New base perfect for Uppermill

FOOTBALL:

UPPERMILL’S opening FBT Manchester League First Division game at their new Churchill playing fields home ground saw manager Simon Tait’s team crush Irlam Steel 4-0.

After the Churchill base was officially opened by two local unsung heroes – Ian Gauld from Uppermill FC and Diggle’s George Bradbury – the hosts went on to bag all their goals in a superb first-half.

Talented 16-year-old midfielder Lewis Nicholls scored the first three, opening with a piledriver into the top corner. Joel Longmore made it 4-0 when he drilled home from 25 yards.

In the second half, Gareth Chew was sent off thanks to a second booking, while goalkeeper Aaron Rowbotham saved a late Irlam penalty.

In the Premier Division, Springhead were made to rue a number of missed chances as they conceded an equaliser at Walshaw Sports with only two minutes remaining.

Royton Town went down by the odd goal in five at AFC Monton, but Avro bagged a splendid 3-1 win at Rochdale Sacred Heart.