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Away Match Reports (and a home one) from October 2020
Saturday 31st October 2020
FA Trophy 3rd Qualifying Round
Radcliffe - 1 Bamber Bridge - 2
The Briggers are back !! Sadly, it looks like we might have to wait a
while to be back again with the National Lockdown pending. But after
a run of defeats, it was so good to leave the Neuvan Stadium with
with a 2-1 victory in the bag and a place in the 4th
qualifying round of The FA Trophy.
This was the 2nd visit of the month to Radcliffe, the first being a 2-1 reverse in the League fixture in early October. On that occasion Brig were unlucky not to come away with a point. After days of constant rain there was some concern that the match may not go ahead. Tier 3 restrictions also had us assuming there would be no bar facilities available. Not so, and in the words of Rob Melling, “We’re surprised to be here, and delighted they sell beer” !!
Moody Skies over Radcliffe
Bamber Bridge playing in all red started the first half playing down the slope with a strong wind at their backs. In only the 2nd minute George Thomason tried his luck with a 20 yard daisy cutter that was saved at full stretch by the Boro keeper. The resulting corner was headed out for a 2nd and then a 3rd corner as Brig piled on the early pressure. The wind was playing it’s part however and making it difficult the players of both sides.
On 15 minutes PNE Loanee Joseph Rodwell-Grant making his Bamber Bridge debut found space on the left and delivered an inviting low cross which zipped across the 6 yard line, Rowan Roache just unable to get the final touch. Just moments later however, Brig took the lead. This time a superb left wing cross from Luke Higham was met at the back post by Matt Dudley, who’s downward header whistled past the keeper to find the back of the net. Rodwell-Grant then saw a shot saved by the home keeper before Matt Dudley almost grabbed a 2nd with a chipped effort from 30 yards after the home keeper had raced from his goal. Dudley’s shot just clearing the crossbar.
Main Stand at Radcliffe
As the half wore on the home side started to gain a foothold, A shot from distance was headed off the goal line and the rebound effort again headed clear. On the break Brig were dangerous and Isaac Sinclair whipped in a cross from the left which evaded everyone narrowly missing the far post. But the home sides, late pressure paid dividends when they grabbed the equaliser right on half time. A free kick on the half way line was launched by The Boro keeper in to the Brig penalty area, an initial shot was well blocked by Matt Hudson but Jean Louis Akpa- Ackpro pounced to smash the rebound into the roof of the net. As Brig restarted the referee blew the whistle for half time.
The Bamber Bridge team were back on the pitch a good 3 or 4 minutes before Radcliffe emerged from the changing rooms. This was to pay dividends for the Lancashire visitors as within 3 minutes of the restart Matt Dudley slipped a ball through the centre of the Boro defence to Rowan Roache, with the keeper bearing down on him the Brig midfielder slid the ball under the advancing stopper and the ball rolled sweetly in to the back of the net to put Bamber Bridge back in front.
Game on at Boro
The home side responded and with the wind at their backs pushed Brig back with the visitors resigned to catching the home side on the break. The game was held up for several minutes after a clearance into the crowd struck a lady on the terraces, knocking her to the ground. A stretcher was called for but happily not required. From the restart, a quick beak from Brig saw Joseph Rodwell-Grant do well to keep possession in the penalty area before firing in a shot from wide on the right, the home keeper saving with his legs. Most of the pressure however was coming from Boro as they continually launched the ball at The Brig penalty area. The Brig backline standing firm under the severe test. Matt Hudson twice made smart saves and several Boro shots flew high over the bar before a powerful drive from the left side of the area crashed against the Bamber Bridge crossbar. At the other end a Bamber Bridge free kick just outside the area was struck over the bar by Rowan Roache. Immediately following the free kick. Brig made their first change on 65 minutes, Tunde Bayode coming on to replace Rowan Roache.
Again the home side pushed forward and Matt Lawlor put in a superb last ditch tackle sweeping the ball away from the home striker as he was poised to shoot. Matt Flynn then joined Matt Hudson in the referees notebook, taking “one for the team” as he put a stop to a dangerous situation on the edge of the penalty area. The resultant free kick flashing wide of the post.
Bamber Bridge were defending heroically and throwing themselves at the ball getting blocks, tackles and heading clear from the ariel bombardment of the home side. A rare breakaway saw a Matt Dudley shot clear the bar (and roof of the stand !!) A fine passing move from Boro then ended with a shot again clearing the crossbar. Brigs’ hard work at the back was keeping Radcliffe at bay though and forcing them to shoot from distance.
The weather improved as the game progressed
As the referee signalled 10 minutes of added time Bamber Bridge were dealt a blow when Tunde, who had only been on the pitch 20 minutes was forced off with a re-occurance of a hamstring injury, to be replaced by Daniel Wisdom. That was followed by Goose replacing Isaac Sinclair. The final minutes saw the hosts throw the proverbial kitchen sink at The Brig back line with the Irongate outfit repelling every attack. Matt Hudson leapt superbly at the back post to claim a deep cross. As he cleared the ball upfield the referee brought proceedings to end much to the delight of the Brig, players, staff and small band of supporters. A fantastic gritty performance where the result was really ground out and such reward for Brig and particularly manager Jamie Milligan for never losing faith in their ability to keep to their passing principles.
Make no mistake, Radcliffe threw everything they had at Brig in the 2nd half and “The Briggers” stood firm to record superb victory, progression to the next round and probably more importantly the financial prize of progressing in the competition.
Next up for Bamber Bridge is a long Tuesday night journey to the North East and Morpeth Town. Always assuming of course that we aren’t in lock down by then.
Att: 447
Bamber Bridge: Hudson, Thompson, Higham, Lawlor (Capt.), Flynn, Thommason, Roache, O’Reilly, Rodwell-Grant, Dudley, Sinclair
This was the 2nd visit of the month to Radcliffe, the first being a 2-1 reverse in the League fixture in early October. On that occasion Brig were unlucky not to come away with a point. After days of constant rain there was some concern that the match may not go ahead. Tier 3 restrictions also had us assuming there would be no bar facilities available. Not so, and in the words of Rob Melling, “We’re surprised to be here, and delighted they sell beer” !!
Moody Skies over Radcliffe
Bamber Bridge playing in all red started the first half playing down the slope with a strong wind at their backs. In only the 2nd minute George Thomason tried his luck with a 20 yard daisy cutter that was saved at full stretch by the Boro keeper. The resulting corner was headed out for a 2nd and then a 3rd corner as Brig piled on the early pressure. The wind was playing it’s part however and making it difficult the players of both sides.
On 15 minutes PNE Loanee Joseph Rodwell-Grant making his Bamber Bridge debut found space on the left and delivered an inviting low cross which zipped across the 6 yard line, Rowan Roache just unable to get the final touch. Just moments later however, Brig took the lead. This time a superb left wing cross from Luke Higham was met at the back post by Matt Dudley, who’s downward header whistled past the keeper to find the back of the net. Rodwell-Grant then saw a shot saved by the home keeper before Matt Dudley almost grabbed a 2nd with a chipped effort from 30 yards after the home keeper had raced from his goal. Dudley’s shot just clearing the crossbar.
Main Stand at Radcliffe
As the half wore on the home side started to gain a foothold, A shot from distance was headed off the goal line and the rebound effort again headed clear. On the break Brig were dangerous and Isaac Sinclair whipped in a cross from the left which evaded everyone narrowly missing the far post. But the home sides, late pressure paid dividends when they grabbed the equaliser right on half time. A free kick on the half way line was launched by The Boro keeper in to the Brig penalty area, an initial shot was well blocked by Matt Hudson but Jean Louis Akpa- Ackpro pounced to smash the rebound into the roof of the net. As Brig restarted the referee blew the whistle for half time.
The Bamber Bridge team were back on the pitch a good 3 or 4 minutes before Radcliffe emerged from the changing rooms. This was to pay dividends for the Lancashire visitors as within 3 minutes of the restart Matt Dudley slipped a ball through the centre of the Boro defence to Rowan Roache, with the keeper bearing down on him the Brig midfielder slid the ball under the advancing stopper and the ball rolled sweetly in to the back of the net to put Bamber Bridge back in front.
Game on at Boro
The home side responded and with the wind at their backs pushed Brig back with the visitors resigned to catching the home side on the break. The game was held up for several minutes after a clearance into the crowd struck a lady on the terraces, knocking her to the ground. A stretcher was called for but happily not required. From the restart, a quick beak from Brig saw Joseph Rodwell-Grant do well to keep possession in the penalty area before firing in a shot from wide on the right, the home keeper saving with his legs. Most of the pressure however was coming from Boro as they continually launched the ball at The Brig penalty area. The Brig backline standing firm under the severe test. Matt Hudson twice made smart saves and several Boro shots flew high over the bar before a powerful drive from the left side of the area crashed against the Bamber Bridge crossbar. At the other end a Bamber Bridge free kick just outside the area was struck over the bar by Rowan Roache. Immediately following the free kick. Brig made their first change on 65 minutes, Tunde Bayode coming on to replace Rowan Roache.
Again the home side pushed forward and Matt Lawlor put in a superb last ditch tackle sweeping the ball away from the home striker as he was poised to shoot. Matt Flynn then joined Matt Hudson in the referees notebook, taking “one for the team” as he put a stop to a dangerous situation on the edge of the penalty area. The resultant free kick flashing wide of the post.
Bamber Bridge were defending heroically and throwing themselves at the ball getting blocks, tackles and heading clear from the ariel bombardment of the home side. A rare breakaway saw a Matt Dudley shot clear the bar (and roof of the stand !!) A fine passing move from Boro then ended with a shot again clearing the crossbar. Brigs’ hard work at the back was keeping Radcliffe at bay though and forcing them to shoot from distance.
The weather improved as the game progressed
As the referee signalled 10 minutes of added time Bamber Bridge were dealt a blow when Tunde, who had only been on the pitch 20 minutes was forced off with a re-occurance of a hamstring injury, to be replaced by Daniel Wisdom. That was followed by Goose replacing Isaac Sinclair. The final minutes saw the hosts throw the proverbial kitchen sink at The Brig back line with the Irongate outfit repelling every attack. Matt Hudson leapt superbly at the back post to claim a deep cross. As he cleared the ball upfield the referee brought proceedings to end much to the delight of the Brig, players, staff and small band of supporters. A fantastic gritty performance where the result was really ground out and such reward for Brig and particularly manager Jamie Milligan for never losing faith in their ability to keep to their passing principles.
Make no mistake, Radcliffe threw everything they had at Brig in the 2nd half and “The Briggers” stood firm to record superb victory, progression to the next round and probably more importantly the financial prize of progressing in the competition.
Next up for Bamber Bridge is a long Tuesday night journey to the North East and Morpeth Town. Always assuming of course that we aren’t in lock down by then.
Full Time: Radcliffe
– 1 Bamber Bridge – 2
Att: 447
Bamber Bridge: Hudson, Thompson, Higham, Lawlor (Capt.), Flynn, Thommason, Roache, O’Reilly, Rodwell-Grant, Dudley, Sinclair
Subs: Roccia,
Yeates, Churchman, Bayode, Wisdom, Marlow
Saturday 24th October 2020
Bamber Bridge - 1 Buxton - 2 
Bamber Bridge were beaten 2-1 at home to Buxton on a thoroughly wet
and dismal Saturday afternoon at The Sir Tom Finney Stadium. The
result means Brig have now lost 5 League games on the spin and are
without a win since the opening day victory over Matlock Town.
An air of “something missing” was clearly felt pre match around the ground. With no bar facilities available due to the Tier 3 restrictions in force across Lancashire. Supporters meandered around the ground in the pouring rain looking lost.
Pre match, You can't tell from the photo, but it's lashing it down
Brig Manager Jamie Milligan had looked to strengthen his injury plagued squad since the Tuesday night thumping at Atherton with 3 new signings on the team sheet. Goalkeeper Matt Hudson and midfielder Adam O’Reilly had come in on loan from Preston North End and would start. While Alexander O’Connor who had arrived from Hyde United had to be content with a place on the bench.
Bamber Bridge started the match positively and pushed their Derbyshire visitors back in the early exchanges. Richie Allen was inches away from connecting with a superb through ball but a defender got his toe to the ball first, clearing on the 6 yard line. Debutant keeper Hudson was called into action minutes later making a terrific diving save at full stretch to keep out a rasping drive. Bamber Bridge were forced into an early change on 20 minutes when Mark Yeates who had taken a knock in a tackle a few minutes earlier, was unable to continue and was replaced by Danny Forbes.
The first goal came in the 21st minute. Brig lost possession close to the touchline level with the Buxton penalty area. A swift pass down the line sent The visitors away, the ball was switched inside to Diego De Girolamo who smashed it home form the edge of the box. Brig responded and a sustained spell of pressure saw an inswinging Richie Allen corner headed clear from under the bar, the ball found its way to Matt Lawlor 20 yards out who returned it with interest, only to see his fierce drive deflected for another corner. This time the corner was again met by a Buxton head, but back towards his own net, beating the keeper but spectacularly hooked off the goal line by a Bucks defender.
Unfortunately for The Briggers, Buxton doubled their advantage with their next foray forward. From a corner, The Bucks took it short, passing the ball across the 18 yard line where striker Chris Dawson drove in a shot that took a wicked deflection giving Hudson in the Brig goal no chance. 2-0 and once again Brig where left with a mountain to climb.
A Brig free kick curled high and wide from Matt Dudley then a scooped volley from Dudley that went wide of the other post where as near as Brig came to reducing the arrears as the first half drew to a close. The home side were also guilty of constantly giving away possession and free kicks allowing Buxton to keep the pressure on.
The second half began with Brig playing towards the Clubhouse End. A free kick awarded for a foul 25 yards from goal gave matt Lawlor the chance to test the keeper, Sadly the ball sailed over the bar and out of the ground over the sponsors lounge roof. At the other end, twice Matt Hudson was forced to make further smart saves to keep the Bucks out. A Brig corner was then met by Chris Marlow on the 6 yard line at the back post, Goose rose well and made good contact but the keeper dived low to make a comfortable save.
The second half about to get underway and it's still lashing it down
Buxton, by this stage in the proceedings looked quite content to soak up any Brig pressure, but twice on the break they almost caught Brig cold. Matt Hudson again made a fine stop before Matt Lawlor made a superb last ditch tackle just as the visiting striker looked set to add to their lead.
Brig made a 67th minute substitution as Chris Churchman made way for Rowan Roache. The change lifted the home side who started to force their visitors back. Adam O’Reilly saw a shot fly high and wide before Brig claimed what really looked like a stone wall penalty. A corner from the right was dropped by the keeper, as Richie Allen looked to get on the end of the loose ball the keeper dived across him bringing him crashing to the floor, The referee inexplicably waved away the appeals much to the disgust of the Brig players and supporters.
The decision mat well have proved costly for Brig, who minutes later pulled one back with a superbly worked goal. Rowan Roche split the defence down the right, finding Isaac Sinclair who advance in to the area before pulling the ball back across the area for Adam O’Reilly to sweep the ball home from 10 yards.
Alexander O’Connor replaced Chris Marlow as Brig looked for that elusive equaliser. Adam O’ Reilly again broke free down the right hand side of the penalty area, but his cut back was cleared as Danny Forbes looked poised to pounce. The visitors however, held on to take the points. Once again a Brig second half fightback had not proved sufficient to take anything from the game. At the final whistle it’s understood that Danny Forbes was shown a red card for expressing his feelings towards the referee.
The games are coming thick and fast and Bamber Bridge have a chance to put a halt to the poor run of results when they entertain Gainsborough Trinity at Irongate on Tuesday night.
A word of praise for the Bamber Bridge ground staff. Despite heavy rain non stop all day, The Pitch was still looking superb at full time.
Att: 325
Bamber Bridge: Hudson, Spooner, Marlow, Lawlor (Capt.), Wilson, O’Reilly, Sinclair, Churchman, Yeates, Allen
Subs: Forbes, O’Connor, Roache, King-Harmes, Roccia
An air of “something missing” was clearly felt pre match around the ground. With no bar facilities available due to the Tier 3 restrictions in force across Lancashire. Supporters meandered around the ground in the pouring rain looking lost.
Pre match, You can't tell from the photo, but it's lashing it down
Brig Manager Jamie Milligan had looked to strengthen his injury plagued squad since the Tuesday night thumping at Atherton with 3 new signings on the team sheet. Goalkeeper Matt Hudson and midfielder Adam O’Reilly had come in on loan from Preston North End and would start. While Alexander O’Connor who had arrived from Hyde United had to be content with a place on the bench.
Bamber Bridge started the match positively and pushed their Derbyshire visitors back in the early exchanges. Richie Allen was inches away from connecting with a superb through ball but a defender got his toe to the ball first, clearing on the 6 yard line. Debutant keeper Hudson was called into action minutes later making a terrific diving save at full stretch to keep out a rasping drive. Bamber Bridge were forced into an early change on 20 minutes when Mark Yeates who had taken a knock in a tackle a few minutes earlier, was unable to continue and was replaced by Danny Forbes.
The first goal came in the 21st minute. Brig lost possession close to the touchline level with the Buxton penalty area. A swift pass down the line sent The visitors away, the ball was switched inside to Diego De Girolamo who smashed it home form the edge of the box. Brig responded and a sustained spell of pressure saw an inswinging Richie Allen corner headed clear from under the bar, the ball found its way to Matt Lawlor 20 yards out who returned it with interest, only to see his fierce drive deflected for another corner. This time the corner was again met by a Buxton head, but back towards his own net, beating the keeper but spectacularly hooked off the goal line by a Bucks defender.
Unfortunately for The Briggers, Buxton doubled their advantage with their next foray forward. From a corner, The Bucks took it short, passing the ball across the 18 yard line where striker Chris Dawson drove in a shot that took a wicked deflection giving Hudson in the Brig goal no chance. 2-0 and once again Brig where left with a mountain to climb.
A Brig free kick curled high and wide from Matt Dudley then a scooped volley from Dudley that went wide of the other post where as near as Brig came to reducing the arrears as the first half drew to a close. The home side were also guilty of constantly giving away possession and free kicks allowing Buxton to keep the pressure on.
The second half began with Brig playing towards the Clubhouse End. A free kick awarded for a foul 25 yards from goal gave matt Lawlor the chance to test the keeper, Sadly the ball sailed over the bar and out of the ground over the sponsors lounge roof. At the other end, twice Matt Hudson was forced to make further smart saves to keep the Bucks out. A Brig corner was then met by Chris Marlow on the 6 yard line at the back post, Goose rose well and made good contact but the keeper dived low to make a comfortable save.
The second half about to get underway and it's still lashing it down
Buxton, by this stage in the proceedings looked quite content to soak up any Brig pressure, but twice on the break they almost caught Brig cold. Matt Hudson again made a fine stop before Matt Lawlor made a superb last ditch tackle just as the visiting striker looked set to add to their lead.
Brig made a 67th minute substitution as Chris Churchman made way for Rowan Roache. The change lifted the home side who started to force their visitors back. Adam O’Reilly saw a shot fly high and wide before Brig claimed what really looked like a stone wall penalty. A corner from the right was dropped by the keeper, as Richie Allen looked to get on the end of the loose ball the keeper dived across him bringing him crashing to the floor, The referee inexplicably waved away the appeals much to the disgust of the Brig players and supporters.
The decision mat well have proved costly for Brig, who minutes later pulled one back with a superbly worked goal. Rowan Roche split the defence down the right, finding Isaac Sinclair who advance in to the area before pulling the ball back across the area for Adam O’Reilly to sweep the ball home from 10 yards.
Alexander O’Connor replaced Chris Marlow as Brig looked for that elusive equaliser. Adam O’ Reilly again broke free down the right hand side of the penalty area, but his cut back was cleared as Danny Forbes looked poised to pounce. The visitors however, held on to take the points. Once again a Brig second half fightback had not proved sufficient to take anything from the game. At the final whistle it’s understood that Danny Forbes was shown a red card for expressing his feelings towards the referee.
The games are coming thick and fast and Bamber Bridge have a chance to put a halt to the poor run of results when they entertain Gainsborough Trinity at Irongate on Tuesday night.
A word of praise for the Bamber Bridge ground staff. Despite heavy rain non stop all day, The Pitch was still looking superb at full time.
Full Time: Bamber Bridge – 1 Buxton – 2
Att: 325
Bamber Bridge: Hudson, Spooner, Marlow, Lawlor (Capt.), Wilson, O’Reilly, Sinclair, Churchman, Yeates, Allen
Subs: Forbes, O’Connor, Roache, King-Harmes, Roccia
Tuesday 20th October 2020
Atherton
Collieries – 5 Bamber Bridge - 0
Bamber Bridge’s injury hit squad found themselves on the wrong end of a five goal beating at the hands of Atherton Collieries at the Skuna Stadium on Tuesday evening. Three goals in three 1st half minutes, added to Colls first from a disputed spot kick 10 minutes earlier, had left the Lancashire lads down and out by half time.
The Skuna Stadium
Brig, who’s injury list pretty much now accounts for half the squad where also without Macaulay Wilson who was serving a one match ban for his double yellow card sending off at Radcliffe last Tuesday evening. The game had started on an even Keel, with both sides probing but neither keeper tested in the opening quarter of an hour. All was soon to change. On 16 minutes Brig had what looked a very fair shout for a penalty. Danny Forbes raced clear and became the meat in the sandwich as both the home keeper and a defender clattered into him leaving Danny and the defender slumped on the floor in the penalty area. The referee stopped play for treatment to be administered to both players before inexplicably restarting the game with a drop ball, in favour of the home side.
On 17 minutes Brigs injury woes were heightened when Daniel Wisdom took a knock and was forced to leave the field, replaced by Chris Marlow, himself still suffering from an Achilles heel problem. Minutes later however Brig could and should have taken the lead. A free kick swung in from the right, wasn’t dealt with by the Colls defence, the ball fell to Danny Forbes on the 6 yard line, His point blank effort was blocked on the line by the keeper, the ball rebounded to DJ De La Cruz just 4 yards out, he delayed just enough to allow a Colls defender to get back on the line and make another outstanding defensive block, the ball was cleared and the chance lost.
Main stand at Atherton Colls
Within a minute, the ball was at the other end and the home side were awarded a penalty for what seemed an innocuous challenge. Ex Brigger Jordan Darr stepped up to slam the ball home. Brigs reaction to the penalty saw both Danny Roccia and Goose receive yellow cards.
Brig hardly responded at all and the hosts sensed their chance. The 2nd goal for the home side duly arrived on 35 minutes but not before complete confusion had ensued. Chris Marlow had stooped to head the ball back to his keeper, As Danny cleared the ball the referee spotted the Lino furiously waving his flag. After consultation with his assistant the referee awarded an indirect free kick kick to Atherton inside the penalty area. (the referee later advised the free kick was awarded for unsporting behaviour against Goose, who according to the referee had headed the ball back to the keeper from off the ground !!)
A quick sideways pass and the ball was fired into the back of the Brig net, via the post. Brig were rattled, so much so, that the ball was lost straight from the kick off, and A quick forward pass allowed the home striker to skip passed the beleaguered Brig keeper to make it three. Worse to follow just a further minute later. Brig again lost possession from the restart, this time allowing Jordan Darr is smash home his second of the night and Colls third goal in little over two minutes.
Brig had fallen apart and at this stage there were fears of a complete collapse. Danny Roccia made a fine save to keep it at four just before the referee brought the half to a close.
A second half change saw Richie Allen replace De La Cruz for Brig. Just 2 minutes in and the Brig supporters behind the goal watched in dismay as Danny Forbes was clearly tripped in the penalty area as he shaped to shoot, the referee exuberantly waved his arms across his chest to indicate no contact. He was 100% wrong !! Brig to their credit rallied in the second half, the home side clearly content with with their first half haul. Chances came and went for Bamber Bridge. Chris Marlow fired over from a tight angle after creating space on the right hand side of the penalty area, Mark Yeates then found the head of Goose following a good move down the right wing, The header just clearing the bar. Danny Forbes The saw a header beat the crossbar before Richie Allen then ran free to lob the keeper, the ball finding the back of then net but the Lino was once again waving his flag to indicate offside.
Skuns Stadium
Goose again came close before Brig imploded at the back again and simply gifted the home side a 5th. A weary and loose misplaced pass across the pitch from the right was picked up by the advancing Colls forward who strode into the box before lashing the ball into the roof of the net..
Frustrations again got the better of Brig as Chris Marlow then made a rash touchline line tackle leading to his second yellow of the night and subsequent red. With the injury list as it is, Brig can simply not afford to to be losing players to suspension for avoidable bookings.
Following two minutes of added time the referee thankfully brought the wretched evening to a close with the final whistle. A heavy defeat, the fourth on the bounce for Bamber Bridge and not a night that will live long in the memory of anyone from The Sir Tom Finney Stadium.
At the final whistle, Brig Keeper Danny Roccia set off at pace and ran the entire length of the pitch to the handful of Briggers being the goal. Danny apologised for the defeat and display and even offered to reimburse the admission fees of the attending Brig support. This offer was quite obviously declined. Danny had no need whatsoever to to do this but his actions were very much appreciated and in truth, lifted the spirits of the departing Briggers.
Brig move on, and we return home this weekend after 3 consecutive away games as we welcome Buxton FC to Irongate.
Full Time: Atherton Collieries – 5 Bamber Bridge – 0
Att: 301
Bamber Bridge: Roccia, Radcliffe, Wisdom, Forbes, Spooner, Churchman, Roache, Thomason, Sinclair, De La Cruz, Yeates
Subs: Marlow, Lawlor, Allen, Dudley, King-Harmes
Sat 17th October 2020
Basford United - 2 Bamber Bridge - 1
The
first coach trip of the season took us into Nottinghamshire and
another visit to ambitious Basford United. Unfortunately for the
visiting Lancastrians, it’s another visit, another defeat. Three
trips to Greenwich Avenue have yielded zero points. In fact in five
games against the Nottingham club Bamber Bridge have yet to take a
single point.
Greenwich Avenue - Home of Basford United
The game started with Bamber Bridge making one major change. American goalkeeper William Marment replacing Danny Roccia in goal. The debutant Brig keeper was called into action in the 1st minute, diving to save a shot from inside the penalty area. The resulting corner found it’s way into the Brig net but the goal was chalked off for a foul. However the warning signals had already been sounded.
At the other end Matt Lawlor found space in the penalty area but his powerful header from a Brig corner just cleared the bar. From the goal kick, the home side where awarded a free kick, George Thomason adjudged to have committed the foul 25 yards from goal. The resultant set piece was lifted over the wall by Matt Thornhill and found the top corner of the net with Brig’s debutant keeper at full stretch getting a hand to it, but unable to keep it out.
Brig players checking the plastic to see if It'll take a stud !!
Just
two minutes later and worse was to follow, Brig lost possession in
their own half, a through pass saw Basford Striker Rev James chase
down the loose ball, as Brig keeper Mamment raced from his line to
clear, he struck the ball against the advancing United striker and
watched in anguish as the ball ballooned back over his head and
dropped into the empty net, A disastrous start and Brig were two
behind with a mountain to climb.
The Lancashire vistors responded and Isaac Sinclair saw a shot from distance saved, resulting in a corner. This was headed clear but returned and headed over the bar for a second corner kick. Brig were playing some good football and pushing their hosts back. A free kick awarded for a foul on George Thomason on th edge of the area was taken by Mark Yeates. His shot beat the wall but lacked power and the home keeper Kieran Preston Saved comfortably. Further Brig pressure saw another free kick awarded in a more central position some 25 yards from goal. Yeates again stepped up, but as before his shot lacked venim and the keeper was able to make a straight forward save.
The home side were now content to play on the break and forced two quick corners, both headed clear. Callum King-Harmes was next to try his luck for Bamber Bridge with a shot from distance but again Preston in the Basford goal wasn’t really troubled. As Brig continued to press their hosts back Mark Yeats watched on as his lob from wide on the right dropped just a foot wide of the post. The best chance of the half however fell to Isaac Sinclair, the home keeper misjudged a pass across the area, Sinclair ran on to the ball with the keeper stranded but delayed just enough for the home defender to get back and force a challenge and clear the ball.
Pre Match warm up
The last chance of the half saw Danny Forbes strike an effort over the bar after his strength and determination had created the shooting opportunity from the edge of the box.
The Second half began with Brig attacking towards the mast ranks of the 4 “Briggers” behind the goal. The visitors won another free kick just outside the penalty area and George Thomason this time stepped up but the ball hit the Basford wall and was cleared. Bamber Bridge, just as they were in the first half were passing the ball around well but without really threatening the home goal. Mark Yeats dribbled into the box from the left before squaring the ball to Danny Forbes, Off balance and leaning back Danny’s effort sailed over the bar.
The usual Suspects !!
On
65 minutes Jamal Crawford was replaced by Rowan Roache and this paid
dividends almost immediately. A Roache cross from the left was met
with a fine Danny Forbes header in to the bottom corner. Brig were
deservedly back in the game and continued to force their hosts to
back peddle. Another Thomason Free kick was stopped by the defensive
wall but despite constant pressure the home goal wasn’t further
threatened. Two late substitutions saw Man of the match Forbes
replaced by Oscar Radcliffe and DJ De LaCruz came on in the closing
minutes for Callum King- Harmes.
A Callum Spooner effort that passed two yards wide of the post was the nearest Brig came to grabbing an equaliser as the referee brought proceedings to an end much to the delight of the home crowd. Another good display from Bamber Bridge, but just at the moment, any mistakes are being punished at the back and the lack of cutting edge at the sharp end of the pitch is costing The Lancashire side.
So it’s three defeats on the bounce for The Briggers, but as this season progresses (for how long nobody knows), games are coming thick and fast. A visit to Atherton Collieries beckons this Tuesday evening and a chance to get the show back on the road.
Greenwich Avenue - Home of Basford United
The game started with Bamber Bridge making one major change. American goalkeeper William Marment replacing Danny Roccia in goal. The debutant Brig keeper was called into action in the 1st minute, diving to save a shot from inside the penalty area. The resulting corner found it’s way into the Brig net but the goal was chalked off for a foul. However the warning signals had already been sounded.
At the other end Matt Lawlor found space in the penalty area but his powerful header from a Brig corner just cleared the bar. From the goal kick, the home side where awarded a free kick, George Thomason adjudged to have committed the foul 25 yards from goal. The resultant set piece was lifted over the wall by Matt Thornhill and found the top corner of the net with Brig’s debutant keeper at full stretch getting a hand to it, but unable to keep it out.
Brig players checking the plastic to see if It'll take a stud !!
The Lancashire vistors responded and Isaac Sinclair saw a shot from distance saved, resulting in a corner. This was headed clear but returned and headed over the bar for a second corner kick. Brig were playing some good football and pushing their hosts back. A free kick awarded for a foul on George Thomason on th edge of the area was taken by Mark Yeates. His shot beat the wall but lacked power and the home keeper Kieran Preston Saved comfortably. Further Brig pressure saw another free kick awarded in a more central position some 25 yards from goal. Yeates again stepped up, but as before his shot lacked venim and the keeper was able to make a straight forward save.
The home side were now content to play on the break and forced two quick corners, both headed clear. Callum King-Harmes was next to try his luck for Bamber Bridge with a shot from distance but again Preston in the Basford goal wasn’t really troubled. As Brig continued to press their hosts back Mark Yeats watched on as his lob from wide on the right dropped just a foot wide of the post. The best chance of the half however fell to Isaac Sinclair, the home keeper misjudged a pass across the area, Sinclair ran on to the ball with the keeper stranded but delayed just enough for the home defender to get back and force a challenge and clear the ball.
Pre Match warm up
The last chance of the half saw Danny Forbes strike an effort over the bar after his strength and determination had created the shooting opportunity from the edge of the box.
The Second half began with Brig attacking towards the mast ranks of the 4 “Briggers” behind the goal. The visitors won another free kick just outside the penalty area and George Thomason this time stepped up but the ball hit the Basford wall and was cleared. Bamber Bridge, just as they were in the first half were passing the ball around well but without really threatening the home goal. Mark Yeats dribbled into the box from the left before squaring the ball to Danny Forbes, Off balance and leaning back Danny’s effort sailed over the bar.
The usual Suspects !!
A Callum Spooner effort that passed two yards wide of the post was the nearest Brig came to grabbing an equaliser as the referee brought proceedings to an end much to the delight of the home crowd. Another good display from Bamber Bridge, but just at the moment, any mistakes are being punished at the back and the lack of cutting edge at the sharp end of the pitch is costing The Lancashire side.
So it’s three defeats on the bounce for The Briggers, but as this season progresses (for how long nobody knows), games are coming thick and fast. A visit to Atherton Collieries beckons this Tuesday evening and a chance to get the show back on the road.
Full
Time: Basford United – 2 Bamber Bridge – 1
Att; Not announced
Bamber Bridge: Marment, Spooner, Wilson, Forbes, Lawlor (Capt.), Churchman, King-Harmes, Thomason, Sinclair, Yeats, Crawford
Subs: Radcliffe, De LaCruz, Roache, Roccia
Tue 13th October 2020
Radcliffe
– 2 Bamber Bridge - 1
At the turn of this
year, in Pre-Covid Times Bamber Bridge returned from Stainton Park,
home of Radcliffe FC with 3 points in the bag following a 4-0
demolition of their hosts. How different Tuesday nights match was.
From the kick off it
was evident that this was too be a different night altogether as
Radcliffe started at a frantic pace. The first effort on target
however, came from the Lancashire visitors, as Callum King-Harmes
burst free down the right wing, he cut inside and from a tight angle
fired in a shot that the home keeper punched away to safety. Almost
immediately the ball was at the other end of the pitch and a fierce
20 yard drive was deflected for a corner.
Stainton Park home of Radcliffe FC
Stainton Park home of Radcliffe FC
The fast paced
action continued with Radcliffe not giving Brig a second and pressing
relentlessly. On the occasions Brig broke free they created chances.
On 12 minutes, Isaac Sinclair was found in space on the right wing
and whipped over a superb cross that was defended well and flicked
over the bar for a corner. The corner was headed clear but controlled
by George Thomason on the edge of the box, he drilled in a low shot
that was brilliantly saved by the keepers legs and scrambled away,
Thomason reacted quickly from the clearance and tried to a chipped
effort, the keeper this time claiming the ball from under the bar.
Mark Yates saw
Brig’s next opportunity as he cut back inside from the right and
sent over a curling cross that somehow evaded everyone and rolled
agonisingly passed the far post and out for a goal-kick.
The home side took
the lead on 16 minutes when Brig lost possession at the edge of their
penalty area, Larnell Cole, picked up the loose ball and drilled into
to the corner of the net. Buoyed by the goal Boro poured forward and
Danny Roccia was forced into a diving save just minutes later.
Brig responded and
where awarded a free kick 25 yards from goal. Mark Yates drilled a
low shot through the wall, but the home keeper was well positioned
and saved comfortably. Just 5 minutes later another freekick
opportunity arose for Bamber Bridge from a similar position. Macaulay
Wilson this time fired the free kick in to the wall, the rebound came
back to Macca but this shot was also blocked. Danny Forbes then sent
an an effort over the crossbar. At the other end Radcliffe twice saw
efforts clear the bar as the game continued at a tremendous pace.
The second half
started in disastrous fashion for Bamber Bridge. Within 2 minutes of
the restart, Brig once again lost possession on the edge of the area
leading to a foul and a free kick to the home side. A floated free
kick was mus-handled by Brig stopper Danny Roccia and Boro striker
Jean Louis Akpa-Ackpro reacted quickest to prod the loose ball home
and double the advantage.
Stunned, Bamber
Bridge, playing down the slope in this half pushed forward and came
close when George Thomason picked up a loose ball 20 yards out and
drilled a shot inches wide. On the hour Brig made the 1st
change when Jamal Crawford came on for Isaac Sinclair. Within seconds
of the substitution a rash tackle caused a 10 man scuffle in the
centre circle. The upshot of that being Macca getting a yellow card.
Brig replaced Daniel Wisdom with Chris Churchman as the game got back
underway.
A beer on the Terrace Chaps ???
A beer on the Terrace Chaps ???
As the homeside
looked to preserve their 2 goal advantage Brig sensed their chance
and Jamal Crawford, who had looked very lively since his introduction
weaved in to the area to win Brig a corner. This was cleared but
seconds later another Crawford run saw him lay the ball square to
George Thomason who lashed a thunderbolt in to the roof of the net
from 20 yards. Game on !!
As Brig, now with
the bit between their teeth poured forward, Danny Forbes dived full
length to get his head on a cross from the left but the keepers’
dive and save was equal to it. Forbes again just minutes later was
unlucky as his goalbound header deflected of the unwitting defender
and flew over the bar. Danny then stabbed an effort inches wide as
the homeside struggled to clear their lines.
The golden
opportunity for the equalise arrived in the last minute as Callum
King-Harmes burst down the right and whipped across a low cross at
pace, George Thomason arriving at full pelt in to the box met it
first time but couldn't keep it down the and the ball flashed inches
over the bar, and with it Brigs chance for an unlikely point. Moments
prior to the final whistle however Macaulay Wilson saw red as he
reacted to a Boro player and pushed him in the chest, the vanquished
home player dropping like he had been pole axed. The referee saw it
as a booking and produced the yellow card, followed by the Red.
Foolish action by Macca in truth as he let frustration get the better
of him.
Full time and a leg
weary Radcliffe celebrated their victory while Bamber Bridge were
left to rue the missed opportunity and in truth the fightback came a
little too late. Another tough test awaits Brig on Saturday when they
travel to Nottinghamshire to face in form Basford United.
Full Time: Radcliffe
FC – 2 Bamber Bridge – 1
Att: 342
Bamber Bridge:
Roccia, Spooner, Wisdom, Lawlor (Capt.), Wilson, Forbes, King-Harmes,
Thomason, Dudley, Yates, Sinclair
Subs: Churchman,
Crawford, Radcliffe, De LaCruz, Marment
Tuesday 6th October 2020
Ashton
United – 0 Bamber Bridge - 0
In the words of ex North End manager Graham Westley, Bamber Bridge
came away from Hurst Cross, home of Ashton United on Tuesday evening
with a “Winning Draw”. A first half that was dominated by the
home side and saw them squander at least 4 gilt edged chances, was
followed by a much more resolute second half showing from Brig
enabling the Lancashire side to return home with a very credible
point.
Hurst Cross - Home of Ashton United
Bamber Bridge, having not been involved in any football activity at all during their 14 day Covid-19 quarantine period had started well. An early George Thomason shot whistled just passed the keepers right hand post in the first minute. Ashton responded immediately and Danny Roccia in the Brig goal dived smartly moments later to smother a shot from the edge of the box.
The early pressure however was coming from the visitors who on 10 minutes forced a series of 3 corners in quick succession. The 3rd ending with a shot from Brig debutant Olatunde Bayode which was comfortably gathered by the home keeper.
From an attacking sense that was the last real threat of the half posed by The Lancashire visitors as the home side took control and pressed Brig back. On 15 minutes a smart move down the left wing was cut back across the 6 yard line by The Ashton No.11 Millenic Alli, an initial shot was blocked and cleared, the ball was then whipped back into the area and met with a close range downward header that somehow bounced up and over the bar. Brig were now struggling to retain possession as the home side poured forward at every opportunity. Alli was causing The Briggers real problems has he constantly looked to get to the byline. Twice Danny Roccia was forced into diving saves and on three seperate occasions the Hurst Cross side blazed over the bar from close range following impressive approach play.
Brig were defending resolutely and has the half drew to a close looked to have weathered the storm. The half ending with a Bamber Bridge free kick that flashed just wide of the post.
Hurst Cross - Home of Ashton United
Bamber Bridge, having not been involved in any football activity at all during their 14 day Covid-19 quarantine period had started well. An early George Thomason shot whistled just passed the keepers right hand post in the first minute. Ashton responded immediately and Danny Roccia in the Brig goal dived smartly moments later to smother a shot from the edge of the box.
The early pressure however was coming from the visitors who on 10 minutes forced a series of 3 corners in quick succession. The 3rd ending with a shot from Brig debutant Olatunde Bayode which was comfortably gathered by the home keeper.
From an attacking sense that was the last real threat of the half posed by The Lancashire visitors as the home side took control and pressed Brig back. On 15 minutes a smart move down the left wing was cut back across the 6 yard line by The Ashton No.11 Millenic Alli, an initial shot was blocked and cleared, the ball was then whipped back into the area and met with a close range downward header that somehow bounced up and over the bar. Brig were now struggling to retain possession as the home side poured forward at every opportunity. Alli was causing The Briggers real problems has he constantly looked to get to the byline. Twice Danny Roccia was forced into diving saves and on three seperate occasions the Hurst Cross side blazed over the bar from close range following impressive approach play.
Brig were defending resolutely and has the half drew to a close looked to have weathered the storm. The half ending with a Bamber Bridge free kick that flashed just wide of the post.
Brig manager
Jamie Milligan made two half time changes, Danny Forbes and Matt
Dudley coming on to replace Chris Marlow and Richie Allen. Again Brig
started the half brightly, Tunde pulling the ball back from a tight
angle only to see the oncoming shot well blocked by the Ashton
defender. Tunde again was involved, minutes later firing a shot from
18 yards following a slick passing move. The ball flashing wide of
the post. The 2nd half was already looking a much more
even affair but Brig had some defending to do on the hour when Danny
Roccia raced from his goal to make a great block, The ball fell
kindly to the home striker who looked certain to score but was
thwarted by a superb headed clearance from Macaulay Wilson who
somehow managed to arc backwards and flick the ball over the bar.
Brig were looking dangerous now and on 65 minutes a short corner routine ended with a 10 yard powerful header from Danny Forbes that brought a full length diving save from the Ashton keeper. Matt Dudley then came close, following a super through ball down the left channel, he cut inside, but saw the ball whipped from his toe has he shaped to shoot.
Brig made their final change on 70 minutes, Callum King-Harmes coming on to replace Tunde. The match was certainly in the balance at this stage with both sides looking for the winner. Ashton Utd saw a shot from distance deflected for a corner, before Danny Roccia pulled of a great save, diving to push another long range effort around the post. At the other end, Isaac Sinclair found space on the right before coming inside and striking a curling left foot shot the home keeper dived to smother.
Brig were looking dangerous now and on 65 minutes a short corner routine ended with a 10 yard powerful header from Danny Forbes that brought a full length diving save from the Ashton keeper. Matt Dudley then came close, following a super through ball down the left channel, he cut inside, but saw the ball whipped from his toe has he shaped to shoot.
Brig made their final change on 70 minutes, Callum King-Harmes coming on to replace Tunde. The match was certainly in the balance at this stage with both sides looking for the winner. Ashton Utd saw a shot from distance deflected for a corner, before Danny Roccia pulled of a great save, diving to push another long range effort around the post. At the other end, Isaac Sinclair found space on the right before coming inside and striking a curling left foot shot the home keeper dived to smother.
With the game
entering the closing stages, the home side were reduced to 10 men,
The Ashton centre half tangled with Daniel Wisdom in the centre
Circle and received a straight red for the challenge. From my vantage
point behind the goal it seemed harsh. The last action of the match
saw a Brig free kick well into added time from 30 yards out. The ball
was cleared and the referee brought proceedings to a close with the
final whistle.
A very well
earned point for The Briggers. The home side may point to a glut of
missed chances in the first half but Brig dug deep and showed
tremendous determination and character to come away with a point and
a clean sheet.
Full Time: Ashton
United – 0 Bamber Bridge – 0
Att: 209 (Approx
25 Briggers)
Bamber Bridge:
Roccia, Churchman, Marlow, Lawlor (Capt.), Wilson, Wisdom, Bayode,
Thomason, Sinclair, Yeats, Allen
Subs: Forbes,
Crawford, Dudley, King-Harmes, Radcliffe