Match Reports Dashboard

Over 35s v River FC — Sat, 3 Oct 2026
Away · LCFA Cup

FT: Over 35s 5-2 River FC (Win)

GK: Darren Ilott
Team: Thomas King, Craig McDougall, Kevin McDougall, Carragher Michael, Adam Millington, Neil Storey, David Pennel, Karl Bergqvist, Jamie Hay, Eamon Price
Subs: Shaun Chart, Lee McNeill, Ste Meadows, Mike Stuart, Mike Young

Scorers: Bergqvist (2), Hay, Price (2)
Man of the Match: Eamon Price

Submitter: David Stafford

Great first half from the lads, 3-0 up on the half but could and probably should have been a few more with a couple of missed chances and River keeper saving a penalty. 
We started the second half slow, few little mistakes crept in causing the lads attitude to drop and at least half the team arguing with each other.
River got a couple of goals in the space of Qs minutes back but Seftons quality shone through adding another couple of goals to run away 5-2 winners. 
Good competitive cup game against a good group of lads. 
On to the next one

Over 45s v Ashton — Sat, 3 Oct 2026
Away · Friendly

FT: Over 45s 4-2 Ashton (Win)

GK: Gary Brookes
Team: Paul Jordan, Jay Shannon, Liam Highton, Gary Highton, Chris Quirk, Joe McNally, Alan Tierney, Andy Highton, Jay Curran, Paul Smith
Subs: Colin Auton, Geoff McKeating, Stephen Archibald, Hamilton Stuart

Scorers: Tierney, Curran (2), Archibald
Man of the Match: Jay Shannon

Submitter: Christopher Long
Manager: Gary McQueen

A slow start by Sefton against a much changed Ashton side (more like the their normal 45's team) Both teams struggling to get to grips with one of those pitches that looks great from a distance!! Thankfully it was Sefton who adjusted the quicker and a great long pass from Jay Shannon caught out the Ashton defence and found Jay Curran who collected the ball and then played in Alan who was tackled before he could get a shot away, the ball broke to Jay C who was then brought down before shooting, penalty! Quirky steps up and is unable to get a good connection with the ball in the penalty hole and not spot. Keeper goes right way to make the save.
As Ashton worked their way into the game a quick break down the left saw the Ashton winger cut in and fire goal bound but Brooksey was up to it with a solid save. 
This woke Sefton up, Liam brought the ball out of defence and clipped a ball into Smigga, who neat turn and flick found Andy he burst into the box and fired goal bound, his shot was well saved but Alan was on hand to slot home the rebound 1-0.
Smigga then came close after a great cross field pass from Jordo saw his shot go just wide.
At the mid point of the half Ashton managed to equalise after Sefton lost the ball in midfield, a through ball that just evaded Jay Shannon found the forward who slotted home for 1-1.
With tails up Ashton looked to take the lead and almost did on 35 mins when a long ball retrieved by the winger drilled a low cross across the goal to what should have been an empty net for the forward but for Brooksey rolling back the years to fling himself across the goal to save miraculously at the feet of the disbelieving forward.
And so with no further goal mouth action the first half ended 1-1.
An even start to the second was broken 18 minutes in when a ball into Smigga was neatly laid back to Archie who then found Jay C on the left. He out muscled the full back and neatly finished across the keeper into the far corner for 2-1.
2-1 quickly became 3-1 when Sefton hustled the Ashton defence into a mistake which was pounced onto by Jay C. He drove towards goal from the left and with Smigga screaming for the ball with an empty net in front of him Jay very bravely went alone and neatly finished at the near post for 3-1.
With Sefton now seemingly picking up all the second balls Smigga thought he had got onto the score sheet but his effort just went wide of the post.
But the fourth wasn't far away when again Sefton pressure saw a great tackle from Colin twenty yards out found Archie who then coolly drilled home for 4-1.
As Sefton continued to push for goals, a long ball over the top saw Stuey tussle with the Ashton forward, as they entered the box Stuey was stronger and as the forward hit the floor the ref had blown for a penalty! With the ball back in the penalty hole the forward stepped up and fired low to Brooksey right, Brooksey went the correct way and saved but was let down by static Sefton players (obviously admiring the save) allowed the Ashton forward in to fire home the rebound 4-2
With no further action Sefton take the spoils 4-2.
Shout out to mom Jay Shannon who showed why he is club captain arranging food for the home side in the pub afterwards 👀

Open Age v MSB Woolton — Sat, 3 Oct 2026
Away · League

FT: Open Age 3-2 MSB Woolton (Win)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Owen Campbell, Colin Flynn, Luke Pascoe, Charlie Roberts, Ben Bradley, Ben Hitchman, Regan Rhodes, Reece Cansfield, Lewis Roden, Hamza Zriouil
Subs: Sean Hughes, Ryan McCrae, Josh McDermott, Chris Murphy, Harry Dawson, Iliace El Hasnaouy

Scorers: Cansfield, McCrae, Roden
Man of the Match: Owen Campbell

Submitter: Tom Furnival
Managers: Antony Hathaway & Tom Furnival

MSB Woolton U23 2–3 Sefton

Sefton were on the road once again as they looked to secure their second league win of the season against a young and in-form MSB Woolton U23 side.

Sefton started the brighter of the two sides, enjoying good spells of possession and creating some early sights of goal. A few chances came and went without really testing the Woolton goalkeeper, but Sefton continued to control much of the early play.

Despite creating opportunities, Sefton were unable to find the breakthrough and were punished against the run of play as Woolton produced a well-taken finish to take the lead. Sefton went into the break behind despite having enjoyed the better of the first-half proceedings.

A few positional changes at half-time saw Sefton come out brightly once again, immediately putting Woolton under pressure and forcing their goalkeeper into two or three good saves.

The pressure eventually told as Sefton found a deserved equaliser. Ben Hitchman continued to cause problems for the Woolton right-back with some excellent footwork, before Sefton were awarded a free-kick. Reece Cansfield stepped up and produced a brilliantly taken finish, sending the ball over the wall and into the top-left corner.

Just two minutes later, Sefton were awarded a penalty. Lewis Roden’s good pressing saw him latch onto a loose ball before being brought down inside the area. Roden dusted himself down and stepped up to calmly slot home, marking his return to the scoresheet in his first game back.

Woolton responded well and soon found an equaliser of their own, with a ball over the top finding their forward, who finished well to level the game once again.

As the final stages approached, Sefton showed patience and continued to move the ball well, refusing to force the game. That patience was eventually rewarded.

A well-worked team move saw the ball moved from left to right before finding Ryan McCrae under pressure. McCrae kept his composure to finish well and send Sefton ahead with just minutes remaining.

Woolton pushed for another equaliser, but Sefton held firm to secure a hard-fought three points on the road.

FT: MSB Woolton U23 2–3 Sefton

A brilliant comeback and a huge three points as Sefton secured their second league win of the season, showing patience, character and quality to come from behind twice before finding the winner late on.

🏆 Man of the Match – Owen Campbell

Owen provided constant quality throughout the game, both defensively and on the ball, and was unfortunate to have to be withdrawn following a bad shoulder injury.

Everyone at Sefton wishes Owen a speedy recovery and we hope to see him back in a Sefton shirt very soon. 🔵⚫️

Over 45s v Orange Athletic — Sat, 26 Sept 2026
Away · Friendly

FT: Over 45s 3-1 Orange Athletic (Win)

GK: Gary Brookes
Team: Gary Highton, Liam Highton, Jay Shannon, Andy Highton, Paul Jordan, Paul McKendrick, Joe McNally, Jullien Scott, Dave Parkinson, Paul Smith
Subs: Jeff Bynon, John Martin, Alan Tierney

Scorers: Liam Highton, Parkinson, Smith
Man of the Match: Liam Highton

Submitter: Chris Long
Managers: Gary McQueen & Chris Long

Sefton started the brighter of the two teams and quickly established control of the game with a slightly different formation of 3-5-2. Although in full control it was a frustrating 1st half with the opposition goalkeeper putting in a man of the match performance, I'm not sure he dropped a cross and at one point using just the one hand! Parko did manage to get passed him but unfortunately his strike was cleared off the line. Smigga also thought he'd scored when he got on the end of a Parko cross only to see the keeper scurry across his goal to clear with his feet. Just before half time Jay Shannon stepped out of defence and was allowed to stride into opposition territory and from 25 yards unleashed a drive that went just wide.
Second half we change shape and went back a 433, which quickly paid dividends as Alan went close shooting just over. From the resulting goal kick Sefton quickly got the ball back, a nice interchange between Macca and Smigga saw the latter poke home for 1-0.
1-0 soon became 2-0 when Liam intercepted a through ball and having watched Jay in the first half thought he'd have a go himself, a nice 1-2 with Smigga, Liam was in the box and coolly firing home.
After not getting a nailed on penalty Smigga was on the hunt for a second and after wriggling free thought he had only to see his shot brush the outside of the post.
Sefton then undid all their hard work when they overplayed at the back and a slightly rash challenge saw the Orange fired hit the deck and a penalty was given 2-1
Not feeling sorry for themselves Sefton continued to control and attack, and when Jordo was dragged down 20 yards from goal he picked himself up and curled a lovely free kick around the wall only to see it hit the post with the keeper rooted to the spot.
With 5mins left a Sefton corner was not cleared properly and Parko finally got on the score sheet with a neat turn and curling finish to make it 3-1.
A good performance today made even better with our chairman making a unannounced visit to see us. Looking good Geoff!

Open Age v BRNESC — Sat, 26 Sept 2026
Away · League

FT: Open Age 0-3 BRNESC (Loss)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Joe Clifton, Harry Dawson, Colin Flynn, Charlie Roberts, Ben Bradley, Iliace El Hasnaouy, Regan Rhodes, Reece Cansfield, Ben Hitchman, Hamza Zriouil
Subs: Danny Hamlett, Sean Hughes, Chris Murphy, Luke Pascoe
Man of the Match: Hamza Zriouil

Submitter: Tom Furnival
Managers: Antony Hathaway & Tom Furnival

Over 45s v Ashton — Sat, 19 Sept 2026
Home · Friendly

FT: Over 45s 10-1 Ashton (Win)

GK: Gary Brookes
Team: Jay Shannon, Jullien Scott, Paul Jordan, Gary Highton, Joe McNally, Phil Stafford, Jamie Byron, Jay Curran, Dave Parkinson, Andy Highton
Subs: Jeff Bynon, Alan Tierney

Scorers: McNally, Curran (4), Parkinson (2), Highton A, Bynon (2)
Man of the Match: Jay Curran

Submitter: Chris Long
Manager: Gary McQueen

Firstly, a big thank you to Ashton for stepping in at the last minute. 
Sefton started the brighter of the two teams and were quickly into the hunt for goals, and we weren't disappointed when a ball into Parko by Andy H, beat the defender and squared a ball to Jay C. His initial shot hit the bar but collects the rebound to slot home 1-0.
The lead was quickly doubled when a ball down the line by Jordon into Jay C, his quick cross unfortunately beat the on rushing Sefton forwards but it fell to Andy H, whose eyes lit up as the ball sat nicely for him to absolutely rifles it into the top corner for 2-0.
2 nil was quickly 3, when a floated corner was flicked on by both an Ashton defender and jebry into the unmarked far post (jebry quickly telling us in the changies that he got the final touche.
Another corner for Sefton that managed to beat everyone except Jay Shannon just beyond the far post, he calmly & unselfishly squared the ball for jebry to get his second and Sefton's fourth 4-0.
Ashton did have their moments with a long ball over the top, but the forward put his shot wide.
From the resulting goal kick Sefton worked the ball up the pitch and Parko collected the ball and shifted it quickly past the defender whipped a cross into the on running Jay C who swept the ball home for 5-0.
Jay C completed his hat trick just before half time, picking the ball up on the edge of the box and curling a lovely strike into the far corner 6-0.
Sefton continued to press in the second half and quickly got their seventh, when a delicate clipped ball to Parko, who deftly touched it passed the defender and smashed in to the net for 7-0.
Of the many dubious offside decisions given, the Ashton forward found himself on the beneficial side for once, but then came up against Brooksey who pulled off a fabulous double save. Unfortunately he was not able to make it 3 and the forward passed to his team in a definite offside position to make it 7-1. Before Brooksey could calmly explain the situation to the referee, he explained that he was trying to keep the game interesting which Brooksey whole heartedly agreed with and happy to sacrifice his clean sheet for.
This slight setback was quickly forgotten (by most anyway) and our eighth goal soon followed. Gaz "Arteta" McQueen was taken out on the touch line by jebry as he tried to keep the ball in play which he did and worked his way down the line, he squared to Joe Mc who took a touch and fired home off the underside of the bar 8-1.
With our midfield loving playing on a lush green grass pitch, it was Staffo who again made the most of it with a great slide tackle to win the ball in the middle of the pitch. Quickly back to his feet he then threaded a through ball to Parko to neatly round the keeper and roll into an empty net 9-1
Jay C as he had down at the end of the first half, did the same at the end of the second half, after neat play to get the ball out wide to him he finished with aplomb to make it 10-1 right on the final whistle.
Again a big thanks to Ashton for travelling at short notice and despite the scoreline making a game of it right to the end 👏

Open Age v SPR 2 — Sat, 19 Sept 2026
Away · League

FT: Open Age 5-0 SPR 2 (Win)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Harry Dawson, Colin Flynn, Charlie Roberts, Owen Campbell, Ben Bradley, Regan Rhodes, Kiiam Higham-Moran, Ben Hitchman, Hamza Zriouil, Reece Cansfield
Subs: Iliace El Hasnaouy, Danny Hamlett, Luke Pascoe

Scorers: Roberts (2), Rhodes, Hitchman, Zriouil
Man of the Match: Charlie Roberts

Submitter: Tom Furnival
Managers: Antony Hathaway & Tom Furnival

Sefton OA vs SPR2

Sefton returned to league action with a dominant display against a strong SPR2 side, securing a big three points with an impressive 5-0 victory.

Sefton started brightly, breaking up play through an aggressive press and consistently winning the ball high up the pitch. After a couple of early chances, the strong start was rewarded with the opening goal.

A good spell of possession eventually saw the ball fall to Regan Rhodes, who unleashed a superb 20-yard strike that found the back of the SPR net to give Sefton the lead.

The hosts responded with some neat passages of play, but Sefton’s pressing continued to cause problems, with the visitors repeatedly capitalising on loose passes and forcing SPR into mistakes.

Sefton soon doubled their advantage through Ben Hitchman, who continued his fine run of form with another well-taken finish to make it 2-0.

The lead was increased further when another strong Sefton attacking wave resulted in a through ball finding Hamza Zriouil. The forward confidently rounded the SPR goalkeeper before finishing well to continue his impressive start to the season.

And when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it did.

A Sefton free kick from the right side of the box was delivered dangerously by Kiiam Higham-Moran, finding the head of Regan Rhodes. His effort forced the SPR goalkeeper into a superb save onto the crossbar, but Charlie Roberts was quickest to react, finishing the rebound to make it 4-0.

Half-time: SPR2 0-4 Sefton

With the praise deservedly high after an excellent first-half performance, the managers were keen to stress that the game was not over and that Sefton still had to manage the second half well.

As expected, SPR came out of the blocks sharp and hungry to regain some momentum, but Sefton held firm and managed the game well, limiting the hosts and maintaining control.

Sefton eventually added a fifth and final goal from a corner, with Charlie Roberts rising highest at the front post to hammer a header into the net and seal a dominant afternoon for the visitors.

A fantastic team performance, five goals, a clean sheet and a big three points to take back home.

SPR2 0-5 Sefton OA 🔵⚫️

Over 50s v Hartford — Sat, 12 Sept 2026
Away · FLC

FT: Over 50s 1-2 Hartford (Loss)

GK: Gary Brookes
Team: Ste King, Jay Shannon, Mike Shannon, Gary Highton, Joe McNally, Chris Quirk, Jullien Scott, Paul Jordan, Paul Smith, Jeff Bynon
Subs: Jay Curran, Paul McKendrick

Scorers: Jordan

Submitter: Chris Long
Manager: Paul McKendrick

A poor start for Sefton, struggled to get out of the blocks in the first half but it was Sefton that broke the deadlock with the first real chance of the game, managing to string a couple of passes together it was worked out to Jordo on the corner of the box, he turned his man and rifled a 20 yarder in to the top corner for 1-0. As they say you are always at your weakest when you have just scored and this was the case for Sefton as a long ball over the top wasn't dealt with allowing the forward to crash home the equaliser on the half volley 1-1. Hartford increased the pressure, and a missed tackle in midfield and the ball was worked out wide. The first cross was blocked but the winger was able to cross again with the forward bringing a great save from Brooksey, unfortunately for Sefton the Hartford forward was quicker to the rebound 2-1.
After a stern team talk from new gaffer Macca, Sefton's performance improved. Sefton created the better and clearer chance throughout the half with both Jay C and Jay Shannon hitting the frame of the goal.  A cross shot from Smigga was just missed by Jay C and went just the wrong side of the post, which summed up the second half Sefton. And so defeat on the road for Sefton, a well done to Hartford as they never stopped and created some headaches for Sefton. Great hospitality with hotdog and chips!

Open Age v Penketh Utd 1st — Sat, 12 Sept 2026
Away · County Cup

FT: Open Age 3-3 Penketh Utd 1st (Draw)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Harry Dawson, Colin Flynn, Kiiam Higham-Moran, Charlie Roberts, Ben Bradley, Regan Rhodes, Reece Cansfield, Iliace El Hasnaouy, Hamza Zriouil, Ben Hitchman
Subs: Charlie George, Owen Campbell, Josh Draper, Sean Hughes

Scorers: El Hasnaouy, Hitchman, Hughes
Man of the Match: Charlie Roberts

Submitter: Tom Furnival
Managers: Antony Hathaway & Tom Furnival

Penketh FC 3–3 Sefton OA

Sefton win 4–3 on penalties
Liverpool County FA Junior Cup – First Round

Sefton OA travelled to Warrington for the first round of the Liverpool County FA Junior Cup, facing Penketh FC for the first time.

Sefton started brightly, enjoying some good spells of possession and looking comfortable in the early stages. However, it was Penketh who took the lead.

The response was immediate, with Sefton finding an equaliser just five minutes later. Ben Hitchman produced a nicely taken finish to bring the game level.

Penketh regained the advantage from a corner, finding a free man at the back post who headed home. Sefton once again showed their character to respond, with a well-worked move eventually finished by Iliace El Hasnaouy to make it 2–2.

Penketh continued to play some neat football and managed to regain the lead before half-time, with a deflected effort giving them a 3–2 advantage at the break.

Sefton came out strongly after the interval, with a change in shape and fresh legs helping the side maintain control for large periods of the second half.

The pressure eventually told with around 10 minutes remaining. A brilliant through ball sent Sean Hughes through on goal, and he kept his composure to finish beyond the Penketh goalkeeper and level the scores once again.

Both sides pushed for a winner late on, with pressure at either end, but neither could find the decisive goal and the tie headed to penalties.

Goalkeeper Tom Mason immediately put Sefton in the driving seat, making two saves from the first three Penketh penalties.

Sefton then found themselves under pressure in the shootout after missing their next two efforts. With the tie hanging in the balance, Josh Draper stepped up to take Sefton’s fifth penalty. Under huge pressure, Josh showed great composure to find the net and keep Sefton alive in the shootout, taking the game into sudden death.

After another Penketh miss, it was left to Charlie George to step up and take responsibility.

He calmly slotted his penalty home to seal a hard-fought victory for Sefton and send us into the next round.

A proper cup tie, plenty of character shown and a well-earned win against good quality opposition.

Over 35s v Ellesmere Port Red Lions FC Vets — Sat, 5 Sept 2026
Away · League

FT: Over 35s 7-1 Ellesmere Port Red Lions FC Vets (Win)

GK: Mike Barlow-Jump
Team: Craig McDougall, Kevin McDougall, Thomas King, Dave Sellick, Tony James, Neil Storey, Adam Millington, Jamie Hay, Carl Brennand, Eamon Price
Sub: Ste Meadows

Scorers: McDougall K, Millington, Hay (3), Price (2)
Man of the Match: Eamon Price

Booked: Craig McDougall, Adam Millington

Submitter: Thomas King
Manager: Thomas King

Numbers extremely low this week and touch and go whether we would get 11. 

Stand in Gaffa was in contact with David to make sure we got enough and put a strong team against new opposition. 

Game started fairly scrappy and going 1-0 up with a cracking header from big Kev relaxed us and we took control of the game. 

An error from sefton gifted Ellesmere an equaliser just before half time. Frustrating and undeserved but Sefton needed to improve. 

After a rousing half time team talk from stand in Gaffa Thomas King the boys went out 2nd half and kicked on another level. Although the game was still tight it soon changed just after the hour mark and Sefton ran a mock. 

Was it the gaffa subbing himself and changing the personal 
Was it Ellesmere completely imploding and getting 2 players sin binned
Or was it just the quality on shown from Sefton and tired legs from the opposition ended in a very comfortable 7-1 victory. 

All round fantastic effort from the 12 lads involved ... Great win 💙

Over 45s v West Kirby — Sat, 5 Sept 2026
Away · Friendly

FT: Over 45s 7-4 West Kirby (Win)

GK: Gary Brookes
Team: Gary Highton, Paul Jordan, Jay Shannon, Andy Walters, Jay Curran, Andy Highton, Joe McNally, Chris Quirk, Paul Smith, Alan Tierney
Subs: Jamie Byron, Brian Gilligan, John Martin, Fran Armstrong

Scorers: Curran, Highton A, McNally, Smith (4)
Man of the Match: Paul Smith

Submitter: Chris Long
Manager: Gary McQueen

An fast start sor Sefton in the first game of season  with Alan Tierney chasing down defender who played ball across the box for the grateful Smigga to adjust his body to gladly head home 1-0. A quick break down the left by Jay Curran should have seen Sefton double their lead but as he rolled it past the keeper it's hit the inside of the post/wheel and come straight out no goal given. As Sefton looked for the second goal a great cross by Jordon straight onto Smigga head. No doubt about this one 2-0. A minute later Sefton looking for the kill and only a great save by the keeper denied Joe Mc. Then against the run of play a quick break by West Kirby resulted in a great save by Brooksey but he was unable to stop the rebound 2-1. Not to be faxed by this Sefton kept attacking and déjà Vu Jordon cross Smigga header for his hatrick 3-1. With confidence flowing throughout the Sefton team everyone wanted to get in on the goals, A jinking run by Alan Tierney was finished off by Joe Mc for 4-1. Not to be out done on the jinking run stakes, Andy Highton then went on on from half way line and smashed in from 10 yards to make it 5-1. But right on half time a clearance was picked up  20 yards out by West Kirby midfielder who sweetly struck it past Brooksey for a first half score of 5-2. Sefton were a little slow out of the blocks for the second half with Brooksey making some valuable saves to keep the 3 goal lead. Then a quick break by Quirky who found Jay C who then laid on Smigga to smash home for 6-2 (and his 4th). Some passive defending allowed West Kirby to get another back with a good strike from edge of box 6-3. With a couple of changes made, it was the experience of Gigsy out on the right, who held the ball up long enough for John Martin to join him and neat ball inside to him who then found Jay C inside the box his smart turn and shot found the far corner for 7-3. The final goal of the afternoon was scored by West Kirby, some nice interchange of passes found the forward on his own and able to slot past Brooksey for a final score of 7-4. A really good performance for our first game. Some really good goals scored and to be fair to West Kirby they scored a couple of decent goals too! Mom from the poll was a tie with boths ends of the pitch getting a mention. The 2 candidates were Smigga and Andy Walters ( who will hopefully be up a lot more for us)

Open Age v Mexoc — Sat, 5 Sept 2026
Away · League

FT: Open Age 3-4 Mexoc (Loss)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Owen Campbell, Harry Dawson, Danny Draper, Kiiam Higham-Moran, Ben Bradley, Regan Rhodes, Reece Cansfield, Ben Hitchman, Sean Hughes, Joe Clifton
Subs: Luke Pascoe, Jay Penny, Iliace El Hasnaouy, Charlie George, Josh McDermott, Chris Murphy

Scorers: Hitchman, Hughes, El Hasnaouy
Man of the Match: Reece Cansfield

Submitter: Tom Furnival
Managers: Antony Hathaway & Tom Furnival

Over 45s v St Ally's — Sat, 29 Aug 2026
Away · Friendly

FT: Over 45s 0-6 St Ally's (Loss)

Team: Liam Highton, Kevin McDougall, Jay Shannon, Mike Shannon, Paul Craig, Jamie Byron, Andy Highton, Joe McNally, Neil Storey, Paul Jordan, Craig McDougall
Subs: Gary Highton, Alan Tierney
Man of the Match: Jay Shannon

Submitter: Gary McQueen
Manager: Gary McQueen

We scraped a mixed team together, to get some match fitness before the season starts next week. St ally's were quick, younger and played some rapid football 🤦🏻‍♂️ 
We were under the cosh from the off, but everyone worked for each other and battled from start to finish. Everyone defended heroically, with stand in cat Jay Shannon making numerous saves and edging motm! Special mention to Craig Mc who worked tirelessly as a lone forward for much of the game. We had good spells of holding the ball and playing it around, with a great chance by sub Alan Tierney going agonisingly the wrong side of the post near the end. 
A good run that hopefully helps us next week, when we play someone our own age!!!

Open Age v AFC Swan — Sat, 22 Aug 2026
Home · Friendly

FT: Open Age 3-4 AFC Swan (Loss)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Shane Craig, Colin Flynn, Owen Campbell, Nimai Naser, Reece Cansfield, Kiiam Higham-Moran, Regan Rhodes, Charlie George, Ben Hitchman, Sean Hughes
Subs: Harry Dawson, Ryan McCrae, Iliace El Hasnaouy, Hamza Zriouil

Scorers: Hitchman (2), Rhodes
Man of the Match: Owen Campbell

Submitter: Tom Furnival
Managers: Antony Hathaway & Tom Furnival

Sefton OA entered the penultimate game of pre-season with an earlier kick-off against AFC Swan, with managers Ant Hathaway and Tom Furnival emphasising the importance of making a strong start.

The message was clear, and Sefton responded well, putting the visitors under pressure from the opening stages. That early pressure was rewarded when Regan Rhodes calmly found the top-left corner with a composed finish to give Sefton the lead.

AFC Swan responded and levelled the contest from the penalty spot. Goalkeeper Tom Mason was unfortunate not to keep the effort out, despite getting a hand to the penalty.

Sefton reacted instantly, however, with some excellent work down the left-hand side. Neat combination play created the opportunity for Ben Hitchman to tap home and continue his fine pre-season form in front of goal.

Sefton went into the break 2-1 ahead, with changes made at half-time as both managers continued to manage minutes during pre-season.

AFC Swan came out strongly after the restart and restored parity to make it 2-2, but Sefton once again responded positively. Rhodes delivered an excellent free-kick cross into a dangerous area, allowing Hitchman to finish smartly and put Sefton back in front.

The visitors refused to go away and levelled the game for a third time after winning possession from a loose ball before finishing well.

AFC Swan then completed the comeback shortly afterwards, with a spell of pressure eventually resulting in a well-worked goal from a cross to make it 4-3.

Despite the defeat, there were plenty of positives for Sefton to take from the afternoon. It was a much-improved performance from last week’s outing, with good attacking moments and plenty of encouraging signs as the squad continues to gel and the new players build their understanding with one another.

With just one pre-season fixture remaining, Sefton will look to take those positives into the final stages of preparation for the new season.

Over 45s v Maghull FC Vets — Fri, 21 Aug 2026
Away · Friendly

FT: Over 45s 1-3 Maghull FC Vets (Loss)

GK: Gary Brookes
Team: Thomas King, Chris Long, Billy McCoy, Mike Shannon, Ste Byrne, Joe McNally, Jamie Byron, John Martin, Paul Jordan, Steven McNulty
Subs: Stephen Archibald, Andy Highton, Robbie Halpin, Liam Highton, Craig McDougall, Paul Moody

Scorers: Archibald
Man of the Match: Gary Brookes

Submitter: Gary McQueen
Manager: Gary McQueen

Our first game on hard and bobbly pitch against a lively Maghull team with 3 games under their belt. We were chasing to start with but then got into the game, when a hopeful punt took a horrible bounce past the keeper 1-0. 
This was followed by a left foot curler to the top corner 2-0. Three subs went on for injuries, and Archy slotted with his first touch following good possession from defence and through the midfield. HT 2-1, and three more subs on.
A scrambled goal gave them a 3-1 lead. 
We continued playing some nice football, good possession and pressure but were unable to add to our goal tally, and definitely finished the stronger.
It was a good run out for a mixed squad with some new additions. The midfield worked tirelessly but mom goes to Gary Brookes who made some top saves that must've run into double figures!

Over 35s v Chester Nomads FC Vets — Sat, 15 Aug 2026
Home · League

FT: Over 35s 2-3 Chester Nomads FC Vets (Loss)

GK: Gary Brookes
Team: Mike Stuart, Paul McKendrick, Kevin McDougall, Mike Young, Adam Millington, Jamie Hay, Carl Brennand, Neil Storey, David Stafford, Eamon Price
Subs: Jay Shannon, Joe McNally, Chris Long

Scorers: Stafford D, McNally

Submitter: Ged Kinsella
Manager: David Stafford

Not the best day at the office - shambles at Chesterfield, causing a late move to Drummond Rd, to a hard, bare, pitch, with poor markings etc., setting the tone for the day, the focus for the management team being getting the game on for the travelling lads from Chester, rather than a comfortable pre-match team focus.
We won't dwell on the negative elements of the game, resulting in the ref needing to ask players from both sides to cool down - but more the effort from all involved to twice try to come from behind, firstly David Stafford scoring a brilliant 25 yard free kick just before the break to go in even 1-1 - Chester had scored first by latching on to a misplaced cross ball in defence and the forward finished well.  
A second half, that we hope will leave memory as soon as possible, saw us chasing a 3-1 deficit, Chester scoring two goals in the first twenty mins, a volley from distance that gave Gary no chance and one less unavoidable, a header from a free kick. David Stafford's men didn't give up and continued in a positive formation, David releasing Joe McNally to run through and pull one back, but despite the incredible effort it just wasn't enough, the game finished 2-3 and not the start to the season that we all hoped for.
Thanks to Tom and his Chester team for their understanding re the pitch and post match.

Open Age v River FC — Sat, 15 Aug 2026
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FT: Open Age 1-6 River FC (Loss)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Ben Bradley, Joe Clifton, Danny Draper, Chris Murphy, Reece Cansfield, Gary Lambert, Regan Rhodes, Sean Hughes, Kiiam Higham-Moran, Ben Hitchman
Subs: Carl Morgan, Aaron Cummins, Charlie George

Scorers: Lambert

Submitter: Tom Furnival
Managers: Tom Furnival & Antony Hathaway

Sefton’s third pre-season friendly ended in a difficult afternoon against River, who stepped in at late notice following a last-minute cancellation.

Sefton started slowly and were punished early on as River broke quickly on the counter-attack to take the lead. However, Sefton gradually grew into the game, beginning to move the ball well and create opportunities.

The pressure eventually told as midfielder Gary Lambert produced a calm and composed finish to bring Sefton level. A superb pass from left-back Joe Clifton landed perfectly into Lambert’s path, presenting the midfielder with the ideal opportunity, which he calmly dispatched.

Sefton then enjoyed a spell of pressure, creating several chances and looking unlucky not to take the lead. Despite that, River proved clinical at the other end, regaining their advantage before adding another to head into half-time 3-1 ahead.

With plenty of pre-season minutes to manage across the squad, changes were made at the break, giving Sefton the opportunity to regroup and go again.

Sefton started the second half much better and, with a change in formation, created numerous chances and looked far more threatening. Unfortunately, the finishing touch was missing, with opportunities going begging.

River, meanwhile, were ruthless in front of goal. They made the most of their chances and added another three goals to complete the scoring and bring an off day for Sefton to a disappointing conclusion.

It’s certainly a game Sefton won’t want to dwell on, but there are plenty of lessons to take from it as preparations continue.

With the new season now just three weeks away, there’s still work to be done. Sefton go again next week as pre-season continues to build towards the campaign ahead. 🔵⚫️

Over 35s v Jawbone — Sat, 8 Aug 2026
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FT: Over 35s 5-0 Jawbone (Win)

GK: Chris Long
Team: Carl Brennand, Craig McDougall, Kevin McDougall, Mike Stuart, Tony James, Adam Millington, Neil Storey, Mike Young, Karl Bergqvist, Jamie Hay
Subs: Shaun Chart, Ste Meadows, David Stafford

Scorers: Bergqvist (2), Hay, Millington (2)
Man of the Match: Karl Bergqvist

Submitter: Staffo
Manager: David Stafford

Great first preseason performance, the lads dominated from start to finish. 2 great strikes from outside the box by Millo and Berger with Jamie’s goal being the best of the lot, 12-13 pass build up with Meds squaring it for Jamie to slot. Defence solid, great to start with a clean sheet. 
MoM Berger just pips Millo and Mike Stuart

Open Age v Collegiate — Sat, 8 Aug 2026
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FT: Open Age 4-2 Collegiate (Win)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Shane Craig, Danny Draper, Josh Draper, Kiiam Higham-Moran, Ben Bradley, Sean Hughes, Gary Lambert, Regan Rhodes, Reece Cansfield, Ben Hitchman
Subs: Ryan McCrae, John McGunigle, Luke Pascoe, Jay Penny, Joel Sherwood

Scorers: Cansfield (2), Hitchman, Penny
Man of the Match: Reece Cansfield

Submitter: Tom Furnival
Manager: Tom Furnival

Sefton OA recorded a 4-2 victory over Collegiate in their second pre-season fixture, in an entertaining afternoon of football.

Sefton made the brighter start and took the lead through Reece Cansfield, who produced a superb strike after a sustained spell of pressure. Cansfield then doubled the advantage with his second of the afternoon.

Collegiate responded before the break, scoring twice to bring the game level at 2-2, with both sides making changes at half-time as they looked to build fitness and give valuable minutes to the squad.

The second half continued at a good tempo, with Collegiate threatening before the water break. Sefton then came out strongly from the restart and regained the lead through Ben Hitchman, who showed great composure to finish well.

Sefton added a fourth in impressive fashion, with a flowing team move involving a series of passes through the Collegiate defence. Jay Penny finished the move calmly, marking his debut with a well-taken goal.

Sefton OA 4-2 Collegiate

A positive second pre-season outing, with valuable minutes gained and plenty of encouraging signs ahead of the new season.

Open Age v Kingsford Larkin — Sat, 1 Aug 2026
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FT: Open Age 3-3 Kingsford Larkin (Draw)

GK: Thomas Mason
Team: Gary Lambert, Harry Dawson, Shane Craig, Kiiam Higham-Moran, Regan Rhodes, Ben Bradley, Reece Cansfield, Sean Hughes, Josh Draper, Ben Hitchman
Subs: John McGunigle, Jack Harrison, Joel Sherwood

Scorers: Craig, Hitchman (2)
Man of the Match: Reece Cansfield

Submitter: Antony Hathaway