Due to work commitments, I missed out on a trip to Athersley when they hosted a 'groundhop' game a few weeks ago, so today was an opportune moment to put that right.
It was party time time today at Sheerien Park as the players from Athersley received their medals for finishing runners-up in the league. A remarkable achievement in their debut season at this level.
It means they will be playing at step 5 (the NCEL Premier) next season for the first time in their 34 year history, having been promoted from the Sheffield and Hallamshire County Senior League just last year.
Athersley, which is basically a housing estate in Barnsley, are a club right at the heart of their community and you sensed that vibe as soon as you entered Sheerien Park.
The ground is accessed between the houses and is fully enclosed, on what was an old recreation ground, and consists of two pre-fab stands.
A 60 year lease was signed on the ground and former player Geoff Horsfield (yes, him of Halifax, West Brom and Birmingham City fame) helped with half the money to buy the lease, the other half was done through fund raising by the local community. They appear rightly proud of their efforts.
The game today, which saw the homesters run out 1-0 victors, was typical end of season stuff though Emley can consider themselves unfortunate not to come away with a point.
The only goal of the game was scored by Jason Bentley after 70 minutes when he raced through to fire home.
It was beautifully sunny day as I crossed the Pennines for today's game and the day was completed by a post-match visit to the famous Stalybridge Buffet Bar....hic.....
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