Mickleover Sports have successfully retained the services of Club Captain Jake Scott. His is a really important player to the club and we fought off some impressive competition to sign him.

Manager’s quote:

I am delighted to announce Jake Scott has agreed to stay with the club for the upcoming 2019/20 season and will also continue his role as club captain.

We have fought off a host of rival clubs and to be able to keep hold of my captain and my leader is a massive plus for me as manager and also everyone here at Mickleover Sports.

Scotty’s all action displays and work rate sets the standards for the rest of the squad and makes him a firm fans favourite.

He is a natural leader and relishes his role of captain, not only on the pitch but his efforts off the pitch do not go unnoticed either. Another superb signing.

Jake’s quote:

I’m absolutely delighted to have re-signed for 2019/2020 season and to be offered the club captaincy.

I have been very fortunate to have had a lot of interest over the summer from other clubs, however, when I sat down with the gaffer and also speaking to the chairman listening to their plans moving forward and how much I am valued at the club it was a no brainer to stay exactly where I am.

We can all agree that we massively under achieved last season, but that final day win to stay up away at Bamber Bridge will be one of those games I will never forget. It was clear to see how much it meant to all the players, staff and more importantly everyone behind the scenes at the football club.

I think this season is going to be huge for the football club, the gaffer is working hard with full backing of the chairman and board to not only get the right players in for us to be challenging at the top of the table but also all the off field aspects to make the club as professional as possible.

The big thing for me and from the players side of things is to give 100% every single time we step onto the pitch and believe we are capable of being right up there come the end of the season as I feel last season we didn’t believe we were capable enough hence where we ended up in the league.

This will be my 4th season at the club and I just want to say thank you to the chairman, board, fans and most importantly the gaffer for making it so enjoyable to be playing football and more importantly how I have developed is purely down to the gaffer’s guidance since I signed back in 2016.

I look forward to seeing all the familiar faces around the club along with meeting any new ones that are joining us for what will hopefully be Mickleover’s best season so far.

Mickleover Sports Club are proud to announce the signing of Ben Turner.

Ben Turner – “I am happy to be re-signing for mickleover sports, I feel last year was a false position we found ourselves in and I feel there’s unfinished business and want to be competing at the right end of the table. There’s only a couple of teams that can compete with us footballing wise and under the gaffer and trust in the players coming in and what we have, I feel we can give it a right go next season so  it was an easy decision to commit to the up and coming season.”

John McGrath – “I am delighted that Ben Turner has committed to us for another season. Turns in my opinion is the best left back playing not only in our division but two or three divisions above us. His consistency is his strength and never he falls below 7/10 week in week out. Equally adapt at playing centre back Turns has been an ever present in my teams over the last 3 seasons. He’s a marauding full back who is just as comfortable in the attacking third and it’s this versatility that causes opposition teams so much trouble. We fought off a host of suitors to keep him with us, and it’s a massive show of intent from us as a club.”

We are delighted to announce that Ricky Ravenhill has been appointed as the new first team assistant manager. Ricky will work closely with manager John McGrath, first team coach Steve Taylor and goalkeeping coach Jonah Jones.

Ricky’s quote

Since arriving at Mickelover back in October I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and been made to feel very welcome by everyone associated with the club.

Last season was very challenging for many reasons but the resilience and team spirit shown by the whole group to achieve what we did and earn the right to again challenge at this level was something quite remarkable.

That last day away at Bamber Bridge was a very special moment, and one I feel is a turning point for the club to grow and develop from.

On this note I am very pleased to have accepted the opportunity to become the assistant manager for the 2019/20 season. I will remain a registered player and feel I still have enough to offer the team from a playing point of view but equally behind the scenes in a coaching capacity and from the touchline.

I have known the gaffer for a number of years and we are clear in the plan and playing philosophy to gain success moving forward.

The planning and recruitment has already begun and I cant wait to get back to preseason training in preparation for the season ahead.

Manager’s quote

I am delighted that Ricky has agreed to join my back room staff. His knowledge, desire and winning mentality makes him perfect for this role. I have known Ricky over 16 years and his views and philosophy on football mirrors and matches mine. He is someone I trust completely but just as important he has the trust and respect of Steve and Jonah my two other members of staff. This a really positive step the club are making and I’d like to thank my chairman Don and my first team coaches Steve and Jonah for their advice and input in to this appointment. Welcome Rick.

Everyone at Mickleover Sports are delighted to welcome Jack Storer back to the Don Amott Arena. Jack joins us with English football league and Scottish football league experience having played for Birmingham City, Stevenage, Yeovil, Solihull Moors and Patrick Thistle of the Scottish championship. Jack had a really successful end to the 2018/19 season having joined in March scoring 4 in 6 games before injury curtailed his involvement in the final 3 games of the season. He is an exciting attacking player that can play anywhere across the front line and is a player that gets supporters on the edge of their seats with his unbelievable talent. Welcome back Jack.

Manager’s quote:

Now here is a player who I believe will go on to follow in the footsteps of Andy Dales who we sold to Scunthorpe last summer and make a career for himself in the football league.

I am delighted that he has chosen Mickleover Sports. Having been with me for the closing months of last season and speaking to him throughout the summer jack believes we are the right club who play the right brand of football that will get the best from his undoubted talents. He is without doubt one of the most naturally gifted footballers I have had the privilege to play with and also coach and manage.

He is allowed the freedom here to express himself and having a dressing room full of senior players and role models to help him along I can see big things in Jacks future. He is only 21 years of age and definitely a talent we here at Mickleover Sports are delighted to help on his pathway to the football league.

(Photo: Sarah Middleton)

John McGrath has made his first signing of the summer and welcomes Richard Batchelor to the Don Amott Arena ahead of the upcoming 2019/20 season.
‘Batch’ is an all action, combative, aggressive midfielder and brings with him a wealth of experience having played for Stafford Rangers, Stourbridge, Brackley and Redditch, Worcester. City and Leamington. Along with his combative style of play Richard is also a naturally gifted footballer and will fit right in with the style of play manager John McGrath expects from his team.

Manager’s quote:

I am delighted to finally get Richard Batchelor here at Mickleover Sports. He is a player I have admired and tried to get on many occasions and to get him signed is a real statement from us. What Batch will bring to the squad is an unwilting desire to win, whether that be in training or on matchdays, and this desire will set a great example and standard to the rest of the squad. I don’t think people give him enough credit for his ability as a footballer but he is an excellent player and will fit perfectly in to the style of play that I have implemented over the last 3 seasons here at Mickleover Sports.

Richard Batchelor:

Really looking forward to getting started with Mickleover Sports. I have known John the gaffer for a while now and we’ve kept in touch over the last few seasons and I am delighted to be joining a team that plays football in the correct manner. I know Pablo Mills and Jack Storer who are current players and having spoken to them and the gaffer the decision was an easy one. I cannot wait to get started in July.

Mickleover Sports will play Burton Albion in a pre-season friendly at the Don Amott Arena on Wednesday 24 July, KO 7:45pm.

Our Chairman, Don Amott, would like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to Burton Albion, they are great friends of our club!

Everybody at Mickleover Sports Club would like to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU to everybody involved and the club and all the supporters for your loyal support.

Bring on next season in the NPL Premier Division!

#SportsRising

Bamber Bridge 1-2 Mickleover Sports
Saturday 27th April 2019
Written by Sam Goldsworthy

It was a day of every emotion possible for everyone connected at Mickleover Sports as goals from Shaquille McDonald and Evan Garnett, coupled with Marine losing at Farsley Celtic, ensured Mickleover Sports came from behind to survive on the final day of the season.

Sports line up with Lewis King in goal. A back four of Jake Scott, Durrell Barry, Ben Turner and Mason Warren. A midfield four consisted of James Baxendale, John McGrath, Ricky Ravenhill and Jimmy Phillips. Up front were Evan Garnett and Pablo Mills. On the bench was Karol Tvaroh, Adam Prusa, Shaquille McDonald, Jack Walsh and Will Norcross.

It was a fairly even first half period but it was Bamber Bridge who went ahead a few minutes before half time. A free kick was floated nicely into the box and as Lewis King came flying out of goal to punch it, in came Danny Forbes to head into the bottom left corner.

At half time the message came through that Farsley Celtic were beating Marine 1-0. So John McGrath decided to take off Ricky Ravenhill and bring on striker Shaquille McDonald to add more attacking flair. This did the trick as about 74 minutes in to the match Sports were awarded a penalty after Jake Scott was brought down on the edge of the box. McDonald showed nerves of steel as he powered the ball down the middle into the roof of the net to set up a tense finish.

Sports knew now that with Farsley beating Marine 2-0 and down to 10 men that a winner would keep them in the Premier Division. That all important goal came six minutes from time through striker Evan Garnett. A Shaquille McDonald free kick was whipped in over the bar and the Bridge keeper palmed the ball straight into the path of Garnett who slotted in under the keeper and into the bottom corner to spark wild celebrations both on the pitch and in the stands.

After a nervous and anxious final few minutes which included Bridge sending their keeper up for a free kick in stoppage time, despite not having anything to play for, the final whistle brought scenes of joy and jubilation among players, coaches, officials and fans alike as Sports had done it. Thanks to Marine losing, Sports got the win they needed t stay a Step 3 club for another season.

So this is it. After 39 games it all comes down to a Saturday afternoon in Preston as Sports know the odds are stacked against them heading into the final day of the season. With our hosts now safe from relegation Sports know they MUST win the game and hope they either Marine lose away to Farsley Celtic and/or Stalybridge Celtic draw or lose at home to Grantham Town. It’s out of their hands but it matter now unless Sports go and win their own game.

LAST TIME OUT
Bamber Bridge won 2-0 at Marine on Monday with two goals either side of half time from Alistair Waddecar. Sports lost 1-0 at home to Basford United on the same afternoon.

SPORTS TEAM NEWS
Nathan Jarman is the only player definitely out through injury. Durrell Berry is a doubt as is Jack Storer after coming off injured on Monday but might be able to play depending on how he recovers. Everyone else is fit and available for selection.

GOING TO THE GAME?
The game is taking place at The Sir Tom Finney Stadium, Brownedge Road, Bamber Bridge, Preston, Lancashire, PR5 6UU. Admission prices are set at £9 Adults, £6 Concessions/OAP’s/Students and £1 for 11-16 year olds with a full paying Adult . Match day programmes as well as hot and cold food and drink will as always be available inside the ground with alcoholic beverages available inside the clubhouse. If you would prefer not to drive we do have spaces on the team coach leaving the Don Amott Arena at 10am costing £10 a seat. Ring Tony Shaw on 07966 197 246 to book.

NOT GOING TO THE GAME?
Then no need to worry, Press & Media Officer Sam Goldsworthy will be at the game keeping you up to date via the usual platforms of Twitter & Facebook, with match reaction on Mickleover Sports TV (Youtube) after the game!

Don’t forget that we will also be doing live match commentary on Mixlr during the game. Either download the app or go onto the website and search for Mickleover Sports. Once the broadcast has gone live at around 2:50pm click listen and you should be able to enjoy full match commentary. You can access our page by clicking on this link… http://mixlr.com/mickleover-sports/

Mickleover Sports 1-2 Alfreton Town
Wednesday 24th April 2019
Derbyshire FA Senior Cup Final
Written by Kerry Goldsworthy

Mickleover came into this game aiming to win. Sports manager John McGrath had a tough decision to make when picking out a team but put out a good 4-4-2 formation with Lewis King in goal. The back four consisted of Jake Scott, Pablo Mills, Marcus Calderone and Mason Warren. The midfield consisted of Ricky Ravenhill, Jimmy Phillips, Jiri Boula and Adam Prusa. The two front strikers consisted of Shaquille McDonald and Jack Thatcher. The bench consisted of Ben Turner, Karel Tvaroh, Evan Garnett, Jack Walsh and Elliot Murray.

First half commenced and on the 3rd minute, Mickleover with a huge chance with Jiri Boula’s shot deflected by Alfreton keeper Sam Ramsbottom and out for a corner. Mason Warren took the corner but due to a collision in the box, referee blew for an Alfreton free kick. On the 5th minute, huge chance came for Alfreton but Danny O’Brien’s shot went wide of the goal. On the 9th minute, Alfreton scored. A little dink from Jordan Sinnott to Danny O’Brien went over the head of Lewis King and in for Alfreton to lead. On the 13th minute, Sports applied pressure and almost equalised by Jiri Boula but his shot was deflected for a corner. Mason Warren took the corner but went over the bar. On the 16th minute, huge chance came for Mickleover as Pablo regained possession for the Sports and dinked it to Shaquille McDonald but could not quite reach Shaquille and went out for a throw in. A minute later and a huge chance came for Alfreton to score again but Danny O’Brien’s shot went over the bar. On the 18th minute, chance for Alfreton as Danny O’Brien took the corner and dinked it to Jordan Sinnott but is saved into the hands of Sports keeper Lewis King. On the 24th minute, chance came for Alfreton but Danny O’Brien’s shot was saved by Lewis King. Three minutes later and Sports had a chance to equalise with Shaquille McDonald’s first chance then Adam Prusa had a go but hit the cross bar and went out of play. On the 41st minute, Sports should have equalised with Shaquille McDonalds shot but was flagged offside.

Half Time: Mickleover Sports 0-1 Alfreton Town

Second half commenced and Sports made two substitutions with Ben Turner and Jack Walsh replacing Jiri Boula and Jack Thatcher. On the 50th minute, chance came for Sports with Shaquille’s shot rolling out of play for a Alfreton goal kick. On the 55th minute, another huge chance came for Sports with excellent play from Pablo Mills who sent it to Adam Prusa but his shot was kicked out by Sam Ramsbottom. On the 58th minute, chance came for Sports with Jimmy Phillips keeping the ball in play and sent it to Pablo but could not reach Pablo’s head and went out wide. On the 62nd minute, a huge chance came for Sports but Pablo’s shot went wide. On the 67th minute, Sports were awarded a penalty after Shaquille went down. Shaquille was ok to continue and took the penalty in which blasted past Sam Ramsbottom and gave Sports the equaliser. On the 77th minute, Sports made their final substitution with Evan Garnett replacing Shaquille McDonald. On the 86th minute, Alfreton scored again with Danny O’Brien’s shot dinked over Lewis King and into the goal.

Full Time: Mickleover Sports 1-2 Alfreton Town