeat For Bears at Fylde

Wakefield slumped to a 4-0 defeat in their league fixture at Fylde

The Bears had marshalled their ambitious hosts well during the early part of the game, with Fylde only managing a couple of goalscoring chances which new Wakefield goalkeeper Ashley Timms was more than equal to.

However, Wakefield fell behind five minutes before the half time break when Wes Milnes diverted a low ball across goal into his own net.

The game looked far from over at half time, but Fylde came out firing on all cylinders after the break, quickly racing into a four goal lead before the hour mark.

The pick of the Fylde goals was an unstoppable 25 yard curling free kick that crashed in off the underside of the bar.

Fylde could have extended their lead on several occasions, but Timms was in excellent form, making several superb saves.

To add to Wakefield's woes they were forced to play the final fifteen minutes with ten men after substitute Josh Burgin limped off with a knee injury and all three substitutes had already been used.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Ashley Timms

Wakefield: Timms, Nicholson, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Laight, Firth (Burgin), Jones, Robinson (Barlow), Denton, Edwards (Glavin). Sub Not Used: Kane.
 
Sep 11th 2010

Wakefield Earn Home Win Against Lancaster

A much improved performance saw Wakefield earn a 2-0 home win against Lancaster.

Wakefield welcomed Craig Laight back into the starting line up with Brandon Kane also starting at right back. Steve Nicholson moved into midfield in place of the unavailable Adam Jones. Delroy Ferguson returned on the wing in place of Danny Barlow who dropped to the bench.

The two sides went in at 0-0 at the break after a fairly even first 45 minutes. Wakefield had lost Kane to an injury ten minutes before half time, with Jay Edwards replacing him and Nicholson moving back to his standard right back slot.

Wakefield went in front five minutes into the second half when Craig Laight's header following a corner was adjudged to have crossed the line by the assistant referee, despite the best efforts of the defender on the goalline.

Lancaster tried to come back at Wakefield, but the home defence stood firm and the visitors could not find a way through.

Tom Denton's late far post header sealed the points for Wakefield.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Tom Denton.

Wakefield: Herring, Kane (Edwards 34), Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Laight, Firth (Glavin 86), Nicholson, Robinson, Denton, Ferguson (Burgin 84). Sub Not Used: Barlow.
 
Sep 8th 2010

Wakefield Beaten at Witton

Injury hit Wakefield slumped to a 3-1 defeat at Witton Albion to leave The Bears with only a solitary victory from their first five league games.

Delroy Ferguson (broken foot) and Craig Laight (gashed head) were both ruled out after picking up injuries against Chester at the weekend. Ferguson joins the long term injured list which also includes Ryan Pleasants, Will Ryder and Luke Danville.

Wakefield handed debuts to two new signings, centre back Michael Mills from Bardsey FC and ex Huddersfield Town left winger Danny Barlow.

The Bears matched Witton for much of the game but were punished by striker Andy Kinsey who took advantage of defensive errors to fire in a hat trick.

Kinsey's first goal came from a header midway through the first half. Tom Denton had an effort cleared off the line, but Kinsey took full advantage once more moments before the break when he netted his and Witton's second.

Kinsey's third goal early in the second half sealed the victory.

Marc Roberts dropped back to centre half with Jay Edwards entering the fray in midfield in place of Mills. Wakefield looked much more solid and pulled a goal back via Tom Denton's coolly taken penalty four minutes from time, awarded after a handball in the box.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Tom Denton.

Wakefield: Herring, Nicholson, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Mills (Edwards 49), Firth (Glavin 79), Jones, Robinson, Denton, Barlow (Burgin 60). Sub Not Used: Kane.
 
Sep 4th 2010

Bears Beaten at Home By Chester

Wakefield were eventually beaten 2-1 by Chester after battling back from a goal down at half time.

The Bears made several changes to the side that drew at Ossett Albion. Josh Herring started in goal in place of Jan Zolna who has joined Yorkshire Amateur. Elliott Firth returned on the wing replacing Ryan Pleasants who is out for around 12 weeks with a torn hamstring. Ian Robinson debuted up front after joining the club from Lanzarote, Wayne Shooter dropped to the bench. Steve Nicholson returned in place of Brandon Kane at right back and Craig Laight replaced Jay Edwards in the starting eleven after returning from a suspension.

Chester shaded the opening 45 minutes and deserved their half time lead. Captain George Horan was the goalscorer midway through the half.

Delroy Ferguson had a glorious chance to equalise on the stroke of half time after been put through by the lively Robinson, but was denied by goalkeeper Richard Whiteside.

Wakefield came back strongly after half time and deserved their equaliser on 52 minutes. Elliott Firth drove the ball into the net from 20 yards after a good run infield from the right.

Chester came back at The Bears after the equaliser and had several chances to score but Josh Herring was in good form in the home goal. Stuart Graves eventually slotted home the winner with 15 minutes left.

Wakefield tried to find another equaliser but couldn't break down the Chester defence. Tom Denton had a good chance to score right at the death but didn't get a good connection on his shot and Whiteside made a comfortable save.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Wes Milnes

Wakefield: Herring, Nicholson, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Laight, Firth, Jones, Robinson, Denton, Ferguson (Glavin 81). Subs Not Used: Kane, Burgin, Shooter.
 
Aug 30th 2010

Wakefield Held by Ten Man Ossett

A Delroy Ferguson goal earned Wakefield a point against an Ossett side who had lost Darren Utley to a red card early in the game.

Wakefield welcomed Wayne Shooter back into the starting line up in place of the suspended Danny South. Jay Edwards came in for Adam Sparkes and Brandon Kane replaced Steve Nicholson at right back. Nicholson was unavailable due to work commitments.

The two sides were evenly matched from the start before Ossett were reduced to ten men when Utley was shown what looked a very harsh red card for a foul on Ferguson.

Wakefield had earlier lost Ryan Pleasants through injury with Nash Connolly coming on to replace him.

Ossett snatched the lead on the stroke of half time when Richard Tracey stole in at the far post to score.

Wakefield replaced goalkeeper Jan Zolna with Josh Herring during the half time break.

Wakefield tried to make their extra man count after the break but were constantly thwarted by a dogged Ossett defence.

Tom Denton had a glorious chance to equalise but fired straight at the Ossett goalkeeper from close range.

Ferguson equalised for Wakefield with an excellent finish from 10 yards after latching onto a ball forward.

Wakefield couldn't find a second goal and were forced to settle for a point.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Tom Denton.

Wakefield: Zolna (Herring 46), Kane, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Edwards (Glavin 87), Pleasants (Connolly 12), Jones, Shooter, Denton, Ferguson. Subs Not Used: Ivanov, Burgin.
 
Aug 28th 2010

Bears Out of FA Cup After Defeat by Ashington

Wakefield are out of The FA Cup after a hat-trick from Stephen Young saw Northern League Ashington come from 2-0 down to win at College Grove.

Youth team defender Adam Sparkes made his first team debut at centre half in place of Luke Danville who had sufferred a broken heel during an accident at work in midweek. One other change saw Ryan Pleasants start in place of Elliott Firth who was unavailable.

Marc Roberts headed Wakefield into a deserved 9th minute lead and when Tom Denton lashed in from close range on 23 minutes after Roberts' header had come back off the post, it looked as though Wakefield were well on their way to victory.

A mistake from goalkeeper Jan Zolna allowed Stephen Young to pull a goal back before half time and Young then equalised for the visitors midway through the second half.

Ashington dominated the second period of play and Young slotted past Zolna deep into injury time to give the Northern League side victory.

Wakefield: Zolna, Nicholson, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Sparkes, Pleasants (Burgin 65), Jones, South, Denton, Ferguson. Subs Not Used: Herring, Glavin, Edwards, Kane.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Tom Denton.
 
Aug 24th 2010

Superb Performance Sees Bears Win at Home

Wakefield put in a first class performance to beat Leigh Genesis 3-0 in their opening home league match.

Danny South put an unchanged Wakefield side in front on 19 minutes with an excellent finish from 10 yards.

Luke Danville rattled the crossbar from inside the penalty area and Tom Denton headed against a post as Wakefield looked to add to their tally.

Denton finally scored the second goal ten minutes before the break when he finished off a superb move involving South and Adam Jones.

Leigh battled strongly in the second half but struggled to create chances and Wakefield took full advantage in the closing stages as Denton scored his second goal to make the game safe with a well placed finish that went in off the far post.

Leigh's Keiran Molyneux was dismissed late in the game for a second booking.

Wakefield: Zolna, Nicholson, Morris, Roberts, Milnes (c), Danville, Firth (Pleasants 74), Jones (Glavin 88), South, Denton, Ferguson (Burgin 84). Subs Not Used: Edwards, Kane.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Danny South.
 
Aug 21st 2010

Last Gasp Goal Denies Bears a Point

Wakefield were denied what would have been a well earned point after a late goal at Skelmersdale after going down to ten men in the first half.

The Bears took an early lead in the fifth minute when Marc Roberts looping header from 15 yards went in off the post.

Jan Zolna was in superb form to deny the home side on more than one occassion, but Skelmersdale levelled from the penalty spot after 27 minutes after Luke Danville had handled on the goalline. Danville was shown a straight red card leaving Wakefield to try and hold out with ten men for the remainder of the game.

Skelmersdale enjoyed the better of the second half possession, but Wakefield always looked dangerous on the counter attack and from set pieces.

Just as it looked as if Wakefield would hold out, Karl O'Donnell pounced from close range with three minutes left after Zolna could only push a low drive into his path.

It was a superb performance from the entire Wakefield team however and they can take much encouragement from the game into Tuesday's match against Leigh Genesis.

Wakefield: Zolna, Nicholson, Morris, Roberts, Milnes, Danville, Firth (Glavin), Jones, South (Edwards), Denton, Ferguson (Pleasants). Sub Not Used: Connolly.

Wakefield FC Man of the Match: Wes Milnes.
 
Aug 14th 2010

Wakefield Beaten by Frickley in Friendly Match

Wakefield lost their final friendly game against local rivals Frickley Athletic at College Grove, despite a second half revival.

The Bears were 3-0 down at half time, but came back in the second half to leave the final score line at 3-2 to the visitors.

Wakefield's goalscorers were Tom Denton and a Danny South penalty.
 
Aug 11th 2010

Wakefield to Face Rothwell on Wednesday Night

Wakefield have arranged a friendly against Rothwell this Wednesday night, the 11th August, at College Grove, kick off 7:30pm.

 
Aug 7th 2010

2010/11 Season Tickets Now Available!

Wakefield FC Season Tickets for the coming season are now available for purchase.

The prices have been frozen at the same level as last season - £110 adults, £90 concessions and £60 students.

Season tickets can be ordered by emailing Dan Brownhill at daniel.brownhill@wakefieldfc.com or via the club's online shop.

 
Aug 6th 2010

New Friendly Fixture - Friday 6th August

Wakefield have a hastily arranged friendly tomorrow night at Campion FC near Bradford, kick off 6:45pm.

Campion play on Scotchman Road near Bradford, the postcode is BD9 5AT.
 
Aug 3rd 2010

Bears Beaten 5-0 by Leeds

Wakefield were beaten 5-0 by a Leeds United XI at College Grove last night in front of a bumper crowd.

The Bears welcomed Chris Howarth and Will Ryder back into the starting eleven, with Jay Edwards and Ryan Pleasants only starting the game on the substitutes' bench.

Leeds Academy's Dominic Poleon put Leeds ahead in the first half with Wakefield matching their visits for periods of the opening 45 minutes to leave the score at 1-0 at half time.

Wakefield netted two unfortunate own goals in the second period whilst Davide Somma and Andy Robinson both also netted for Leeds, the last of the goals a late penalty.

Jason Crowe completed 90 minutes for Leeds after a recent injury and Lubo Michalik also played the full game.

Wakefield: Herring, Laight, Morris, Roberts, Milnes, Ryder, Denton, Firth, South, Howarth, Jones. Subs: Connelly, Glavin, Danville, Pleasants, Edwards, Pierpoint, Burgin, Nicholson, Ferguson, Zolna, Yorath.

Leeds United: Martin, Crowe, Michalik, L Turner, Robinson, Hatfield, McCann, Taylor, Poleon, Somma. Subs: Killock, Payne, N Turner, Birbeck, Lenighan.
 
Jul 30th 2010

Wakefield Earn Comfortable Win at Penistone

Wakefield strolled to a 3-0 win in their pre-season friendly fixture at Penistone Church.

Danny South opened the scoring in the first half with a close range effort.

An own goal made the score 2-0 midway through the second half, and subsitute Luke Danville converted the third late in the game.

Wakefield started with Craig Laight at right back with Marc Roberts continuing his partnership with Wes Milnes in central defence. The game also saw a first outing for goalkeeper Jordan Yorath who replaced Josh Herring at half time.

Wakefield: Herring, Laight, Morris, Roberts (c), Milnes, Jones, Denton, Edwards, South, Firth, Pleasants. Substitutes: Burgin, Connelly, Danville, Bent, Glavin, Yorath (gk).
 
Jul 28th

Denton Hat-Trick Earns Wakefield Victory

Wakefield ran out 4-2 winners in their latest friendly match at Rossington Main.

Wakefield went 3-0 up in the first half hour of the game with two goals from Tom Denton and one from the outstanding Adam Jones.

But The Bears relaxed before half time, allowing their hosts to pull two goals back to make the score 3-2 at half time.

Denton completed his hat-trick in the second half to make the final score 4-2 to Wakefield. Wakefield then had a further "goal" disallowed when the ball clearly crossed the line in a similar fashion to the Frank Lampard disallowed "goal" at the world cup.

It was an excellent performance from Wakefield who looked tidy and compact, defended very well and played some nice attractive football, with the strike partnership of Denton and Danny South working well.

Wakefield included goalkeeper Josh Herring and midfielder Jay Edwards in their starting line up. Herring is a 19 year old goalkeeper who has previously been on the books at Cardiff City and Sheffield Wednesday, Edwards has relocated to the area from Merseyside.

Wakefield: Herring, Pierpoint (Burgin), Morris, Jones, Milnes, Roberts, Denton, Edwards (Glavin), South, Howarth, Pleasants.
 
Jul 24th 2010

Wakefield Beaten in Opening Friendly

Wakefield surrended a two goal lead to lose 3-2 in their hastily arranged friendly at Yorkshire Amateur.

The game was only organised late in the week after Yorkshire Amateur's original opposition had pulled out at the last minute and The Bears agreed to step in for their first pre season fixture.

Josh Burgin's corner was deflected in and Danny South made the score 2-0 before the home side pulled a goal back through Dempsey Smith after a long ball down the middle caught out the Wakefield defenders.

Two goalkeeping errors then gifted the game to Yorkshire Amateur. Jan Zolna was first beaten to the ball by an opposition player after charging out and then caught in possession trying to take the ball around Yorkshire Amateur's forward players, giving the home team two easy goals and allowing Dempsey Smith to complete his hat-trick.

Wakefield included trialist and former Frickley right back Shaun Pierpoint in the starting line up. One injury worry was Will Ryder who left the field in the first half with a thigh injury and had to be replaced by Conor Glavin. Craig Laight could only make the bench for the fixture due to injury with Marc Roberts starting alongside Wes Milnes at centre half.

Wakefield: Zolna, Pierpoint, Morris, Roberts, Milnes, Pleasants, Burgin, Ryder, South, Howarth, Jones, Subs: Glavin, Ferguson, Laight.
 
Jul 19th

Worsbrough Friendly Postponed

Tomorrow night's friendly at Worsbrough Bridge has had to be postponed as the Park Road pitch is not yet ready.

The next arranged friendly involving the Bears is next Wednesday, July 28th, at Rossington Main.
 
Jul 14th 2010

Huddersfield Game Likely To Be Mid August

Wakefield FC are still awaiting concrete news, but indications are that the postponed game from last Saturday will be played in mid August.

The match will be one of Wakefield's final friendlies before they begin their 2010/11 Evo-Stik League campaign at Skelmersdale United on August 21st.

All tickets purchased for the original match will be valid for the rearranged fixture.
 
Jul 10th 2010

Huddersfield Town Game Postponed

Unfortunately, Wakefield's friendly game against Huddersfield Town had to be postponed just 45 minutes before kick off.

The pitch was deemed unplayable after an inspection by both sides, following the recent dry weather. Wakefield FC would like to apologise for the postponement.

The game will be rescheduled for a later date. Further information on this is expected on Tuesday or Wednesday of this coming week. Details will be posted online as soon as we have them.

All tickets purchased for the original game, either online or at the gate, are valid for the rearranged game.
 
Jul 8th 2010

Huddersfield Game on Saturday-All first team playing!!

The Bears are delighted to announce that Huddersfield Town are bringing the first team squad on Saturday

A message from the Board Of Directors was, this afternoon , sent to WFC to confirm that the first team will be attending on Saturday.

Acknowledging Huddersfield's tough game at College Grove last season, Lee Clark has confirmed that the first eleven will be coming to The Bears Den on Saturday.

New signing and ex-Premier League player Joey Gudjohnson is expected to make his debut at College Grove, as is Gary Naysmith, and we also welcome Jordan Rhodes, Tom Clarke, Danny Drinkwater, Lee Novak, Alex Smithies, Alex Smithies, Michael Collins, Tom Clark, Peter Clarke, Gary Roberts, Lee Peltier and Theo Robinson amongst other.

The management team of The Boss (Lee Clark), Terry McDermott, Steve Black, Derek Fazackerley and Paul Stephenson will also be present.

The Bears look forward to welcoming The Terriers on Saturday and hope they all have a great time at the game and in our new bar!!