[FM24] The Great Cumbrian Breakaway - Build a Nation From Scratch

[Rick87]

Hi all; after my sacking in my Sutton Coldfield save, I decided to try something a little different. After much fiddling in the editor, I have helped my home county, Cumbria, to declare independence and secede from England. 

At around 2,613 square miles, Cumbria is the third-largest English county in terms of area, behind Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, and is in fact larger than a number of the European countries that we will be facing in our quest to become a footballing powerhouse. Despite its size, it is actually one of the least populated counties with only around 498,000 people calling it home, which could be an obstacle as I look to develop the nation's football pedigree. Bordered to the North by Scotland, the Irish Sea to the west and by England to the East and South, Cumbria becomes the fifth nation to make up the United Kingdom.

Cumbria's location within the British Isles.

Best known for the beautiful Lake district which is almost entirely within the new country's borders, as well as historic castles, sandy beaches and vibrant towns; Cumbria attracts around 47 million tourists a year which is a huge contributor to the area's economy. 

 

 

 

In the next post, I will begin outlining how I have set up the proud nation of Cumbria in the editor and take you through the league set-up.

Keep reading and get involved! 

 

Edited April 25 by Rick87

[Rick87]

When setting up Cumbria in the editor, I have ensured we are the lowest ranked nation in the world to make this as challenging as possible;

I have changed the nationality of everyone who was born in a Cumbrian town or city, from English to Cumbrian; with the exceptions of Scott Carson and Dean Henderson and Rob Edwards, who have all represented England at senior level. That leaves a talent pool of 91 players on day one. (Not including generated players) There are a couple of EPL players in the National team, Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite and Burnley's James Trafford are both young and the national team could be built around them for years to come. Rangers's Ben Davies will also important. 

OK, so that's the Cumbrian national team, now let's have a look at the domestic system;

 

Cumbrian Premier League

The top tier of Cumbrian football comprises of eighteen teams who play each other home and away, 17 are from Cumbria and one from Scotland, I have invited Gretna 2008 to take part as the border between Cumbria and Scotland runs through the town. Gretna has entered (and won) the Cumberland cup on multiple occasions, so they have previous form in the county.  The winner of the division is crowned champions and will have the honour of being the first club to represent Cumbria in the UEFA Champions League next season, entering the first qualifying round of Europe's elite club competition. Second and possibly third (depending on the Cumbrian cup winner) will embark on an adventure in the UEFA Conference League, also in the first qualifying round.

The bottom two clubs are relegated to the first division below, the team in 16th faces a play-off against the side finishing third in the First division.

 

Reputation-wise, the league is ranked 180th in Europe; alongside the Welsh second division and English seventh tier. My job will be to help raise the profile of the league to make it more attractive to top players and indeed sponsors, so clubs can afford to upgrade their facilities and produce high quality academy players to supply the national team with talent.

Prize money is modest for realism, as is TV money, over time they will increase as the league's profile increases.

 

The biggest obstacle I foresee is Carlisle and Barrow completely dominating, I'm sure they will do for at least the first few years, but hopefully the smaller clubs can gradually improve and eventually challenge the two big boys, I'd prefer not to have an Old Firm type dominance where nobody else can win for decades at a time.

Cumbrian First Division

The promotion tier has eighteen teams vying to reach the top table, the top two go up, whereas third place can gain promotion if they can overcome the 16th place Premier League side. As with the Premier League, The bottom two are automatically relegated to division two, the team in 15th receives a chance to save themselves by means of a play-off against the third place second division club.

All the clubs down here are amateur, There isn't much to chose between them in terms of stature, so hopefully that means they will all get a chance to play in the Premier League over the next decade or so. 

Cumbrian Second Division

The basement division, 20 clubs who play a 38 game season. The top two are promoted, the third is involved in the inter-division play-off with the 16th place team in division one. The bottom two are relegated out of the league.

Cumbrian Cup

The national cup is contested in a single leg knockout tournament by every club in the country, ties go to a replay if drawn. The winner earns a place in next season's UEFA Conference league. If the winner is the same as the club finishing first or second in the Premier League, the team finishing third in the League takes the Conference League berth. 

Supporters Shield

A two-legged super cup between the Premier League champions and the Cumbrian cup winners. (Or League runners-up if they are the same)

Visit Cumbria Cup

A cup competition for the clubs in the first and second divisions, to give them a chance of some silverware. Single leg knockout rounds, except the semi-final, which is played home and away.

 

 

 

 

Edited April 23 by Rick87

[Rick87]

 

Welcome back all, thank you for your continuing readership! So here we go; day one on the job(s) I will be starting this build-a-nation challenge managing both my local club and the glorious independent nation of Cumbria in tandem, with the hope of raising the standings of both in the world.

I will start my introduction with the Cumbrian national team;

 

 

Cheers, Chris, I'm glad to be here! I have an entirely blank slate with the national team, we have no staff in place yet (aside from Chris who for some reason was hired before me), so I can build a team with my own ideas and philosophies, which is naturally quite an exciting prospect.

Due to the season starting in July here, the game has already simulated part of the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, which is a shame as it would have been nice to have been in charge of the country's first ever fixture. It's fair to say we are not off to the finest of starts. My first game in charge will be a trip to Istanbul to face Turkey. I fully expect a defeat, but hopefully we can keep it respectable. I will certainly be aiming for points against Liechtenstein at home though as I look to deliver the nation's first victory.

 

I cleared the AI selected squad and have gone through all the positions to pick my own players, my selection will most likely change before the first fixture against Cameroon in September, but here is my initial selection;

A handful of elite players such as Jarred Branthwaite, James Trafford and Ben Davies who will be the base I build my team on, the rest are occupying various levels of the football league and in several case non-league positions (And one with no club at all!) . Scoring goals is my main worry as none of the forwards are great, so defence will likely be our bread and butter, at least to begin with. As a collective group I would say we should climb the world rankings pretty quickly, this is a squad that I think is considerably better than our fellow European minnows San Marino, Andorra, Kosovo and Faroe Islands. If I were to pick a level I think this group should be operating at, I would say a stature akin to that of Albania, Latvia or Cyprus, someone of that ilk.

 

My National team aims; (Short Term, Mid-Term, Long Term)

- Win any game

- Get promoted from our Nation's League Group

- Have a player reach 100 caps for Cumbria

-Have a player reach 50 goals

- Beat England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland in competitive games

-Qualify for the Euros

-Qualify for a World Cup

-Win the Nation's League

-Win Euros

-Win World Cup

 

That's everything covered from a national team perspective, let me know what you think, how do you reckon we Cumbrians will fare on the world stage?

Next update I will cover my club team who I will be hoping to transform into a European powerhouse!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited April 23 by Rick87

[Rick87]

So then, dear reader, we move onto the club I will be leading on a domestic level;

My local club, Until the great Cumbrian secession last year, played in the Cumberland County League in a nondescript tier of English football. They now suddenly find themselves in the second tier of Cumbria's newly formed league system. They are as basic as a football club can really get, just local lads having fun on the local park, surrounded by kids shouting on the playground next to the pitch and dogs running on and off the pitch as walkers transverse the park. No stands, no real facilities at all other than a small changing room in the corner of the park, and certainly no fancy pants corporate nonsense.  This is grassroots football at its very heart. 

 

 

Aspatria (or Spyatri if you are local) is in the Noth-Western part of Cumbria, about fifteen miles from the capital city Carlisle. Aspatria enjoys the enviable position of being sandwiched between two areas of outstanding natural beauty; the Solway Coast to the North and the Fells of Lakeland to the South. It is a small town with a population of just below 3,000 and is a heavily agricultural area. 

The chairman doesn't have much ambition regarding our five-year plan, beyond maintaining a position in the top half of the first division.

This suits me as there will be less pressure, however my personal targets far exceed that of the board;

 

Club Objectives (Short-Term, Mid-Term, Long-Term)

- Achieve a top half finish in Division One

-Win Promotion to the Premier League

-Win against rivals Wigton

- Defeat one of the professional teams (Carlisle or Barrow)

- Become recognised as 'the best of the rest' behind the two professional clubs

-Qualify for the Conference League 

-Win the Cumbrian cup

- Reach the League stage in the Conference League

-Win the Premier League

-Be ranked Cumbria's top club

-Reach the league stage of the Champions League

- Win the Champions League

 

Clearly, much needs to happen if any of the objectives in amber or red are to be achieved. Foremost, I need to make money to pay for upgrades to the facilities and enable us to produce high quality trainees who can help not only the club, but eventually go on and play for my national team as well. 

Here is my squad on day one;

Obviously, much strengthening is needed ahead of the new season. The entire squad is newgen players, there is some potential, but I think I need to bring in some experience to fill in the gaps the squad has.

We kick off the campaign with a home game against Windermere Sports Club before a tough trip to Cleator Moor Celtic who were playing in the North-West Counties League last season.

 

Here are the media predictions for the inaugural First Division season, clearly they don't give us much chance of achieving the board's target of a top half finish, in fact they seem to think we should be more concerned with avoiding dropping into the second division. 

 

OK, that is day one covered for both club and country, time to begin building a league and nation capable of winning the top prize in World football!

Edited April 23 by Rick87

[mpm2342]

Love the concept and the story so far. Good luck with the save and settle in for the long haul to build up the reputation of your team, league and country!

[Rick87]

1 hour ago, mpm2342 said:

Love the concept and the story so far. Good luck with the save and settle in for the long haul to build up the reputation of your team, league and country!

Thanks mate, keep reading!

 

Just to make everyone aware, I have had to restart as I realised I had missed the clubs who are in the Westmorland league in real life, I wouldn't have bothered, but it was a sizeable number of clubs, and it has actually allowed me to add a third division. I have edited the posts and screenshots above to reflect these changes.

[DaneBramage]

Nice idea, interested in seeing how this one goes.

Would love to try something like this but that much work in the editor is way beyond my patience and capabilities, hope it all runs smoothly.

 

Edited April 19 by DaneBramage

[TelcontarTargaryen]

This is going to tough but interesting one.

[oche balboa]

Like this challenge 

 

Some great editing as well 

[Rick87]

 

On 19/04/2024 at 15:00, DaneBramage said:

Nice idea, interested in seeing how this one goes.

Would love to try something like this but that much work in the editor is way beyond my patience and capabilities, hope it all runs smoothly.

 

On 19/04/2024 at 16:03, TelcontarTargaryen said:

This is going to tough but interesting one.

On 20/04/2024 at 00:44, oche balboa said:

Like this challenge 

 

Some great editing as well 

Thanks guys; Sorry it has taken so long to get started, after noticing a couple of minor problems I ran a ten-year holiday test on my file which flagged up a major issue to the longevity of this save, namely that Cumbria weren't competing in the Nations League or European Championships. The World Cup qualifying worked fine, but UEFA just didn't work. After much head scratching, I decided to rebuild the whole thing again using Raibowz excellent Isle of Man database as a template, which has resolved the issue.

[Rick87]

 

So after another test, everything seems to working as it should, so without any further delay, let's crack on with building a football superpower! 

I shall be using a weekly update format, as that seemed to be popular in my last career. To keep things clear, I shall be using a Blue for Aspatria and Green for Cumbria.

 

Monday 3rd July 2023

My first day on my new career path of football management and I find myself now in charge of two sides with the opportunity to build a footballing legacy that will elevate not only my own standing in the game but my local club and our newly formed National team too! There is no international games for a couple of months, so my focus in this first week will be on Aspatria.

-I spend the day with my assistant manager, Adam Myres, Adam gives me his opinion on the existing squad. It is plain to see we need to recruit heavily this summer;

We have almost no central defenders or midfielders, and half of the squad is still in school. Let's hope that their homework doesn't get in the way of their footy! I'm a regular at Workington AFC, so I already have a few ideas in mind regarding potential signings, whether we can get any of them is an entirely different matter. 

- I've reorganised our pre-season schedule, we now have friendlies against Kendal Town, Dalbeattie Star, Workington and Kendal County. We will also take part in a cup competition I have dubbed 'The Four Counties cup', with representatives from three of the counties that border Cumbria; Barnard Castle from County Durham, Lancaster from Lancashire and Lochmaben from Dumfries & Galloway in Scotland.

-I terminate the contracts of the recruitment analyst, loan manager, sports scientist and director of football. They just aren't necessary at this level. I also take full responsibility for all staff hiring and contracts to prevent other members of staff hiring more unnecessary people.

-At the first staff meeting, Adam advises me to appoint a captain, I hang fire for the moment with an eye to bringing in some experienced players who are better candidates than anyone in the current squad.

 

Tuesday 4th July 2023

-Today I've been working on tactics, training schedules and set-piece routines, it's just over two weeks until our first friendly against Kendal County, I want to have my team fit and with a basic grasp on what I want from them tactically by then. To begin with, I've opted for good ol' 4-4-2 but with the two wingers pushed forwards and cutting in from the wide positions and the two central players dropping deeper to protect the defence. This will no doubt change over the course of the season, but I think it's a solid base to work off for my 'go-to' tactic.

-I meet the players for the first time, I tell them we are aiming for a top-half finish in Division One this season, which is a target they are all happy with. Good bunch of lads.

-I've offered contracts to five free agents in hopes of bolstering the squad. We can only offer amateur deals, so my powers of persuasion are very limited.

- I hold press conferences for both Aspatria and Cumbria; I'm asked questions about the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifier against Turkey in Istanbul, I respond that whilst it will no doubt be a tough game we will do our best to give the fans something to cheer.

 

Thursday 6th July 2023

-My first signings for Spyatri! A triple coup for the club;

20-year-old striker Jack Milburn came through the youth team at Barrow before joining Kendal Town in step four, he made eighteen appearances for the Mint cakes before being allowed to join Penrith where he made just one appearance. Hopefully he can find a more permanent home here at St Mungo's. 

Ball winning midfielder Liam Lightfoot is a Carlisle graduate who left Bloomfield Road for Workington, where he has been a part of the Red's development team. He now joins us on free with the aim of getting more first team football.

Liam Lightfoot

 

Finally today, we have Adam Walton, who played in the same Carlisle youth set up as Liam Lightfoot. They will renew their acquaintance as my DM partnership in the heart of midfield. 

 

 

Friday 7th July 2023

-Another new face at St Mungo's today; Michael Williamson was born in Carlisle but started his career north of the border with Queen of the South and Gretna 2008 before joining Penrith and then Carlisle City. He has the ability to score a lot of goals in the First Division. Can he provide the firepower we need to achieve our goals this season? 

- Bolton's tenacious midfielder, Kyle Dempsey, is ruled out for 3–6 months with a hip injury, meaning he won't be available for selection in our Euro 2024 qualifiers this autumn.

 

Next Week

-Preparations continue for the new season, I'm still looking to find players to fill the gaping holes in the squad. The four new faces this week will help, but further strengthening is required.

-I'm off to Scotland to watch Albion Rovers Vs. Annan Athletic in order to watch Annan's Josh Dixon who is a potential candidate for the national team.

 

 

Edited April 25 by Rick87

[Rick87]

 

Monday 10th July 2023

-My attempt to sign midfielder Shaun Gardner as a player/coach ended in failure, as he chose to sign for Penrith instead.

 

Wednesday 12th July 2023

- I have begun recruitment for my support team, places adverts for managers, coaches and physios at senior, U21 and 18 levels.

 

Friday 14th July 2023

-We welcome 25-year-old Ellis Pearson to the club, Ellis has played for Carlisle, Workington, Gretna, Annan and most recently; Penrith. He can play anywhere down the left-hand side, which gives me options.

 

Saturday 15th July 2023

- I ventured up to Coatsbridge to watch Albion Rovers Vs. Annan Athletic in the Scottish cup. I was running the rule over midfielder Josh Dixon for selection this September. Dixon got an assist during his side's 3-2 win, which does his hopes of facing Turkey and Liechtenstein no harm at all.

 

Sunday 16th July 2023

-Today was spent tweaking training routines for the next few weeks, I've dedicated time each week for team bonding to increase cohesion in the squad given we have several new signings, I'm also working hard on set-pieces.

 

Next Week

-We make the 40 mile or so journey South through the Lakes to take on Kendal County in our first pre-season fixture. This will be important as it's my first opportunity to see how my squad is gelling and taking on my tactical messages. 

-Penrith Vs. Workington on Tuesday, as many as 14 potentials could be on show in this friendly. I'm also scouting Workington Vs Carlisle on Saturday.

 

 

Edited April 25 by Rick87

[Navelgazer]

Great idea. I'm in.

[Rick87]

 

Monday 17th July 2023

- Whitehaven have beaten us to signing veteran left back Alan Inglis.

 

 

Tuesday 18th July 2023

- I watched Penrith's 3-2 win over Workington at the Frenchfields Stadium. Casting my eye over eleven players. Penrith left back Charlie Birch and Reds midfielder Cieran Casson were particularly impressive and make my shortlist for selection in September.

 

 

Wednesday 19th July 2023

- Windermere Sports have offered a contract to my right back, Roy Joel. If I had any backup for him, I wouldn't mind. I've been trying to find a better player in his position but without much luck so far, so I'd rather not lose him yet.

 

Thursday 20th July 2023

- More bad news transferwise as Premier League Kendal Town swoop in to hijack my signing of defender Daniel Harvey.

Friday 21st July 2023

- I confirmed the signing of 24-year-old keeper Cameron Copeland. Cam started out at Queen of the South, just across the border in Dumfries, before joining Penrith and later Gretna. He will g straight in as my number one.

- Preparing for tomorrow's trip to Kendal County, I decided on my first XI, my game plan is to make a full change of personnel at half-time, so I can see my whole squad in action as well as give everyone 45 minutes of game time and build fitness throughout the squad. 

 

Saturday 22nd July 2023

- Off to a winning start, though it wasn't the most convincing performance;

 

An excellent first half performance by my first XI was pleasing, unfortunately the second string looked very shaky after the break and allowed the lead to slip, Kendal did score a third to turn things around completely, however we were saved my the linesman's flag, A 94th minute strike by fullback Steve Dynan bobbled past the goalkeeper to hand us a win against the run of play. Not pretty, but I'll take it in our first game.

 

 

Next Week

-Our pre-season campaign continues with a home game against Workington's development side at home on Saturday.

-I'm going to check out Gretna Vs. Cowdenbeath this week. Gretna currently have three national side candidates in their first team so it's certainly worth the effort to scout.

 

Edited April 25 by Rick87

[Rick87]

 

Monday 24th July 2023

- We have a new signing! Midfielder Sean Law. Sean is no stranger to Cumbrian football after spells with Carlisle and Penrith.

- Whitehaven beat us to the signature of defender Marc Gallimore. A pity as he is a promising player. 

 

 

Tuesday 25th July 2023

- A busy day recruitment-wise as I put together a back room team of coaches and youth managers to support me and my quest to improve Cumbria's national football team.

- Five days after he rejected us to join Kendal, Daniel Harvey becomes an Aspatria player. I wasn't ready to give up on the former Queen of the South and Gretna man, who I rate highly.

 

Saturday 29th July 2023

- A good solid performance against Premier League Workington's development squad, Unlike the Kendal County game I don't put out an entirely different eleven in the second half, instead preferring a more gradual change over of personnel.

 

Both of my forwards were on the scoresheet, and we created a massive amount of chances, even without the majority of possession. Very pleasing and encouraging. Max Brown looks a real talent for our level as well.

 

Sunday 30th July 2023

- I've appointed a manager for my U18's, Naturally given Cumbria's status in the game the options for a division one amateur side aren't wonderful but only a bad workman blames his tools, as they say. Mark's tactical preferences are at least aligned with my own.

Hopefully, after a few coaching courses, we can polish this turd up to an acceptable level.

- Right-back Roy Joel has left the club to join Askham, a strange move for him as they are predicted to finish beneath us and be relegated.

 

Next Week

-The pre-season preparations ramp up a gear as we switch to a two game per week schedule. First, on Tuesday, we face Premier League Kendal Town at home. Kendal will be one of the contenders for the coveted third place which would grant them access to the Europa Conference League, what n amazing transition that would be for a club that was last season in the ninth tier of England. A run in Europe could earn them some decent prize money and help them build more serious challenges to Carlisle and Barrow domestically. Then on Saturday we welcome Scottish Lowland League side Dalbeattie Star to St. Mungo's, I'm not too sure what to expect from them so it could be a good challenge.

-With two Aspatria games this week, my chances to go scouting for the national team are limited, I will be sending a scout to watch Cleator Moor Celtic Vs. Carlisle City though.

 

Edited April 25 by Rick87

[Rick87]

 

Tuesday 1st August 2023

- The club announces a new sponsorship deal; 

 

Whilst it's a far cry from multi-million pound Premiership deals, it will still come in useful in helping to sure up the club's future, which for the moment appear to be trending in the right direction.

 

- We welcomed Kendal Town to St Mungo's for our latest pre-season warm-up game;

 

The Mintcakes (Love that nickname) took the lead through their striker Steven Yewson on 25 minutes when he glanced in an accurate header inside the six yard box. We were level shortly after the break when young full back Adam Walton unleashed a thunderbolt from 25 yards which flashed past the Kendal keeper. We took the lead just after the hour when a defensive error allowed Jackie Milburn through on goal, the forward made no mistake as he applied a clinical finish against his former club. Unfortunately, we didn't hold on for what would have been an impressive victory against a higher division club, as Matt Dudley latched onto an early cross into the box and converted for a draw. 

My biggest concern today was Max Brown being carried off with a damaged knee ligament, he's been ruled out for up to two months before he's even kicked a ball competitively for us.

 

Thursday 3rd August 2023

- Qualification groups for the Euro U19's championship have been decided, we face San Marino and Gibraltar. It will be interesting to see how the young lads get on as we look to build for the future.

- I've added two friendlies to the calendar for next March, we have a home game with Moldova and a trip to San Marino. I'm hoping to gain a few ranking points in these games.

 

Friday 4th August 2023

- Our local rivals Maryport have offered left back Steve Dynan a contract, he isn't much attribute-wise, but he has played really well in pre-season, and I'd sooner not have to replace him so close to the start of the season;

- The Cumberland press has revised their pre-season predictions in light of our transfer activity, we are now heavily tipped to gain promotion to the Premier League and constitute over half of the dream team;

Saturday 5th August 2023

- Squad number announcement day, I've never known why people find what number a player wears interesting, but they do, so here they are!

 

- We welcomed Scottish side Dalbeattie Star to St Mungo's; the game ended in a 1-1 draw. We got off to a flyer when winger Rhys Joseph's shot from the edge of the box crashed in off the post in the second minute, the visitors restored parity sixteen minutes when a suicidal back pass by Andre Tamplin sold Cameron Copeland short and allowed Jordan Hooper to latch onto the ball inside the box and pick his spot. Our Lowland League visitors were probably the better side, and we did well to hold onto a draw in the end.

Sunday 6th August 2023

- Penrith based Wetheriggs have appointed 29-year-old Sam Thorpe as their new manager, he has been promoted from assistant manager so it's good to see career progress by young Cumbrian's. Wetheriggs are predicted to struggle, so hopefully he can defy the odds and keep them safe. They and Cleator Moor are the only other North Cumbrian sides in this division, the rest are down in the Southern end of the country in the tourist traps.

 

Next Week

- Pre-season concludes with the Four Counties cup tournament, we will be facing another Lowland League opposition in the form of Lochmaben in the semi-final before either Lancaster or Barnard Castle in the final/third-place playoff.

-I'm off on an 700-mile round trip to Portsmouth to watch former Carlisle United man Owen Moxon in action for Pompey against Cambridge on Tuesday in the EFL Trophy.

 

[Rick87]

 

Monday 7th August 2023

- Winger Tyler Spence rejects our offer of coming to St. Mungo's, Instead choosing to sign for Premier League Whitehaven.

 

 

Tuesday 8th August 2023

- I head to Fratton Park to watch Owen Moxon in action for Pompey against Cambridge, unfortunately he doesn't make it off the bench so it was something of a wasted journey.

 

 

Wednesday 9th August 2023

- I chose centre back Dan Harvey as our club captain, the former Gretna man is going to be a massively important figure for us this season, and it makes sense for him to wear the armband.

 

Thursday 10th August 2023

- Second division Alston Moor are trying to poach striker Tony Anderson. I've asked him to stay, but will he be tempted by being guaranteed more football in the lower division?

 

 

Saturday 12th August 2023

- A narrow defeat, our first loss during pre-season in the Four Counties Cup. This was a close run thing against our neighbours on the other side of the wall. Both teams had good chances, but it was the Lowland League outfit who ultimately came out on top thanks to their strong first half display. They advance to the final against Lancaster, whereas we take on Barnard Castle in the third place playoff.

- Steve Dynan has turned down a move to Maryport Athletic, instead committing to Aspatria for the immediate future.

- The season is underway in England, Jarrad Branthwaite had a decent game for Everton against Chelsea.

 

Sunday 13th August 2023

- Our pre-season schedule wrapped up with our best performance so far. We secured third place in the Four Counties Cup with this emphatic win over the County Durham based Barnard Castle. Winger Ellis Pearson got us off to the best possible start after just three minutes when his drive found its way in. Michael Williamson doubled the lead with a cute chip over the onrushing keeper when he was played through on goal in the 27th minute.

Newly appointed captain Dan Harvey scored a thudding header from a well delivered corner for the second game running shortly before half-time, a mistake by the Castle goalkeeper gifted Jackie Milburn our fourth, he more or less had a dropped catch land on his head and bounce in. The visitors got one back, but Andy Hudson's sweeping finish on 75 minutes made sure there would be no thoughts of a comeback.

 

- Tony Anderson has accepted Alston Moor's offer to move to the Division Two side. I now need to begin looking for a new rotation option up front. 

 

Next Week

-So that's it, our warm-up routine is complete, and the season begins in earnest next Saturday as Windermere Sports head up the A591 to St Mungo's. I think we are looking good and are ready to kick off this historic first season of football in the newly founded country of Cumbria.

-Whilst understandably my focus this week will be on Aspatria's season kicking off, I will be making the 15-mile journey South-West to watch Whitehaven Miners Welfare Vs. Holker Old Boys  on Sunday to see if anyone catches the eye as my first game against Turkey draws nearer.

Edited April 26 by Rick87

[Rick87]

 

Monday 14th August 2023

- My scout sends me his report on Windermere SC, so I can begin my tactical preparations for this Saturday's big kick-off. He suggests that the Windermere's keeper is very weak when it comes to his handling and claiming ariel balls, so I've set us up in a 4-4-2 with the intention of going direct with lots of high long balls for the forwards to try and get on the end of, and we will be practising direct style attacking during training this week.

 

Tuesday 15th August 2023

- I've offered a contract to former Workington and Penrith midfielder Adam Main to come and join us at St Mungo's this season.

- Vickerstown and Division Two Burneside have made an approach to left back Steve Dynan. I'm hoping that he stays, as he is part of my plans for the current season.

 

 

Wednesday 16th August 2023

- Two new signings to bolster our ranks following the recent departure of Tony Anderson and possible of exit of Steve Dynan;

Johnny Murray - Former Penrith, Gretna and Workington striker who I've brought in to provide cover up front for Mike Williamson and Jackie Millburn.

James Earl - Experienced wide-man who can play on either flank, which is always useful. James has spent most of his career with Workington and Carlisle City. I'll possibly look to transition him into a player/coach role in the future.

 

 

Thursday 17th August 2023

- The draw for the Visit Cumbria Cup second round has been made, we face a trip to our divisional rivals Kirby Lonsdale in October. This competition is for all the clubs in Division One and Two, to give the clubs outside the top flight a chance of some silverware.

 

 

Friday 18th August 2023

- On the eve of my first competitive game as manager of Aspatria, I chose my first ever starting eleven, the only player unavailable is striker Max Brown is who is still out with sprained knee ligaments.

Saturday 19th August 2023

- Four Four Two Magazine runs an article weighing up whether Newcastle's Joe White, who is currently on loan at Larne in Northern Ireland, deserves to be in my Cumbria squad next month. He's a definite maybe in my mind.

- Off to a winning start! Whilst it wasn't the most convincing performance, we did get the three points, largely due to our superior chance creation, our work on the training ground this week practising ariel balls paid off as captain Dan Harvey rose highest to meet Rhys Joseph's corner in the 36th minute. The visitors hit back almost immediately when playmaker Andy Forbes caught keeper Cameron Copeland flat-footed with a speculative long range effort.  After the equaliser, it was the visitors who enjoyed the lions share of possession, and we were left holding on at times. We did have a golden chance to go into half-time ahead, however Michael Williamson's penalty lacked power and was saved by Windermere's John Coleman. We did eventually manage to seal the points when Jackie Millburn seized on a wayward pass and applied an accurate finish to give us three points on our Cumbrian League debut.

- Just minutes after being part of our winning side, left back Steve Dynan has informed me he has decided to drop a division to join Burneside. Not what I needed ahead of a tricky away fixture at Cleator Moor next week.

 

Sunday 20th August

- The Cumbrian FA Cup has pitted us against Cleator Moor Celtic away at the end of next month, Celtic are also our next opponents in the league.

- The board confirms we have sold a grand total of zero season tickets. Thanks for your support Aspatria!

- Northampton's Partick Brough was the best performer from the national pool yesterday, unfortunately he also picked up an injury that will keep him out for 2–4 weeks, probably ruling him out of contention for selection against Türkiye and Liechtenstein next month.

- I was at the County Ground, home of Holker Old Boys, to witness their 5-1 victory over Whitehaven Miners Welfare. Whilst there were no players on show who are likely to be part of my first squad, I have added HOB's 16-year-old Callum Brown to the national pool with a possible eye to the future.

Next Week

- As mentioned previously, it's a trip down the Cumbrian coast to Cleator Moor Celtic this week for my Spyatri side. We have the benefit of being better rested as Celtic's campaign doesn't start until Wednesday when they travel to Sedbergh & Dent. 

 

Edited April 27 by Rick87

[Rick87]

 

Tuesday 22nd August 2023

— Jackie Millburn gets selected in the division team of the week after his goalscoring performance in our 2-1 win over Windermere.

— I have made an offer for second division Mirehouse's defender Luke France, who looks a pretty good prospect, they accept my offer, but the player isn't interested in moving at the moment. He will remain on my shortlist however.

Tuesday 22nd August 2023

— A double signing to further improve our squad; Adam Main can play in midfield, though it will be his attacking prowess I will be utilising up front. I've also signed Kyle May to partner Dan Harvey in central defence. At 40 years old, Kyle clearly isn't a long term signing, but he can certainly still do a job for us for a season or two before taking the next step in his career, perhaps by joining our backroom staff. 

 

Friday 25th August 2023

— Preparing for tomorrow's game I have made two changes to the line-up, Kyle May and James Earl go straight into the team to face Cleator Moor, with Karl Brown and Rhys Joseph dropping to the bench where Adam Main will also begin the game, though I fully intend to bring him on at some point. The only injury currently is Max Brown's continued absence with a knee sprain.

 

 

Saturday 26th August 2023

 

 

— A red card for Celtic's Dwayne Morris completely changed the course of this game. The home side had been the more impressive and looked more likely to take the lead up until that point. We capitalised on our extra man almost immediately after half-time, when debutant James Earl got on the end of Ellis Pearson's cross to head in his maiden Aspatria goal. We doubled up from the spot when Michael Williamson was bundled over in the box, he got up to convert the spot kick and score his first goal for us. Ellis Pearson got a well deserved goal not long after with a beautiful curling shot from the left corner of the box before Adam Main applied an archetypical poacher finish completing a convincing win.

The only negative, sadly quite a big one, was the horrible injury to captain Dan Harvey, who was stretchered off with a broken leg.

— The league table doesn't mean a great deal after just two games, but here it is anyway;

 

Sunday 27th August 2023

— The doctor confirms Dan Harvey's broken leg and informs us he won't play any part in this campaign until at least February/March time. It is a major blow to lose our captain for that long. I've already begun trying to source a temporary replacement.

 

 

Next Week

— The transfer window closes on Friday, I need a new centre back to fill in whilst Harvey recovers from his broken leg. I'm also keeping an eye out for a left back, though that isn't quite as high of a priority at the moment.

— It's a massive week for me and the national team as I name my squad to face Türkiye and Liechtenstein for our Euro 2024 qualifiers; my first two games in charge of Cumbria.  

— We are home to Ulverston Rangers on Saturday, Rangers have also started well by winning both of their opening fixtures, scoring four goals against both Greystoke and Wetheriggs.

[Rick87]

Monday 28th August 2023

—The board turn down my request to do a coaching course as they are scared of losing me. Flattering, guys, but surely you want your manager to be the best he can be?

 

Tuesday 29th August 2023

—Four of the lads are selected in the First Division team of the week; Cameron Copeland, Ellis Pearson, Sean Law and Adam Main.

Thursday 31st August 2023

—Transfer deadline day, whilst I wasn't expecting to be busy today, I did have a go at signing former Penrith defender Josh Ward to fill in for the injured Dan Harvey. Unfortunately however I was beaten to the punch by Premier League Kendal Town.

 

Friday 1st September 2023

—The window has now slammed shut, Carlisle United have pulled off the biggest coup by bringing in Coventry's Sean Maguire, they have also been the biggest spenders and most active team in the country, with an outlay of £750k on 19 players. Worryingly for me as national team manager, the biggest club in the country now have just one Cumbrian player in their first team squad.

—So here it is; My first selection for the great and independent nation of Cumbria as we size up Türkiye and Liechtenstein.

Make what you will of the squad, it is an eclectic mix of EPL millionaires, teenagers, 40-year-olds, and everything in between. I might get some flack for selecting two of my Aspatria players, Sean Law and Kyle May. With no other great options in their positions, why wouldn't I go for players I am already familiar with and know can do a job? (Just call me Gareth) 

My biggest problem will be a serious lack of pace throughout the team, meaning I will either have to play short and slow, or play hoof ball with target man Steven Rigg up front. 

—My attention now turned back to Aspatria, I pick my team for tomorrow's visit of Ulverston Rangers with two changes from last week's 4-0 win over Cleator Moor. In comes James Morrison in central defence, he replaces the unfortunate Dan Harvey who broke his leg. Adam Main also starts after making a scoring start to his Spyatri career from the bench last week.

—Our scheduled game against Crooklands Casuals next Tuesday has been moved due to five of our players being on international duty, two with me in the Cumbrian senior side and three with the U21 squad.

—The board and the fans give me a solid C+ rating for my performance thus far at St Mungo's Park.

—The monthly financial update is looking pretty good, we have made a profit of over £6.5k, which is a big wad for an amateur club.

 

Saturday 2nd September 2023

 

— This was always going to be a tough one against second place Ulverston, and so it proved. Both teams had some good chances, but it wasn't until the last 15 minutes that the deadlock got broken. Adam Main scored his second goal in as many games with a powerful close range finish. A mistake by substitute Rhys Jacobs allowed Danny Watson to fire in an equaliser for Rangers. A draw was a fair result and maintains both team's unbeaten starts to the season.

Sunday 3rd September 2023

—Teenager Joey Bangura celebrated his international call up with a goal for Kendal in their 3-0 win over Maryport, Workington duo Brad Hubbold and Conor Tinnion will also be on the plane to Istanbul and turned in good showings for the reds.

 

— The reserves triumph 4-0 away to Braithwaite, with young forward Hayden Lewis getting a brace.

Next Week

—My international career finally gets underway as we head to Türkiye on Thursday and then home to face Liechtenstein at Brunton Park on Sunday for Euro 2024 qualifiers in group J. Qualifying for the tournament already looks out of the question after losing the opening four games, but I want to pick up some points and hopefully boost our standings in the world rankings. We will probably lose in Istanbul, however I do fancy the Liechtenstein game for our first ever win.

 

Edited April 27 by Rick87

[Rick87]

Wednesday 6th September 2023

- Before the Türkiye game, I appoint Rangers defender Ben Davies as Cumbrian captain.

- During my press conference, I say that whilst we don't expect to leave Istanbul with three points, we at least want to make life difficult for the hosts and give a good account of ourselves.

 

Thursday 7th September 2023

- OK, success was never on the cards at the Yeni Eskişehir stadium, however I was hoping we would put up more of a fight. Türkiye showed their far superior technical prowess and ruthlessly exploited defensive frailties. Losing goalkeeper James Trafford with a broken hand after 17 minutes lead to the introduction of Chester's Wyll Stanway. Poor Will looked exactly what he was, a National League North keeper, protected by a mostly non-league level defence, and facing some World class forwards. Juventus's Kenan Yildiz scored a magnificent hat-trick, and Inter Milan's Hakan Calhanoglu bagged a brace. Our fans did at least get a goal to cheer when Bolton midfielder George Thomason volleyed in from the edge of the box on 56 minutes.

- After breaking his hand, James Trafford heads back to Burnley to begin treatment. I call up Carlisle's young keeper Gabriel Breeze to the squad.

- The Under-21's don't get on any better than the first team, as they get thumped 6-0 by Sweden in their qualifier. The Under-19's also lose, albeit in a less embarrassing manner, going down 2-1 to a 90th minute goal against the Faroe Islands.

 

Friday 8th September 2023

- Another player heading home early, defender Sam Smith is heading back to Workington feeling unwell, I have replaced him with Holker Old Boys's Callum Brown. He probably won't take any part in Sunday's game, but it's good experience for the lad who has some potential. 

 

Saturday 9th September 2023

- A 8,000 seat sell-out is expected for tomorrow's game at Brunton Park. The stadium actually holds 18,000, however 10,000 of this is terracing, which isn't permitted in UEFA competitions.

- The media have made us slight favourites to overcome Liechtenstein tomorrow. Gabriel Breeze goes straight into the line-up for his first cap after replacing the injured James Trafford in goal, Hayden Tait will start at right-back with Charlie Birch dropping to the bench, Workington's Connor Tinnion comes in to make his first Cumbrian appearance in place of Newcastle youngster Joe White in central midfield.

Putting Breeze in will be controversial, but Wyll Stanway looked so out of his depth against Turkyie, I decided it was for the best. Hopefully, Gabriel can use the international experience to push on and establish himself at Carlisle, who only have one other Cumbrian in their squad. (Paul Huntington)

 

Sunday 10th September 2023

A proud occasion for our young nation as we collect our first ever competitive point! Had it not been for debutant Hayden Tait's sending off for a second yellow just before the hour mark, we may well have taken all three. Sixteen-year-old forward Joey Bangura repaid my controversial decision to select him by opening the scoring with a powerful drive when he got on the end of captain Ben Davies's long ball in the 25th minute.

SPAL's experienced midfielder Marcel Büchel was on fine form tonight, unfortunately for us; He seized on George Thomason's mistake to slide home an equaliser shortly before half-time, which in fairness the visitors deserved as they had been by-en-large the better side throughout the first half. The game's big talking point came in the 59th minute when right back James Tait was sent for an early bath for a second yellow card, the Gretna 2008 man went it too hard on Büchel who was pulling all the stings. 

It was that man Büchel who got a second for his team and himself to put Liechtenstein ahead with ten minutes to go when he put a thunderbolt of a free kick past the despairing Gabriel Breeze from 27 yards. Given their man advantage, I think everyone expected them to go on and secure the win, however my ten men showed some resilience to rescue a draw, George Thomason made up for his earlier mistake in the first goal by tapping in from Charlie Birch's low cross, there was a heart in mouth VAR check on the goal, but thankfully the goal stood, sparking wild celebrations at Brunton Park as Cumbria avoid defeat for the first time in our history! 

Whilst we are still bottom of Group J, we at least have a point on the board, my mini-target now is to avoid finishing last, a very tough ask given we have now played both fixtures against Liechtenstein who were by far the most likely source of points for us in this group. We are off to FC Twente's De Grolsch Veste to face Holland next month, we have to be realistic and admit we will do well just to keep the scoreline respectable in this one. We return home for a match against our northern neighbours Scotland at Brunton Park, it's difficult to see us getting anything here either, but you never know, if we can defend well and take our chances we might just pull it off.

- Joey Bangura's goal was a record breaker;

- The Under-19's also pick up a draw, they finish 1-1 at home to San Marino. The Under-21's however get a 6-1 spanking from Republic of Ireland. My Aspatria striker Michael Williamson scoring Cumbria's goal.

 

Next Week

Back on home soil, there is no rest for the wicked as my Spyatri side travel to South Cumbria to face Crooklands Casuals on Tuesday evening to play the game which was moved at my request due to five of my squad being on duty with Cumbria. We then host Vickerstown at St Mungo's on Saturday. These two sides are 12th and 13th respectively, so I'm hopeful of maintaining our unbeaten start to the season.

 

Edited April 30 by Rick87

[Rick87]

Tuesday 12th September 2023

— It's back to work at St. Mungo's after the international games; before tomorrow's game with Crooklands Casuals, I make two changes to the team that drew 1-1 with Ulverston ten days ago; In comes fullback Ashton Powell for his senior debut, he replaces Adam Walton who suffered a twisted knee in the Cumbria U21's game with Ireland. Also incoming, is Johnny Murray, who starts for the first time after making three appearances from the bench.

— The latest FIFA World rankings have been released. We are still bottom of the pile in 211th, we are however narrowing the gap of points to San Marino and I don't think it will be long until we surpass them.

 

 

Wednesday 13th September 2023

An entertaining game where both teams had lots of chances and really got stuck in to each other, in the end I'd say the draw was fair, our second 1-1 in a row.  Ellis Pearson was at fault in giving away the penalty that allowed Casuals to take the lead. It only took eight minutes for my side to respond though as Liam Lightfoot, normally the anchor of the team, found himself with space 25 yards out and sent a rocket past the home keeper to equalise. Kyle May is suspended for the next game against Vickerstown, after getting a second yellow of the season, It's very strict disciplinary rules here in Cumbria! Young debutant Ashton Powell got a solid 6.5 on his senior bow.

Friday 15th September 2023

— Straight back into the office with the old tactics board, to plan for tomorrow's visit of Vickerstown who lost to 2-1 to Wetherigg's in their previous fixture. My assistant informs me they are an aggressive team who rack up the cards, so I will be looking to exploit that by instructing my players to run at the defence to draw the fouls. They are also weak when it comes to positioning, so I set up 'pass into space' and tell the team to go a little more direct to try and catch them out. Two changes to my line-up from the Crooklands game, Karl Brown comes into the defence in place of Kyle May who is suspended, and Jack Milliburn starts up front in place of Johnny Murray.

 

Saturday 16th September 2023

— A fantastic display of counter-attacking football, we allowed Vickerstown two thirds of the possession but still ran out 4–1 winners. Winger James Earl seized on a sloppy back pass to put us into the lead with a well-placed shot across the goalkeeper. Sean Law, just back from representing Cumbria against Turkey and Liechtenstein, doubled our advantage with a close range finish at the near post when he was teed up by Jackie Millburn in the tenth minute.

Millburn got his rewards for his earlier assist by scoring his second goal of the season when a mix-up in the visitor's defence to finish with aplomb for our third. Midfielder Law made it a four-star performance early in the second half when he cleverly lose his marker to fire in from inside the 'D'. Vickerstown did manage a consolation, however I was never worried about our ability to see out the result.

After maintaining our unbeaten start to the season we sit in third place, which would earn us a play-off game with the team finishing sixteenth in the Premier League, should we still occupy it come the end of the season.

 

Sunday 17th September 2023

— The reserves run out 3–0 winners at home to Kirkby Stephen; Andy Gray, Darryl Jenkinson and Daniel Lynch are on the scoresheet.

 

 

Next Week

— We are off to face eighth place Kirkby Lonsdale at their Lunefield park on Saturday, with reaching the top of the table within our sights.

 

[DefinitelyTaylor]

As someone from Barrow, this is a certainly interesting concept! 

[Rick87]

12 minutes ago, DefinitelyTaylor said:

As someone from Barrow, this is a certainly interesting concept! 

Thanks mate, keep reading!

You're at the opposite end of the county to me, I'm near Cockermouth and Wigton.

[Rick87]

Tuesday 19th September 2023

— Jackie Millburn has been selected in team of the week following his goal and assist in the Vickerstown game. I've added him to the national pool for potential selection if he keeps impressing.

 

Friday 22nd September 2023

— In my end of week training report, teenager Ashton Powell has earned himself some credit with his performances in drills this week, the schoolboy played his first senior games against Crooklands Casuals and Vickerstown last week. I give young Ashton some praise to encourage him further.

— There are several changes for tomorrow's trip to Kirkby Lonsdale; Kyle May is back from his one game suspension and takes the place of Karl Brown in central defence. Adam Walton is back at right back in place of Ashton Powell, who will start on the bench. Adam Main returns to the line-up after being rested against Vickerstown, he replaces Michael Williamson who hasn't looked particularly impressive for us so far.Liam Lightfoot is suspended, so in comes another sixteen-year-old in the form of Andy Hudson.

 

Saturday 23rd September 2023

Once again, we ceded most of the possession to the opposition, however we dominated in terms of chances created, and crucially, chances taken. James Earl scored an absolute pearl of a free-kick from 30-yards, he couldn't have hit it any sweeter as it flew right into the top corner beyond the keeper's reach to open the scoring. From then on we looked comfortable throughout, Lonsdale had slightly more of the ball but did little of note with it, and it was no surprise when we did eventually kill off the game. Local schoolboy Andy Hudson taking his chance in the first team was on hand to finish calmly during a goalmouth scramble, brought about by an ill defended corner. Substitute Michael Williamson completed a fine showing by my team with two minutes left on the clock with a tidy finish from the edge of the box.

Windermere and Askham both also picked up wins, so we remain third in the table, but as they say, it's a marathon not a sprint!

Andy Hudson's goal makes him a record breaker;

Hopefully his good start will help him develop and establish himself in the coming months and years.

 

Sunday 24th September 2023

- The reserves lose 3-2 to Braithwaite. Max Brown and Jonny Murray score our goals.

- Joey Bangura, who scored against Liechtenstein last month, did his hopes of going to Holland next month no harm at all by getting a 7.7 rating and an assist for Kendal against Whitehaven.

 

Next Week

- We take a break from League action in order to compete in Cumbrian Cup second round against Cleator Moor Celtic at Birks Lane. It would be nice to put together a good run in the national cup competition.

Edited May 1 by Rick87

[Rick87]

Monday 25th September 2023

— After the weekend game, I praise midfielder Sean Law and forward Jackie Millburn for their fine starts to the season. It's always nice to hear your doing a good job!

 

 

Tuesday 26th September 2023

— We have two players selected in the division team of the week, both of them are just sixteen years old, the future looks promising!

 

Wednesday 27th September 2023

— The physio sends his regular injury report, we only have the one player out of action at the moment, captain Dan Harvey remains 4–6 months away from returning from that horrific broken leg he suffered on the opening day.

 — A mixed night for the Cumbrian lads in action for their club's;

 

Friday 29th September 2023

— I have made a number of changes to the squad ahead of the Cumbrian Cup fixture with Cleator Moor tomorrow;

Ethan Stewart (Cameron Copeland) - Ethan makes his Spyatri debut between the posts.

Rhys Joseph (James Earl) -The young winger gets a chance to start for the first time this season as I rest Earl. He was impressive in pre-season, so hopefully he can make his mark in this opportunity.

Daryl Jenkinson (Ellis Pearson) -Another young winger who gets a chance in the limelight for this one.

Jonny Murray (Jackie Millburn) -One of five strikers in my squad, Jonny has struggled for playing time so far this season, so this is a good chance for him to stake his claim for more regular football.

Michael Williamson (Adam Main) -Like Murray, Michael's minutes this season have mostly come from the bench, and he needs to show he is capable of leading the line effectively if he's to start more regularly.

 

Saturday 30th September 2023

I admit there were periods of this game where I feared things wouldn't work out as planned. We were the better side in the first half and managed to turn our dominance into a one goal lead as young Rhys Joseph took advantage of his chance in the starting line-up by steering in a powerful drive that went in off the post in the 34th minute.

Celtic came out for the second period the stronger of the two teams and had several good chances to get themselves level, A red card for left back Andre Tamplin threatened to allow them to overwhelm us numerically. Credit to my team, the weathered the storm and eventually managed to alleviate any lingering doubts when full back Adam Walton cut inside from the right to finish powerfully with thirteen minutes left.

Really pleased with the rotation lads who came into the team for this one, they all performed solidly, and I'll have no reservations turning to them in the future.

.

Sunday 1st October 2023

— It's the first of the month, so the monthly financial update is here, things still look nice and steady for us;

 

— The draw for the third round of the Cumbrian Cup has been made, we will host another of our divisional rivals, Ulverston Rangers in November, with who we drew 1-1 last month.

 

— Portsmouth's Owen Moxon was the cream of the crop for the players trying to earn selection for this month's fixtures against the Netherlands and Scotland. He got an assist in Pompy's win over Burton Albion.

 

Next Week

Two games this week, firstly we are back in cup action on Tuesday, this time in the Visit Cumbria cup, a secondary competition for clubs in the first and second divisions to give them a chance of winning some silverware. We face Kirkby Lonsdale, who we recently beat 3-0. We then face the other Kirkby, Kirkby Stephen, in league action at their Parrot Park; so named for the free roaming macaw parrots that can be spotted flying around the village.

— I name my squad for the Holland and Scotland games.

 

Edited May 2 by Rick87

[Rick87]

Tuesday 3rd October 2023

— Preparing for tomorrow's Visit Cumbria cup game with Kirkby Lonsdale. I've decided to keep the rotated squad who came in against Cleator Moor last week in for this week. Ashton Powell starts out of position, he will be at left back rather than right due to Andre Tamplin being suspended. James Noble makes his senior debut in midfield as I rest Sean Law. Adam Main and Max Brown are the strike force.

 

 

Wednesday 4th October 2023

— It looked very much like we were headed for the indignity of falling at the first hurdle in the VCC, but for a terrific comeback in a drama filled game. When we found ourselves two down in the first half I decided to be proactive and make changes straight away rather than waiting, on came Sean Law and James Earl, who made all the difference, instantly making us look more dangerous. It took until the 68th minute, when 41-year-old defender Kyle May headed in from an Earl corner to give us a lifeline. Max Brown had one disallowed in the 85th minute, which I thought had killed all the momentum we had built, however up popped 16-year-old Ashton Powell who was being played out of position to equalise deep into stoppage time and force extra time. 

We had a golden chance to win the tie in the second half of extra time when we were given a penalty, however James Earl's kick was tame and easily stopped by the Londale keeper Chris Stanley. I kept faith with him in the subsequent penalty shoot-out, and he repaid that trust by scoring our second kick. We scored all four of our penalties, with Adam Walton converting the winning kick to send us through to the last sixteen.

 

Thursday 5th October 2023

— Yesterday's goalscorers were both record breakers, our oldest and youngest ever goalscorers!

— We have been drawn to face Ulverston Rangers again in the third round of the VCC, we were also drawn against them in the Cumbrian cup, so this will be the third time already we have met Ulverston.

 

Friday 6th October 2023

— I've named my squad to face Holland and Scotland next week, a total of eleven players could be in line for their first Cumbrian cap, including two of my own Aspatria players, Jack Millburn has been impressive up front, and I selected Adam Walton, due to a lack of quality in the right back position I have Adam a chance. The twenty-year-old has four assists and one goal so far this season.

The rest of the squad is a real cross-section of the various levels of the game, with players from the EPL, Conference North, Cumbrian Division One, Scottish division Two and everything in between. The media criticised my decision to select Millburn ahead of Workington's target man, Steven Rigg, he's scored three in eight games for the reds, but I feel Millburn is more what I'm looking for tactically. 

 

- Our game against Endmore KGR that was scheduled for next week has been postponed due to us having several players on International duty with Cumbria. In addition to Millburn and Walton's call-up's to the senior side, Michael Williamson has been selected for the U21's.

- After playing heavily rotated selections in the two cup matches, I have returned to what I think is my strongest XI for tomorrow's Division One game with Kirkby Stephen;

 

Saturday 7th October 2023

- Our first loss of the season. The game got off to a breakneck start with both sides scoring in the opening eight minutes before the home side seized the game before half-time with two quick goals. I abandoned our counter attacking style during the break in favour of a more dominant possession based system, which showed some promise. We had a goal chalked off for offside which would have set up a grandstand finish, however Michael Williamson's late penalty was only a consolation.

- Despite our unbeaten run coming to an end, we remain third place in the division one table and still within touch of the automatic play-off places.

 

Sunday 8th October 2023

— Some encouraging performances from Cumbrian stars this week, 

- The reserves win 5-3 against local rivals Cockermouth.

 

 

Sunday 8th October 2023

—My second round of games with Cumbria as we head to Enschede to face Holland on Thursday. I'm not expecting anything from this game and will be happy with just keeping the scoreline respectable. We then return home to face our neighbours Scotland at Brunton Park on Sunday in what should be an exciting clash, again I don't really expect any points, though you never know, we will do our best.

Edited May 3 by Rick87

[Rick87]

Tuesday 10th October 2023

— Despite our defeat to Kirkby Stephen at the weekend, we have two players in the team of the week.

Thursday 12th October 2023

Well, success was never on the cards here, but the manner of the defeat stung a little. Clearly Holland were by far the better team, but up until Jarred Branthwaite's sending off we had at least looked capable of preventing the Oranje from running riot, as we displayed some well-organised defending. However, once we lost a man, and later a second, it was always going to get ugly. A lack of discipline, or perhaps my players just lacking the ability to get the ball off the technically gifted Dutchmen cleanly, lead to a massive foul count.

 

Friday 13th October 2023

-Ryan Bowman thanks me publicly for his first Cumbria cap, he was one of seven players to earn their maiden cap against Holland; alongside Patrick Brough, Alex Newby, Tom Beadling, Adam Walton, Jack Millburn and Josh Dixon.

 

Saturday 14th October 2023

-Tactical Preparations for Scotland tomorrow, Goalkeeper Angus Gunn is weak at distribution, so I've changed Ryan Bowman's role from poacher to pressing forward and told the team to always press the goalkeeper, in hopes of forcing a mistake or two from him. If we are to get anything tomorrow then breaking up the dynamic midfield partnership of John McGinn and Scott McTomminay will be key, so I've set my CM Tom Beading and DM Owen Moxon to defend as well as to tackle hard on the Premiership duo. 

- With no Aspatria game this weekend, Ulverston Rangers take advantage and climb above us into third in Division One. Hopefully we can regain that ground in our game-in-hand.

- My Spyatri reserves win 5-2 against Maryport.

Sunday 15th October 2023

-OK, the nation's long wait for its first ever win goes on, but this was much better. The first half was dominated by Scotland, who took an early lead through Man United's Scott McTominay when the midfielder found himself free to lash a half volley across James Trafford. Scotty Mac had a second disallowed shortly after for offside. Che Adams showed his predatory instincts to be at the right place, lurking at the near post to nod in a cross to make it two on the half hour mark. The tartan army really should have scored a hat full of goals, but Trafford was in inspired form with numerous good saves to keep us fighting. We were massively improved in the second half and started to apply some pressure. Our endeavour was rewarded in the 83rd minute when Ryan Bowman stabbed home from a corner for his first Cumbrian goal. We couldn't muster a second to earn a draw, but a 2-1 defeat to a team 178 places above us in the FIFA rankings is a pretty decent result in my book.

This latest round of games sees us officially out of the running for a place at Euro 2024, not that we were ever really in the running. But it's now official, we cannot qualify. The final round of games in group J next month takes us to Bern, to my favourite arena, Stadion Wankdorf before Türkiye come to Carlisle for the final game with their place at next summer's tournament still very much in the balance.

 

Next Week

A first division double header this week as we first head to Kendal County on Wednesday evening. County currently sit 10th in the table after losing 1-0 to Ulverston last weekend. We then head to 13th place, Greystoke to take on the Farmers at their Rec Ground.

Edited May 3 by Rick87

[Rick87]

Monday 16th October 2023

— Michael Williamson scores twice for Cumbria's Under-21's against North Macedonia, unfortunately it's not enough to win as the youngsters go down 5-4 at home.

 

 

Tuesday 17th October 2023

— Adam Walton has suffered a training ground thigh injury, he will be out for two weeks.

- Ashton Powell comes in at right-back to replace the injured Walton for tomorrow's game at Kendal County, my only change from the defeat to Kirkby Stephen last time out.

 

Wednesday 18th October 2023

- Back to winning ways after defeat last time out. Whilst we didn't have that much of the ball, we made it count much more than County, fashioning some great chances. It took until the 72nd minute for one of those chances to ripple the net. Sean Law arriving late in the area to slam the ball in from twelve yards, the midfielders third goal of the season.

 

Friday 20th October 2023

— Getting ready for the 25-mile trip to Greystoke tomorrow, my scout advises me the opposition lack pace and are poor at marking, so I've tweaked the roles in my usual 442; Adam Main will pay as a deep-lying forward, looking to drop off and fashion chances for himself and Jackie Millburn up front. My hope is that him being deeper and being told to hold the ball up will draw the defenders out of position and allow Millburn and the wingers either side of them to have more room to operate.

— The media are questioning whether midfielder Taylor Charters deserves to keep his place in the national team. He's only started once for Carlisle this season and looks to me as if he would benefit from a loan to get regular football.

 

Saturday 21st October 2023

 

— An absolutely stellar first half an hour as we tore the hosts to pieces. My tactical tweaks paid dividends as Adam Main scored the opener just three minutes in when he was at hand to cap a fine team move from close range. Jack Millburn doubled up eight minutes later with a 25 yard screamer, his third of the campaign. Sixteen-year-old full-back Ashton Powell, who you may remember, scored a last gasp equaliser in the Visit Cumbria cup game against Kirkby Lonsdale recently; was again on the scoresheet when his sixteenth minute drive went in off the post. Karl Brown, who was being forced to play at left-back rather than his more natural central defence role, due to Andre Tamplin being suspended, scored a stunning 25 yard strike.

Greystoke did improve after that and managed to half the deficit, but we had enough control to prevent any serious concerns of a comeback and hold on for an important three points as we reclaim third place in the First Division.

 

Sunday 22nd October 2023

— The reserves lose 1-0 to Burneside.

— Here is the weekly round up of Cumbrian players in action;

 

Next Week

— Another double header this week as we host both Endmoor and Gosforth at St Mungo's. Both of those sides are languishing in the bottom half of the table so I'm hoping we can take advantage of our game in hand and climb to the top of the First Division for the first time this season.

[Rick87]

Monday 23rd October 2023

— Liam Lightfoot is suspended for tomorrow's visit of Endmore KGR to St. Mungo's Park, in comes young Andy Hudson in his place. Andre Tamplin returns from his suspension at left-back, with Karl Brown dropping to the bench.

 

Tuesday 24th October 2023

 

— A thumping victory where we were at our creative best, both wingers getting in on the scoring a hat-trick for right-back Ashton Powell, the 16-year-old certainly isn't much if we just look at his attributes, however he keeps popping up with goals, five goals in as many goals for the youngster which is giving me a selection headache between him and Adam Walton whose form convinced me to give him his first Cumbria cap two weeks ago.

 

Wednesday 25th October 2023

—No particularly outstanding performances from the Cumbrian players in action tonight.

 

Friday 27th October 2023

— Karl Brown is back from the bench to cover the suspension of James Morrison in defence. Liam Lightfoot is also back in the line-up in place of Andy Hudson for the Gosforth game.

 

Saturday 28th October 2023

— A highly frustrating afternoon against struggling Gosforth. James Earl missing an early penalty set the tone for the game, we had chance after chance to establish a lead, but constantly failed to capitalise.  Gosforth took a lead against the run of play when some slack defending allowed Jared Brown the space to finish. We had many more chances to equalise, but again we couldn't avail ourselves of any opportunities. The red card to Liam Lightfoot really didn't help matters when he flew in two footed after only just returning from suspension.

That defeat sees us miss out on going top of the division;

 

Sunday 29th October 2023

— Four goals for Max Brown as the reserves beat our closest neighbours Wigton 6-2.

 

Next Week

— Just the one game next week which should help us recover from the packed recent fixture list, we entertain eighth place Millom at home.