[FM09] The Blue and White Army

This is my second attempt at this after the computer the first save was on broke after the first season. Please note that this is a totally different save and bears no resemblance to the original

Football Manager 2009

Patch 9.3.0

Database 9.1.0

No Edits

Leagues Loaded:

England to Blue Square North/South

Scotland to SFL Division 3

Wales to Premiership

Ireland to First Division

Northern Ireland to Interim League

Starting Team: Stockport County (England - League One)

Starting Squad

1. Owain Fon Williams

2. Johnny Mullins

3. Michael Rose

4. Dominic Blizzard

5. Gareth Owen

6. Jim McNulty

7. Anthony Pilkington

8. Gary Dicker

9. Peter Thompson

10. Carl Baker

11. Tommy Rowe

12. The Blue and White Army

14. Jason Taylor

15. Michael Raynes

16. James Tunnicliffe

17. Stephen Gleeson

18. Paul Turnbull

19. Matty McNeil

20. Leon McSweeney

23. Lloyd Rigby

24. Greg Tansey

25. Gianluca Havern

26. Matty Mainwaring

27. Danny Pilkington

28. James Vincent

29. Darren Green

30. Declan Edwards

31. Paul Ennis

32. Andy Halls

34. Oli Johnson

Big squad, but I'll see who impresses and who doesn't in the first season before shaping my squad for the second season. No transfer budget this year, but the objective is to simply avoid relegation

Likely starting line up will be

Fon Williams

Mullins Owen McNulty Rose

Pilkington Blizzard Gleeson Rowe

Baker

Thompson

July Update:

Stockport County have secured the loan moves of Newcastle goalkeeper Fraser Forster and Everton striker Lukas Jutkiewicz for the rest of the season. Forster will take shirt number 21, and Jutkiewicz number 22.

Friendly Results:

Thurrock 1-1 Stockport (Green)

Woking 0-3 Stockport (Thompson (2), Rose)

Stockport 2-3 Celtic XI (Thompson, Rowe)

Woodley Sports 1-2 Stockport (Gleeson, Vincent)

Stockport 1-0 Bolton XI (Thompson)

Stockport 0-2 Charlton

Stockport 4-2 Middlesbrough XI (Blizzard, Thompson, Dicker, Johnson)

Here is my (very small, with the rubbish in the reserves) squad

August 2008

Milton Keynes Dons 2-0 Stockport County

County had their chances at Stadium:mk, but a first half knee injury to star striker Peter Thompson hit hard, especially when a stunning strike from Peter Leven from fully 30 yards gave the Dons the lead, and County were truly out of it when Kevin Gallen doubled the home side's lead. A keeper and two strikers out now for the next month - It's going to be a tough start to the season.

Stockport County 2-1 Leicester City (Carling Cup 1st Round)

It was the perfect start for County at Edgeley Park, as first Stephen Gleeson and then stand in striker Anthony Pilkington put the Hatters 2-0 up inside 10 minutes. The rest of the game, however, belonged to the foxes, but Andy King was the only Leicester player able to put a chance away, albeit a stunning one - putting County through to Round 2

Stockport County 0-1 Bristol Rovers

Disappointment as County lose a game that they should have won. The home side were the dominant force, but an 80th minute strike from Gas captain Stuart Campbell took all of the points to Bristol. The returning Fraser Forster, Peter Thompson and Lukas Jutkiewicz will have to boost County's fortunes if they're not to end up in a bitter relegation battle this year

Southend United 2-0 Stockport County

The game at Roots Hall was dominated by the home side, but they couldn't break the deadlock until early in the second half, an incredible diving header by County's Dom Blizzard past Owain Fon Williams. Alex Revell made sure of the points for the Shrimpers late on.

Stockport County 0-1 Sheffield United (Carling Cup 2nd Round)

A brave display, but another failure to score, as the Blades advance thanks to Billy Sharp's strike on the stroke of half-time. If relegation is to be avoided this season, we need to learn how to score goals, and fast

Stockport County 0-3 Scunthorpe United

The table-topping Iron came to Edgeley Park to meet County stars Tommy Rowe and Peter Thompson back in the team after injury. It didn't last however, as Rowe was injured again just 25 minutes into his comeback. First half goals from Ian Baraclough and Gary Hooper, followed by a comical own goal by keeper Fraser Forster gave Scunthorpe an easy win

You only wish you had Pilks in real life, but we have him! Good luck with your career!

Good luck I spent 14 years with county taking them to the Champions cup and I myself love the club

You only wish you had Pilks in real life, but we have him! Good luck with your career!

Its not only Pilks mate, I wish we had that whole squad! Some incredible talent in that and they were all on our books 12 months ago:(. Oh well, League 2 beckons:(

Good luck I spent 14 years with county taking them to the Champions cup and I myself love the club

Wow - on a different save, I got them to a championship play off semi in my eighth season (I'm quite crap at this game) only for us to lose but then we had to sell all our best talent that summer. I got over £10M but I couldn't build a team to challenge for promotion the next season, so I gave up

Let's hope things will be different this time:thup:

That table is a worring sight! Hope the season can turn around for you.

September

Tranmere Rovers 2-1 Stockport County

Another poor performance and easy victory for Rovers, as goals from former County man Ian Moore and also Steve Jennings were enough to overcome a poor visiting side. A consolation for Peter Thompson was County's first league goal of the season

Stockport County 1-1 Oldham Athletic

A much improved performance, despite Neal Eardley giving the Latics the lead, County dominated from the point that Peter Thompson drew them level. Dominic Blizzard twice hit the bar from the edge of the box, and Oldham will consider themselves fortunate to have escaped from sk3 with a point

Millwall 1-1 Stockport County

Ali Fuseini gave the Lions the early lead but they then lost full back Tony Craig who was sent off for violent conduct after kicking out at Lukas Jutkiewicz. Millwall held the lead until the 85th minute when Peter Thompson sent the travelling army into raptures. Unfortunately, just seconds later, the Hatters hero Thompson was carried from the field with a serious looking knee injury. County could still have won it when Carl Baker found himself through on goal, but the assistant referee's flag saved the Lions

Stockport County 0-0 Cheltenham Town

The search for a win continues, although I'm not quite sure how. Fraser Forster never touched the ball through the entire match, and the front two of Pilkington and Jutkiewicz missed chance after chance, Robins keeper Shane Higgs pulling off two quite brilliant saves from Tommy Rowe. Two points dropped, and some tough games to come, especially without Peter Thompson, the only County player to find the net this season, for the next month

Leyton Orient 2-3 Stockport County

The first win of the season has finally come, and in deep East London of all places! Lukas Jutkiewicz gave County the lead with a cross that Orient keeper Morris carried into his own net, before JJ Melligan pulled to O's level seconds before half time. County went back ahead through central defender Jim McNulty, before Dom Blizzard curled one into the top corner from the edge of the box to seal the points. Orient got a late penalty when Carl Baker upended Aiden Palmer. Wayne Gray's penalty was saved by Fraser Forster, but the rebound was turned in by Ryan Jarvis.

Huddersfield Town 3-1 Stockport County (Johnstone's Paint Trophy 2nd Round)

Normal service resumed after the weekend's rare win, as County capitulated at the hands of the terriers. Two for Keigan Parker and a late one for Andy Holdsworth enough for Town to advance towards Wembley, despite a late consolation for Dominic Blizzard

Northampton Town 2-1 Stockport County

A disappointing defeat at Sixfields as an early strike by Leon Constantine followed by a second half goal from Colin Larkin earned the points. Matty McNeil got County's consolation

Stockport County 1-3 Huddersfield Town

The second meeting of these sides within a fortnight ended with the same result. Stephen Gleeson's free kick went in off the post and then keeper Matt Glennon's back to give County the lead, but a stunning Hat Trick from Keigan Parker was enough to win the points for the Terriers

Stockport County 2-2 Leicester City

Leicester twice took the lead in this game, firstly through Matty Fryatt and then a 30 yard drive from James Wesolowski. County pulled back, however, through a great solo effort from Leon McSweeney and then a header from Anthony Pilkington to earn a well deserved share of the spoils.

New signing: Newcastle's Andy Carroll signs on loan for 3 months as both Thompson and Jutkiewicz are injured (again)

Carlisle United 1-0 Stockport County

Another defeat as County fall to an early strike from the Cumbrians' Danny Carlton. It's not been a good start to the season and things must surely change in January personnel-wise

Stockport County 0-1 Yeovil Town

County fall to an embarassing home defeat at the end of October, to a poor looking Yeovil side. Gavin Tomlin's run and shot made the difference and earned all the points for the Glovers

Peterborough United 2-0 Stockport County

London Road is always a difficult place to go and County were behind after just 24 seconds, Craig Mackail-Smith lashing one past the helpless Fraser Forster. Micah Hyde doubled the lead for The Posh, and County need some wins on the board if they're not to be effectively down by Christmas.

Bristol Rovers 1-0 Stockport County (FA Cup 1st Round)

Jo Kuffour gave an early lead to the Pirates at the Memorial Stadium, but County had a great chance to take it to an Edgeley Park replay when Carl Baker was hacked down in the area by Sean Rigg. Baker himself stepped up to take the penalty, but saw it saved by Steve Phillips.

Stockport County 2-0 Hartlepool United

A much needed 3 points for County who took a 7th minute lead from loan striker Andy Carroll. Hartlepool never really responded, and when keeper Jan Budtz dropped Carl Baker's corner, Tommy Rowe was on hand to smash home and secure all three points for the home side

Crewe Alexandra 1-2 Stockport County

Three vital points made six at Gresty Road, as County showed they would not accept League Two football without a fight. Michael Raynes' header from a corner gave County the lead, but Steven Schumacher levelled for the Alex with County defender Michael Rose down injured to the displeasure of the County fans. The aforementioned County fans were happy again, however, within 2 minutes when left winger Tommy Rowe restored the lead with a header at the far post.

Colchester United 1-0 Stockport County

Colchester will consider themselves very fortunate to win this game. A first half deflected shot from Johnnie Jackson was enough to take the points, despite clearing 3 County efforts off their goal line.

December 2008

Stockport County 0-1 Leeds United

County matched the table topping Whites for the majority of this game, but it was Leeds that took the points home after Paul Huntington headed home Andy Robinson's free kick. It was a shame for County, who had controlled parts of the game.

Stockport County 2-0 Walsall

County took the lead through an incredible 35 yard strike from Dominic Blizzard, and Peter Thompson's volley off Andy Carroll's flick on completed an excellent victory. County's recent performances have started to lift them towards the safety places

Hereford United 1-2 Stockport County

County pulled to within a point of escaping the relegation zone with a 2-1 victory over the struggling Bulls. Peter Thompson gave the Hatters the lead on the stroke of half time, but on-loan striker Andy Williams pulled Hereford level. However, County managed to win it through Stephen Gleeson's long range effort deflected of Hereford defender Karl Broadhurst

Stockport County 2-0 Swindon Town

It took until Boxing Day, but finally County pull clear of the relegation places for the first time this season, thanks to a comfortable home victory over Swindon. The goals came from a clever finish from Stephen Gleeson and a Michael Raynes header following a corner from Carl Baker

Stockport County 0-5 Brighton & Hove Albion

A shocking end to 2008, as Brighton completely dominate at Edgeley Park and hit five goals past the unprepared Hatters. Goalscorers were Doug Livermore, Nicky Forster, Steven Thomson (2) and Andrew Whing

You are slowly climbing out, A few more months like December and you should be safe. Good Luck.

You are slowly climbing out, A few more months like December and you should be safe. Good Luck.

Yeah, hopefully a few like december without the final game though! I really don't know what happened there.

Slow but steady wins the race.... in a few seasonss

Slow but steady wins the race.... in a few seasonss

This squad is going to be very different come August. I'm releasing pretty much anyone out of contract that hasn't been a major player at the end of the season. I'm also withdrawing the reserves from the league, as they are useless and costing me loads of wages, and transfer-listing anyone not out of contract but still useless. More news on this to come when we get to the end of the season

Nothing like a manager letting out his secrets in programme notes, hey:D:D

Someone had a 6-0 loss I presume

January 2009

Stockport County 1-1 Milton Keynes Dons

Edgeley Park hosted County’s first game of 2009, and the visitors were Wimbledon (aka MK Dons). It was the Dons who opened the scoring, Canadian Striker Ali Gerba striking after 21 minutes. In the second half, Carl Baker hit County’s first goal of 2009, and with it hit the all important equaliser that pulled County back out of the relegation zone, at the expense of Yeovil Town

Transfer News: Everton keeper John Ruddy signs for £10K and a 30% sell-on clause

Transfer News: Arsenal central defender Kyle Bartley signs on a 3-Month loan deal

Bristol Rovers 2-0 Stockport County

County, with new signings John Ruddy and Kyle Bartley in their side, fell behind after just 3 minutes when Danny Coles turned in Dan Stratford’s corner. It got worse when debutant Bartley was adjudged to have impeded Rickie Lambert in the penalty area. Lambert had no problem dispatching the penalty. 2-0 after 6 minutes. The Gas kept knocking at the door, but it was County’s Dom Blizzard who had one glorious chance in each half, the first blazing over with the goal gaping, and the second expertly cleared from danger by keeper Steve Phillips.

Transfer News: Wolves midfielder Stephen Gleeson extends loan deal until the end of the season

Stockport County 0-1 Southend United

Promotion chasing Southend United were very fortunate to retain third place in League One with a victory at Edgeley Park today. Striker Alex Revell gave the Shrimpers a 40th minute lead but County had their chances after the interval. Michael Raynes’ header flashed inches wide of the post before Midfielder Dominic Blizzard saw red for inexplicably kicking out at goalscorer Revell. Kyle Bartley was taken off with a knee injury before Anthony Pilkington’s stoppage time effort deflected of Simon Francis before looping over the helpless Mildenhall and striking the top of the crossbar. Southend well and truly off the hook.

Transfer News: Striker Andy Carroll returns to Newcastle after his loan contract expires

Stockport County 0-0 Tranmere Rovers

Stockport County dropped two points at home to Tranmere as they failed to score in a game they dominated. Lukas Jutkiewicz, Peter Thompson, Carl Baker, Stephen Gleeson, Gary Dicker, Michael Raynes and even club captain centre-half Gareth Owen, who has never scored for County, all had chances that they should really have put away, but it wasn’t to be, as Ronnie Moore’s Rovers somehow escaped with a point that will sustain their play off charge a while longer, while leaving County looking at a two horse race between themselves and Yeovil for one safety place, as Hartlepool have scraped some wins together and appear to have escaped

Transfer News: Tottenham striker David Hutton signs on 3 month loan deal

Oldham Athletic 1-0 Stockport County

Stockport County went deeper into the relegation zone today as they completed January without a win, their fourth consecutive game without scoring, and their sixth consecutive game without winning. The only goal of the game came on the stroke of half time from Latics striker Matty Wolfenden, who smashed the ball under the impressive John Ruddy after a goalmouth scramble. It was unfortunate for Man of the Match Ruddy, who really deserved to win the game after pulling off a string of impressive saves.

Someone had a 6-0 loss I presume

Not yet. 5-0 at home is the worst. But I just can't score. I've two strikers with finishing of 15 and 16 who just can't put the ball into the back of the net

Hopefully the real County team this season can do better than this one. Season starts in less than 3 hours:D:D:D:D

County in League 1? I know the Canaries are.... Today Colchester tomorrow the world.....

County in League 1? I know the Canaries are.... Today Colchester tomorrow the world.....

Yes we're in L1

Norwich? Who?

Not 1

Not 2

Not 3

Not 4

Not 5

Not 6

7-1!!!!!!!!!!!!:D:D:D

February 2009

Stockport County 1-1 Millwall

County were able to end their run of four games without scoring, as Stephen Gleeson volleyed home Carl Baker’s cross to give the Hatters a rare lead. County controlled most of the game, but Ali Fuseini managed to squeeze a shot beyond John Ruddy for the equaliser in first half stoppage time.

Stockport County 4-1 Northampton Town

County’s players certainly found their scoring touch on this Saturday afternoon at Edgeley Park. After an awful January, and a positive result against Millwall in the week, County hit after just 3 minutes Tommy Rowe finishing off Stephen Gleeson’s through ball. It was 1-0 at half time, but it was Rowe that struck again immediately after the break, twice beating Cobblers full back Ulises de la Cruz before smashing the ball past keeper Chris Dunn. Northampton got one back through Leon Constantine’s speculative effort, but first Gary Dicker and then Stephen Gleeson made sure that the points were staying in Cheshire, and the great escape was on!

Huddersfield Town 2-5 Stockport County

After hitting four last week at home, County started at the Galpharm in the worst possible fashion, Phil Jevons putting the Terriers in the lead after just 30 seconds. County got back in the game as Peter Thompson converted Stephen Gleeson’s through ball. Tommy Rowe beat full back Jonathan Worthington before being fouled, allowing Carl Baker to put County ahead. Minutes later, David Hutton was fouled by former Hatter Jim Goodwin. Different taker, same result, this time Peter Thompson converting from 12 yards. Gary Roberts gave ‘Udders a chance at the start of the second half, heading home from point blank range, before Worthington gave away penalty number 3, Thompson hitting home again, before Gary Dicker struck the fifth from the edge of the box. An embarrassing day for the home side complete

Cheltenham Town 0-0 Stockport County

It was the home side that had the best of the game at Whaddon Road, a chance apiece for both Lloyd Owusu and Jay Simpson wasted as they hit the ball straight at County keeper John Ruddy.

Scunthorpe United 2-1 Stockport County

County lost their game in hand to top of the league Scunthorpe thanks to two goals in the first ten minutes from Paul Hayes. Hayes ran on to Gary Hooper’s flick on to open the scoring after 40 seconds, and then capitalised on an error from County’s Gianluca Havern to make it two after just eight minutes. County’s consolation came from Peter Thompson in the second half

Stockport County 2-0 Leyton Orient

It was Loanee striker from Tottenham David Hutton that opened the scoring at Edgeley Park, sliding a quality finish past Glenn Morris. It was also Hutton that was pulled back by Brian Saah 20 yards from goal allowing Gary Dicker to curl a free kick around the wall and into the back of the net to seal all three points for the Hatters

Wow - February was quite a month!

Peter Thompson - Player of the Month

Gary Dicker - 2nd in Player of the Month

David Hutton - 2nd in Young Player of the Month

Stephen Gleeson - 3rd in Young Player of the Month

Tommy Rowe - Goal of the Month (v Northampton)

Me - 2nd in Manager of the Month (Damn you Darren Ferguson!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

Yes we're in L1

Norwich? Who?

Not 1

Not 2

Not 3

Not 4

Not 5

Not 6

7-1!!!!!!!!!!!!:D

Just for that I am never going to this page again! :mad:

Are people happy about the way I'm laying this out? Are you reading my reports, are the league tables often enough etc.

Please feel free to comment

March 2009

Leicester City 2-1 Stockport County

March got off to a very quick start for both teams, as there were chances at both ends before Daryl Murphy headed the Foxes ahead after nine minutes. Straight from the restart it was two, Matty Fryatt running through and finishing past John Ruddy. Carl Baker pulled one back for County in the middle of the first half, and the Hatters dominated for the remainder of the half, chances falling to David Hutton, Anthony Pilkington, Carl Baker, Stephen Gleeson, Gary Dicker and Peter Thompson, Foxes keeper Paul Henderson pulling off some stunning saves

Stockport County 2-1 Carlisle United

County earned an early lead when Peter Thompson latched onto Johnny Mullins long ball to score his tenth of the season. The cumbrians levelled through Journeyman striker Michael Bridges when John Ruddy failed to deal with Cleveland Taylor’s cross, allowing the former Leeds striker to tap in with the goal gaping. It was left until the 92nd minute for the winning goal. Returning from Injury, Tommy Rowe beat his man, provided the cross, and David Hutton rose highest in the area to earn all three points for the Jubilant Hatters

Yeovil Town 2-2 Stockport County

County suffered a double early shock in this Tuesday night relegation showdown in Somerset, as Gifton Noel-Williams put the Glovers ahead after just 3 minutes, and then Stephen Simmons doubled the lead, driving home after Kyle Bartley failed to clear. From that point on, however, things were going all County’s way, and Carl Baker was able to turn and shoot in the box to reduce the deficit. County pushed on in the second half, but it was Yeovil who should have made it safe, Paul Warne’s shot incredibly saved by a flying John Ruddy. The equaliser when it did come, however, was very much a goal belonging to Carl Baker – started and finished by the midfielder. It was Baker’s through ball, that released David Hutton, Terrell Forbes tackle was just enough to take the ball away from Hutton, but as keeper Wagenaar failed to grab on to the ball, Baker was on hand to tap it into the gaping net

Stockport County 2-2 Peterborough United

Promotion chasing Peterborough had to win at Edgeley Park to keep themselves as one of the favourites for a play-off place, but it was County that struck first, David Hutton finding enough space in the box to beat Joe Lewis. Cue Peterborough to show why they are one of the Promotion chasers this season. The woodwork saving County four times in the first half after efforts from Aaron McLean, Craig Mackail-Smith, George Boyd and Paul Coutts saw Ruddy beaten. The Posh thought that they had scored when Mackail-Smith looped his header over Ruddy, but left winger Tommy Rowe was on hand to head the ball clear. In the start of the second half, County punished the Cambridgeshire side for not taking their chances when Michael Raynes met Carl Baker’s corner with a bullet header into Lewis’ top corner. It wasn’t long before the lead was halved, George Boyd hitting one across Ruddy, but some solid defending from both Kyle Bartley and Man of the Match Michael Raynes kept County in front until the 86th minute when a wonder pass from Paul Coutts found Sergio Torres who found the top corner. An important strike for Peterborough, but heartbreaking for the Hatters who had defended so well

Hartlepool United 2-1 Stockport County

Gary Dicker gave County a dream start after just 6 minutes at Victoria Park, curling one into the top corner from the edge of the penalty area, but from that point onwards the Pools dominated the game, Ritchie Humphreys, David Foley and James Brown all hitting the woodwork before Humphreys hit the net twice in three minutes to seal the win. Late injuries to Peter Thompson and Kyle Bartley mean that this was a particularly bad day at the office for the Hatters

Stockport County P-P Colchester United

International Weekend

Well done mate, you're safe there now (surely) - one more win probably to make absolute certain I suppose.

I like the way you've laid it out. Really informative and the league tableevery month is fine. Maybe if you get in a tight finish for relegation or promotion in the future, a league table could be posted more often as the end approaches but not at any other time.

Good luck for next season (and the end of this one but you shouldn't need it now!)

Sorry about the delay, I was away without Internet connection, I will update now up to the point at which I am at

April 2009

Walsall 1-1 Stockport County

An impressive result at the Bescot, especially as top scorer Peter Thompson was only fit enough for the bench, meaning Lukas Jutkiewicz, with one goal all season, came in. After a goalless first half, only 28 seconds into the second, German winger Marco Reich lashed past John Ruddy to open the scoring for the Saddlers. County hit back though as Polish striker Jutkiewicz connected with Tommy Rowe’s square ball sweetly to stroke home the equaliser

Stockport County 0-0 Colchester United

Colchester United have nobody except the inept linesman to thank for taking a point from Edgeley Park this evening. First Carl Baker and then Peter Thompson both had goals ruled out by the assistant referee, despite both appearing to be legitimate. Let’s just say that the man with the flag won’t be on Ian McGuinness’ Christmas card list this year

Transfer News: Kyle Bartley returns to Arsenal following the expiry of his loan deal

Leeds United 3-2 Stockport County

The return of Kyle Bartley to Arsenal meant that club captain Gareth Owen came back into the side, but he was at fault for the first goal at Elland Road, as he was easily muscled off the ball by Jermaine Beckford before the United striker placed the ball to John Ruddy’s right and into the bottom corner. It wasn’t long before Argentinian striker Luciano Becchio made it two, as Owen gave him space in the box to smash past the helpless Ruddy. It should have been three as David Prutton submitted his contender for miss of the season, placing a header wide from two yards out. Two minutes later, Prutton did score, but this time he turned Michael Raynes’ header past his own goalkeeper. Any thoughts of a comeback were dispelled, however, with 13 minutes to play when Jermaine Beckford latched onto Bradley Johnson’s cross to restore the two goal advantage. County made the scoreline against the runaway leaders look very respectable, however, when Michael Raynes again rose in the box, and this time, his header went straight past Casper Ankegren without the need of a deflection

Stockport County 2-2 Crewe Alexandra

Already relegated Crewe came to Edgeley Park knowing that if they lost, Northampton, Hereford and Yeovil would be joining them in League 2 next season, meaning that County would be officially safe! Things started going to plan, as Tommy Rowe defied the laws of physics to put County ahead from a ridiculous angle in the first half. The lead didn’t last however, as Michael O’Connor’s shot from the edge of the box brought the Alex level. In the second half, Stephen Gleeson restored County’s lead before Crewe captain O’Connor pounced on the loose ball after a John Ruddy save to claim a point. It wasn’t enough for Northampton, who are down, but Yeovil and Hereford now have a glimmer of hope. Yeovil will be down if they lose to play off chasing Tranmere next week, but all eyes will be on Edgeley Park, where if Hereford win, they give themselves a real chance of survival

Stockport County 6-1 Hereford United

You have to feel sorry for Hereford United. Given a glimmer of hope for survival after Crewe’s late equaliser, they flocked to Stockport in their numbers in the hope of seeing the Bulls beat their main survival rivals. What happened next was that County showed the gulf in class, and showed why there will be a division between the sides next season. It took just 82 seconds for Gary Dicker to open the scoring with a header, but Hereford hit back when Sam Gwynne’s through ball was converted by Nick Chadwick. Tommy Rowe then restored County’s lead with an absolute wonder goal, dancing through six defenders before smashing a right footed shot past Randolph. Rowe got his second when he hit David Hutton’s through ball across Randolph and into the bottom corner. It was Rowe again who created the third, as he worked his way down the left flank, before being brought down in the area by Dean Beckwith. Carl Baker easily converted the penalty. It was five before half time, as Baker was played in on the right hand side and smashed it into Randolph’s top corner. It wasn’t long after half time that it was six, and Rowe had a hat trick. Picked the ball up on the half way line, took on three players before smashing past Randolph and enjoying the adulation of the Cheadle Enders. There was one sour note, when Michael Raynes’ season ended when he was dismissed by the referee having caught Bradley Hudson-Odoi with an elbow. No way to get relegated is nice, but to be humiliated as Hereford were today must be the worst!

Swindon Town 3-2 Stockport County

Swindon Town all but secured a play off place with a 3-2 win over Stockport County at the County ground. Simon Cox opened the scoring for the Robins after breaking clear of Jim McNulty, but Gary Dicker levelled things before half time. Just two minutes into the second half, Jerel Ifil restored the Robins lead, but Peter Thompson equalised as he headed his 100th career goal, and celebrated it with the County fans. The winner came in scrappy style, as Anthony McNamee’s cross hit Jim McNulty, Gareth Owen and Keeper John Ruddy before trickling over the line.

May 2009

Brighton and Hove Albion 1-0 Stockport County

A dead rubber at the end of the season, as County were safe and Albion were out of contention for the play offs. It was the Seagulls that came out on top, as David Livermore headed the only goal of the game after 13 minutes. Jim McNulty came the closest to a reply for County

Pre Season 2009

Released:

James Tunnicliffe

Gareth Owen

Leon McSweeney

Dominic Blizzard

Jason Taylor

Declan Edwards

Lloyd Rigby

Paul Ennis

Matty McNeil

Oli Johnson

James Vincent

Transfer Listed:

Paul Turnbull

Jim McNulty

Darren Green

Danny Pilkington

Owain Fon Williams

Signed:

Byron Anthony (Bristol Rovers)

Matthew Bates (Middlesbrough)

Andy Booth (Huddersfield)

Tom Cleverley (Man Utd)

Neil Harris (Millwall)

Gary Jones (Rochdale)

Tom Kennedy (Rochdale)

John Sullivan (Brighton)

Keith Curle appointed as new Assistant Manager

Player of the year – Tommy Rowe

Pre-Season Results:

Barcelona B (A) - 10-3 (Rowe, Rose, Thompson (5), Dicker, Turnbull, Harris)

Real Madrid Castilla (A) – 6-0 (Pilkington, Harris, Thompson, Baker (pen), Booth (2))

Eivissa (A) – 2-0 (Tansey, D Pilkington)

Real Mallorca B (A) – 7-0 (Booth (3), Jones, Hindley (2), Green)

Hampton and Richmond (A) – 2-0 (Holmes, Wilkie)

Arsenal XI (H) – 0-4

Woodley Sports (A) – 2-0 (Booth, Vincent)

Llanelli (A) – 2-2 (Rowe, Barlow)

Dagenham & Redbridge (A) – 1-2 (Baker)

Wolves (H) – 0-3

Notts County (A) – 1-1 (Baker)

Man Utd XI (H) – 1-2 (Hindley)

Leeds United (H) – 1-0 (Rose)

Transfer News: Danny Pilkington moves to Gainsborough Trinity on Free Transfer

Transfer News: Jim McNulty signs for Oxford United for £10K

Transfer News: Paul Turnbull signs for Notts County for £10K

Transfer News: Owain Fon Williams signs for Partick Thistle on Free Transfer

Transfer News: Darren Green signs for Fleetwood Town on Free Transfer

Transfer News: Anthony Pilkington sold to Oldham Athletic for £35K plus clauses

Transfer News: Stockport County re-sign David Hutton on loan to cover for the long term injured Peter Thompson

Transfer News: Stockport County sign Derby striker Aleksandar Prijovic on loan to cover for the injured Andy Booth

Media Prediction: 23rd

Youth Player:

Best Eleven:

August 2009

Stockport County 3-1 Nottingham Forest

Pre-Season favourites Forest visited a much changed County side on a day in which no-one really knew what to expect. It was County, however, who hit the headlines. The first half was dominated by the home side, and John Ruddy must have been very bored at the other end, but no breakthrough was made. It was also the Hatters who started the second half more brightly, and got their reward when Brendan Moloney’s lack of concentration allowed the ball to Carl Baker in a dangerous position. Baker’s cross would have been perfect for David Hutton to volley home, but for the intervention of Forest defender Kelvin Wilson, who turned the ball past his own keeper. The second came when captain Julian Bennett lunged in at Carl Baker in the box after a 50:50 ball. The ref had to make a call and he did – penalty! Tom Kennedy stepped forward and did the honours. Forest weren’t about to go down that easily though, and Ruddy was beaten by David Connolly’s header with ten minutes remaining, before the former Everton stopper pulled off a quite brilliant save from the same player to keep County’s noses in front. It was 16 year old substitute Luke Hindley who created the third when he held the ball up superbly, as Aleksandar Prijovic powered forward on the break before just playing the ball to him and watching the on-loan Slovak place the ball past Smith.

Norwich City 1-1 Stockport County (Carling Cup 1st Round - Norwich win 5-3 on penalties)

It was County who got off to the best start at Carrow Road, the injured Carl Baker’s replacement Greg Tansey pulling the ball back for Gary Dicker, whose deflected shot left keeper David Marshall in no mans land. The canaries pulled back on the half hour mark, Jamie Cureton breaking through and firing past Ruddy. That was the last goal of the match, and another 90 minutes of football failed to change that, so penalties it would be. Norwich led 4-3 in the shootout thanks to goals from Finnigan, Cureton, Prutton and Clingan, County scorers Kennedy, Jones and Harris, when Gary Dicker stepped up, The midfielder’s spot kick was saved by David Marshall, giving Matty Pattison the chance to win the game for the canaries, which he did with comfort, leaving man of the match Dicker in tears on the half way line.

Stockport County 1-1 Leyton Orient

Orient took the lead within two minutes at Edgeley Park, when Jordan Robertson beat the offside trap to turn Ryan Jarvis’ pass goalwards. County struggled to get into the game from behind, but were given a lifeline when O’s defender Patrick van Aanholt brought down Tommy Rowe in the area, and Gary Jones converted the spot kick.

Oldham Athletic 4-1 Stockport County

The first outing of the new orange away kit and County were comfortably beaten by a rampant Oldham side. The blue and white army travelled in their hoardes down the M60 to Boundary Park, but it took just 4 minutes for Kieran Lee to head Mark Allott’s corner into John Ruddy’s net. County’s summer target Craig Davies decided to stay with Oldham as County decided not to make a bid, and he doubled the lead minutes later. Deane Smalley sent a grass cutting cross in from the left and the former Verona man smashed it past the helpless Ruddy. County did get a lifeline as John Thompson turned Tom Cleverley’s cross into his own net, but it was soon 3-1. Latics youth product Lewis Alessandra’s shot went across Ruddy and agonisingly into the bottom corner. It was Alessandra who completed the rout in the second half, as Michael Raynes and Matthew Bates frantically appealed for offside, the Latics striker just stroked the ball past Ruddy.

Bristol Rovers 2-1 Stockport County

It was one moment of brilliance which changed this match at Rovers’ temporary home at Whaddon Road. The Gas dominated the first half until Tommy Rowe beat David Pipe on the left towards the end of the half. The full back matched him for pace and barged him off the ball, but the referee listened to the vociferous appeals from the County fans and pointed to the spot. Steve Phillips guessed correctly, but Tom Kennedy’s penalty was just too good. It seemed that Rovers gained a harmless free kick about 40 yards from goal, until Rickie Lambert stepped up and bent it straight into the top corner to the shock of the entire stadium. A definite goal of the season contender. Not long after it was 2-1, as Lambert’s corner was headed back across goal by Danny Coles, hit keeper Ruddy and went into his net.

September 2009

Stockport County 2-1 Crewe Alexandra (Johnstone’s Paint Trophy 1st Round North)

Former County striker Anthony Elding returned to Edgeley Park this evening and won the free kick that opened the scoring, as defender John Brayford rose to head Billy Jones’ cross beyond Ruddy. Gary Dicker went close with a free kick moments later, but towards the end of the half, when Steven Schumacher brought down David Hutton, Dicker got it right, curling the free kick around the wall, leaving keeper Legzdins helpless. County scored the winner when Neil Harris jumped with Schumacher after Tommy Rowe’s corner, the Crewe midfielder getting the decisive touch.

Stockport County 1-1 Plymouth Argyle

Stockport County passed up a chance to take three points off Argyle at Edgeley Park. Tommy Rowe opened the scoring with a wonder goal, beating five men before rounding the keeper and playing the ball into the empty net. In the second half, Yoann Folly’s foul on Gary Jones gave Neil Harris to open his County account from 12 yards, but his shot went straight at keeper Romain Larrieu. Harris was brought straight off, but he was still punished as Danny Schofield’s speculative effort clipped the post on its way in for the equaliser

Gillingham 1-2 Stockport County

Stockport County earned a valuable three points down in Kent with a well fought victory at the Priestfield Stadium. Scott Muirhead gave the Gills the lead as he squeezed a header from Simeon Jackson’s corner under Ruddy. County gave everything to get back in the game and Peter Brezovan made a stunning save from the head of Michael Raynes. From the resulting corner, however, Raynes got away from his marker Simon King and placed a header into the bottom corner which, this time, Brezovan could do nothing about. Minutes later Neil Harris broke away from Stuart Lewis in the middle of the park and placed his shot past Brezovan to turn the game on its head

Stockport County 2-0 Southend United

The shock result of the day came at Edgeley Park as mid table Stockport County, on an upturn of form, derailed promotion chasers Southend United, who went into the game in second place. Tommy Rowe broke past the Southend right back Simon Francis early, before pulling the ball back to Gary Dicker who sent a low volley into Steve Mildenhall’s bottom corner. The second goal came from the penalty spot after Adam Barrett dragged down David Hutton following Neil Harris’ pass. A yellow card was produced by referee Trevor Kettle, although red may have been more appropriate. It mattered not, however, as Tom Kennedy did the honours from 12 yards. The other talking point was when 16 year-old County striker Luke Hindley was shoved in the chest by Southend sub Kevin Maher right in front of the referee. Mr. Kettle, however, for the second time in the game preferred yellow to red, and lenience to correctness.

Hartlepool United 0-1 Stockport County

The news of the day at Victoria Park was that County had included Andy Booth, their big name summer signing who suffered a hip injury in pre-season, on their bench and he would be in line to make his debut for his third club, and his first since leaving his second spell at Huddersfield, the club in which he had spent over 13 years of his career. The game itself was dull until the introduction of Booth after 79 minutes. Pools defender Jamie McCunnie was penalised for a push on the big striker, and Michael Raynes rose highest in the box to head Tom Kennedy’s free kick past Ron-Robert Zieler for the winner

October 2009

Stockport County 2-0 Carlisle United

Stockport County march on into the playoffs as they easily overcome a strong looking Carlisle side by two goals to nil. Tommy Rowe’s second goal of the season came in the same fashion as his first - an absolute wonder goal. If Carlisle wore green it would have looked a replay of the goal against Plymouth - beat defenders as if they weren’t there, round keeper, tap ball in empty net. The second goal that sealed the win came from David Hutton as he latched on to the end of Tom Cleverley’s cross to head home.

Macclesfield Town 2-1 Stockport County (Johnstone’s Paint Trophy 2nd Round North)

A Full strength County side was beaten by League Two strugglers Macclesfield Town at the Moss Rose this evening. The silkmen took the lead when the ball bounced of Terry Dunfield’s knee and into the net. Ruddy, who was in the back of his own net after a cross had hit the bar, dived forwards but was unable to stop it before it crossed the line. The second arrived when David Hunt’s long range effort went through a crowd of bodies in the penalty area and into the bottom corner. County hit one back through David Hutton but were unable to force a penalty shootout

Colchester United 2-0 Stockport County

The combination of Colchester’s Mark Yeates and Johnnie Jackson saw to Stockport today as for both goals it was Yeates’ delivery that saw Jackson arrive at the far post. It is to Stockport’s credit that Yeates only got behind that defensive line twice, but when he did, it was only too easy for him to set up his captain, leaving Jackson to hit home, and Ruddy helpless

Stockport County 1-0 Blackpool

County won back their play off spot with a one goal win over Blackpool. The only goal of the game came from Tommy Rowe, as he was given time and space in the area to turn and shoot after controlling the pass from Andy Booth

Swindon Town 4-1 Stockport County

Swindon Town demolished County during the first half at the County ground. A Simon Cox brace, a Michael Raynes own goal and a strike from Lee Peacock made it 4-0 at half time. Cox was denied a hat trick by the assistant referee’s flag. McGuinness rang the changes at half time with a triple substitution and County were much better in the second half, despite playing over half an hour of it with ten men, after David Hutton tore his calf and was carried off. Matthew Bates scored the consolation goal for the Hatters

Stockport County 1-0 Milton Keynes Dons

County had to wait until the 83rd minute for the winner against MK Dons, when midfielder Greg Tansey turned away from Dean Lewington and fired past the despairing left hand of keeper David Lucas

Walsall 1-2 Stockport County

County took the lead at the Bescot Stadium after Peter Thompson pounced on a lapse in concentration from Connor Smith to open the scoring after just 3 minutes. Rory McAllister equalised for the Saddlers, but the winner was scored by Michael Raynes after Tom Kennedy’s corner. Carl Baker was sent off for a second bookable offence in stoppage time

Stockport County 0-1 Shrewsbury Town

A Stockport side weakened by Injuries and suspensions played out a dull game with Shrewsbury at Edgeley Park. Scottish midfielder Stephen Maguire scored the only goal of the game after 13 minutes

November 2009

Southend United 3-1 Stockport County(FA Cup 1st Round)

Stockport County crashed out of the FA Cup in the first round at the hands of League One promotion rivals Southend at Roots Hall. Adam Barrett put the Shrimpers ahead before Alan McCormack doubled the lead. McCormack harshly had a strike ruled out for a foul by Anthony Grant before County made a game of it, young striker Joshua Barlow setting up Tommy Rowe to make it 2-1, but Southend sealed their path into Round 2 with a penalty from Nicky Adams.

Cheltenham Town 0-3 Stockport County

After a goalless first half, County finally took the lead at Whaddon Road when Gary Jones’ through ball allowed Peter Thompson to beat Shane Higgs, and it was made two when Dicker played the ball into Thompson for a similar goal. County lost captain Gary Jones for a second yellow card with 15 minutes to go, but Carl Baker still put Tommy Rowe’s corner in after a defensive mix up for an even more comfortable scoreline

Stockport County 3-1 Brighton and Hove Albion

County took the lead after just 7 minutes at Edgeley Park when Tom Cleverley headed home Carl Baker’s cross. Jake Robinson equalised for Albion with a drive across Ruddy, and then Tommy Rowe was penalised for a trip on Glenn Murray in the box. Adam Virgo’s penalty was low and hard to John Ruddy’s right, but the former Cambridge and Everton stopper still got down to make a great save. County were back in front early in the second half when the in-form Peter Thompson converted Gary Dicker’s ball. It was Cleverley who finished the game off on the hour mark when he hit home Tommy Rowe’s pass.

Bradford City 1-3 Stockport County

A great month for Stockport just got even better with a 3-1 win over Bradford putting them 4th in League One, level on points with 2nd place and just 2 points of top spot. County took the lead when Carl Baker’s corner was turned in to his own net by Ben Clark after just 9 minutes with Tommy Rowe and Michael Raynes lurking. The Bantams equalised when Dominic Foley’s speculative effort just beat the fingertips of John Ruddy and trickled into the net to Ruddy’s despair. County were soon back in front, however. Gary Dicker was given the ball and some space 20 yards from goal, and lashed it past Rhys Evans. Peter Thompson was only too happy to seal the points with his 5th goal of the season after a defensive mix up in stoppage time

December 2009

Stockport County P-P Peterborough United

Waterlogged Pitch at Edgeley Park leads to Postponement of Match. Match Rearranged for Tuesday 8th December by which time the Edgeley Park Pitch should be in a playable condition

Stockport 2-2 Peterborough United

Stockport County will feel tonight that they passed up an opportunity to go 2nd in League One and occupy an automatic promotion spot in mid-December. The pitch passed a 6.30pm inspection and therefore went ahead, and it was Stockport who had the better of the early chances. Peter Thompson and Gary Dicker went close before Neil Harris finally opened the scoring on 37 minutes, turning Carl Baker’s cross past Joe Lewis. The game took another turn just 3 minutes later when Stockport full back Matthew Bates took a tumble in the penalty area. Referee Clive Penton judged it to be a dive and was forced to send off the already booked Bates. The Hatters appeared to have won the game moments after half time, when the completely unmarked Michael Raynes headed home Tom Kennedy’s corner. The Home fans, however, hadn’t accounted for Peterborough’s Aaron McLean who popped up twice in four minutes, both in the final ten minutes to earn a point for the Posh that they by no means whatsoever deserved.

Lincoln City 1-1 Stockport County

Bottom club Lincoln City managed to take a point of Stockport at Sincil Bank, but the Hatters still moved up to 3rd in League One, thanks to Hartlepool’s defeat at the hands of Blackpool. Both County and Pools were strugglers last season, but the work of both Ian McGuinness at Edgeley Park and Danny Wilson at Victoria Park has turned them around into Promotion contenders at the midway point this term. The Imps took the lead at Sincil Bank through Daniel Nardiello, but a moment of quality from Stockport’s Greg Tansey brought the Hatters level. Tansey received a pass from Johnny Mullins before cutting inside Imps left back Sofiane Zaaboub before unleashing a shot on his favoured left foot that keeper Rob Burch could only parry into the roof of his net. A late free kick from County fans favourite Gary Dicker fell just wide of the far post, and inches away from winning the match for the visitors.

Stockport County 4-0 Tranmere Rovers

Stockport County were able to take full advantage of Peterborough losing at Leyton Orient by overcoming a very poor Tranmere Rovers side by four goals to nil. County should have had a penalty in the first minute when Peter Thompson was fouled, but ‘Pistol Pete’ made up for it when he fired past Danny Coyne to open the scoring. It was two not long after when Coyne spilled Tommy Rowe’s effort to the feet of Carl Baker. Antony Kay took out Rowe in the penalty area towards the end of the first half, giving Tom Kennedy a chance to make it three from 12 yards, which he did. The Hatters had to wait until stoppage time for the fourth, which was delivered by Michael Raynes after a corner that the Tranmere defence and keeper Coyne clearly weren’t comfortable with.

Huddersfield Town 1-2 Stockport County

A Boxing Day to remember for the Stockport fans, as table-toppers Huddersfield were humbled by a rampaging County. 12,210 packed to the Galpharm Stadium to see their Heroes who looked destined the end 2009 top of League One, but it was County who came away with all the points and go into the final game of 2009 just one point short of the Terriers. It was a tentative start to the game, as all important clashes tend to be, but County broke the deadlock, with 10 minutes of the first half to play, Neil Harris turning home Peter Thompson’s cross to the shock of the home fans. It was only to get worse for the Terriers, as Tommy Rowe worked his way to the by-line 4 minutes later, squared the ball to Gary Dicker, who placed his shot just out of reach of Huddersfield keeper Paul Rachubka. By the time Town got one back through Keigan Parker, there was only seconds left on the clock, and manager Peter Taylor looked on as the chorus of boos met Colin Webster’s final whistle.

Millwall 2-2 Stockport County

A point a piece after a thrilling encounter between two promotion chasing sides at the Den. It took just 3 minutes for the match the spring into action, On-loan Watford striker Ewan Clarke rising in the box to head the Lions ahead. It wasn’t long, however, before Stockport were level. Millwall legend Neil Harris was held in the box by Marc Laird and the ever-reliable Tom Kennedy converted his 5th penalty of the season. The Lions retook the lead when Danny Senda laid a long range free kick off to Clarke, who lashed it straight into the bottom corner, giving Ruddy no chance. Stockport pushed for a draw, which would see them end 2009 in an automatic promotion place, and they got one, Michael Raynes rising from a Gary Jones corner to head the ball off the underside of the bar, off the line and into the roof of the net.