A huge thanks to everyone who was involved in the 3-1 cup final defeat against Liverpool at Seel Park on Saturday 2nd May. At 1-0 up in a close game it felt as though the next goal was going to be crucial and so it proved when Liverpool grabbed the equaliser mid-way through the second half. We congratulate the Merseyside team on their cup win and look forward to meeting them again next season.
Although our season ended in disappointment on Saturday it would be remiss of us not to reflect positively on the campaign as a whole. This excellent squad has continued to develop and improve under the outstanding leadership of Mr Baldwin, Mr Moulden and Mr Collins.
We should not forget that there have been some fantastic performances and results, including a wonderful win against Chester who have not been defeated before or since and a magnificent 5-2 victory over Salford that really set the tone for what was to come. There was also the excellent morning in Knutsford when we defeated Macclesfield and were treated to first class chicken pasta after the game. To finish the year with only three defeats is testament to the resilience and quality at our disposal, especially when you consider that we did not play a single game at home (that will be rectified next season!).
There really is a tangible sense of spirit and togetherness in this group and that bodes well for the future.
The Under 13 and Under 14 campaigns are eventful and enjoyable in schools’ district football but nothing quite compares to what is coming next season. At Under 15 level the fixtures are thick, fast and ultra competitive. We will get the chance to play for the G.M.C.S.F.A. League, the County Cup and the North West Cup again but there is also the small matter of the English Schools’ F.A. Cup which is the most coveted trophy in schools’ football. The E.S.F.A Cup was first contested in 1905 but surprisingly no Bolton side has ever won it. I have no doubt that this group of players has every chance of making a serious challenge in the national competition so we await the draw for the first round in the summer with baited breath.
As this season draws to a close I must thank all of the players, each of whom has represented their town with honour during the campaign. Thanks also to our manager Mr Baldwin and his staff for the incredible amount of hard work, patience and support that they have put in to keep this wonderful group together. We are also extremely grateful to Mr Devlin for leading training sessions every week in all kinds of weather.
Finally, a massive thanks to all of the parents, friends, carers and other family members who have supported our Under 14 side this season.
Please keep checking this page for updates over the summer months.
See you next season!
Best wishes
Mr Jackson