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Champions New Mills ended their season in fitting style by beating Blackpool Mechanics in an entertaining game at Church Lane on Saturday.

With the League trophy being presented after the game, the fans turned out in great number again and created a carnival atmosphere within the ground and the players quickly entered into the spirit as they took the lead within five minutes. Carlos Meakin played the ball through to Joe Shaw who was felled by a Blackpool defender in the box and although a penalty and red card would probably have ensued, Shaw somehow hooked the ball over the advancing Jamie Cook to score a fine goal.

Within two minutes, Blackpool were back in the game when centre half Danny Jackson felled an attacker in the box and this time a spot kick was awarded. Dutchman Dax Hoogerwerf showed no nerves whatsoever by audaciously chipping the ball over Stuart Williams to equalise.

Despite this setback, The Millers were playing some quality football and deservedly re-took the lead after twenty minutes. A left wing corner was flicked on by Kenny Mayers and Melford Knight out-jumped Cook at the back post to head home via the underside of the crossbar.

Unfortunately the whole afternoon was overshadowed by a serious injury to New Mills full back Matty Taylor. After he had made a trademark tackle in the Millers penalty area, he seemed to fall awkwardly and it was immediately clear that he was in lot of distress. After a long hold up in play, Matty was carried off and he later underwent an operation at Stepping Hill Hospital to pin a broken ankle.

Upon resumption of play, substitute Lee Bromley quickly got involved in the game when a flowing move down the right saw him knock an inch perfect cross to Carlos Meakin, whose powerful header hit the inside of the post and rebounded straight into the watching keeper’s hands.

The Millers were not too be denied for long however and scored two goals in two minutes just before half time. Firstly Adam Morning scored with a thunderous 25 yard left foot strike and then Meakin finally got on the scoresheet as he bagged his 34th of another very productive season.

Blackpool had been constantly falling out amongst themselves in the first half but after the interval, once they began to concentrate on their game, they caused The Millers defence a number of problems. Ten minutes into the second half, they reduced the deficit when midfielder Paul Eddlestone scored a wonderful goal when he chipped the ball from 40+ yards over stranded Millers keeper Stuart Williams. Blackpool nearly scored again shortly after when substitute Lyndon Hodgkiss sent a left foot shot inches past the upright.

New Mills regained their composure and scored the final goal of the afternoon when substitute Matt Zajac’s shot hit the foot of the post and rebounded into the net off the back of the unfortunate goalkeeper.

After the game, North West Counties League Chairman Dave Tomlinson and Development Officer Geoff Wilkinson were present to hand over April’s Manager of The Month to Tony Hancock and most importantly the Division Two trophy to skipper Micky Ryan and medals to all of the players.

Team – Williams, Taylor ( Bromley ), Lomax, Ryan, Jackson, Shaw ( Kharas ), Meakin, Hooper, Mayers, Knight ( Zajac ), Morning. Unused subs – George, S Dignan

THE MILLERS ARE GOING UP .......

New Mills secured promotion to North West Counties Division 1 on Wednesday night following a deserved victory at Padiham.

The Millers made a very bright and positive start to the game with the returning Carlos Meakin having a big influence on proceedings. In a hectic

opening, the visitors had no less than four chances to take the lead when Meakin, Lee Bromley, Joe Shaw and Bromley again were denied in quick succession by a mixture of desperate goal line clearances, good goalkeeping and lucky deflections. Almost immediately, Padiham were penalised by the referee when their goalkeeper was deemed to have picked up a deliberate back pass and The Millers were awarded an indirect free kick twelve yards out but this was blocked by the defensive wall.

New Mills were not to be denied for long though and their early superiority was rewarded when they opened the scoring in the 15th minute when following a flowing move down the right featuring Matty Taylor, the impressive Lee Bromley and Joe Shaw, the ball ended up at the magic feet of leading scorer Carlos Meakin on the edge of the box and he duly crashed the ball into the bottom corner for his 28th goal of the season.

Despite being on the defensive for much of the first twenty minutes, Padiham equalised when Chris Ridehalgh took advantage of an uncharacteristic mistake by skipper Micky Ryan by dispossessing him in the penalty area and scoring past Stuart Williams.

This setback seemed to spur The Millers back into action and they restored their advantage eight minutes before half time when winger Adam Morning cut in from the left and his subsequent shot should probably have been saved by Padiham's keeper but he let the ball squirm under his body, thus ensuring that the visitors lead 2-1 at the interval.

New Mills were forced into an early second half substitution when Lee Bromley was forced off with a dead leg and his departure seemed to disrupt things for a while as the home side pressed for another equaliser but thankfully The Millers defence held firm and their efforts were rewarded when the game was effectively killed off fifteen minutes from time. A quick counter attack saw the ball passed to substitute Steve Jackson and he delivered a lovely ball right onto the head of striker Kenny Mayers who majestically rose to head the ball past the keeper.

The Millers comfortably saw out the remainder of the game and the final whistle was greeted by both supporters and players alike as a season's hard work was successfully rewarded but the celebrations have been put on hold for a couple of weeks as The Millers still need seven points from the remaining three home games of the season to mathematically guarantee the title.

Team - Williams, Taylor, Lomax, Ryan, D Jackson, Hooper ( Zajac ), Bromley ( S Jackson ), Shaw, Mayers, Meakin, Morning ( D Dignan ).Unused subs - George, S Dignan

New Mills grabbed victory from the jaws of defeat with two late goals in a remarkable game in Cumbria on Saturday meaning that they require one point to secure promotion to Division 1.

Despite most other games in the Division being postponed due to the recent adverse weather, the two teams kicked off in brilliant sunshine and the hosts started the game well and were virtually unrecognisable from the team that lost 9-0 at Church Lane only three weeks ago.

New Mills goalkeeper Stuart Williams featured in the first controversial action of the afternoon when he picked the ball up outside his area and whilst not denying a goal scoring opportunity, he was relieved to see the referee only give him a yellow card when a red could easily have been shown.

Despite playing uphill and into the wind, The Millers slowly started to get into the game and a flowing move between Micky Ryan and Adam Morning left Lee Bromley with a chance at the back post, albeit from an acute angle, which he fired straight at the keeper.

Holker took the lead in the 16th minute when a huge kick from goalie Sam Stephens was misjudged by centre half Danny Jackson and this left Joe Murphy clean through on goal and he confidently scored past Stuart Williams.

The Millers were level ten minutes later when Danny Hooper swung in a free kick from the right and Micky Ryan rose highest to head the ball past Stephens who went down in slow motion and several instalments and duly failed to prevent the ball from nestling in the corner of the net.

The home side continued to test New Mills’s defence and they created a number of chances but a combination of poor finishing and last ditch clearances ensured that the scores remained level until the stroke on half time when Micky Lomax brought down an attacker in the box and the referee showed possible leniency by again only cautioning the defender. Chris Squirrel sent Stuart Williams the wrong way from the spot kick to ensure that Holker lead at the interval.

The Millers started the second half with the slope and wind in their favour and nearly levelled proceedings twice in the opening minutes but Melford Knight’s shot was well saved and then Lee Bromley shot over when well positioned.

Holker were always dangerous on the break and the longer the half went on and despite making two attacking substitutions, The Millers were beginning to get frustrated and it appeared as though they would be making the long trip home pointless.

Then came the dramatic late finale. The three officials started to make some bizarre decisions mainly against the home side and this lead to bookings galore for dissent as virtually every decision was verbally challenged.

With the ninety minutes nearly up, The Millers grabbed an equaliser when substitute Joe Shaw broke through the Holker defence and squeezed the ball just inside the post and there's no doubt that the visitors would have taken a point from a game in which they were far from their best.

Following a number of stoppages in which both physios were kept busy, the referee indicated there would be in the region of seven minutes of added time and in the fourth of these, The Millers were dubiously awarded a free kick right on the edge of the box and Adam Morning’s delivery was glanced in by substitute Matt Zajac which lead to wild celebrations and the goalscorer was booked for his over-exuberance.

Holker, who at this point had already had one of their coaching team dismissed from the dug out, argued furiously with the referee over the awarding of the free kick which lead to the goal and goalkeeper Stephens was sent off for dissent and he was quickly followed by centre half Glen Capstick, who then appeared to knock the red card from the official’s hand as he left the pitch.

These dismissals meant further additional time was played and in total the second half lasted a staggering 56 minutes but The Millers hung on to complete a remarkable recovery and to move to within one point of promotion.

Team – Williams, Taylor, Lomax, Ryan, D Jackson ( S Jackson ), Hooper ( Shaw ), Bromley (Zajac), Knight, Kharas, Mayers, Morning.Unused subs – George, Ward

The Millers travel to Padiham on Wednesday night where a large travelling contingent is expected to hopefully see the team secure promotion and then next Saturday, they entertain Darwen, kick off 3pm.

New Mills's game at Padiham on Saturday was abandoned just after half time after incessant heavy rain left the pitch unplayable.
Although rain was falling as the players took to the field at 3pm, the game started with The Arbories in reasonable condition and following their recent good run of form, The Millers started very strongly with Garry Kharas shooting narrowly wide in the third minute.
The Millers were controlling the game despite the increasing rainfall and midfielders Joe Shaw and Carlos Meakin had good opportunities to break the deadlock but were denied on both occasions by good Padiham defending.
The Millers took the lead on the half hour when following a free kick on the left hand side, the ball fell to skipper Micky Ryan in the six yard box and he duly drove the ball into the bottom corner.
The visitors defied the conditions to double their lead eight minutes later with a goal which would have graced any occasion. Full back Matty Taylor made a powerful run down the right and his inch perfect cross was met by Garry Kharas whose unstoppable header left the Padiham keeper helpless.
The home side brought themselves back into the game on the stroke of half time when a wonderful forty yard strike sailed over Miller's keeper Stuart Williams into the top corner.
It was a surprise to see the players return after the interval and The Millers were forced to make a substitution with left winger Adam Morning breaking his nose after an accidental collision with team mate Kharas.
It soon became apparent that the conditions were worsening with the ball beginning to stop in the ever increasing amount of standing water and it came as no surprise when the referee abandoned the game.
Whilst disappointed not to complete the game, The Millers will take heart from their performance in the atrocious conditions and with none of their promotion rivals completing their games either, their lead at the top of League Division 2 remains at a very healthy sixteen points.
Team - Williams, Taylor, Lomax, Ryan, D Jackson, Shaw, Meakin, Knight, Mayers, Kharas, Morning ( S Jackson).Unused subs - George, Hooper, Zajac, Bromley

Despite losing their last two away matches, leaders New Mills travelled to FA Vase semi finalists Kirkham and Wesham on Saturday for the top of the table clash in confident mood and this showed in a truly magnificent team display.

At a blustery Kellamergh Park, The Millers, who gave a debut to striker Adam Morning who had signed during the week from Unibond side Mossley FC, took a stranglehold of the game right from the opening whistle and very rarely allowed Kirkham into the game. The tone was set as early as the third minute when midfielder Carlos Meakin's powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area was only denied by the inside of the right hand post.

Kirkham's chances were few and far between but their best chance of the game came in the 20th minute, when this time the upright came to the visitors rescue, when striker Michael Horsfall hit the post when it seemed easier to score.

The deadlock was broken in the 26th minute when The Millers took a deserved lead. Following good link up play with Adam Mather, Carlos Meakin hammered the ball into the corner of Kirkham's net, much to the delight of the travelling army of fans, for his 23rd goal of a very productive season.

The game's major turning point came in the 35th minute when Kirkham's skipper Dougie Shaw failed to control the ball, allowing striker Kenny Mayers a clean run through on goal. Shaw pulled down Mayers on the edge of the penalty area and resultant red card was inevitable with him being the last defender.

New Mills continued to attack after the interval and doubled their lead in the 53rd minute when midfielder Melford Knight broke through and after his initial effort had been saved by Kirkham's Pete Summerfield, the rebound fell nicely to Knight who headed into an empty net.

Three minutes later, Knight effectively sealed the game with his second goal of the afternoon when again he made a forceful run from midfield and this time fired the ball confidently into the corner of the net past the shell shocked keeper.

The third goal in an action packed seven minutes and also The Millers 100th of the season in all competitions, arrived on the hour when Joe Shaw took a free kick from the left hand side and curled the ball into the net with the aid of a slight deflection.

Adam Mather nearly added a fifth when he fired a thirty yard thunderbolt inches past the post, substitute Matt Zajac had a good shot well saved by Summerfield and Knight missed a chance to complete his hat trick when he missed his kick with the goal gaping, his only mistake of the afternoon.

Kirkham's Mike Clark and Sean Patterson both missed late chances for Kirkham but a goal at that stage would have been harsh on The Millers defensive unit who were again marshalled superbly by skipper Mike Ryan and fellow centre half Danny Jackson.

New Mills therefore completed the league double over Kirkham this season and at the same time inflicted only their seventh defeat in all competitions in the last four seasons. Whilst difficult to single out a single player in a wonderful team performance, Melford Knight's two goals and overall contribution probably just shaded the man of the match.

The Millers now lead the league by thirteen points and have a very healthy goal difference and although teams below them have several games in hand, their continuing participation in various Cup competitions means they each face a congested final seven weeks of the season.

Team - Williams, Bromley, Lomax, Ryan, Jackson, Shaw, Meakin, Knight ( S Dignan ), Mayers ( Zajac ), Morning ( Ward ), Mather. Unused subs - George, Hooper

The Millers have two games over the Easter weekend. Holker Old Boys are the visitors to Church Lane on Saturday afternoon, 3pm kick off and then on Easter Monday, they travel to Leek CSOB, 3pm kick off. For those supporters travelling to Leek, please note that Leek CSOB share a ground with Leek Town

New Mills suffered only their second league defeat of the season at a cold and windswept Brocstedes Park, Ashton in Makerfield on Tuesday night.
The Millers with the wind in their favour started very brightly and forced a succession of early corners mainly through the attacking of the recalled Lee Bromley. The home goalkeeper looked very uncertain in dealing with the set pieces but the visitors couldn't quite make the breakthrough.
Shortly after, left back Shaun Roscoe had the best effort of the first half when he unleashed a stunning 30 yard shot which had the keeper beaten but unfortunately the ball smacked against the crossbar and rebounded to safety.
The remainder of the first half was a scrappy affair with both teams struggling with the conditions but Ashton created their best chance of the first half moments before the interval but Stuart Williams made a decent save and ensured that the first half remained goalless.
Ashton immediately seized the control of the game after the break as they used the conditions to their advantage. The first goal was always going to be crucial in deciding the outcome of the game and Ashton broke the deadlock in the 70th minute when chunky substitute Paul McVeigh scored with a firm header with literally his first touch of the game.
Despite the introduction of three attacking substitutes, The Millers found it difficult to break down the resolute Ashton defence. Captain Micky Ryan was once again the driving force for the visitors in another commanding performance at centre half and it was he who nearly levelled the scoreline with a wonderful, jinking run past several defenders but luck deserted him when with the keeper beaten once again, the ball hit the crossbar and agonisingly looped over the crossbar.
Ryan was at the centre of a late flashpoint in the game when following mazy run, he was crudely taken out by a two footed tackle. The referee thought otherwise and bizarrely played on.
The final whistle blew shortly after and whilst New Mills certainly didn't deserve to win the game following an untypical lacklustre performance, they probably deserved a share of the spoils after another good defensive display in adverse conditions.

Team - Williams, Lomax ( Knight ), Roscoe, Ryan, Jackson, Hooper ( Shaw ), Meakin, Bromley, Kharas, Bingham ( Mayers ), Shaughnessy
Unused subs - George, S Dignan

New Mills recorded a tenth successive away League victory after a tense but ultimately rewarding trip to Jepson Way, Blackpool on Saturday.
The game's kick off was brought forward following vandalism to the ground's floodlights. New Mills took to the field with two full debutants in their side, left back Shaun Roscoe who signed from FC United of Manchester and left winger Ryan Shaughnessy who was deservedly promoted to the starting eleven following his cameo substitute appearance at Ashton Town the previous weekend.
The game was dominated from start to finish by a powerful wind which swirled around the ground and this made passing football virtually impossible for both sides.
With the conditions dictating the game's flow , the first goal was always going to be crucial and The Millers thankfully made the important breakthrough in the 23rd minute. Whilst the goal won't win any end of season awards, it may well turn out to be one of the most important scored. Goalkeeper Stuart Williams launched a goal kick onto the head of Garry Kharas whose flick landed at the feet of his strike partner Anthony Bingham who clinically beat the Blackpool keeper from just inside the box and in front of the jubilant travelling fans.
The Millers defence, superbly marshalled by captain Micky Ryan and Danny Jackson, comfortably dealt with anything that the home side offered and the half time whistle blew with the visitors leading.
If anything , the wind's force increased during the second half and despite the player's best efforts, the ball regularly sailed out of the ground. Goal scoring efforts were therefore at a premium but Kharas and Bingham both had the chance to wrap the game up for The Millers but narrowly failed to do so.
Following a couple of bold substitutions by the home manager where defenders were replaced by attackers, Blackpool came strong in the final few minutes and despite the unjustified addition of seven minutes injury time , The Millers recorded another win and at the same time increased their lead at the top to twelve points.
The defensive unit of Stuart Williams, Matty Taylor, Micky Ryan and Shaun Roscoe were impressive but New Mills's undoubted Man of The Match was centre half Danny Jackson.Team - Williams, Taylor, Roscoe, Ryan, Jackson, Hooper, Meakin, Mather, Kharas, Bingham, Shaughnessy.Subs - George, Bromley, Shaw, S Dignan, Zajac
The team is once again on their travels this Tuesday (26th February) when they face a re-arranged League fixture at Ashton Athletic. The players have the weekend off as the League haven't scheduled a game but the team is back in action on Tuesday 4th March when they face a sixth consecutive away trip, this time to Bootle.

New Mills consolidated their lead at the top of North West Counties Division Two with a resounding 4-0 victory at Edge Green Street, Ashton-in-Makerfield on Saturday.

Despite the overnight sub-zero conditions, the pitch was very firm and the bounce of the ball along with the frequent whistling by the referee ensured that the first half remained goalless as neither goalkeeper was really tested.

New Mills had the slight slope in their favour in the second half but the game's turning point came just after the interval with the introduction of striker Anthony Bingham, newcomer Ryan Shaughnessy and Lee Bromley. Left winger Shaughnessy constantly tormented Ashton's right back and put some great crosses into the danger areas but they weren't converted by The Millers strike force.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 75th minute when Garry Kharas beat the offside trap to give the leaders a crucial one goal lead.Straight from the kick off, Lee Bromley dispossessed an Ashton player and went on a buccaneering run through the home side's defence and was only denied by a last ditch tackle. The ball broke kindly to Shaughnessy who delivered an inch perfect cross onto the head of Kharas who beat the keeper for the second time in a minute.

New Mills had taken the sting out of the game with with the two quick goals and Ashton were a beaten side. Despite their constant handball appeals and questioning of the referee's decisions, the official did the home side a favour when he denied The Millers a clear penalty when lively striker Bingham was upended in the area by the onrushing keeper but the ball again broke to Shaughnesssy who crossed the ball to Kharas who completed his hat-trick with a fierce shot and at the same time became the Division's leading scorer with 21 goals in a very productive debut season.

The icing on The Millers cake came two minutes from time when Shaughnessy completed a fantastic second half individual performance when his cross found the head of Bingham who wrong footed the keeper with a firm header into the bottom corner.

Ashton's resolute defence proved difficult to break down but the victory was a triumph of New Mills's patience along with their superior skill and fitness. Man of the Match was undoubtedly Garry Kharas but the whole defensive unit took credit for giving goalkeeper Stuart Williams a trouble free afternoon.

The Millers are on their travels again next week when they have a day trip to the seaside to play Blackpool Mechanics.

Team - Williams, Taylor, Lomax, Ryan, Jackson, Hooper, Meakin, Knight, Kharas, Shaw, Mather.Subs - Bingham, George, Bromley, Roscoe, Shaughnessy

Daisy Hill 0 New Mills 3 TOP

New Mills strolled to victory on Saturday with a convincing victory against lowly Daisy Hill.
Despite the heavy conditions and uneven playing surface, The Millers dominated the game from start to finish and the tone was set early on with Adam Mather and Garry Kharas creating good opportunities.
The opening goal came in the tenth minute when Joe Shaw cut in from the right and after his shot hit the crossbar, the ball fell invitingly to Carlos Meakin who acrobatically converted the rebound for his 20th goal of the season.
The visitors continued to create chances and Kharas soon had the ball in the net again but the linesman, who despite the shouts from the travelling New Mills fans was already wearing glasses, dubiously disallowed the goal for offside. However, The Millers powerful centre forward wasn't to be denied for long as on the stroke of half time, he bundled the ball past the hapless keeper to double the advantage.
The second half was eight minutes old when the third and final goal of the afternoon was scored by Joe Shaw who beat the offside trap and toe poked one past the onrushing keeper. With the points safely in the bag and the home side getting a little bit over physical, The Millers made three quick substitutions, one of which saw the introduction of new signing Ryan Shaughnessy, who signed from Maine Road earlier in the week.
So New Mills triumphed over Daisy Hill for the ninth consecutive time and with title rivals Oldham Town and Ashton Athletic failing to win and Kirkham and Wesham playing in the FA Vase, The Millers increased their lead to a healthy eleven points.
The Millers are again on their travels next week with a trip to Ashton in Makerfield to face Ashton Town.
Team - Williams, Taylor, Lomax, Ryan, D Jackson, Hooper, Meakin (Zajac), Knight, Kharas, Shaw (Ward), Mather (Shaughnessy).
Unused subs - Doxey, Bramley

Bootle 2 New Mills 1 Division Two Trophy - Quarter-Finals TOP

New Mills's reign as holders of the Divisional Trophy ended at a freezing New Bucks Park on Saturday.
Both teams struggled in the blustery conditions but striker Anthony Bingham was lively up front for The Millers and whistled a shot just the wrong side of the post from outside the box.
Bootle took the lead in the 14th minute when centre half Callum Dempsey playing in his final game before going to Australia, misjudged the bounce of the ball and the subsequent cross was turned in at the near post by Kevin Black.
The second half started with a replacement referee as the original one was taken ill and one of Bootle's coaching staff running the line.
Phil Ainscough came on to replace the injured Bingham at half time and was immediately into the action. From a corner, the ball fell invitingly to Dempsey who drilled a shot past the Bootle keeper only for Ainscough to block the shot on the goal line and to stop a certain equaliser.
Shortly after, manager Tony Hancock made two bold attacking substitutions and the team led by the magnificent Mike Ryan pressed for the equaliser but in the 66th minute, Bootle counter attacked down the left hand side and following a slip by Danny Jackson, Black was left unmarked in the six yard box to score his second goal of the afternoon.
New Mills grabbed a lifeline in the 81st minute when the referee spotted a pull on striker Garry Kharas's shirt in the box and Kharas confidently scored his 17th goal of the season from the resulting penalty.
Despite laying siege to the Bootle goal in the final few minutes and the hosts being reduced to ten men following a sending off in injury time, The Millers couldn't manage to score the equaliser which would have led to extra time and it was Bootle who progressed into the two legged semi final to meet Chadderton.
Whilst disappointed to lose the game, New Mills's priority is undoubtedly promotion and it's back to League business next Saturday when they travel to Bolton to face Daisy Hill.

Team - Williams, Taylor, Lomax, Ryan, Dempsey (Bromley), Jackson, Knight, Doxey (Hooper), Kharas, Bingham (Ainscough), Mather.
Unused subs - George, Ward.

MILLERS BACK TO WINNING WAYS. NEW MILLS 3 STONE DOMINOES 1 TOP

Millers v Stone Doms Photo's (26/1/08)

minutes silence

New Mills returned to winning ways at Church Lane and in the process extended their lead at the top of the Vodkat North West Counties Second Division to 11 points. With their nearest rivals Kirkham and Wesham continuing their superb run in the FA Vase a big crowd was present to see if Tony Hancock’s men could put behind them their first and only league defeat of the season two weeks prior and this the Millers duly did. The Millers were also fielding two debutants in their starting line-up. Firstly Shaun Doxey (right) who had signed from Alfreton and Matty Taylor from FC United. Indeed, Taylor won FC United’s supporters player of the season award last year. The game started brightly for New Mills and they dominated the first 45 minutes completely and it was something of a surprise when they went in at the interval only two goals to the good. There was a set back for New Mills when goalkeeper Barry George had to leave the field of play on 15 minutes with what looked to be a knee injury. The first goal came after 24 minutes when an excellent piece of work down the right hand side saw Anthony Bingham race past the defence and send over an excellent cross which was met by leading scorer Carlos Meakin to nod them in front. The second goal came on 43 minutes when the excellent Bingham chased a long ball into the area he superbly knocked the ball past the goalkeeper Richard Stone and side footed home. If the home supporters were expecting an avalanche of goals in the second half then they were in for a big surprise for it was the visitors who took the spoils in the second period. They reduced the arrears on 55 minutes when James Curley netted. Then if anything they looked the more likely to get the next goal. There were several near misses and they were made to pay dearly for not taking these chances. Not surprisingly it was inspirational skipper Mike Ryan who had been urging his troops on during the last 20 minutes who scored the third goal. A quickly and well taken free kick sent him through on goal and he calmly stroked the ball home.

New Mills now face a period of some five weeks before they are again at home in the league. Next Saturday they are at Bootle in a quarter -final tie of the Second Division Trophy – which they are the holders. Tony Hancock commented after the game that he was relieved to have got the three points and paid tribute to the opposition. He did also rightly claim that the Millers should easily have wrapped the game up earlier. He also thanked the excellent crowd of 202 for their support.

NEW MILLS; George, Taylor, Mather, Lomax, Ryan, Jackson, Shaw, Knight, Meakin, Bingham, Doxey. Subs; Williams, Hooper, Kharas.

STONE DOMINOES; Stone, Edwards, McKinney, Flood, Byrne, Baird, McGuire, Curley, Skellern, Brown, Mathews.

The reserves went down to their first league defeat in 13 games when they were beaten 2-1 at Ashton Athletic. This Saturday they are at home to Kirkham and Wesham reserves in the league cup with the game starting at the usual time of 3pm

MILLERS STUMBLE – BUT STILL TOP. NEW MILLS 2 OLDHAM TOWN 3 12/1/07 TOP

Millers v Oldham Town Photo's (12/1/08)

New Mills slipped to their first league defeat of the season at Church Lane when an impressive looking Oldham Town edged them out in a five-goal thriller.

Indeed, it was the first time they had lost a league game on their own pitch for 14 months and the last side to beat them was…. Oldham Town!

It was a real top of the table clash with the Millers two places ahead of their Lancashire rivals who occupied third position.

New Mills were straight out of the blocks and took the lead in only the 2^nd minute when a rehearsed set piece led to Joe Shaw scoring from close range. Oldham replied almost immediately and it was no surprise when they levelled four minutes later through Ryan Baldwin. The home side came straight back again and could have scored almost immediately. They did regain the lead on 12 minutes though when an individual goal by Anthony Bingham who held off a challenge before firing into the net – one of the best goals so far this season seen on the ground. Bingham had his best game so far in an amber shirt and was easily the best home player.

Oldham Town were not to be denied and they scored after the referee or the linesman mysteriously did not stop the game for an offside and the player concerned headed back for Centre back Timothy Buxton to nod home. The home crowd became incensed after further decisions, which were highly questionable, came and went. New Mills then continued to press forward and they looked the more likely to score. The deadlock was broken on 58 minutes when prolific marksman Darren Scanlon scored from close range and home custodian Stuart Williams trying to prevent him from converting sustained an injury. Barry George immediately substituted him and the Millers began to pile on the pressure in search of that elusive equaliser.

They had two fine chances in particular when Danny Carter burst through and elected to shoot instead of squaring for two unmarked team mates and Carlos Meakin fired over with ten minutes remaining. The Oldham goalkeeper Matty Blair displayed good handling during the second period and the Oldham players and supporters celebrated at the end.

This was not a good display by the standards New Mills have met this season. The first two goals were sloppy affairs from a side with the best defensive record in the division. But, credit to Oldham Town they came and battled well and were always dangerous on the break. They have moved into second place and will be buoyed by a great result and in James Curley they had the best player on the field. The crowd of 172 certainly had their moneys worth in a thrilling game of football.

As for the Millers it is a difficult game for them this weekend when they travel to much fancied Bootle. Manager Tony Hancock was keen to stress that it was an ideal place for his players to bounce back and he was looking forward to the game.

NEW MILLS; Williams, Bromley, Lomax, Ryan, Dempsey, Jackson, Meakin, Shaw, Kharas, Bingham, Mather subs; George, Ward, Carter.

OLDHAM TOWN; Blair, Deakin, Matey, Scofield, Buxton, Landregan, Melia, Baldwin, Scanlon, Curley, McGill sub; Murphy.

New Mills increased their lead at the top of the Vodkat Second Division league table with an awesome display of attacking football at Carlos Meakin

Church Lane on Boxing Day. The win which now puts them nine points clear was as emphatic as it sounds, indeed they also missed a host of chances and hit the woodwork three times with an exhibition of refreshing football. It took only four minutes for them to open their account when top scorer Carlos Meakin (right) headed home a corner kick.

On twenty minutes Meakin set up Mather to blast home the second goal and barely two minutes later Melford Knight also headed in an excellently taken corner to make the score 3-0. With the game won in such a short space of time it was perhaps inevitable that they took the pressure off and this allowed Gabriels to enjoy some possession and with a minute remaining the visitors reduced the arrears when Christian Evans scored.

Almost immediately New Mills went upfield and won another corner. This time it was a well worked short one – obviously rehearsed on the training ground – and Garry Kharas headed in his first and his side's fourth goal. The second half started with a bang when leading scorer Meakin scored in the first minute to record his 18th of the season. Four minutes later and Kharas got his second and his 16th of the campaign. Although this concluded the scoring the Millers could easily have doubled their advantage. As it was it of course did not matter. Credit must go to the opponents who have conceded 18 goals against the Millers in three matches this season, who never stopped playing football and they like the homesters were applauded off the field of play at the end of 90 minutes.

For the home side it means that they have not lost a single league match at Church Lane during the whole of 2007 – a magnificent achievement! It was also their seventh straight league win as they continue their quest to gain promotion to the top flight. Manager Tony Hancock was naturally purring after the game but was quick to remind all the players that they have another important game on Saturday when they travel to Stone Dominoes.

Certainly the crowd of 185 went home very happy with an ideal Xmas gift of six goals and three more points in the bag.

New Mills escaped the big freeze when their game at Norton United was given the go ahead and returned from Staffordshire with another three points under their belt to maintain their position at the helm of the second division table.It was a game full of incidents and at times strange decisions from the match referee seemed to fuel the atmosphere between two sides both of which were desperate not to lose.It took the home side just 5 minutes to open their account when the Millers defence were asleep for a short taken corner and the ball somehow ended up over the line from Teague. It was later described by Millers boss Tony Hancock as the softest goal his team had conceded in twelve months.New Mills hit back strongly and were denied what seemed to be a clear penalty kick. This clearly angered the spectators and it seemed the New Mills side, as later on Melford Knight was booked for dissent. Barely had the game restarted and Knight lunged at a Norton player in an attempt to get the ball. The referee quite rightly reached for a second yellow card and thus New Mills were down to ten men.Ironically, this seemed to calm the Derbyshire side down and from that moment on they totally dominated the game. Several chances came and went begging and there was no further scoring in the first half.It took 60 minutes for the equaliser to come and it was Carlos Meakin who diverted a free kick into the corner of the Norton goal. The game kicked off and instantly a long ball was caught by Rhys Nevins who calmly turned inside the full back before poking the ball home.There were chances coming thick and fast now for New Mills most notably there were two one-one-ones involving both Kharas and Zajac, but neither could convert.

New Mills opened up a seven-point advantage at the top of the Vodkat Second Division table on Saturday with a resilient performance at Park Road Stadium. The team was without Carlos Meakin and Anthony Bingham, but they still had enough firepower to secure the points.This local derby had plenty of thrills and spills, as one would expect. The home side were straight into their opponents from the opening minute and it was no surprise when they took the lead after 15 minutes. Miller’s defender Mike Lomax appeared to slip and as he tried to clear the ball the referee adjudged that he had used his arm. The resulting penalty was despatched by McDonald despite an excellent attempt to save it by Williams.This was just what the Millers needed ironically as they then began to put their own game together. Just five minutes after going behind they drew level when in-form striker Garry Kharas powerfully headed home an excellent corner kick.The rest of the half belonged to the Millers who began to dominate. There was always the risk of their Stockport-based opponents causing problems when they broke, but the ball was mainly in the possession of New Mills.There were some problems with the floodlights during the latter stages of the first half and this was noted by the huge travelling support. New Mills took the lead shortly after the resumption when Melford Knight opened his account with a poke in from short range – there was a possible shout for offside, but the referee ignored it.Joe Shaw then had a goal disallowed before the lack of quality floodlighting caused the referee to bring the match to a halt. He made his decision known that if the problem could not be rectified in the next fifteen minutes then the game would be abandoned.Fortunately Millers Chairman Ray Coverley is an electrician and he quickly nipped under the stand to assist. After a ten-minute delay the lights came back on with the full power necessary.There were huge cheers when the game restarted as this was an opportunity for Tony Hancock’s side to press their advantage and this was taken within a few minutes when Knight rose majestically to head home an excellent Mark Lees free kick.After this it was all New Mills and they missed several excellent chances. The home team began to lose their composure and two players were dismissed from the field of play for foul and abusive language directed at the referee.And so New Mills will travel to Norton United on Saturday still unbeaten in league football this season and on Boxing Day they will be at home to Castleton Gabriels with a 3pm kick-off. In between they were due to play at Belper in the Derbyshire Senior Cup on Tuesday evening.

The Reserves will be at home on Saturday when they entertain Atherton. They drew 3-3 at Church Lane against Cheadle Town Reserves last weekend and it was a disappointing result in their quest for league honours. They play at Glossop North End on Tuesday in the Derbyshire Divisional Cup.

New Mills moved into the quarter finals of the Second Division Trophy on Saturday after knocking out Staffordshire side Norton United in a game which can only be described as an old fashioned cup-tie.The two goals for the home side were amongst the best that they will score all season – and they were certainly well received by the partisan crowd.The visitors made a real fist of the match and in the first half they created two excellent chances, both of which went just past the post, much to the relief of Stuart Williams the home custodian.The Millers went ahead on 32 minutes when Adam Mather blasted home from all of 25 yards. Garry Kharas had an effort ruled out shortly before the interval, for what reason nobody knows.The second period was similar to the first with both sides looking dangerous when going forward. Norton were reduced to ten men when they had a player red carded for a bad challenge. New Mills soon took advantage of this when in-form striker Garry Kharas hit home a spectacular scissor kick strike on 70 minutes. This was a fine piece of individualism from the player who has now scored in 9 of his last eleven starts. Almost immediately however, Norton pulled one back from Danny Hughes and the scene was set for a nail biting finale. At the end of the game New Mills deservedly went into the hat for the quarter finals where they will travel to either Bootle or Leek CSOB. This tie will not be played until February.The game had plenty of excitement and both teams hit the other side’s woodwork. There could easily have been plenty more goals.

This Saturday it is back to league action for New Mills when they entertain Blackpool Mechanics. The Millers are currently four points clear at the top of the table and they have not yet lost this season in the league.The team has also now scored a massive 61 goals so far in the league and cup, providing some wonderful entertainment along the way. In the next round of the Derbyshire Senior Cup they will face a difficult game when they travel to Unibond side Belper Town in two weeks time.

The Reserves had an excellent result when they won 4-3 at Oldham Town in the Reserves Division Cup courtesy of two goals apiece by Khan and Blackburn. The Reserves must also travel in the next round of the Derbyshire Divisional Cup when they face the short trip to rivals Glossop North End. This is undoubtedly the tie of the round.

New Mills maintained their place at the top of the Vodkat North West Counties Second Division with a 4-0 win at Castleton Gabriels on Saturday. Despite appalling weather, both sides moved the ball around very well and indeed the home side made two chances in the opening period but these were dealt with by Stuart Williams.Gradually, the Millers began to get on top with their superior skill and strength and it was to be Garry Kharas who gave them the lead on 32 minutes. It was the same player who effectively killed off the game on the stroke of half time when he headed in a corner to double his side’s advantage.Almost immediately after the break Carlos Meakin scored his 14th goal of the campaign after excellent work by Lee Bromley. The fourth goal came from Anthony Bingham who robbed the home centre half on the edge of his own area and slotted the ball home confidently.New Mills continued to press forward and had many chances to have increased their goal difference but in the end manager Tony Hancock was happy to see his team record their third straight 4-0 win.The Millers are enjoying their best ever spell since joining this league in 2004, and they have already scored no less than 59 goals in the league and cup this season. And, perhaps more significantly they now have a deadly duo operating up front in the shape of Kharas and Bingham. These two have plundered 10 goals between them in the past week, and with leading scorer Carlos Meakin also in scoring form the fans will be hoping that the trend continues.

This Saturday New Mills entertain highflying Norton United in the Second Division Trophy at Church Lane. The Millers are the proud holder of this trophy and they will not be looking to give this up lightly.

NEW MILLS; Williams, Bromley, Lomax, Ryan, Jackson, Knight, Meakin, Shaw, Kharas, Bingham, Mather subs; Ward, Nevins, Lees.

Garry Kharas set the tempo just 2 minutes in, heading the ball in from the grasp of Bolsover's keeper, Adam Mather supplying the cross form the left wing. The home side had a large amount of possession throughout the game, playing some nice one-touch football.But it wasn't until 30 minutes in when the advantage was doubled with Anthony Bingham rifling the ball into the top left from the edge of the box. Bingham then scored almost straight from the restart rounding the keeper to slot home his second goal in as many minutes. The tie was put to rest on the stroke of half time when a Joe Shaw corner kick was headed off the line only for Garry Kharas to turn in the rebound. New Mills continued to threaten throughout the second half with Mickey Ryan going close from a well worked free kick. Bolsover's best chance came around 65 minutes when a header flashed across the face of goal - one for Lee Bromley to clear. All in all, it was a comfortable victory, but the visitors put up a good fight and played the game in good spirit.

A sterner test may await New Mills in the third round draw when the likes of Buxton, Matlock and Alfreton enter the fray.

Millers: George, Bromley, Dempsey (Lees 46), Ryan, Lomax, Mather, Meakin, Shaw, Nevins, Kharas (Ward 65), Bingham (Ainscough 75)

New Mills have opened a four-point gap at the top of the Vodkat Division Two table thanks to a 4-0 win over Eccleshall at Church Lane on Saturday. Although this may not have been a vintage performance from the league leaders they nevertheless showed an awesome clinical approach when inside the opponent's penalty area.The first half an hour was not the most entertaining by a long way. In fact it took a couple of fine saves from home custodian Stuart Williams to keep the sides on level terms.However, with just five minutes of the first half remaining the Millers took the lead with a brilliantly orchestrated goal. The ball was played into the Eccleshall penalty area and an exquisite flick by Knight resulted in Anthony Bingham hitting a textbook volley into the bottom corner of the net. This was just the goal that the fans had been waiting for.In the second half it was nearly all New Mills as they strove to kill off the game. At times some of the play was a little frustrating, but nevertheless they persevered and could have doubled their lead when on 65 minutes leading scorer Carlos Meakin found himself in space with only the goalkeeper to beat, but he pulled his first time shot wide of the target.However, the lead was doubled on 73 minutes when Garry Kharas fired in the second goal. Inside a minute and Bingo Bingham added a third when he showed breathtaking pace and lobbed the ball into the net over advancing keeper Barry Weston. The Millers began to relax and the ball was stroked around with some aplomb. It was no surprise when substitute Rhys Nevins calmly brought the ball down and stroked it home. At the end of the day it was not vintage New Mills, but it is still a result which leaves their opponents with the knowledge that Tony Hancock’s men are four points clear at the top of the table. This New Mills team are also unbeaten in league football so far this season – no mean achievement. They have also notched up an incredible 51 league and cup goals, and in the process are quickly gaining a deserved reputation for open adventurous attacking football.

This weekend the Millers travel to Castleton, who they beat 8-1 last month at home in the cup. A win will further strengthen their promotion bid.

NEW MILLS: Williams, Bromley, Lomax, Ryan, Jackson D, Shaw, Meakin, Knight, Kharas, Bingham, Mather subs; Nevins, Ward,

With the league cup competition low on Millers priorities, New Mills shuffled the team around with Carlos Meakin rested and Matt Zajac partnering Anthony Bingham up front.The visitors had a couple of chances early on but Lee Bromley fired across goal and Zajac also hit the post for New Mills. Chances were few a far between for the remainder of the first half with New Mills offside too often,.Zajac flashed another effort across goal, but the game was goal-less at the break. The visitors took the lead from a free kick but a deflected shot from Adam Mather found the back of the net for New Mills. Chadderton took the lead again, but Joe Shaw regained parity for New Mills almost immediatly.Dan Jackson had a good chance to put the Millers in front, latching onto a free kick, his header only needing a glance, but the visitors progressed to the next round when a game of pinball saw the ball into the back of Millers net a third time.

New Mills will get back to league action this coming Saturday when they entertain Eccleshall, then on Monday evening, the 19th of November, the Derbyshire Senior Cup tie against Bolsover Town will take place with a 7:45pm kick off.

Millers: Williams, Lees, Dempsey, Jackson D, Lomax, Bromley, Knight, Ryan, Jackson S, Zajac, Bingham. Subs: Shaw (Dempsey 45), Mather (Jackson S 54), Kharas (Bromley 80)

New Mills leap-frogged over Kirkham and Wesham to go back to the top of the Vodkat Second Division with a narrow victory against local rivals Cheadle Town at Church Lane on Saturday.It was a game, which saw the home side, dominate the first period and yet they had to hang on a little in the second half of a game which was full of commitment and endeavour.The game started a little slowly, but gradually thanks to the prompting of Shaw and Hooper the Millers began to create chances. Meakin had a rasping drive well saved by goalkeeper Peter Mellor.New Mills were also causing real panic in the visitors defence with some well-taken corners by both Adam Mather and Joe Shaw. And it was from one of these that the only goal of the game was scored. Who else but leading scorer Carlos Meakin sending in a textbook header which crashed into the net to the delight of the big crowd.Shortly after, Mellor made the save of the match when he turned over a long-range effort by Shaw. The game seemed to turn, however, on the half-hour mark when a tackle, which went unpunished on Hooper, resulted in the same player having to leave the field of play. Hooper had been the main playmaker and after his departure the chances became fewer.The second half was a mixture of some misplaced passing from New Mills and aggression from Cheadle. This seemed to spur on the Cheshire side and Aaron Riley had a great one on one with Williams but placed his shot wide of goal. At the other end, Mike Ryan went close with a header from a corner. In the closing stages Cheadle were awarded a free kick and this was driven in like a missile, and thankfully for the home defenders the final chance was gone.At the end the fans applauded off both teams as it had been a typical local derby with not a great deal of pretty football and yet still full of passion from two sides, neither of which clearly wanted to lose. The Millers also preserved their unbeaten start to the league campaign.And now New Mills are in pole position where they will stay for a couple of weeks at the least, as they are involved in cup action next weekend.

Before the game it was announced that Tony Hancock had been named as the Divisions Manager of the Month for October – a richly deserved award.

NEW MILLS; Williams, Lees, Lomax, D Jackson, Dempsey, Hooper, Meakin, Shaw, Kharas, Bingham, Mather subs; Ryan, Bromley, Zajac. Attendance 202

On Saturday Chadderton visit New Mills in the Vodkat League Cup.The second team kept up their challenge at the top of their league with a 1-1 draw at Chadderton with Kay scoring.

New Mills went goal crazy in their first game in defence of the Division Two Trophy, which they lifted back in April, with an awesome display of attacking football at Church Lane on Saturday. To say this was a feast of entertainment for the Millers fans is a serious understatement as they totally demolished the Castleton Gabriels and were well worth the winning margin. It was also special because two players completed memorable hat tricks.With striker Garry Kharas serving a one match ban and skipper Mike Ryan rested because of a groin strain the New Mills boss decided to give a first outing to young reserve striker Matt Zajac who teamed up with fellow youngster Rhys Nevins in a partnership which fast developed into a teenage rampage.The Millers took 14 minutes to score their first goal and it was the result of a well-taken short corner and Zajac neatly flicked the ball home. On 18 minutes leading scorer Carlos Meakin rose majestically to send a towering header into the net. It was a truly magnificent goal and brought the crowd to their feet.Only two more minutes had elapsed and Zajac was upended in the penalty area and the referee had no hesitation in awarding a spot kick. This was duly despatched by Meakin.On 22 minutes and that man Zajac was put in the clear and he drew the goalkeeper before confidently driving home for the fourth goal. Five minutes later and only a dubious decision robbed the teenager of a fine hat trick when he was adjudged to be offside.It was King Carlos Meakin who got his hat trick first however, when he fired in a free kick, which took a slight deflection on 34 minutes. This was his 12th goal of the current campaign and he will be hoping that he will pass the 22 he scored during last season. Then, deep into added on time in a pulsating first 45 minutes it was Nevins turn as he was on hand to prod the ball home from close range.Not surprisingly, the home side were warmly applauded off the field for a well-deserved cup of tea with the score being 6-0.With the game already won it was no surprise that the home team began to ease off a little but they extended the lead when Danny Hooper curled in a great free kick on 55 minutes. The visitors then got a consolation on 58 minutes when Christian Evans was gifted the ball by a home defender and he made no mistake. The scoring was wrapped up in the 90th minute when Nevins was fouled and another penalty was awarded. Up stepped Matt Zajac to complete a hat trick on his debut – quite an achievement.And so New Mills will now play at home in the next round against Norton United and on this showing they seem reluctant to hand back the trophy currently on display in the club house.

They are due to play at Darwen on Tuesday and a win will lift them back onto the top of the table. On this form the fans will be looking forward to this Saturday when Cheadle Town will visit Church Lane.

NEW MILLS: Williams, Lees, Lomax, D Jackson, Dempsey, Hooper, Meakin, Shaw, Nevins, Zajac, Mather. subs; Ainscough, Fidler, S Jackson.

The Reserves moved closer to Glossop North End at the top of the Reserves Division table with a great 1-0 win at Colne. They will travel to Chadderton on Saturday on the back of six straight wins.

A stubborn Ashton Athletic held New Mills at home on Saturday in a game which in the end neither side looked capable of scoring.The game was a strange one in the fact that the visitors clearly set out their stall to bag a point. The scenario therefore was whether the home side could break the deadlock.All of the New Mills best chances came in the first forty-five minutes, with perhaps the best of them falling to leading scorer Carlos Meakin.In one attack the ball was pinging around like a pinball machine. The ball was first blocked by the goalkeeper and then by a defender on his goal line and finally it rebounded off the angle of the post and crossbar.The second half was a frustrating one for the players and fans of the Millers as they attempted to pile on some pressure but the visiting defence was in fine form and the chances were fairly limited.In the end it was two points dropped by New Mills and Ashton were clearly delighted to have a share of the spoils. However, the team are still in joint top position and with a game in hand AND they remain the only club not to have lost so far in both divisions of the Vodkat North West Counties League.

The club were also boosted by a big crowd of 186, which was also the highest in both divisions at the weekend.

NEW MILLS: Williams, Lees, Lomax, Ryan, Dempsey, Hooper, Meakin, Shaw, Kharas, Ainscough, Mather Subs; Jackson, Nevins, Ward.

This Saturday the Millers are at home in the Second Division Trophy – a competition they won last season. Castleton Gabriels are the visitors to Church Lane. On Tuesday night they will travel over to Darwen.

New Mills had to make the longest trip possible in the opening round of the Vodkat League Cup, and they made short work of progressing into the next round where they will entertain Chadderton at Church Lane in a few weeks time, thanks to a four-goal second half salvo.It was an impressive performance from the league leaders and the Cumbrian side will feel relieved that the score was not even more of a reflection on the days play.The Millers were straight at the opposition from the kick off and they created several excellent opportunities in the opening 45 minutes. Young Rhys Nevins had at least three good chances and Kharas and Shaw also went close.The travelling supporters were baffled, as they sipped their half time drinks, as to how the game was still goalless. Ironically, the visitor’s best chance came three minutes into the second period when Barry George easily dealt with a shot, which flew straight at him.Then on 51 minutes the opening goal came when Joe Shaw latched onto the ball after home keeper Sam Stephens could only half save a shot and the Millers were one up.Lee Bromley playing down the right hand side burst into the penalty area on 67 minutes only to be upended by the goalkeeper and the referee had no hesitation in awarding a spot kick. Garry Kharas easily dispatched this.As the game went on the Barrow in Furness based side began to tire and New Mills then scored twice after 80 and 84 minutes when first skipper Mike Ryan finished off an excellent move. The final goal headed home by Adam Mather was another well set up and executed goal.Manager Tony Hancock was naturally elated with the performance as both Dean Butterworth and leading scorer Carlos Meakin were absent due to work commitments and Danny Jackson was ruled out because of a foot injury.

NEW MILLS; George, Lees, Lomax, Ryan, Dempsey, Hooper, Bromley, Shaw, Kharas, Nevins, S Jackson subs; Mather, Ward, Swift.

This Saturday New Mills will be aiming to keep themselves on top of the table when Ashton Athletic visit Church Lane. The opponents have had a great start to the season and an exciting game is in prospect.

New Mills went surging to the top of the Vodkat Second Division table on Saturday when they came from behind to collect all three points when they visited Staffordshire to play at Eccleshall.Although not a vintage performance by their standards, never the less Tony Hancock must have taken great satisfaction in the manner that his team refused to go down to what would have been their first league defeat of the campaign.The home start came straight out of the blocks and took the lead in the first minute through Matt Mills. This spurred the Millers into action and it was not long before they took control of the game.Inevitably, it was leading scorer Carlos Meakin who put them on level terms after 9 minutes. The second and ultimately match winner was from the boot of Garry Kharas who put the visitors in front on the half hour mark.Both sides created chances with New Mills having the lion’s share, but the scoring remained the same and for the first time ever the club now sit proudly in pole position.

New Mills produced their best performance under Tony Hancock – and their best for many a year – when they comprehensively overwhelmed fellow promotion rivals Padiham at Church Lane on Saturday.It was a performance, which had the best home league gate of the season simply purring at the sheer quality of the play shown by the men in black and amber.Straight from the kick off the Millers took the game to their opponents. With the match barely 2 minutes old Carlos Meakin fired them ahead with a superbly taken goal. A few minutes later and Garry Kharas hit the woodwork.Hit-man Kharas was not to be denied for long though and he sent in an unstoppable header from a pin point Adam Mather cross on 14 minutes Ironically, the visitors had an excellent chance to have levelled matters shortly before the second goal but the chance was missed.Carlos Meakin then produced some sheer magic and hit the post with another exquisite piece of individual play. The third goal, which effectively killed off the game cam on 41 minutes when skipper Mike Ryan rose majestically to head home a corner kick.The second half started off a little quietly – understandably as the play in the opening 45 minutes had been breath taking, and the fourth goal came via Joe Shaw with a textbook corner kick on 57 minutes. The visitors scored a consolation goal after 72 minutes when High Peak based youngster Danny Dignan fired home. The home side then suddenly surged forward again in waves. A fifth goal came from Carlos Meakin with a great chip on 84 minutes. It was man of the match Meakin who scored the final goal in stoppage time when he completed a hat trick from close range, and duly scored his 8th goal of the season.Understandably there was a rousing ovation from the crowd of 206 at the final whistle. On paper this looked to be a tricky game with the opponents lying just above New Mills in second place in the table. Millers boss Tony Hancock said after the game “It was a complete all round performance. Personally, I have seen this coming for a few weeks now. We must not get carried away as it is very early days at the moment. However, I believe the key to this side is the fact that most of the players are so versatile, in that they can and will happily play in any position that is asked of them”.The result was by no means an accurate one in lieu of the way that the team totally dominated the match. If the team can maintain this kind of form then the gates will steadily increase even more.

NEW MILLS: George, Bromley, Mather, Ryan, Dempsey, D Jackson, Meakin, Hooper, Kharas, Butterworth, Shaw. SUBS: McGill, Nevins. S Jackson. Attendance 206.

This Saturday the Millers travel down to Eccleshall in Staffordshire. Top club Kirkham and Wesham are involved in the FA Vase, so if the Millers win they will go top of the table and still have a game in hand.

The Reserves continue to climb the table and they had an emphatic win 5-2 at Daisy Hill on Saturday. This weekend they will be at home to Padiham Reserves.

Monsoon rains led up to kick off, making the game an even trickier proposition, but New Mills started the brightest and carved out a couple of good chances straight from the kick off. Chadderton however, took the lead with just five minutes gone when a weak back pass was held up in the standing water with the ball toe-poked below the advancing Barrie George in Miller's goal. The visitors then continued to press for an equaliser, which came from the penalty spot, courtesy of Carlos Meakin. Callum Dempsey made a fine run from inside his own half which although came to nothing, gave the home side a taste of things to come, and when Meakin emulated Dempsey's run on 40 minutes, the ball was placed inside the post under a heavy challenge. Barrie George denied the home side a shot from the right wing with a good stop as he clattered into the post for his troubles and the Millers maintained the advantage leading into the break. Chadderton had a lot more possession during the second period but Miller's defence was resolute. Nevins was replaced by Butterworth and following another good save by George, Stuart McGill was introduced on the right wing and it was the two subs who combined to finish the game with an exquisite cross from McGill finding Butterworth in space to confidently slot the ball home. Richard Gresty, Mark Lees and Stuart Williams were all rested for this game, and it's hoped they will be contenders for the visit of Padiham this coming Saturday, kick off is at 3:00pm, and all are welcome.

New Mills went crashing out of this seasons FA Competitions at Bridgnorth and supporters are still a little mystified as to how this happened. A mad five-minute spell of poor defending sent the team into the half time break with an uphill task to which they very nearly succeeded.Firstly, the state of the pitch on the Shropshire sides ground was not great. It was very hard and extremely bumpy. However, both sides started brightly and it was Town who struck first when leading scorer Gareth Horler scored on 5 minutes after chasing what seemed a long innocuous ball. The Millers responded in the right positive fashion and deservedly drew level through teenager Rhys Nevins on 18 minutes. For the next few minutes the home team were a little on the rack, but they then scored twice in the 26th and 29th minute both from set pieces. Their second goal came via Millers skipper Mike Ryan who could only deflect an excellent ball past Stuart Williams. Within two minutes and Horler bagged his second again as a result of a great cross into the Millers penalty area.Whatever Tony Hancock said during the half time cup of tea seemed to work. New Mills began to press and it was no more than they deserved when Nevins grabbed his second from close range on 54 minutes.Although they continued to press they could not grab the goal which would have taken the game into an extra thirty minutes. At the final whistle the home fans were jubilant, but one got the feeling that New Mills should have been good enough to see off their opponents.

The team are back in action on Monday when they will be hoping to keep their unbeaten start to the league campaign intact. On Saturday Padiham visit Church Lane for what should be a mouth-watering encounter. Remember, Padiham finished just above New Mills last season in third place, and if the Millers are to gain promotion then one feels that these positions should be reversed this time around.

New Mills produced their best win of the season so far when they beat top of the table side Kirkham and Wesham. Incredibly, this was the first away defeat in a league game since February 2005 for the newcomers to the Vodkat North West Counties League – a remarkable achievement. The game was one of immense excitement and was non-stop action for the full ninety minutes. The home side were straight out of the blocks after the kick off and they went ahead in the 4th minute when Adam Mather fired in a thunderbolt, which took a deflection and flew into the net. This was the third successive game in which Mather has scored.The Millers continued to press and could have added to their lead a couple of times in the next ten minutes. Gradually, the visitors began to find their feet and by the end of the half they were enjoying plenty of possession and territory, but not creating anything serious.The second half started as the first had for the home team as they looked to increase their lead. Just like the first period, Kirkham then began to get their game back on and they pressed forward in an attempt to get back on level terms. New Mills did look dangerous on their breaks, but in the 78th minute the Fylde based club drew level. A great ball was played into the area and there were two Kirkham players on hand, one of which was Wane, to plant the ball into the net.The Millers who suddenly upped their game dismissed any thoughts of the game ending all square. With just five minutes remaining Rhys Nevins received a magnificent long ball from Mike Ryan. He calmly took the ball down and danced around the goalkeeper. He still had work to do though as there was a defender between him and the goal. A coolly-placed shot was enough to send the home fans into a noisy reception.There was still time for the visitors to miss a chance to bring the scores level, but in the end the Church Lane fans cheered loudly as the final whistle blew. Credit must go to both sets of players for the high standard of football that was on display.

The match was played at a blistering pace throughout, and it is easy to see why Kirkham and Wesham are favourites to clinch promotion at the end of the season – on this form the Millers will be up there as well.New Mills now remain the only unbeaten side in league matches in their division.

NEW MILLS: Williams, Lees, Gresty, Dempsey, Jackson D, Ryan, Meakin, Shaw, Kharas, Butterworth, Mather subs; Nevins, Jackson S. Attendance 156

The Division Two Trophy finalist met again for the first time since that fateful night last April, but The Millers were denied an away win with a late equaliser at the Whitebank Stadium.New Mills started at a brisk pace with Dean Butterworth, Garry Kharas and Rhys Nevin spearheading a 4-3-3-formation, but despite having the lions share of possession, the home side scored first from 30 yards with 5 minutes of the half remaining.The Millers then stunned Oldham with 2 goals before the break, with Adam Mather's Van Persie-esque volley flying into the top left corner and with Garry Kharas latching onto a well taken free kick, eight yards out.Both sets of supporters were questioning some strange refereeing descisions during the interval and this seemed to play a key part throughout the second half, the game was at times stop start or never pulled back when decisions felt warranted and when one of many contentious free kicks fell Oldham's way, the equaliser came as Miller's appeals fell on deaf ears.Nevertheless, both sides remain unbeaten, but the Millers will surely feel the most dissapointment, although Mather's stunning goal was worth the journey alone.

The Senior team are in action again this coming Saturday when New Mills entertain Kirkham & Wesham at Church Lane, kick off is at 3:00pm, and all are welcome.

New Mills moved into the next round of the FA Vase with a competent display when they beat Stapenhill, the Burton on Trent based side. It was the fourth time in two seasons that Tony Hancock’s team had beaten a team from higher than themselves in the non-league pyramid system, and three of them have been away from home.The Millers scored twice in the last 20 minutes through Adam Mather and Dean Butterworth. The game overall was a fairly even affair and at times very tense. It was the visitors who were making the better chances and for a time it looked as though the match might end in stalemate.

In the next round the Millers will again have to travel. This time they go down to Shropshire to face Bridgnorth Town who are a step below them in the pyramid. However, it will not be an easy game as they are currently second in their respective league.

New Mills went crashing out of the FA Cup at Church Lane on Saturday against a good Atherstone Town outfit.

However, it was not the usual Millers performance and at times they seemed to struggle to get their rhythm.It was the Warwickshire side that started the brighter and hit the woodwork in the opening minutes. They took the lead on 9 minutes when a fairly innocuous ball was played into their area and Roy Dunckerley pounced to open his account for the afternoon. Dunckerley scored 75 goals in the last two seasons and he was to prove the main difference between the two clubs. New Mills tried in vain to get back on level terms during th