Armthorpe Welfare 1 - Brighouse Town 5

Defensive errors cost Welfare in a game in which a second half revival wasn’t enough to beat high flying Brighouse Town at Chruch Street today.

Welfare were without key players for the clash with the West Yorkshire side today, Richard Smith, Darren Mansaram, Jonathan Mirfin, James Walker and Stuart Preston all missed out.

Brian Johnston’s side had won their last two league games, scoring eight goals in the process, only conceding one along the way.

On a cold day in South Yorkshire the home side had barely touched the ball before they found themselves one down.

A slip from midfielder, Anthony Ryan, on two minutes left Adam Matthews to pick up the ball, and unleash a shot, which bounced in front of keeper, William Biggs to put his side one up.

Matthews, who has scored 23 goals this season for Town then put Welfare under even more pressure, after a ball over the top found the feet of the forward who calmly slotted home on 12 minutes.

Welfare were caught on the counter once again, but had keeper Biggs to thank after tipping a shot onto the post which was cleared by Steve Garner.

But six minutes later, once again a counter attack became Welfare’s downfall as Joe Jagger scored his first of the afternoon and put Welfare three down before the half hour mark.

Welfare didn’t give much of an attacking display in the first 45 and walked off the muddy Church Street field dissevering to be three goals down.

As the second half whistle blew, the floodlights lit up Church Street and Welfare woke up.

Chances fell to striker Jay Rollins and David Buck who both struck their shots over the bar.

Welfare were the caught up the field and were hit on the counter once again, defender John Tunney went down injured and left a gap for Joe Jagger to pick the ball up and fire a curling shot past keeper Biggs to make it four on 57 minutes.

Welfare then started to find a way back into the game after forcing chances against a tiring Brighouse back four.

Brian Johnston then gave Tony Hattersley a chance to prove himself and that he just did, a pass found the feet of the youngster and he fired a curling shot with his right foot to give a Welfare a way back into the game.

But then, once again, Welfare were caught on the counter attack, a shot was well saved but rebounded into the path of Ernest Boafo who powered home to make it five for Brighouse on 72 minutes.

Welfare did have chances at the end of the game through Stuart Gibbard and Captain Craig Morley but to no avail and the full time whistle blew.

Welfare’s two game unbeaten run has been destroyed at the hands of a clinical Brighouse side that are tipped for promotion after a strong start to their season.

Welfare must now regroup for a tough away tie trip to mid table Garforth Town next Saturday, in search of the first three points of 2014.

Basford United 3 - Armthorpe Welfare 1

On a cold, grey day in Basford, former England international Lee Hendrie shone threw to give his new side all three points at Greenwich Avenue this afternoon. 

Welfare welcomed back Josh Gibbons into the starting eleven in the place of Tuesday's match winner, Craig Morley. Darren Mansaram also forced his way back in the starting line up after missing Tuesday's win over Thackley through illness.

Lee Hendrie started his first game for his new club Basford United after signing for the Nottinghamshire based side during the week.

The first ten minutes saw possessional football being played by both sides as they tried to find a way through each other's back line.

Former Villa man, Hendrie, showed his quality on 17 minutes, after picking up the ball on the edge of the 18 yard area, jinked past Steve Garner, and dinked the ball past Welfare's keeper Will Biggs.

Brian Johnston wanted an instant reaction from his players and that's just what he got. Jay Rollins and Darren Mansaram narrowly missing from close range.

Welfare were starting to find a way through the Basford back line until, a break away move forced Armthorpe back, a shot from Fabian Smith took a big deflection off Stuart Gibbard which wrong footed Biggs and hit the back of the net.

That goal 10 minutes before half time sent Welfare into the break 2-0 down and on the brink of a 10 defeat in 11 games.

When the second half whistle blew, Welfare flew out of the blocks. Jay Rollins picked up the ball on the right hand flank, played the ball into Stuart Preston who unleashed an unstoppable left foot curing shot to give Welly a way back into the contest.

Assistant manager Dave Poppleton urged his team on from the sidelines to press the play and get in Basford faces, and the players did just that.

Welfare then very nearly levelled the contest through Danny Taylor from a game of pinball in the box, which hit the post and the ball popped up to the Basford keeper and he took charge with his hands.

With ten minutes left, Jay Rollins found himself in space after a break away run and became one on one with the keeper, but pushed his shot inches wide.

The crowd felt there would be one more goal left in the game and unfortunately it came from Jamie Walker to break the Welfare momentum and give Basford all three points.

Once again a poor start and an excellent finish for Welfare wasn't enough just like it was on Tuesday night. Brian Johnston's men must regroup for the long trip to Pickering on Tuesday night.

Armthorpe Welfare 2 - Thackley 0

The fourth contest between these two sides this season, saw Welfare walk away from a cold Church Street winning their first game in eight matches, with goals from Jay Rollins and Captain Craig Morley.

Welfare came into this Premiership clash having lost eight matches in all competitions on the bounce including heavy defeats at Thackley, Albion Sports and Heanor Town, only scoring six goals in the recent run of poor form.

Welfare gave a second start of the season to Luke Atkinson after impressing in the unlucky 1-0 defeat to runaway leaders Tadcaster, Craig Morley captained the side also in the absence of Richard Smith.

Both teams started slowly with only a few chances in the first 20 minutes. Thackley’s Matt Hall came closest to breaking the deadlock with a selfish shot into the side netting.

The game then lit up with an off the ball incident causing a sending off for Thackley.

Luke Atkinson won the ball fairly off Luke Richardson, as Atkinson got back to his feet, Richardson felt the need to raise both hands and push Welfare’s number two to the ground, the referee sent Richardson packing much to his disgust.

This was the turning point in the game as the first half came to a halt with very few chances for both sides.

Just as manager Brian Johnston wants his team to play, Welfare started the second half with an intense work rate and forced Thackley into mistakes.

The chances started to come for Welfare as they made the extra man count with Stuart Gibbard coming close, heading over from an inch perfect cross from Rollins.

An excellent piece of play from Welfare broke the deadlock. Jay Rollins held the ball up for Danny Taylor who played a defence splitting pass into Rollins, who took a touch and placed the ball into the Thackley goal, his ninth goal of the season.

11 minutes later, Welfare attacked once again with Stuart Preston, Danny Taylor squared the ball, a missed shot from Gibbard fell into the path of captain fantastic, Craig Morley, to slot home and double the home sides advantage.

The final whistle blew and the reaction everyone involved in the club was hoping for. A second half performance that stunned highflying Thackley, showed that Armthorpe are no push overs.

Welfare travel to mid table Basford United on Saturday, looking for back to back wins for the first time since September.

Albion Sports 8 - Armthorpe Welfare 1

Armthorpe Welfare travelled to Albion Sports with a view to breaking the poor of form the Doncaster side find themselves in.

Five defeats on the trot in all competitions coming into this weekends tie with Albion Sports saw Brian Johnston make two changes to his starting eleven.

Striker Gary Mundy, who scored four goals in five game’s came in for Darren Mansaram and suspended Josh Gibbons was replaced by Anthony Ryan, making his second start of the season.

The game sparked into life with chances for both sides, keeper Will Biggs was tested with an early stinger.

Armthorpe then wasted two very good chances, in form Gary Mundy smashed a shot over the bar from close range, and James Walker fired over from 12 yards.

Defensive errors have cost Welfare points in the last few league games, and the first goal came from just that.

A long freekick was punted into the Welfare box on 16 minutes, both Anthony Ryan and Will Biggs jumped for the ball, Biggs failed to catch the cross and it fell into the path of Grenada international, Danny Facey to slot home into an empty net.

Albion started to pile on the pressure and the back line of Welfare crumbled. Facey once again slotting home from a Riley through ball and a John Tunney own goal saw Welfare three down just before the half hour mark.

Worry for Welfare as James Walker, who has just returned from injury came off after 40 minutes with a calf injury.

Albion’s midfield started to grab a hold of the game and carried on forcing Welfare back, but a quick counter attack from Jay Rollins then won Welfare a penalty after being brought down by James Stansfield.

Up stepped Jonathan Mirfin to reignite the fire for Welfare, but there was Aaron Brian to force the ball round the post with a strong left hand diving to his right.

Albion then countered and a neat volley past Biggs sent the home side into the break four up with Danny Facey being the difference, bullying the Welfare back line.

The second half whistle blew and Armthorpe came out firing with early chances for Mundy and Rollins.

Albion weathered the Welfare storm and soon caught Armthorpe on the counter, Danny Facey once again involved being the creator for Lee McGowans well placed header on 55 minutes.

Facey completed his hat trick and scored his 24^th of the season with a strong placed penalty past Biggs after being hauled down by Anthony Ryan. 6-0 and Welfare were dead and buried.

Albion Sports boast a striker that has international and Premier League experience in the form of Delroy Facey who made an appearance on 58 minutes at Throstle Nest.

Facey made an instant impact scoring two well worked goals with his left foot and his head to humiliate an already confidence hit Welfare. 8-0 with ten minutes left to play.

Welfare did get on the scoresheet with five minutes to play through a scrappy goal from Anthony Ryan after a squared ball from Jay Rollins.

Welfare walk away from high flying Albion Sports with their heaviest defeat in three years. Brian Johnston’s men must look for a reaction with games coming thick and fast, with matches against second placed Thackley and league leaders Tadcaster Albion at Church Street in the coming weeks. 

Thackley 4 - Armthorpe Welfare 0

An inspired William Biggs wasn’t enough to stop a rampant Thackley side running riot at Dennyfield in the second round of the FA Vase today.

Captain, Richard ‘smigger’ Smith described the keeper’s performance as “cracking” after a string of classy saves to stopped his side’s defeat becoming heavier.

Welfare welcomed back striker Darren Mansaram after missing him mid week at Glasshoughton, Welfare also had the chance to show off new signing, Robert Kilmartin after signing the Australian this week.

James Walker made his first start in over 8 months for Welfare after two subs appearances in the last two games warranted a start for the midfielder.

The game started with a flurry of movement from Welfare with an early chance for Jay Rollins, which was well saved by the Thackley keeper.

Thackley boast some of the league’s top scorers and on 17 minutes we saw why with a thunderous effort from Matt Morgan saw Will Biggs called into action to acrobatically tip the shot over the bar.

The home side started to pile on the pressure and the back four for Welfare soaked up the pressure like a sponge.

Thackley kept Biggs on his toes forcing Welfare to sit back and soak up pressure, which saw the home side have a spell of 15 minutes in the opposite half.

The first half came to close with Welfare going in the happier team and looking the better at points.

The second half whistle blew and once again Welfare attacked and won a penalty on the 50 minute mark.

Darren Mansaram picked up the ball and turned the Thackley centre half inside out, the man slipped and as he went down put a hand on the ball, the linesman gave it and up stepped Danny Taylor.

The luck that Welfare had craved still deserts them as the well struck penalty looked destined for the right hand corner, but a fantastic save from the goalkeeper, his eight penalty save from eleven, kept the scoreline at 0-0.

The Thackley pressure started to ware Welfare down and on 65 minutes the deadlock was broken. A run down the left hand flank allowed a cross to come in, it evaded everyone but Matt Hall who was unmarked to poke home at the back post.

Biggs was again on hand to keep the scoreline at 1-0, and allowed Armthorpe to pile on the pressure to force an equaliser.

Welfare were then caught on the counter, and an excellent finish from Chris Davey doubled the home sides lead and put them with one foot in the third round.

Two goals from Brendan Maltby and top scorer Matthew Mathers gave Thackley a 4-0 victory on a cold day in West Yorkshire and delighted the home supporters.

Welfare captain, Richard Smith said after the game: “I don’t think it was a fair reflection of the game to be honest. Luck hasn’t gone our way, and against a top side like Thackley, that’s what you need.

“Biggsey has made some cracking saves today and we’re all fully behind him all the way”

Welfare have now lost six matches in a row and a touch match next week at Albion Sports proves that there are no easy games in the NCEL Premiership. Smith said: “We’ve got to get something soon and pick up some points soon and break this winless run, we’ve got to stick together” 

Glasshoughton Welfare 1 - Armthorpe Welfare 0

Armthorpe Welfare slump to a fifth defeat in a row after a defensive error lead to Glasshoughton securing a fifth league win in as many games.

Armthorpe welcomed back into their starting eleven, Chris Davies after a month out due an injury. David Buck, Gary Mundy and Darren Mansaram missed out on the trip due to injuries picked up at Heanor Town on Saturday and Retford Town.

Armthorpe started the game well on a cold night at Leeds Road, pressing the Glasshoughton midfield into mistakes. Both teams took their time to work each other out.

Glasshoughton did know how Armthorpe were going to play after a 4-1 drubbing in the FA Vase earlier in the season, where striker Jay Rollins bagged a hat trick.

The first chance of the match fell for Armthorpe, Steve Garner won the ball back and went on an advancing run down the left hand flank, he pinged a ball cross field to the feet of Danny Taylor, after turning the full back inside out, Taylor dragged a left footed shot just wide of the Glasshoughton goal.

Glasshoughton then started to frustrate Armthorpe and a rash tackle from Jonathan Mirfin resulted in a freekick for the home side.

A long freekick was punted into the Welfare 18 yard area, a free header was won after not one Armthorpe defender picked up the runner, keeper Will Biggs failed to clear the ball, and a open goal was left for Darrell Young to slot home after 36 minutes.

Four minutes later an unnecessary sending off for Glasshoughton’s, James Beaston after raising an arm to Armthorpe’s, Chris Davies under the referee’s noise. The contest started to become a scrappy affair from this point.

The second half started brightly for Armthorpe, straight from the kick off Jay Rollins cut inside the left full back and fired a shot into the side netting. Early warning signs for the home side.

Delight for James Walker once again as he came off the bench for a forty-minute cameo after making his long awaited come back at Heanor Town on Saturday.

The game then slowed down and Glasshoughton sat back on their lead, another sending off for Glasshoughton then occurred as their manager, Rob Hunter, was sent from the dug out after constant jeers to the referee’s assistant on the near side.

Welfare then started to make their extra man count and a thunderbolt of a shot from Jonathan Mirfin saw Glasshoughton’s keeper, Paul Hagreen, pull off a diving save to push the ball round the post.

Welfare then pushed Hagreen into another great save from a diving header from substitute, Anthony Ryan from a James Walker freekick.

Welfare left it to late to force Glasshoughton into a mistake and the final whistle blew to end the scrappy encounter, which saw Rob Hunter’s men walk away with all three points.

Brian Johnston’s squad are now all to used to losing in the league after falling to the their fifth league defeat in a row. Welfare once again must regroup and focus on Saturday’s massive FA Vase cup tie at Thackley.

Welfare have had a good run up to now on the road in the Vase this season, after beating Glasshoughton and Liversedge, now Welfare face their third league compatriots in the competition, in the shape of Thackley at Dennyfield. 

Heanor Town 3 - Armthorpe Welfare 1

Welfare walked away from The Town Ground disheartened after what was a battling performance became in vein as Welfare’s poor defending cost them the three points.

Welfare welcomed back into their squad a returning James Walker after a back injury, which has kept him out for more than 6 months. Armthorpe were without Captain Craig Morley due a suspension.

From the kick off Welfare started the brighter forcing Town back to defend well with their two banks of four.

Then on six minutes Welfare conceded a freekick on the edge of the box. Nathan Benger stepped up and curled it over the wall, the ball bounced in front of Biggs and bounced over his head into the goal.

Three goals in the space of nine minutes proved that this game was going to be a lively one.

Heanor doubled their advantage through Nick Hall, who’s shot was deflected in by Welfare’s Steve Garner.

Welfare’s efforts then rewarded them, David Buck crossed the ball, a shot hit Heanor’s keeper and the ball fell to Darren Mansaram who slotted home to cut Town’s advantage to one.

A piece of Heanor brilliance then availed, as Keiran Debrouwer slotted home his 26^th of the season, from five yards after short, sharp passes cut through Welfare’s back line to increase their lead back to two.

The second half whistle sounded and Welfare attacked Town from the off with a shot from Jay Rollins just skimming the post.

Welfare can take one positive from the result as on 60 minutes, on came James Walker for his first appearance in an Armthorpe shirt for more than six months, a sight that will please everyone involved at Church Street.

Chaos then occurred as Josh Gibbons went flying into a tackle to win the ball, unfortunately he caught the Heanor forward and a mass brawl took place. After the situation calmed down, Gibbons was then sent for an early shower.

Welfare were still creating chances with 10 men but nothing came off for the men in blue.

The full time whistle blew, and saw a scrappy win for Heanor Town after some questionable referring decisions helped them to their tenth win of the season.

Manager Brian Johnston must rally his troops once again and move on to Tuesday where Welfare will travel to Glasshoughton for a mid table league clash.

Watson inspires Parkgate to win against former side Welfare

It was a returning Richard Watson who inspired his Parkgate teammates to a second half turn around against Armthorpe Welfare at Church Street this afternoon.

Watson returned to Church Street after signing for Parkgate two months after leaving for Welfare in the summer. The shot stopper struggled to make the number one shirt his own for Welfare and returned this afternoon to haunt his old side.

Welfare came into this Premiership clash after a hard fought, well earned point at Retford in mid week with Parkgate looking to double their win tally this season after a tough start.  

The opening ten minutes saw Welfare weathering a Parkgate storm of constant attacks, which saw a shot cannon off the underside of the crossbar but didn’t cross the line, an early warning sign for Brian Johnston’s men.

After the Parkgate storm had calmed Welfare started to find a way into the game through Jay Rollins and Steve Garner shots but there was keeper’ Watson on hand to keep the scoreline at 0-0.  

Just one minute after the half hour mark Welfare won a freekick just out the 18 yard area, Jonathan Mirfin struck the shot which cannoned off the wall and fell ino the feet of the returning striker Stuart Preston, who found himself in space to slot home into the corner to put Welly into the lead.

The half time break came and it was plainly obvious why Parkgate only had one win in fourteen matches coming into todays game. Welfare needed to switch on and kill the game off in the second half, but Parkgate came out firing.

Ten minutes after the restart a poor pass from Darren Mansaram found the feet of the Parkgate skipper who lofted a ball into Tom Brown who hit Armthorpe on the counter.

Brown took a shot and forced Biggs into a save, which rebounded into the path of his strike partner who slotted home into an empty net. 1-1.

Welfare had to respond and on 63 minutes, Welfare hit a long ball into striker Darren Mansaram who tussled with the Parkgate centre half and found himself with time on the ball to slot home to put Welfare back in front.

Parkgate shot stopper Watson, then proved what Welfare has lost with a string of saves from Rollins to keep his side in the contest.

Parkgate then won the ball in the middle of the park and went on the counter, and from 20 yards out unleashed a cannonball of a shot into the top right corner, nothing Biggs could do.

Parkgate saw all three points were for the taking and with five minutes left they took them. A corner was floated over to the back post and it was poked home to dismay of everyone involved with Welfare.

The full time whistle blew with Parkgate taking the spoils. A game of two half’s and a returning Richard Watson helped the Steelmen to a second win of the season.

Welfare need to regroup for Tuesday as Church Street hosts Long Eaton United in a lower half clash which see’s Welfare in much need of three points. 

Eccleshill United v Armthorpe Welfare - Match Report

Tonight has seen Armthorpe Welfare’s first defeat in 8 games at the hands of NCEL Division One side, Eccleshill United. Vice captain, David Buck, described the defeat as “gutting.” During his post match interview ‘Bucko’ said, ‘we didn’t turn up tonight up, our work rate was poor, our desire was the main problem. They had some good lads on the ball but if we compete like we have in the last six games then we should be winning matches like that tonight.’

Welfare made four changes for tonight’s first round tie at Eccleshill with, Jonathan Mirfin suspended and Brad Johnston, Jay Rollins and Captain Craig Morley rested from Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Staveley Miners Welfare which saw Welfare take six wins from eight games. Manager Brian Johnston wanted his side to carry on this form to see them into the second round of the competition.

The first half started slowly for Armthorpe as Eccleshill came out the blocks early and put pressure on Welfare from the kick off. The home side gave the Welfare management an early scare with a shot from inside the 18 yard area which was saved by keeper’ Will Biggs, and early wake up call. It took just 25 minutes for Eccleshill to break the deadlock with a sloppy goal to conceed on Welfare’s behalf. The ball was lost in the midfield and Marcus Edwards picked the ball up and ran in on goal, keeper Will Biggs saved the first shot but couldn’t stop the follow up which was neatly placed into the bottom corner to make it 1-0 to the home side. Edwards’ 11^th goal of the campaign.

Armthorpe then looked to keep the ball and try get and a foot into the match but once again some sloppy posessional play on 32 minutes saw Eccleshill hit Welfare on the counter, the ball was neatly played out to the right hand side where it found the feet of United’s top goal scorer this season, Marcus Edwards, who ran in on goal and calmly placed the ball into the bottom right hand corner past a diving Will Biggs to make it 2-0 to the division one side.

Armthorpe orders were being barked out by centre half Richard Smith to rally the side in attempt to nick a goal back but then ten minutes before half time, once again, Welfare lost the ball in a crucial part of the field, the cross was put on a sixth pence at the feet of Marcus Edwards, who once again calmly struck the ball home to give them a comfortable 3-0 lead and secure his hat trick. Welfare then looked to strike back with a counter attack from Danny Taylor; the ball was played into the feet of Daniel Ferguson who shot was struck wide of the post, Welfare’s first attempt on goal. Seconds later the halftime whistle blew.

As the second 45 came, the rain started to get heavier and Armthorpe began to take the game to Eccleshill. Forcing the ball down the left hand flank with Captain David Buck but the final ball lacked the cutting edge to get past the Eccleshill shot stopper.

But then with 60 minutes on the clock Welfare won a free kick on the left hand side of the 18 yard area, the ball was whipped in and up rose striker Darren Mansaram, un marked, but the ball flew over the bar, chances were coming and going for Armthorpe. Then 15 minutes later a corner was won on the left hand side by David Buck, a cross was swung in by Boyde to be met by a rising Mansaram once again but this time he came even closer, but not close enough. The ball struck bar and bounced out of play. Eccleshill were now on the back foot and Welfare tails were up.

As Welfare were up field pushing for that goal they deserved, the ball was once again lost in a crucial part of the pitch, Eccleshill took the ball down the right hand side with Marcus Edwards at the helm, he struck a cross in to be met by a rising Austin Hart to head the ball home, the killer blow for Welfare who had worked extremely hard in the second half.

The full time whistle blew and the Welfare players walked off dejected and distraught after their heaviest defeat of the season. Eccleshill deserved their win tonight after the effort and desire they’ve shown at The Rapid Solicitors Stadium this evening. It gives the Welfare squad a chance to focus on the league campaign and also the FA Vase competition, where Armthorpe play Liversedge.

When asked tonight about how Armthorpe were going to react to this defeat with a league match against Barton Town Old Boys on Saturday, David Buck said, “We have to put it right on Saturday, and that’s the work rate. Hopefully we’ll have Craig Morley and Jay Rollins back for the game but we can’t use that as an excuse for tonight’s performance. We just have to go again.”

Manager Brian Johnston, must rally his troops and pick them up to get the right result on Saturday to keep the great league form they have as of late running, and keep climbing the NCEL Premiership.  

Eccleshill United v Armthorpe Welfare – West Ridings County Cup First Round Match Preview

This week see’s the return of the West Ridings County Cup and see’s Welfare travel to NCEL Division One side, Eccleshill United. There are only four rounds of the competition to reach the final, so in reality Welfare have an excellent of collecting some silverware this season.

September has been a fantastic month for Brian Johnston’s Welfare side, winning 6 out of 8 matches in all competitions. Wins over Basford United, Lincoln Moorlands Railway, Winterton Rangers and Staveley Miners Welafre see Welfare climb up the table to 12^th. Wins against AFC Liverpool and Glasshoughton Welfare see Armthorpe into the First Round of the FA Vase where they have an away tie against fellow Premier side, Liversidge.

The management of Johnston and Poppleton are taking Welfare to places they haven’t seen in many years. Its early days to be predicting a league finish but a mid table finish is certainly on the cards and the run of form of 6 wins in 8 matches must be carried into Wednesday’s cup game. Brian Johnston is getting the team to play his way and the results are starting to come along also. Goals are coming from all over the park this season with Jay Rollins scoring 6 from open play in September, adding to just one before the month started sees Rollins as Welfare’s top scorer this season with Midfielder Danny Taylor in second with 4, scoring one hat trick at Lincoln Moorlands. At the other end of the field Welfare’s defence are also starting to sure up and keeping teams at bay. The centre half pairings of Captain Craig Morley and Richard Smith are working together well, only conceding 5 in 8 games and keeping 3 clean sheets. Shot Stopper Will Biggs is also picking up plaudits making eye pleasing saves to see his clean sheet tally at 3 for the season, but with the way the back four are helping him out, there will be more to come from Biggs this season.  

Now onto the hosts, Eccleshill United have had a brilliant start to their season with two defeats in 11 games. United sit comfortably in Division one in second place five points behind runaway leaders Shaw Lane. Manager Mark Ellis has seen his side start the season with 25 points from 11 games and also seen his side into the first round of the FA Vase where they will play Premier Division side, Thackley. After three seasons in Division One, Eccleshill look to be one of the strongest sides in the league and also with Marcus Edwards the leagues third highest scorer, Eccleshill boast the power upfront to score goals. He’s the picked out danger man who will cause Welfare trouble throughout the game.

The Rapid Solicitors Stadium has only seen United goalless once this season and that was a 0-2 defeat against league leaders Shaw Lane. If Welfare want to be in the second round of the West Ridings Cup, the back of John Tunney, Craig Morley, Richard Smith and Steve Garner must be switched on and after only conceding 5 goals in the whole of September, Welfare aren’t going to go down without a fight on Wednesday evening.

If you can’t make it along to Eccleshill on Wednesday evening keep up to date with proceedings on Twitter, @thewelfare, where we will have match updates live from the ground for you and a match report will follow.  

Glasshoughton Welfare v Armthorpe Welfare - FA Vase 2nd Qualifying Round Match Report

After Welfare’s excellent victory over AFC Liverpool in the 1^st preliminary round they set up a tie with today’s opponents from the NCEL Premiership, Glasshoughton Welfare. With Armthorpe making the short trip down the M62, it was time for Brian Johnston’s side to carry on the brilliant form they’ve hit in the recent weeks.

Welfare set up in a 4-4-2 formation with a starting eleven that looked like this. William Biggs (GK), John Tunney, Craig Morley (C), Richard Smith, Steve Garner, Danny Taylor, Brad Johnston, Jonathan Mirfin, David Buck, Jay Rollins and Stuart Preston.

The tie started slowly and both sides took their time to assess each other and see how they could be broken down. Armthorpe did have an early chance through Jay Rollins but his shot was blasted well wide of the target. Glasshoughton then started to come at Welfare but with the strong back four Armthorpe have at their disposal both forwards in blue and white shirts found it tough to break through. Then on 18 minutes, what people in Football call route one, happened. Keeper’ Will Biggs with a goal kick hoofed the ball down field to Jay Rollins who tussled with the centre half to win the ball, he then found himself with a one on one chance which he dually took to put Welfare one up after 18 minutes.

Then from the kick off, Glasshoughton were caught in possession in their own half and Welfare took advantage of some sloppy play and there was Jay Rollins once again to slot it home to make it 2-0 after 19 minutes. Two goals in the space of one minute really took the stuffing out of Glasshoughton. Welfare then began to put pressure on Glasshoughton, pressing the play and forcing the midfield to give the ball away. Armthorpe then switched off and let Glasshoughton back into the game, but once again Craig Morley and Richard Smith were on hand the keep the score line at 2-0.

Then a massive blow and an add to Welfare’s growing injury list as Stuart Preston pulled up after running into the box. On came young Kieran Benson to replace him just as the half time whistle blew. Welfare went into the break dissevered leaders after a fantastic first half time display. 2-0.  

As the sun started to break through the clouds out come both sides to restart the game. And as it was expected Glasshoughton came out fighting and pushing for a goal to put the pressure on Armthorpe. Chances started to come for the home side but two world-class saves from William Biggs kept out Glasshoughton and this started to frustrate the hosts. Welfare were staying switched on to keep Glasshoughton out, but then, Welfare gave away a silly freekick in a dangerous position on the right hand side. The ball was put into a horrid area, Keeper’ Will Biggs came for the ball, flapped at it but it was met by the head of Joel Freestone to make it 2-1 with 14 minutes left to play.

Welfare had to respond, and respond they did. Four minutes after Glasshoughton halved Armthorpe’s lead, a run down the left hand side from David Buck allowed him to get across into the box and the head of Kieran Benson met it to put Welfare 3-1 up and restore their two-goal advantage. Welfare looked comfortable after that. Glasshoughton heads were down, under pressure, they knew nothing they could do would be good enough. Welfare were just too good for the home side.

And then, when Glasshoughton thought it couldn’t get any worse, it did. The ball was in the 18 yard area, both defender and keeper came out to collect it, they both clashed and there was Jay Rollins to pick the ball up and slot it into and empty net. Welfare 4-1 up with 10 minutes left to play and Rollins had his hat trick. Well earned after the shift he put in today. Welfare then saw the game out by holding the ball up in the corners and running the clock down.

A great performance saw Welfare come out on top and keep the great run of form going, 5 wins from 6 matches in all competitions. Brian’s men will now head into the first round draw on Monday morning with an away tie in the balance. Stay tuned to our twitter page to find out our fate for the draw, which will take place at 11am.

Armthorpe Welfare v Ossett Albion - Match Report

Church Street hosted Welfare’s final pre season friendly today before the season starts next Saturday. Our opponents were in the shape of Ossett Albion of the Evo Stik Premier Division. After Welfare’s performance on Thursday night, the management were expecting more of the same today.

Three changes in the Welfare side for this afternoon’s match, Steve Garner replaced David Buck at left back, Brad Johnston was left out, as was Darren Mansaram.

Welfare started the contest setting up in a 4-4-2 formation, just as the same from Thursday’s night victory over Wakefield. Welfare started the brighter, chances for both sides came but both couldn’t finish it in the final third. Welfare then started to grab a hold of the game; a chance for striker Jay Rollins was seen into the keeper’s hands.

Then on 28 minutes, a flowing move down the right hand side with Rollins jinking inside past the full back, the ball was dragged back just outside the 18 yard area and was met with a right foot from Kieron Benson, a low hard shot into the bottom left hand corner. An excellent passing move that warranted a goal, 1-0 Welfare after 20 minutes.

Half time came and Welfare went into the break a goal up, after some great passing moves and some well worked movement. Welfare seemed to have grown and blended as a side over this pre season and it now seen on the field.

As the referee blew his whistle for the start of the second half, Armthorpe started brightly once again and after 6 minutes Welfare scored their second. A long ball out the right from goalkeeper Richard Watson found the right winger, the ball was picked up by Tony Hattersly, and his shot was flicked past Ossett’s shot stopper to put Welfare 2-0 up after 51 minutes.

Welfare started to keep the possession and make Ossett work hard. The side have started to gel together and work hard for each other during the recent weeks; something that hasn’t been seen at Church Street for a long time. Welfare started to keep Ossett at bay, giving them no sight of the ball, working hard to win the ball when they do slip up and give the ball away.

10 minutes from full time substitute David Buck picked the ball up in the middle of the park, his head came up straight away and saw an unmarked Adam Baskerville on the left hand side who took the ball down with his left foot, jinked inside the full back and slotted his shot past the keeper into the right hand corner, a brilliant finish from the young man. 3-0 after 83 minutes.

Welfare then saw the game out with ease and the full time whistle was blown. Armthorpe come out the other side deserved winners after controlling the game, giving nothing to Ossett. The management seem a lot happier with the lads now the season is only one week away. Brian has built his squad and now see’s the club ready to take the league on.

The season starts next Saturday away at Athersly Recreation, the manager and players seem confident of a good result next week. The principals set are gelling with the players and its all paying off, I can’t see why not if the lads keep this high tempo up that we can’t aim for promotion. Welfare’s first home game of the new season is Tuesday 13^th of August against Nostell Miners Welfare; get down to Church Street to cheer the lads on. 

Armthorpe Welfare v Wakefield FC - Pre Season Friendly

Church Street was bathed in sunshine this evening for Armthorpe Welfare’s penultimate pre season friendly against Evo Stik Northern Premier side, Wakefield FC. A south Yorkshire clash for Brian Johnston’s men tonight. With Tuesday’s night game called off, this gave time for the squad to rest and recuperate and give it their all tonight.

Welfare set up in a new formation this evening of, 4-4-2, a different sight for fans but it was a masterstroke from manager Brian Johnston. Welfare started to squeeze the play a lot more and keep the possession. Chances came for Welfare because of this, on 12 minutes a shot from 20 yards was judged to hit a Wakefield arm in the box and the man in the middle gave Welfare a penalty. Up stepped Welfare’s left-winger, he hit a low shot down to the left corner but it was saved by the keeper.

Welfare then had another chance on 20 minutes. The ball broke down the middle, confusion between Wakefield’s back four and keeper, let Jay Rollins in to slip it into a open goal but on his weaker left foot he dragged his shot wide. Welfare starting to break down Wakefield with ease.

Slow build up play was on the agenda for Welfare tonight, Brad Johnston sat infront of the back four all night and soaked up any attack Wakefield created. The back four seemed to gel and work as a team. The whole side looked a brand new one after the recent friendly’s, Welfare started to play the ball around with ease, each pass finding feet.

The referee blew for half time and Welfare went into the break unlucky to still be level with the opposition. Only one change was made at half time by the management, keeper Richard Watson swapped with young shot stopper Will Biggs.

Welfare started the second half with real intent, keeping possession and make Wakefield work hard to win the ball back. In the recent few games Welfare lost their concentration and gave leads away and came out with a defeat on their hands when the final whistle blew, but today was a different story. Every man stepped upto the plate and carried out their duties with minimal fuss.

Half an hour into the second half Welfare started to make things happen. Then one minute later Welfare won a corner over on the right hand side, it was taken short, the ball was floated into the 18 yard area, the ball was met with a strong header, it cannoned off the post but David ‘Bucho’ Buck was there to slot it home. 1-0 Welfare after 76 minutes.

Welfare then went on the keep ball, and passed it around the back four and midfield. Armthorpe looking so much more comfortable on the ball than previous matches.

The final whistle blew and Welfare came out more than deserved winners. At times it was a joy to watch and report on, this type of football is something that the management have longed for all pre season and finally it all clicked together tonight. With the season only one week away, the fortunes of Armthorpe Welfare seem to be changing, and what a good time for it happen!

Armthorpe Welfare v Runcorn Town - Pre Season Friendly

A warm, sunny day at Church Street and today’s entertainment was in the shape of Welfare V Runcorn Town of the North West Counties Premier Division. Welfare were looking to bounce back from Tuesday nights nightmare with a strong performance in front of the home crowd.

Welfare set up once again with the favoured 4-2-3-1 formation and the home side started with high intensity, giving nothing away and passing the ball around with ease. After ten minutes Runcorn hadn’t had any possession, then 5 minutes later the ball was picked up in the middle of the park by Jay Rollins, he then saw a flying run from young Kieran Benson down the left side, a pitch perfect pass into the forwards feet allowed him to have a shot on goal from 20 yards which riffled into the top corner, 1-0 Welfare after 15 minutes. A dream start for manager Brian Johnston.

Five minutes later, Welfare went on the attack again down the left hand side. A jinking run was brought down by a Runcorn defender, up stepped Brad Johnston from 20 yards out. The was ball struck tamely, it took a deflection off the wall which took it past Town’s ‘keeper into the bottom corner. 2-0 Welfare after 20 minutes. Church Street felt the optimism with the season rapidly closing in.  

With a two goal lead Welfare went on the defensive and started to play keep ball and played a good brand of passing football. Defensively Welfare looked strong, Craig Morley replaced regular centre half Richard Smith for today’s game and nothing got past him all half, Welfare’s back four looking unbeatable at times.

The referee blew the half time whistle and Welfare went into the break deserving of their two goal lead. Stand out performers were Kieran Benson and Craig Morley.

The whistle blew for the second half to begin and straightaway Welfare were on the back foot, Runcorn not giving Welfare a sniff of possession. Welfare manager, Brian Johnston gave new keeper Richard Watson a run out in the second forty five minutes and what an inspired change it proved to be. Three saves in the space of five minutes kept Welfare’s lead to two. But his luck was bound to run out at some point, then 12 minutes into the half, the ball was picked up in the middle of the park after some sloppy defending from Welfare, it was struck with real venom from 30 yards out, nothing that the ‘keeper do could about it and the ball found itself nestling in the top corner. 2-1 after 52 minutes. Welfare needed to pick up the intensity if they wanted to keep their lead.  

Eight minutes later Welfare conceded another from once again some sloppy defending. From a dead ball situation it took a deflection, and then a goalmouth scramble accrued with the ball being turned in from five yards. 2-2, Runcorn draw level after a poor start to the second half from Welfare.  

What then was foreseen at Church Street wasn’t a shock to the viewing public, the ball was played into the box, out came ‘keeper Richard Watson, he fumbled the ball down and it landed at Runcorn forward’s foot, who then turned the ball into the net to make it 3-2 to Runcorn.

That was the last of the action in the game the contest petered out as both sides became tired and run out of steam. The full time whistle blew and Welfare felt the game slipped out of their hands, loosing a two goal lead and letting slip the high intensity cost Johnston and his men dearly today. A game of two half’s is an understatement.

Welfare haven’t got long to regroup and recover, a trip to Appleby Froderingham mid week see’s Welfare half way through their pre season campaign. With the season only 2 weeks away now, something has to give for Johnston’s men and hopefully Tuesday night is the point where it all changes. 

Armthorpe Welfare v Hemsworth Welfare - Pre Season Friendly

Armthorpe went into the match looking to avenge the defeat suffered last Saturday against an unknown Marske United. Brian Johnston and his side made the short twenty-mile trip down the Doncaster Road to face NCEL Division One side, Hemsworth Welfare.

The first half saw Armthorpe set up in the usual 4-2-3-1 formation; the favoured formation of manager Brian Johnston. Both sides started well with good pressing football. Welfares defence got into a pickle after ten minutes, Hemsworth placed a free kick into the 18 yard area, nodded on by their centre half then it was flicked in at the back post, only to be chalked off to what was the right call on a offside decision from the linesman.

After this neither side could grab hold of the game, costly mistakes in front of goal made sure that the scoreline stayed at 0-0 until the 33^rd minute when Armthorpe broke the deadlock. Welfare had constant possession of the ball, a misplaced pass lead to a back pass from the Hemsworth centre half, the goal keeper misjudged it and it trickled into the net, 1-0 Welfare. Things were looking up for Johnston’s side.

But, as the saying goes ‘you’re most vulnerable after you’ve just scored’, and that just what Armthorpe had ringing in their ears moments later. The ball was played over the top by Hemsworth, and what looked to most people as an offside run, wasn’t seen by the linesman so striker Damien Liddle had all the time in the world to pick his spot and slot his shot past Armthorpe ‘keeper, Richard Watson. 1-1 on the stroke of half time, a kick in the teeth for hard working Armthorpe.

The second half kicked off with five changes to the Armthorpe line up, manager Brian Johnston still trying to find his best eleven. After three minutes of the restart Armthorpe switched off at the back and let Hemsworth in, luckily the shot was pulled wide. But then just eight minutes later a mistake from young shot stopper, Will Biggs, let Hemsworth in to take the lead. A poor, heavy touch was picked up by Harry Viggars, he took it round the keeper and side footed it into the empty net. 2-1 after 58 minutes, much to the delight of the home crowd.

Welfare responded well, putting Hemsworth under lots of pressure with attacks from both wings but the final ball wasn’t up to scratch. Hemsworth then got a foot back into the contest and from nothing, the ball was picked up in the middle of the park, with no Armthorpe defender around the forward, he took it round a stranded Biggs, and slotted it into the open net once again. The game slipping away from Armthorpe. 3-1 after 75 minutes.

Welfare had to withstand viscous pressure from Hemsworth, forcing Biggs into a brilliant diving save. Then a way back for Armthorpe, a jinking run from ‘Bucko’ the left full back, he dragged a ball back to edge of the 18 yard area, Craig Morley met it with his right boot, it cannoned off the post and bounced off the Hemsworth keepers back to make it 3-2. But then from the kick off, the ball went down the Armthorpe end, once again a bad touch from Biggs, let in Hemsworth for there 4^th of the evening. Silly errors from the young man, better off now then in a league match if you ask me.

Full time blew at the Fitzwilliam Stadium with Hemsworth coming out on top. Armthorpe played some decent football during the match, it will take time for the lads to start gelling, remember its only our 3^rd friendly, there is still more to come from Johnston’s men. The next match is at Church Street on Saturday against Runcorn Town. Get down and support the lads. 

Armthorpe Welfare v Athletico Tap - Pre Season Friendly Report

A warm summers night, a perfect night for Armthopre Welfare to kick off their pre season campaign against unknown Sunday league opposition in the form of, Athletico Tap. This is manager Brian Johnston’s first look at his players in full match action.

Welfare set up the first half with a 4-2-3-1 formation, hopefully a sight fans will see more often, straight away from the kick off Welfare started brightly and attacked Athletico’s defence, with balls from the left and right causing horrors to the red and white’s defence. Slow and steady build up play was the order of the day from Armthorpe as they made their way forward once again. Then on 12 minutes a cross came in from the left into the uncertain area for centre half’s and the keeper which led to Welfare’s first goal, a goal mouth scramble followed, the ball popped up and was then nodded in to put Welfare one up in the contest. 1-0 Welfare after 12 minutes

Welly started to find their feet in the game, not letting Tap have any possession. Every man in a blue shirt looking comfortable on the ball, not making any silly errors. Once again Welfare make the most of the possession they have, a quick one two in the 18 yard area gave Welfare the opportunity to double their lead, which they dually took, a toe poke past Tap’s keeper into the bottom left corner. 2-0 Welfare after 22 minutes.

Athletico then started to get a foothold into the match, moving forward with some fluidity. But a rigid Welfare defence, lead by Welly legend, Richard Smith cut out every attack with much ease. Then on 37 minutes, Tap played a ball to the left, which found their galloping full back, who took a touch inside the 18-yard area and hit a low shot past Will Biggs in the Welfare goal. 2-1, 37 minutes played.

Three minutes later, Welfare then went on the attack, a shot from 20 yards out, was flicked in by Welfare’s forward but found its self chalked off due to a dubious offside call from the linesman. Welfare had responded well to the conceded goal. The referee then called half time with Welfare heading into the break at 2-1 up.

The second half got under way and straight away Welfare broke, the ball was held up outside the 18-yard box and it was struck with real venom into the top right corner, only to be met with the woodwork. Then Tap broke away, a cross came in from the right and another goalmouth scramble developed and Tap hit the bar twice! Both sides unlucky in the minute of madness.  

Welfare then increased their one goal advantage to two, through a well worked goal from the right hand side. From then on in both sides started to tire, with silly mistakes creeping in.

Full time blew and Welfare came out deserved winners from what was a winnable game. Pay Athletico Tap their due’s they came and gave it good crack of the whip, but in the end Welfare were just too strong.

With the start of the season just three weeks away, Armthorpe look in a good position to be fighting for a mid table finish. Johnston’s men look in good physical shape and seem to be moulding together like a topside should. But time will tell as to how this new look Welfare side will fair in the NCEL Premiership this season. The next test in pre season for Brian and his side will be on Saturday against Marske United at Church Street. 

An Interview With David Poppleton

During the off season, Armthopre Welfare have had some major rebuilding to do. With a new manager at the helm a new assistant had to be found. Manager Brian Johnston had a search on his hands. He had only one man in his sights, former Everton and England Schoolboy midfielder, David Poppleton.

David started his career at Everton as a schoolboy, impressing every coach along the way. Representing England at under 17’s level, playing alongside the likes of Steven Gerrard, Wes Brown and one of England’s greatest goalscorers Michael Owen. But David has said these aren’t the greatest players he’s come across in his career. “The best players I’ve ever come across are Pablo Aimar, Esteban Cambiasso and Riquelme, which were the three across the midfield that beat England in 2006 World Cup in Germany.”

After time out from the game, David felt it was time to give something back, when the call from Brian came David took the chance with both hands. We wanted to know what David is going to gain from his new role at Welfare. “Experience at coaching, I’m currently embarking on my UEFA B course and mainly improving this side we have here at Welfare, we have some great lads here and I can’t wait to get started.”

David is a very enthusiastic man who wants the best for Welfare after the troubles of last season. Dave is a highly qualified man, and his new role is a major stepping stone in his coaching career. I asked David if he was looking forward to working with Brian and his current squad of players. “Yeah of course, the lads have really responded well to the sessions we have conducted, because I don’t think they had any proper sessions in the past. I can’t wait to see how they react over the season and mould together.”

From David’s past experience with all the different coaches he’s played under, we wanted to know what skills he picked up from them, and what qualities he has to bring to Welfare. “I’m not a person that dwells on the negatives and I focus on the positives. I have experience from playing at a high level and I have taken a lot on board from the different coaches I have played under and I want to pass that on to the lads we here at Welfare.”

This season is a big one for Welfare. After the horrors of last year a major rebuild has happened at Church Street, new, fresh faces have been introduced into the side with some experienced old guard kept on. We wanted to know what David’s plans were for this coming season. “Its difficult for me because I haven’t been around this level for 10 or 12 years so I’m still learning, but from what I’ve heard about last year and the sides in and around us then I think top eight would be brilliant.” Manager Brian Johnston still believes that Dave can cut at this level; we popped this question to him. “Possibly 15 minutes, but who knows.” As he laughs.

As we all know, last season was horrific for everyone at Church Street. But what I’ve seen and what the management has told me, this season is going to be a great one. We’ve heard what the manager wants from this season, but what about David? “If we’re organized and well drilled then I can’t see why we can’t be mid table if not even higher.”

The season is only 3 weeks away, the team is coming together nicely and it could be a special season for Welfare. So get down to Church Street and support a strong Welfare side that has a point to prove.