News - Rossington Main FC

Saturday 11th April: Colliery Enjoy Six of the Best at Grimsby

Rossington Main enjoyed the best possible return from last week's defeat to Rainworth with an emphatic away win over Grimsby Borough. Having been beaten 5-1 at home by Borough earlier in the season Colliery will have been satisified to have returned from this match at Brigg on the right end of a 6-0 scoreline.

It took Colliery just twelve minutes to open the scoring as Michael MacDonald lifted the ball over a defender on the edge of the box to make space and fired the ball across the keeper and into the net. Top scorer Lee Holmes doubled Colliery's advantage midway through the half as he broke from halfway; although his initial effort was cleared off the line Holmes made sure with the follow-up finishing from the tightest of angles to make it 2-0.

Ten minutes before the break Holmes extended Colliery's lead to 3-0 as he headed home a Jason Stokes' corner unchallenged for his 20th league goal of the season. After the half-time interval Main continued where they had left off with a fourth goal within four minutes of the restart. Again the goal came from a corner as Andrew Culshaw met Shaun Pendleton's delivery with a header at the near-post to score.

By the hour mark Rossington were five goals in front; Sean Nicholls was on the end of a great pass through only to see his shot blocked by the keeper. Lee Holmes followed up but his strike hit the post, although Nicholls was still alert to turn home the rebound. Although still in control Colliery had to wait until the final minute for their sixth goal, but it proved worth the wait. William McGhie collecting the ball in midfield and finding the top corner from around twenty-five yards to complete a great result.

Saturday 4th April: Rainworth on Colliery's Parade

After a credible draw in the Doncastrian derby at Askern last week Rossington faced another promotion contender this week in the form of Rainworth. However, there was to be disappointment for the Colliery as the Nottinghamshire side won out in the final match to be played at Oxford Street this season.

In front of a reasonable crowd of 66 the visitors took just eight minutes to open the scoring as Mark Smith made space on the edge of the box to advance on goal and put the ball beyond Main keeper Lee Appleby for the opener. However, half an hour later and Rossington had drawn level as Billam latched onto a poor back-pass to fire past the opposition keeper.

The joy of the home support was to be short-lived though as within a minute the visitors were back in front; Ant Lynam hitting a long range effort into the bottom corner of Appleby’s net to give Rainworth a 2-1 half-time lead. Still, the spirited Colliery side would not crumble though and they drew level for a second time seven minutes after the break. Carl Hastie picked up the ball in his own area and made a great run down the left flank; Hastie moved the ball inside to Michael MacDonald who in turn fed Jason Stokes and Stokes placed the ball past the keeper to make it 2-2.

Again though Rainworth did not take long to re-establish their lead as with Main snapping at their heels they forced a somewhat fortunate equaliser. Lynam managing to get to the by-line on the left side and his pull-back was turned into his own goal by the unlucky David Holvey. 3-2 up on the hour mark Rainworth doubled their lead with twenty minutes to go as Jake Williams volleyed home a right wing cross to make the points safe. Rossington now end with three away games as they look to secure their place in Division One.

Saturday 28th March: Rossington Ask Questions of Villa

Rossington’s steady recent improvement was in evidence again as they held promotion chasing Askern Villa to a 2-2 draw in tricky conditions in North Doncaster. In a derby game spoilt somewhat by the wind it was the home side who took the initiative twenty minutes in as Curtis Walker made the most of a long ball to lob the Colliery keeper.

Within seven minutes though Rossington were level through a fine goal from Jason Stokes, the Colliery forward collecting a knock-down in his stride and finding the top corner from all of thirty yards. It got better for Main ten minutes before the break as they took a 2-1 lead. Rob Burton made a great run the length of the field and his cross was met at the near post by Matt Lodge who headed it into the bottom corner.

The wind was in the home side’s favour in the second half and so it was almost inevitable that they would find their way back into the game, and they found an equaliser midway through the half. Colliery keeper Lee Appleby was adjudged to have brought down Wilkinson and Mark Vickerage placed the spot kick beyond Appleby to make it 2-2.

Late in the game and Villa almost snatched all three points, but with Appleby stranded the ball rebounded to safety from the crossbar and the Doncastrian derby ended all square to keep Rossington well above the division’s bottom two.

Saturday 21st March: Old Boys Held by Colliery's Young Pretenders

Rossington Main continued their recent run of form, making it five matches unbeaten with a home draw with Barton Town Old Boys. In the first of two matches in four days between the two clubs - Main's rearranged visit to the Euronics Ground is scheduled for Tuesday night - it was Colliery who made the early running.

Just three minutes had passed when Rossington opened the scoring in Liverpool-esque fashion. A long kick down field from Colliery keeper Lee Appleby cleared the Barton Town back line and found Jason Stokes who calmly slotted the ball past the visitors' keeper to make it 1-0. Just after the half hour mark Main doubled their lead; a perfect diagonal ball from Shaun Pendleton was controlled by Stokes and his ball back across the area was fired home by Matthew Lodge on the edge of the box to make it 2-0.

Within three minutes Colliery's early joy had been quelled somewhat as the visitor's halved

Twelve minutes into the second half Burdick grabbed his second goal to level the scores. The Barton forward was allowed to run onto a long ball and though his first shot was brilliantly saved by Appleby Burdick made no mistake with the follow up. The scores were to remain level to the end to leave the home crowd of 60 a little disappointed, but Main have lost just one of their last eight.

Tuesday 17th March; Colliery Hit Tevie for Four

St. Patricks Day Night in Rossington and the Colliery players and staff can be forgiven for partaking in a celebratory Guinness or two, after a resounding home win over Teversal. The Colliery stretched their unbeaten run to four games at Oxford Street as they ran in 4-0 winners over Tevie, keeping their fifth clean sheet in seven games in the process.

That said, it was the visitors who found the net first at Oxford Street, only for their twenty-eighth minute strike to be ruled out. Instead it was Main who took the lead on the half hour markfrom the penalty spot; captain Andy Culshaw stroking home the spot-kick after Jason Stokes had been felled by the Teversal 'keeper. Seven minutes later the home side doubled their lead with an excellent solo goal from Matty Lodge who won the ball in midfield and beat three Teversal players before curling the ball into the net from twenty-five yards out.

Main were on form now and put themselves three goals up before half-time. Carl Hastie won the ball in the middle of the field and played a perfect pass into the path of Lee Holmes and once inside the area Colliery's top scorer made no mistake, slotting the ball past the visiting keeper. The crowd of fifty-six would have to wait until the final minute of the match for the fourth goal as Holmes slotted the ball home from Matty Lodge's square ball to round off a great win for Rossington, lifting them to thirteenth in the table.

Saturday 14th March; Appleby Picked Off by Colliery

Rossington edged to a third unbeaten game in their improeved post-Christmas form with victory in North Lincolnshire; defeating Appleby Frodingham at Brumby Hall Sports Ground. In blustery conditions which made fluid football difficult the first half was a fairly even affair, with the home side having perhaps the best chance as Matthew Robinson fired just wide, ten minutes before the break.

In the second half the game opened up and Colliery took the lead midway through; Jamie Spence won the ball on the edge of the area and slotted a neat ball into the path of Lee Holmes and Rossington's top scorer made no mistake; slotting the ball under the home keeper.

Key to Main's improved form of late has been an excellent defence which has given up just two goals in the past six games. They acheived another clean sheet today, but came close to belmishing that record thirteen minutes from time as David Holvey was needed to clear off the goal-line from an Appleby attack. The home side's poor finishing was costing them and ten minutes from time they were punished by a second Colliery goal. A long ball from Holvey found Holmes just outside the box with his back to goal; the forward flicked the ball over his marker and turned to fire it into the net to secure a 2-0 win which lifts Main to 15th.

Tuesday 10th March; To The Bracken Edge and Back

A second successive midweek trip to Leeds for the Colliery and a second successive trip back south down the A1 with a point as well. In front of the lowest crowd to have watched them this season Rossington continued their recent defensive form and even managed to find the net themselves to secure a 1-1 draw.

In fact it was Rossington who took the lead as top scorer Lee Holmes found the net twenty minutes in. Colliery kept in control until just before the break as Amateur's Sean Ward struck in the half's final minute to level things up. Main could have gone on to win it but both luck and the woodwork were not on their side, but the point lifts Colliery above Tadcaster into 16th in Division One.

Saturday 7th March; Goalless Return at Oxford Street

Six weeks after the last home fixture the Colliery returned home from a four game road trip to the unfamiliar surroundings of their own Oxford Street ground. A reasonable travelling support from West Yorkshire meant a sizable crowd of 80 were on hand to watch Rossington face promotion chasing AFC Emley.

However those present were left with little to cheer; Main have effectively secured their defence in recent weeks, as evident in this fixture which produced their third clean sheet in four matches. However, at the other end Colliery have found opponents defences as equally rigid and so a goalless draw looked somewhat inevitable.

That said, the final few minutes were as incident packed as the preceding eighty-odd. First Colliery, on a late attack with time running out felt they should have had a penalty only to see their claims waved away. And then to further compound the home side's frustration their opponents were awarded a spot-kick of their own as the game moved into stoppage time. With a chance to win it from the penalty spot the Pewits' forward missed his big chance with practically the last kick of the game and goalless was how it finished.

Saturday 28th February; Scarbourough Fair Too Strong for Colliery

Rossington completed a run of four consecutive away matches with their longest road trip of the season; a trip to Bridlington to face league leaders Scarborough Athletic. The reformed Seadogs are pulling clear at the top of the Division One table and in their past three matches against Colliery had run in a total of thirteen goals so the omens were not good for the travelling Main contingent.

However, in front of Athletic's third biggets league crowd of the season, a whopping 545 at the Queensgate Stadium, Main gave a great account of themselves and another indication of on the field progress. Main matched their hosts until David Thompson opened the scoring for Scarborough as he found the net after twenty-eight minutes. Whilst in previous meetings one strike has sparked something of a colapse in the Rossington ranks today the Colliery held firm and the remaining hour of the game passed goalless, to leave a final score of 1-0.

Scarborough remain top of Division One, whilst Rossington remain 17th, but Colliery's week on the road will have brought renewed confidence ahead of next weekend's home match against AFC Emley.

Monday 23rd February; Draw in Leeds is Academic for Colliery

Rossington's run of three consecutive victories came to an end in a well attended festive Yorkshire derby at the Fitzwilliam Stadium. A crowd of 170 were on hand to see the revived Colliery side take on the promotion chasing Hemsworth MW side, and the majority would have been left disappointed by the way the game began to unfold.

Young Bradley Billam silenced the home support, and the neighbouring garden's PA system, with the opening goal to put Main 1-0 up just ten minutes in. However the home side fought back and midway through the half they found an equaliser as the in-form Damion Liddle levelled the scores.

Into the second half Hemsworth began to find their stride and they were rewarded within quarter of an hour of the restart as Liddle struck his second of the game to give the home side a 2-1 lead. Rossington pushed for a way back into the game, but eight minutes from time they were undone by a third Hemsworth goal, Scott Collins finding the net to wrap up a 3-1 win for the West Yorkshire side.

Saturday 21st February; Rossington Back in Action with a Win

After three frustrating weeks kicking their heels Rossington Main finally returned to action with a potentially daunting trip away to face Pontefract Collieries. After finishing adrift at the foot of the division last season Ponty have been enjoying a much better campaign this time round and came into this fixture in third place in the division.

However, it seems the break had done Rossington good as they matched their hosts throughout the firts half, with the two teams going in goalless at the break. In the second half the stalemate continued until thirteen minutes from time when Rossington surprised the 46 strong crowd to take the lead. Lee Holmes finding the net for what would prove the only goal of the game as Main held on for a welcome 1-0 win.

There will be little time to enjoy the result for Rossington though as Wilson and Burton's squad are on the road again on Monday, travelling for a re-arranged match at Leeds Carnegie.

Friday 6th February; Snow Show at Oxford Street; Teversal Game Off

Rossington Main face a fixture-free Saturday with the recent cold snap forcing the postponement of their scheduled home match with Teversal. With the Oxford Street pitch buried beneath a blanket of around 6" of frozen snow the club have faced no option but to postpone Saturday's fixture, particularly with freezing temperatures forecast overnight for the Doncaster area.

Saturday 31st January; Rossington Go Under at the Bridge

Colliery slipped to a second successive defeat in the NCEL Division One, as they lost out 2-0 in a South Yorkshire derby at Worsbrough. Just a point seperated the two sides at kick-off, but it was Athletic who triumphed to edge away from the division's bottom two, a position occupied by Colliery despite their festive resurgence. More details to follow...

Saturday 24th January; Colliery Back in Action With Home Defeat

After three weeks without a fixture the Colliery perhaps returned to NCEL Division One action a little cold, and were unfortunately made to pay by Staveley MW. With most of Doncaster caught in FA Cup fever, just a crowd of 45 were present to see Main slip to a 1-0 home defeat which dropped them back into the division's bottom two positions. The visitors opened the scoring just quarter of an hour in as Ryan Damms struck for the fifth consecutive game. And that strike proved to be enough with Main failing to get back into the game and continue their excellent recent run.

Tuesday 13th January; Rossington Bogged Down at Barton

The Colliery will be hoping for a case of third time lucky the next time they head to North Lincolnshire after their rearranged fixture with Barton Town Old Boys was once again postponed. This time it was a waterlogged pitch at the Euronics Ground on the south bank of the Humber which caused the match to be postponed. This cancellation, coupled with Saturday's postponment at Leeds and no scheduled fixtture for the coming weekend means that Rossington will have had a three week fixture gap between their last match, a 2-0 win at Bottesford, and their next scheduled game, a home match with Staveley MW on the 24th January.

Saturday 10th January; Colliery Frozen Out at Leeds

Rossington Main were denied the opportunity to continue their rise up the Division One table with the postponment of today's fixture at Leedsh inspection at Carnegie. An 11am pitch inspection at Throstles' Nest, the ground Carnegie share with Conference North side Farsley Celtic, found the field frozen solid and the match subsequently deemed unplayable. Indeed only one fixture across the entire NCEL programme survived the cold snap, just Arnold Town's fixture with Brodsworth, played at Radford, beating the big freeze.

Saturday 3rd January; Rossington Quickly Out the Traps to Defeat Poachers

After defeat at Hemsworth last Saturday the Colliery returned to winning ways at Bottesford Town as they continued their excellent run of recent form with a 2-0 victory. That result, Colliery's fourth win in five games, lifts them to the dizzy heights of fifteenth in the Division One table, just three points behind today's opponents who currently sit ninth.

In front of a crowd of just 41 at Bottesford's Birch Park ground Colliery left it late but took all three points thanks to two goals in the final twenty minutes of play. Midfielder Andrew Culshaw opened the scoring in the 70th minute to set up a potentially fraught end to the game, but with just four minutes remaining Rossington struck again to secure the victory with a second goal. Lee Holmes finding the net in the 86th minute to give Rossington a great start to 2009 in North Lincolnshire.

Saturday 27th December; The Wells End Unbeaten Colliery Run

Saturday 20th December; Three From Three Brings Colliery Christmas Cheer

It certainly is the season of good will at Rossington Main after the Colliery chalked up their third successive win to maintain a one hundred per cent record in December. Following on from wins against Tadcaster Albion and Glasshoughton Welfare Main made it a hat-trick of victories with a win from the second leg of the eight day double header against Glasshoughton.

However, Colliery left it late to record a second successive victory over the league's bottom side. In front of a crowd of pre-Christmas crowd of 42 at Oxford Street Rossington had to wait until a minute from time before breaking the deadlock. Under 18s striker Callum Coburn breaking the deadlock to give Colliery a 1-0 win that lifts them above Grimsby Borough and out of the bottom two. Not only that but it also thrusts Colliery into a congested part of the Division One table in which a win over Hemswoth on the 27th could take Rossington as high as 12th in the table.

Saturday 13th December; Colliery Crack the Glass for Second Successive Win

Two teams in differing hooped kits rendered almost indistinguishable as the match became bogged down in the mud wind and rain. No, it wasn't a repeat of Rugby Special, but the Colliery's victory at Glasshoughton Welfare. In atrocious conditions, and on a day when this was the only Division One match to survive the weather, Rossington made it two wins from two to bridge the gap to 17th place Grimsby Borough.

It wasn't all plain sailing for Rossington as they fell behind to the division's bottom club just six minutes in. Thomas Carr's right wing cross somehow finding a way over 6ft 6in Colliery goalkeeper Jonjo Griffiths and into the far corner of the net. Midway through the first half though Rossington drew level in a very similar circumstances as this time Rob Burton saw his cross become a shot and loop over the home side's goalkeeper.

There were no further goals in the first half bout eight minutes into the second period Rossington forged ahead. Jason Stokes put in some great work down the right before delivering a deep cross which was headed home by Sean Nicholls. Within six minutes the Colliery had doubled their lead with Nicholls this time involved in the build up, his neat pass found Michael MacDonald and he in turn fed substitute Lee Holmes who fired into the bottom corner.

With five minutes remaining Glasshoughton were offered a way back into the match as Andy Culshaw conceded a penalty which was converted by Michael Amos. However, in the final minute Lee Holmes struck again to secure a personal brace and second succesive win for the club on the striker's return.

Team (4-4-2); Jonjo Griffiths; Daniel Lodge, Andy Culshaw, David Holvey, Rob Burton; Carl Hastie (James Batchelor), Craig Morton, Michael MacDonald, Bradley Billam (Lee Holmes); Jason Stokes, Sean Nicholls (Dean Chapman)

Tuesday 9th December; No Game at Old Boys, but New Faces Arrive

Rossington's rearranged league match with Barton Town Old Boys will have to be scheduled for a third time after the postponemnts of today's game. Like the original fixture this evening's tie fell fould of adverse weather conditions on the south bank of the Humber and so the two sides will try again on January 13th.

However, the Colliery were in action in NCEL transfer market with two signings brought into the club. Dean Chapman has made the short move acros Doncaster, arriving at Oxford Street from NCEL Premier Division Armthorpe Welfare. Rossington have also been bouyed by the return of forward Neil Holmes who returns to the olliery after a brief spell with Selby Town.

Saturday 6th December; Colliery Leave The Brewers Hungover

Having been denied an overdue win by the elements at Brighouse last Saturday the Colliery returned to league action at Oxford Street determined to put an end to their recent barren run.

So determined were they that it took just five minutes for Rossington to take the lead; Sean Nicholls worked well down the left and his cross was controlled by Bradley Billam in the area and subsequently stroked home. Rossington looked in control for the duration of the first half but in stoppage time Albion found a way back into the game when Tom Deighton was left unmarked to head home a left wing cross and level the scores.

Quarter of an hour into the second half the Colliery regained the lead as Billam creatyed an opening only to see his effort saved by the visitors' keeper, however Carl Hastie was on hand to slot home the rebound from six yards. For the first time in months home managers Ian Wilson and Rob Burton had a full contigent to choose from, and this was being reflected by the Colliery as they controlled much of the game. That said, it still took a goal-line clearance from the head of Daniel Lodge to prevent Tadcaster from equalising fifteen minutes from time.

With a minute to go Rossington wrapped up the points as substitute Michael MacDonald latched onto a long clearance from keeper Jonjo Griffiths and slotted past the Albion keeper for 3-1. Late in injury time the home side had the chance to extend their lead as the Albion keeper brought down James Batchelor with the Rossington forward in on goal. With the keeper dismissed for a second booking Tadcaster striker Kevin Smith took over between the sticks and the stand-in keeper saved Matty Lodge's spot-kick and the gme ended 3-1.

Team (4-4-2); Jonjo Griffiths; Danny Lodge, Rob Burton, David Holvey, Craig Morton (Ryan Shelton); Carl Hastie, Andy Culshaw, Matty Lodge, Sean Nicholls (James Batchelor), Jason Stokes, Bradley Billam (Michael MacDonald)
booked: Rob Burton, James Batchelor

Saturday 29th November; Rossington Fogged Off at Brighouse

More disappointment for the Colliery in West Yorkshire as they lose another lead. However, this time it was down to elements beyond their control. With Colliery leading 1-0 at half-time the match at St Giles Road was abandoned, due to the conditions, and so Rossington remain firmly in the division's bottom two.

Wednesday 26th November; Hallam End Colliery Cup Hopes

This season is now all about the league for the Colliery after they exited the Nothern Counties East League Cup at the hands of Premier League Hallam FC. Despite their clear underdog status going into this game it was the Colliery who took the lead at Sandygate as Sean Nicholls put Main in front inside the opening quarter of an hour.

However, before the first half was out the home side had brought themselves back into contention with an equaliser just after the half hour mark. Graham Clayton levelling the scores for the Countrymen. In the second half the Premier Division pushed on and asserted the divisional status quo with two further goals. Liam Allot put the home side 2-1 up ten minutes after the restart and then with just over ten minutes remaining James Tevendale struck to make it 3-1 and ensure Hallam's progression into the third round.

Saturday 22nd November; Grim Afternoon for Colliery Against Borough

Its now eight games without a win for the Colliery after they suffered their second successive 5-1 league defeat. After last weekend's loss in Nottinghamshire Rossington slumped again to a nap hand on their return home as Grimsby Borough ran in five goals of their own in front of a disappointing crowd of 32 at Oxford Street.

A goalless first quarter was followed by something of a goal glut in the run up to half time as the meagre home crowd were treated to five goals in the space of twenty-two minutes. Sadly for the Doncastrians in the ground four of those strikes wnet the way of the visitors as Borough opend the scoring with a goal from Kevin King. Two minutes later they doubled their lead with a goal from Richard Belding. As the half approached its close Rossington fought their way back into the game with a goal from James Batchelor on 38 minutes. However, Belding struck again with two goals in two minutes before the interval to complete his own hat-trick and put the visitors 4-1 ahead.

That lead was to prove enough for Grimsby as the match held just one more goal before it was out.; Lewis Brookthorpe scoring eighteen minutes into the second half to round off the scoring and secure another frustrating weekend for the Colliery.

Saturday 15th November; Rainworth Pour Goals on the Colliery

After six games without a win the Colliery looked to have made the perfect start to end that run as Ryan Shelton found the net after just eight minutes to put Rossington in front against Rainworth MW. However, that lead was to prove very short-lived as within a minute the Nottinghamshire side had levelled the score as Ian Streather struck an almost instant reply.

Quarter of an hour after falling behind Rainworth were in front themselves as James Whitehead scored The Wrens' second goal. On the half hour mark the home side then doubled their lead as Julian McDonald put them 3-1 ahead in front of a crowd of 62 at the Welfare Ground. In the second half Rainworth went on to produce a similar brace of goals inside six minutes to wrap up all three points. McDonald scored his secod of the game on 70 minutes and then Malc Brown rounded of the scoring with the visitors' fifth goal.

Saturday 8th November; Pontefract Have Edge in Colliery Battle

After battling it out with Rossington to avoid finishing at the foot of division last season Pontefract are enjoying a much different season this term. Now the Colls are challenging at the other end of the table and they arrived in Rossington having won eight of their last ten matches. That run of form looked set to continue in South Yorkshire as they took the lead just three minutes in through Michael Long.

Trailing early on Rossington matched their opponents for the rest of the game in front of a crowd of 60 at Oxford Street. However, they failed to level the scores and with eight minutes to go the visitors wrapped up the points. An 82nd minute goal from Mark Lafferty giving the Colls and unasailable 2-0 lead.

Wednesday 5th November; Tigers Earn Their Stripes at Sandy Lane

Alas no fireworks from the Colliery, but they certainly were not burnt out as they took on Worksop Town of the Unibond Premier League in the Sheffield and Hallamshire Cup. Against a team ranked sixty places above them in the non-league pyramid, Colliery may have feared the worst as they made the trip south to Sandy Lane but they gave an impressive account of themselves against the Tigers.

In front of a small crowd for their hosts, with just 52 present under the lights, Rossington went down to just a single goal. The Colliery matched their hosts for the majority of the game, but with just quarter of an hour to go a goal from Paul Stansfield put the Unibond League side into the next round.

Saturday 1st November; Colliery Bogged Down at Marsh Lane

The weather puts paid to the Colliery's weekend action as a waterlogged pitch at The Euronics Ground, Marsh Lane means that their match at Barton Town Old Boys is postponed. The rest could do Rossington good as their next match out sees them travel to Sandy Lane to face Northern Premier League Worksop Town.

Saturday 25th October; Colliery Pick Off Appleby for a Point

After back to back 4-1 defeats in the league and a disappointing extra-time cup upset in mid-week the Colliery picked up a much needed point with a home draw against Appleby Frodringham. Although weather conditions were not great at Oxford Street, with only a crowd of 45 braving the wind, those present witnessed a fairly entertaining match.

Rossington got off to the perfect start as they took the lead inside the opening two minutes; Lee Holmes latching on to a short back-pass to slot the ball past the Appleby keeper for 1-0. In fact Rossington could have been out of sight by half-time but the visitors' keeper continued to frustrate Holmes with a succession of good stops. There were further chances for Matthew Lodge and Jason Stokes but neither could find a way past the Steelmen's keeper, and the visitors capitalised on Main's failure toa dd to their lead in first-half injury-time. Ryan Hibberd was allowed to pounce on a loose ball in the Colliery goalmouth and he found the top corner to equalise.

After an entertaining first half the second was much less action packed as Appleby did just enough to contain the Colliery forwards, whilst Main's back-line also proved solid. A welcome point for the Colliery though, as they get set to travel to the banks of the Humber next Staurday and a touch match with Barton Town Old Boys.

Saturday 18th October; Red Cards Cost Colliery at Emley

Rossington Main's first Saturday away match of the season proved to be a frustrating affair as they ended this fixture at Emley trailing by three goals and two men. As with last Saturay's match against Scarborough Rossington started brightly and they took the lead ten minutes in when captain Michael MacDonald struck his first goal of the season.

However it all started to go wrong for Colliery ten minutes before the break when goalkeeper Lee Appleby was adjudged to have handled the ball outside his area and the referee gave him his marching orders. Down to ten men with an outfield player deputising in goal it was already set to be a tough afternoon for Rossington when they lost another player two minutes before the break. Matthew Lodge was dismissed for dissent although he, and the Colliery side, felt particularly agreived that the referee had failed to spot what appeared a blatant foul in the lead up to Lodge's dismissal.

Down to nine men, the Colliery did well to hold out until the fifty-second minute before conceding an equaliser as Anthony Leech levelled the scores. Still, the remaining Rossington players dug in and managed to last until thirteen minutes from time before falling behind as Steven Kenworthy gave the home side the lead. With Rossington's will broken, Emley added two more goals in the closing ten minutes as Kenworthy went on to complete his hat-trick and give Emley a 4-1 win.

Friday 17th October; Rossington Finally Travel Away When Saturday Comes

More than two months into the season Rossington Main make their first Saturday away trip of the season this Saturday as they travel to take on AFC Emley at The Welfare Ground. We have been advised by AFC Emley that their new social club is now located inside the ground, and is NOT The Wentworth situated at the ground entrance. The social club is open from midday on match days and throughout the match.

For those driving to West Yorkshire, directions are as follows from Junction 38 on the M1. Travel on road signposted Huddersfield through the village of Bretton to the first roundabout. Take first exit off this roundabout signposted Denby Dale. After approximately one mile turn right at road signposted Emley. After 2 miles enter the village of Emley. Entrance to ground is opposite a white bollard in centre of road. (Narrow entrance).

Saturday 11th October; Seagulls Swoop to Defeat The Colliery

Disappointment for the Colliery as they were over turned by promotion chasing Scarborough Athletic at Oxford Street in front of the biggest home crowd of the season thus far. A crowd of just under 200 saw the Colliery take a 1-0 lead into the break against the well supported Athletic side. However Main's first half efforts were undone in a devastating eighteen minute spell for the visitors just after half-time as Scarborough came from 1-0 down to win the match 4-1.

Rossington's opening goal came courtesy of Nathan Millington just ten minutes before the break, stunning the travelling support, especially as Athletic had won their previous eight away matches before coming to South Yorkshire. It was probably that statistic which rallied the visitors as within three minutes of the restart they were level thanks to a goal from David Hartas; his strike the first of three goals in eight minutes which turned the match on its head.

Once level it took Scarborough just four minutes to take the lead as Ryan Blott struck on fifty-two minutes, and within a further four minutes he had his second goal to put Scarborough 3-1 up. An uphill task became even more of a challenge when Blott completed his hat-trick to grab Scarborough's fourth goal in the 66th minute. Athletic saw out the victory from that point, a result which leaves Rossington in the bottom three.

Tuesday 7th October; Rossington See Out Harworth CI.

Rossington faced Doncastrian opponents in a cup tie at Oxford Street for the second time in four days at Oxford Street, but unlike Saturday they had much more cause to celebrate. After Saturday's FA Vase defeat to Brodsworth Welfare of the NCEL Premier Division Rossington bounced back in an even more local derby as Central Midlands Supreme Division Harworth C.I. made the short trip up Stripe Road for this Sheffield & Hallamshire County Cup tie.

Harworth may be a division lower than Rossington Main, but they were sure to be no push-overs as a side yet to experience defeat this season arrived at Oxford Street with thoughts of an upset clearly on their mind. However it was the home side who looked much more determined from kick-off and subsequently Rossington established a two goal lead inside the opening quarter of an hour.

Nathan Fraser opened the scoring for Rossington on twelve minutes as he slid in at the far post just in time to meet a right wing cross from Lee Holmes. Within two minutes Holmes had turned from provider to scorer as he turned in Rossington's second goal with a well struck shot from the edge of the area. Harworth were not dead and buried by any means and looked to force a way back into it, however the tie was won in first half injury time as Main made it 3-0 when Jason Stokes received the ball on the edge of the area and fired into the bottom corner.

That was how the match finished but it could have been an even more convincing night for Main as Andy Culshaw had a penalty svaed on seventy-one minutes and in a late scramble in the dying minutes Lee Holmes had a shot blocked on the line and Gary Munday fired the loose ball against the crossbar. Still, an encouraging win for Rossington adn a welcome confidence boost ahead of this Saturday's league match with Scarborough Athletic.

Team (4-4-2): Lee Appleby; Craig Morton, Andy Culshaw, Bradley Billups, Carl Hastie; Nathan Millington, Matthew Lodge, Michael MacDonald, Nathan Fraser; Jason Stokes (Gary Munday), Lee Holmes
unused subs: David Holvey, Cross

Saturday 4th October; Rossington Taken Out of Vase by Brodsworth

This game had been billed as the return of former manager Richard Sennett to where he had toiled for many years to keep a young side in the NCEL. However, as the Brodsworth players began to filter into the ground there was news that ‘Richard was not feeling too well so he would not be coming’. So alas the game had to soldier on without him.

Rossington kicked off with a blustery wind at their backs and with only 9 minutes on the clock they had the first shot on target. Nathan Fraser collected the ball, composed himself and from a full 30 yards out let loose a ferocious shot that was destined for the top corner only for the visiting keeper pull off an equally outstanding save. Colliery built on this chance and kept the ball well limiting Brodsworth to playing the long ball over the top that was easily dealt with by the defence. Twenty minutes in and the home side got their reward as they broke the deadlock. Lee Holmes threaded an inch perfect ball through the Brodsworth backline and Nathan Fraser beat the offside trap to round the keeper.

As the half closed the wind picked up and would be to Brodsworth's advantage in the second period. Indeed the Premier Division side Brodsworth looked to take advatnage of this early in the second half as they pushed for an equaliser. On the hour mark they drew level, but it was in more fortuatous circumstances than they could have imagined. Gavin Cooper lofted a hopeful ball in to the area only for home keeper Lee Appleby to spill an unchallenged catch and see the ball trickle over the line.

Back level the visitors continued their momentum and a devastating eight minute spell saw the Premier Division side ease through into the 2nd Round. Liam Wilkin put the visitors in front after 69 minutes as he turned in a cross at the near post after good work down the Brodsworth left. Within three minutes the visitors had doubled their advantage as former Doncaster Rovers player Darren Fell was left unmarked in the Colliery penalty area and he headed home. The spell was completed as Wilkin secured his second goal, hooking the ball just inside Appleby's post.

Rossington Main manager Ian Wilson made a number of changes in an attempt to bring his side back in the game, but unfortunaetley the side failed to settle and return to their encouraging first half performance. A decent crowd of 110 watched this Doncastrian derby, but alas the strength in numbers seemed to rally the away side more than the home team.

Team (4-4-2); Lee Appleby; Carl Hastie, Andy Culshaw, David Holvey, Rob Burton; Nathan Millington, Nathan Fraser (Matthew Lodge), Michael MacDonald, Jason Stokes (Craig Morton); Gary Mundy (Jonathan Billups), Lee Holmes
unused sub: Ryan Shelton

Saturday 27th September; Colliery Look Professional Against Amateurs

After last weekend's return to winning ways in the FA Vase, The Colliery continued the good form to notch a second successive victory at Oxford Street. The victims this week were Leeds based Yorkshire Amateurs as Rossington acheived their second win of the season with a 2-0 victory in front of a crowd of 55.

A clinical five minute spell either side of half-time finished off the Amateurs as Rossington struck just at the right time to secure a much needed three points. Jason Stokes opened the scoring as he grabbed his first goal since the pre-season friendly with Mexborough Main Street to give Main the lead two minutes before half-time. And within three minutes of the restart Colliery had doubled their advantage as top scorer Lee Holmes struck his ninth goal of the season.

Two goals proved to be enough for Main, and they'll take their new found confidence back into the Cup next weekend as they face Premier Division Brodsworth Welfare in the first round proper of the FA Vase.

Saturday 20th September; Colliery Mow Down Daisy in the Vase

Rossington Main put disappointing league form behind them to progress to the 3rd qualifying round of the FA Vase at home to Daisy Hill. The Colliery looked more determined from the start against the Vodkat North West Counties League side and took the lead just four minutes in. Carl Hastie's excellent long pass found Lee Holmes on the right and the striker cut inside and lobbed the Daisy Hill keeper from all of twenty-five yards.

Although already a goal up Rossington refused to take their foot off the gas and almost doubled their lead as Holmes struck the post and Jason Stokes tested the keeper with a decent long range strike. Stokes had a good shout for a penalty too as he was bundled to the ground in the visitors' box, but the referee waved play on. However the Colliery faced a scare on the stroke of half-time as centre half David Holvey was sent off for pulling back a Daisy Hill forward who had managed to break free on goal.

Despite being down to ten men the Colliery continued to move the ball well in the second half and they added to their lead midway through the second half as Gary Munday was brought down in the box and the referee pointed to the spot. Up stepped Lee Holmes and the forward cooly slotted home the kick to make it 2-0, a scoreline that Colliery never looked in danger of losing hold of as they closed out the game.

The victory sets up a home tie against near neighbours Brodsworth MW on Saturday 5th October. The all Doncastrian 3rd qualifying round tie will also see the club renew acquaintances with former manager Richard Sennett who is now in charge at Broddy.

Tuesday 16th September; Two Goals for Tevie Sink Colliery

The Colliery returned to losing ways all too quickly after Saturday's home draw with Worsborough as they went down 2-0 in a midweek fixture at Teversal. A goal in each half was enough to give Tevie the victory in front of a decent midweek crowd of 78 at Carnarvon Street.

Jamie Smith gave the home side the initiative midway through the first half as his 24th minute strike put Teversal in control of the game. And the home side struck the killer blow one minute into the second half as Michael Lyall doubled the home side's lead with a superb strike.

The defeat keeps Colliery in the bottom four in NCEL Division One, and Rossington will no doubt be looking forward to the prospect of a break from their league from with Saturday's FA Vase tie with Daisy Hill.

Saturday 13th September; Worsborough Bridged at Oxford Street

The Colliery finally ended the goal drought that had seen them go four matches without hitting the net, but they had to wait almost a full ninety minutes to level the scores with Worsborough Bridge Athletic. A last minute strikme by Lee Holmes brought to an end seven and a half hours of football without a goal for the Colliery as the forward broke from the halfway line to round the keeper and secure amuch needed point for Main.

The result may have been even better for Colliery as Lee Holmes got his head onto an injury time corner only for the ball to strike the post. Instead, a game of few genuine chances ended all square. The visitors had taken the lead after half an hour as Lee Gartside arrived at the far post just in time to turn in a left wing cross. However, Worsborough never really came close to adding to their lead and Rossington had been a little unlucky not to be level at the break as Jason Stokes' shot was turned onto the post.

In the second half Colliery brought on two new signings and subsequently looked a little more forceful in attack. Nathan Millington, signed from Retford United under 19s brought a freshness to the midfield while Gary Munday, previously of Carcroft Village FC impressed with his willingness to run at the experienced Athletic defence. In the end Main had to settle for a point, but hopefully it is something to build on in the coming weeks.

Saturday 6th September; Doncastrian Derby Defeat for The Colliery

Rossington Main continued their recent goal drought with home defeat in the Doncastrian Derby fixture against new NCEL side Askern Villa. Oxford Street's first three figure crowd of the competitive season witnessed the league new boys take the initiative late in the second half to secure a 3-0 victory.

The first half had been devoid of goalmouth action, but the game thankfully came alive after the break. Rossington's Lee Holmes was first to threaten as he had a chance cleared off the line just after the hour mark. Villa then threatened themselves with an effort that struck the post before the hosts hit the woodwork themselves midway through the half as Jason Stokes effort was touched onto the upright by the Askern keeper.

With quarter of an hour to go the deadline was finally broken as a long ball over the top put the Askern forwards in on goal and Tom McLaughlin made no mistake to give Villa the lead. Within four minutes Lee Wilkinson doubled the visitors advantage with a well palced shot from twelve yards and as the home side tried to find a way back into the match Askern wrapped up the points with a third goal in stoppage time; Mickey Evans beating the offside trap to slot home and complete the scoring.

Rossington Main line-up (4-4-2): Lee Appleby; Craig Morton, Lee Holmes, Rob Burton, David Holvey; Sean Anderson (Nathan Fraser), Carl Hastie, Andrew Culshaw, Jason Stokes; James Batchelor, Lee Robinson (Neil Brown)
unused sub: Nathan Hill
booked: Neil Brown

Wednesday 3rd September; Staveley Stave Off Colliery

A disappointing midweek trip to Derbyshire brought Rossington their fourth straight defeat in their opening league away game. Three first half goals for the home side did the damage to Rossington as Staveley secured a 3-0 victory at ? to leave the Colliery edging toward the foot of the table.

It took Staveley twenty minutes to open the scoring as Ryan Damms gave the home side the lead. The same player was on target again as the hosts made the match secure in two disastrous minutes for Main just before the break. Damms forty-third minute strike was quickly followed by a Danile Payne goal on the stroke of half-time to give Staveley an unassailable 3-0 lead, which is how it remained at full-time.

Saturday 30th August; Rossington Beaten by Brighouse

Another disappointing day for Rossington Main as they suffered their third successive defeat. New Northern Counties East League side Brighouse Town were the latest victors at Oxford Street, the 2-0 win for this visitors leaving Main 16th in Division One with just three points from a possible twelve thus far.

Brighouse took the lead after half an hour of play when they sprung the Rossington offside trap and a cross from the right was turned in from six yards by Wayne Crossley at the far post. Chances were few and far between in the rest of the half, although the visitors were only the width of the post away from doubling their lead. The Colliery on the other hand created little, but can feel a little hard done by to not receive anything from a couple of penalty appeals.

In the second half chances continued to be fleeting as the home side looked to find away into the game, but again it was Brighouse who came closest to altering the score only to be denied by the goalpost for a second time. Frustrations grew for the home side as they received three bookings in the last half hour, and with time running out the visitors finally dealt the killer blow; Jermaine Manners scoring the second goal from the edge of the area.

Rossington Main line-up (4-4-2): Tim Whitehouse; Craig Morton, Lee Holmes, David Holvey Neil Brown; Jason Stokes (Michael MacDonald), Chris Burton, Matthew Lodge, William McGhie; Andy Culshaw, Lee Robinson (James Batchelor)
unused sub: Adam Baker
booked: Craig Morton, Andrew Culshaw, David Holvey, James Batchelor

Saturday 23rd August; Colliery Carved Open by Carnegie

A disastrous afternoon at Oxford Street for 'the Colliery' as they get emphatically hit for six by the students of Leeds Carnegie. After an impressive victory over Bottesford and a keen fightback in last Sunday's FA Cup exit at Runcorn the signs had looked encouraging for Rossington, but instead they were simply blown away by Leeds Carnegie in a very disappointing 6-0 win for the visitors.

It took Leeds until midway through the first half to make the breakthrough, as Alex Smith grabbed Carnegie's opening goal after 23 minutes. However, they took just three more minutes to double their advantage as a Nathan Hill own goal made it 2-0 to the visitors a scoreline that remained intact until half-time.

After the break however Carnegie continued where they left off as Scott McGrory scored their third goal seven minutes into the second half. Kyle Hawthorne made it 4-0 on the hour mark, before McGrory added his second goal after 72 minutes. The final goal came with ten minutes to go as Smith rounded off the scoring with his second strike to complete an afternoon that the Colliery, and the crowd of 65 will want to forget quickly.

Sunday 17th August; Rossington Fall at First Hurdle in FA Cup

Rossington Main's FA Cup dreams were put on hold for another year after they exited this season's competition at the first hurdle, going down 3-2 at the hands of Runcorn Linnets. The Vodkat North West Counties League side made a first half lead count as they progressed from the Extra Preliminary Round at the Colliery's expense.

After a two hour trip across the Penines a downpour an hour before the game threatened to force a postponement, but thankfully as the teams came out so did the sun. Rossington were in command for the first twenty minutes of the match, limiting their hosts to an early shot which was tipped onto the bar by Jonjo Griffiths. However, as the half drew on Runcorn got themselves into the game and began to create a number of chances. The deadlock was eventually broken just after the half-hour mark when poor defending allowed Dave Thompson to shoot low to the keepers right for opening goal.

Just six minutes later the Linnets had doubled their advantage when Michael Morrison latched onto a right wing cross to volley home the home side's second goal. And on the stroke of half-time two became three when Nehru McKenzie climbed highest to hammer home a header from a corner, leaving Main a very uphill task for the second period.

That said the match resumed with the Colliery once again in command having made a few tactical changes at the interval. Just after the hour the visitors were rewarded as Lee Holmes cut in from the right and his shot took a slight deflection to fly past the helpless keeper and put Rossington right back in the match. The Colliery continued to apply the pressure, but had to wait until injury time to capitalise on their chances. Matthew Lodge controlled a Craig Morton near post corner then fired his shot into the roof of the net to offer a glimmer of hope to the visitors and set up a nervy ending. However, it was not to be and shortly after the re-start the referee blew his whistle for the end of the match.

Rossington Main line-up (4-4-2); Jonjo Griffiths; Carl Hastie (Craig Morton 63'), Nathan Hill, Rob Burton, David Holvey (Jordan Pickering 36'); Sean Anderson (Jonathan Billups 73'), Michael MacDonald, Matthew Lodge, Shaun Pendleton; Andrew Culshaw, Lee Holmes
unused subs: Jonathan Cooke; Tim Whitehouse.

Photos from this match can be found on Pete Murden's Rossington Main photo site: www.freewebs.com/rossopix

Tuesday 12th August; Back to Winning Ways Over Bottesford

If you want to see goals then you could do little worse than head to Oxford Street at the moment, the home of Rossington Main has already hosted eleven goals in its opening two league games. After Saturday's disappointing opening day 4-1 defeat to new boys Hemsworth, The Colliery bounced back in emphatic style with a 4-2 victory over Bottesford Town.

Rossington took the lead quarter of an hour in as Lee Holmes was quickest to react as the Bottesford keeper spilled a long range effort from Andy Culshaw. However within minutes the vistitors had struck back, as Rossington keeper Jonjo Griffiths managed to get his hand to a cross only to divert it into the path of Jamie Sherlock who tapped the ball home for the equaliser. Two minutes later and still just twenty minutes into the game and the home side were back in front as Culshaw rose highest to head home a cross from Holmes for 2-1, which is how things remained until the second half.

On the hour mark Rossington managed to edge further in front of the hosts as Holmes punced on a loose backpass and rounded the keeper to give the Colliery a two goal cushion. This match was far from over though and twelve minutes from time Mike Nicholson struck to set up a tense conslusion, beating the Main offside trap to make it 3-2. Eight minutes later though Rossington wrapped up the points as Holmes got the faintest of touches onto a Shaun Pendleton free-kick to complete his hat-trick and secure the victory.

Rossington Main line-up (4-4-2); Jonjo Griffiths; Carl Hastie (Jordan Pickering 83'), Nathan Hill, Rob Burton, David Holvey; Michael MacDonald (c), Chris Burton, Matthew Lodge, Shaun Pendleton; Andrew Culshaw (Jonathan Billups 78'), Lee Holmes
unused sub: Bradley Billam

Photos from this match can be found on Pete Murden's Rossington Main photo site: www.freewebs.com/rossopix

Saturday 9th August; Disappointing Derby Defeat for Colliery

The Colliery suffered a disasterous defeat in the opening match of the new North East Counties League season to begin the campaign at the foot of the table. In the Yorkshire derby against league newcomers Hemsworth MW Rossington suffered a 4-1 defeat at Oxford Street, conceding four goals at home for the second successive game.

Hemsworth, coming off the back of an impressive pre-season campaign, adapted to their new league surroundings with ease taking the lead inside quarter of an hour; the Oxford Street regulars silenced by Damion Liddle's opening goal for the visitors. Just before the half hour mark Hemsworth had doubled there advantage as Liddle struck again to give the former West Riding League side a 2-0 lead at the break.

After the interval the vistors continued where they had left off and within six minutes of the restart Liddle completed an opening hat-trick to make it 3-0, before Gary Welka ran in a fourth goal for Hemsworth three minutes later. Rossington looked to find a way back into the match and were rewarded briefly when Lee Holmes struck just after the hour mark, however it was to prove simply a consolation goal for Main as they sunk to a disappointing 4-1 defeat.

Rossington Main line-up (4-4-2); Tim Whitehouse (c); Carl Hastie, Jonathan Cooke (Nathan Hill 63'), Rob Burton, Shaun Pendleton; Matthew Lodge, William McGhie, Michael MacDonald (Chris Burton 76'), David Holvey; Andrew Culshaw, Lee Holmes.
unused sub: Bradley Billam

Photos from this match can be found on Pete Murden's Rossington Main photo site: www.freewebs.com/rossopix

Saturday 2nd August; Amateurs Rout Rossington

After the encouraging showings against more illustrious opponenets in recent weeks The Colliery's pre-season preperations ended disasterously in the early August sunshine with a 4-0 home defeat to Hollinsend Amateurs. Despite having much more of the ball than their Sheffield County Senior League opponents Rossington failed to move it well and could not capitalise on their posession. Somewhat inevitably the visitors took the lead, scoring from the penalty spot after a Main arm had blocked a left wing cross.

After the break things got even worse for the home side as Hollinsend scrambled in a second goal just two minutes in. Rossington rallied a little with the strikeforce of Lee Holmes and Andrew Culshaw both coming close, but as Main's frustrations grew the visitors reshaped. With Hollinsend getting men behind the ball Rossington could not break their opponents down and the Amateurs added to their tally as a quick break away led to another penalty. In the clsoing minutes Hollinsend added a fourth goal on a disappointing afternoon for The Colliery. It can only get better for the start of the league campaign in one week's time.

Thursday 31st July; FA Cup tie Switched

Rossington Main will now have to wait twenty-fours longer than expected before they embark on the road to Wembley this year. The Colliery's FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round tie at Runcorn Linnets has now been moved back one day from Saturday 16th, to Sunday 17th August. The date change is due to the fact that the Linnets currently ground share with Witton Albion of the Unibond League, and as such Albion's fixture with Frickley Athletic takes priority. The match will remain at a 3pm kick-off.

Friday 25th July; Colliery End Stag Night all Tied Up

Rossington main continued an encouraging pre-season schedule with a creditable 2-2 draw against a Mansfield Town XI. With the Blue Square Premier side facing Derby County on the Saturday it was a Stags side made up mostly of youth and reserve team players that came to Oxford Street, however the professionals were given a run for their money by an eager Rossington side.

Indeed the Colliery took the lead as Lee Holmes continued his pres-season scoring form with the opening goal twenty minutes in. Holmes' strike instigated a flurry of goalmouth activity and within two minutes the Stags were level as Grant Ryan equalised. Ryan doubled his tally, and that of his team within just five minutes as Mansfield took the lead on the 27th minute mark.

Rossington Main refused to roll over though and with just thirteen minutes remaining they grabbed a deserved equaliser; midfielder Chris Burton grabbing his second goal of pre-season to level the match at 2-2. Thats how it finished in what proved to be a worthwhile exercise for the Colliery watched by a reasonabvle crowd of 67 at Oxford Street.

Photos from this match can be found on Pete Murden's Rossington Main photo site: www.freewebs.com/rossopix

Friday 18th July; Colliery Upset the Odds with Victory Over Wakefield

The Colliery picked up their second and most impressive victory of their pre-season preperations with a 2-1 win over Unibond League side Wakefield FC at Oxford Street. Rossington Main seem to be relishing these Friday night kick-offs and they sealed a memorable victory in the closing minutes with a last minute penalty from Andrew Culshaw ensuring a 2-1 home win.

After holding their Unibond League opponents for the first half the Colliery took the lead midway through the second half as striker Lee Holmes found the net. However, within five minutes Wakefield were level as Chris Howarth struck for the visitors to make it 1-1. The crowd of 65 were to be treated to some late drama though in the form of Culshaw's late penalty kick which gave a yound Colliery side a very positive victory.

Tuesday 15th July; Badgers Set the Standard in Colliery's Third Friendly

Rossington Main sunk to their second pre-season defeat at Oxford Street against Unibond League Retford United. All the goals came in the first half as The Badgers showed their credentials to record a 3-1 win. However 'The Colliery' can take some heart from the performance, particularly as, like the Doncaster game a week ago, it was they who took the lead. Andrew Culshaw converting a 16th minute penalty to give Colliery a 1-0 lead.

However Main held the lead for less than ten minutes as Luke Staton equalised for the visitors midway through the half. Retford moved in front after thirty-three minutes when Paul Grimes struck, and the scoring was completed two minutes before the break as Steve Owens made it 3-1.

Monday 14th July; Stag Day Becomes Stag Night for Mansfield Game

The date of Rossington's pre-season clash with a Mansfield Town XI has been moved back to its original listing. The Blue Square Conference side will now visit Oxford Street on Friday 25th July and not Saturday 26th as previously listed. The Friday night match will be a 7:30pm kick-off.

Friday 11th July; Rossington Streets Ahead in Second Friendly Outing

There may have been something of a feeling of 'after the Lord Mayors' Show' about this second friendly outing for 'the Colliery. Just two days after the hype and attention of Doncaster Rovers' visit Rossington faced the slightly less daunting challenge of Mexborough Main Street in what proved to be another rain soaked night at Oxford Street. However, despite having played just forty-eight hours earlier the Colliry put in a convincing performance to defeat their Sheffield County Senior League opponents 4-1.

Manager Ian Wilson gave trials to two new players on the night with former goalkeeper Neil Murray returning for a spell between the sticks, and defender Steve Hill also offered a chance to impress. However the goals came courtesy of a few more familiar faces; Wednesday's scorer Lee Holmes grabbed his second goal in two outings, whilst Jason Stokes managed to get a brace and midfielder Chris Burton rounded off the victory.

Wednesday 9th July; Rovers Show Championship Class in Successful Friendly

In the run-up to this match manager Ian Wilson was interviewed by Trax FM and asked if it was an honour to be playing Doncaster Rovers given their recent success. "It would have been an honour when they were in the Conference," was Ian's reply, "now they're in the Championship it's an absolute privilege". Since the announcement of this fixture a fortnight ago Oxford Street has undergone a massive transformation in order to get it ready for it's first four figure crowd in over fifteen years.

The key factor in Rovers' decision to come to Rossington was the quality of the playing surface, however the rest of the ground was in a very poor state as recently as last week. However, thanks to the tireless work of the committee and a number of local volunteers the ground has been transformed, in parts rebuilt, and almost completely repainted ready for Doncaster Rovers first outing since their Wembley play-off win. It was certainly a come down for the Rovers players, but it could have been an even bigger one a week or do ago.

The hasty ground improvements may have given 'The Colliery' a slight edge in the opening minutes, the air of paint fumes still lingering in the away team dressing room perhaps culpable for Rovers slightly woozy start. Against a close to full-strength Rovers starting eleven Michael MacDonald had already struck the bar from the right flank before 'The Colliery' took a surprise lead as Lee Holmes shot found its way past Rovers' Ben Smith.

Rovers may have only been back training a couple of days but they soon found their gear to put in a near unstoppable display for the rest of the half. Swift passing and great movement helping Doncaster to get much the better of The Colliery as they turned the tables to run in six goals before the break; James Hayter, Jamie Coppinger, Paul Heffernan and Mark Wilson grabbing a goal each with Martin Woods cliaming two, his second a delightful chip over goalkeeper Tim Whitehouse.

In the second half both sides made changes but there was no let up in Rovers play as Welsh international Gareth Taylor added a seventh. There was brief glory to be had though for Colliery keeper as Rovers were awarded a penalty midway through the half. Wade Fairhurst took the spot-kick, but Lee Appleby guessed right, making a fine save low to his right. Rovers were still not done though and Taylor added two more, completing his hat-trick with a well taken solo goal to round off a 9-1 win for Rovers.

The fact is though the result of this match was never the important factor; Ian Wilson said he would be satisfied if the team kept it in single figures which they did. As effective as the gate receipts will be for the season ahead the main thing tonight's match did was restore some pride in Rossington Main as a village club, and hopefully many of those who were at Oxford Street tonight will return again in the season ahead.

Pictures from tonight's match can be found via this link.

Tuesday 8th July; Colliery to Kick-off Against League New-boys Hemsworth

'The Colliery' will start the league season with a home fixture against Northern Counties East League newcomers Hemsworth MW. The West Yorkshire side will visit Oxford Street on Saturday 9th August for their opening Division One fixture after entering the NCEL from the West Riding League where they finished fourth last season. This match is followed with another home tie for 'The Colliery' three days later as Bottesford Town come to Rossington on Tuesday 12th August.

'The Colliery' could be sick of the sight of Oxford Street by mid September as after six home friendly matches they begin the league season with five of their opening six league fixtures here in Rossington. A midweek trip to Staveley on Wednesday 3rd September serves as the Colliery's first league away game. With another midweek away match at Teversal a fortnight later Rossington have to wait until the 4th October for their first Saturday afternoon away game, when they'll travel to face Pontefract Collieries.

The club's first Doncaster league derby for some time comes on Saturday 6th September when Central Midlands League Champions Askern Villa come to Oxford Street, with the return match scheduled for Saturday 28th March. The Colliery finish the season unsurprisingly on the road, travelling to Tadcaster Albion on 25th April. Full fixtures will be available on this site from Thursday this week.

Friday 4th July; FA Cup Draw sees Colliery 'Linnet' to Win it

The very long road to Wembley will begin at Wincham Park Stadium for 'The Colliery' after they were drawn away at Runcorn Linnets in the Extra Preliminary Round of this season's FA Cup. The Linnets were fromed as recently as 2006, by supporters of former Conference club Runcorn FC, and finished 12th in Division 1 of the Vodkat North West Counties League last season. The winners of this match, scheduled for Saturday 16th August, will go on to play Curzon Ashton of the Unibond 1st Division North in the Prelimiary Round.

Also drawn this week were the opening rounds of the FA Vase with Rossington given a favourable home tie in the 2nd Qualifying round. 'The Colliery' will host Daisy Hill of the Vodkat North West Counties League on Saturday 20th September. Daisy Hill, who come from Westhoughton situated between Leigh and Bolton, finished last season at the foot of NWCL Division 1. Should Rossington overcome 'the Cutters' then they will host the winners of NCEL Premier Division Brodsworth's match with Ashton Town of the North West Counties League.

Monday 30th June; Ticket News for Doncaster Rovers Friendly

With interest already high in Rossington Main's opening firednly fixture against Championship side Doncaster Rovers 'The Colliery' have announced that only 2,000 tickets will be on sale for the game. After discussions with Doncaster Rovers it has been agreed that the match will be an all-tikcet game with 1,700 tickets available at Doncaster Rovers' Keepmoat Stadium ticket office, and a further 300 on sale at the Rossington Welfare Club.

Rover's allocation went on sale this morning with their supporters also available to purchase tickets for their other friendly fixtures against Newcastle United and Bolton Wanderers. Rossington's allocation will be on sale on Tuesday 1st July between 6pm and 8pm and the Rossington Miners Welfare Club on West End Lane. Tickets cost £5 for adults and £2 for concessions with prrof of age required for those purchasing concession tickets.

'The Colliery' would like it to be know that there will be no parking either at the ground or on Oxford Street for supporters on the day of the game. Instead car-parking has been made available at the Miners Welfare on West End Lane, with overflow parking facilities available at Pheasant Bank Junior School, also on West End Lane. Rossington Main have also asked that all those attending the game respect local residents on their way to and from the fixture.

Tuesday 24th June; Rossington to face Doncaster Rovers at Oxford Street

Some great news for 'The Colliery' ahead of the coming season was confirmed yesterday evening with the confirmation that Championship side Doncaster Rovers are to face Rossington Main in a pre-season friendly. The Rovers will begin theirs, and Rossington's pre-season schedule at Oxford Street on Wednesday 9th July.

After searching the local area for a suitable pre-season fixture Rovers were reportedly delighted with the quality of the Oxford Street pitch, and so are likely to bring as strong a side as possible for this their opening friendly fixture of the season. Although there is still plenty of work do be done off the field at Oxford Street ahead of the coming season the news of this fixture is a welcome boost to the club.

Manager Ian Wilson commented; "This is fantastic news for the club, we've a lot of work to do in a short space of time to make the game happen, but such a friendly as this can really set the club up for the season". 'The Colliery' will be hoping for a bumper crowd at Oxford Street, particularly with interest in the Rovers high ahead of the coming season in view of their recent promotion to the Championship.

Monday 23rd June; New Season, New Opponents for Rossington

The Northern Counties East League held its AGM at the weekend, and on the agenda were the league structures for the 2008/09 season. As a result of the weekend's meeting 'The Colliery' now know that they will definately face at least six new sides in Division One this coming season, with the possibility of a seventh new side still to come. That possible seventh side is Halifax Town, with the Shaymen demoted out of the Conference this year due to finiancial difficulties. Halifax are expected to rejoin the pyramid in the Unibond First Division North, but to do so must provide the Unibond League with assurances of their financial situation by Tuesday this week.

The NCEL has now stated that should the Shaymen fail to provide the Unibond League with the assurances they need then they will be welcome to join the Northern Counties East League for the coming season. If this occured then Halifax would more than likely follow Scarborough Athletic into Division One, taking the league numbers from nineteen to twenty.

Aside from the Halifax issue six clubs have been confirmed as Division One clubs for the new season. Glasshoughton Welfare are arguably the only obvious inclusion in that group, relegated from the Premier Division, with Dinnington Town and Hall Road Rangers leaving the division the other way through promotion. Also joining the league are three sides from the Central Midlands League, including Champions Askern. The Doncaster side ran away with the Central Midlands League last season and have marked their step up the pyramid with a name change, becoming Askern Villa for the season ahead.

Two further CML sides will also make the move to the NCEL for the coming season with Lincolnshire sides Appleby Frodringham and Grimsby Borough invited into the league. Appleby's inclusion is perhaps the most ridiculous of the new side promotions, with the Scunthorpe based side finishing seventeenth in last season's CML Supreme Division, the Brigg based Grimsby Borough finished a slightly more impressive twelfth.

The remaining two additions have joined the league from the West Riding County Amateur League, but neither side finished with honours there. Hemsworth Miners Welfare were the better placed of the two new sides finishing in fourth place, whilst Brighouse Town finished a more disappointing tenth. It will be interesting to see how these new sides cope with the step up to the Northern Counties East League.

Monday 16th June; Rossington Announce Pre-Season Fixture List

Rossington Main have announced their friendly schedule ahead of the upcoming KoolSport Northern Counties East League season. The Colliery have confirmed five matches in the run up to the Saturday 9th August season start date with some choice matches against some quality opposition. The first match action for the Colliery is less than a month away as they face Mexborough Main Street of the Sheffield County Senior League at Oxford Street on Friday 11th July. It is the first of three Friday night matches as the club look to boost attendances.

The Colliery will follow their opening game up with two tough matches, firstly against Unibond First Division South Champions Retford United and then the second of those Friday fixtures against Unibond First Division North side Wakefield FC. The following Friday sees Rossington's highest profile match as they take on a Mansfield Town XI, The Stags having just been relegated to the Football Conference. The club complete their pre-season prepeartions with a match against another Sheffield County Senior League side facing Hollinsend Amateurs. The full pre-season list can be found below, all fixtures are to be played at Oxford Street;

Friday 11th July: Rossington Main vs Mexborough Main Street (7:00pm)

Tuesday 15th July: Rossington Main vs Retford United (7:30pm)

Friday 18th July: Rossington Main vs Wakefield FC (7:30pm)

Saturday 26th July: Rossington Main vs Mansfield Town XI (3pm)

Saturday 2nd August: Hollinsend Amateurs (3pm)

Saturday 17th May; New Club Sponsorship Packages Available

Rossington Main Football Club is under new management and keen to develop facilities and playing conditions for the three teams run by the club. We are desperate for sponsorship as currently the only form of income is gate receipts and the combined sports letter draw, the latter of which has diminished in recent years. We are considering grants to assist with ground development and youth development but running costs are high and the club needs an additional impetus and quickly. For the coming season the club are appealing for sponsorship to assist in our quest to have a team and a football club the community of Rossington will be proud of.

The following options are available for you or your company to consider:

Option 1; Pitchside Advertising Boards

Have your company advertised on display boards around the pitch for £300 a season. For this outlay you will also receive a regular half page advert in the matchday programme.

Option 2; Kit Sponsorship / Player Sponsorship

Full team kit with your company name printed on the shirts for £400. You can also sponsor an individual player for £70 (tracksuit, matchday holdall, warm up and training kit) or £40 (playing kit) and have your details displayed in the matchday programme.

Option 3; Match Day Sponsorship

We may not have luxury boxes to entertain business colleagues but £120 a home match gets free admission for four guests plus half-time and full-time refreshments.

Option 4; Programme Advertising

Advertise your company in the matchday programme. Match attendances are on the increase and we produce approximately twenty issues over the course of the season. £50 gurantees you a half page advert.

If none of the other options suit your needs feel free to discuss any custom built package with us. We can be an effective tool for promotion of your company or business to a captive audience throughout Yorkshire and the North Midlands.

If you are interested in taking up one of our many sponsorship packages for the season ahead please do not hesitate to contact us via the details listed at the foot of our club info page.

Saturday 26th April; Rossington End Victorious Over Victoria

Colliery may have been condemned to a bottom two finish as they took the field at Oxford Street, but they were to at least end the season as high note. Had results gone Main's way in the preceding weeks this could have been a 'winner-stays-up' showdown, but instead at stake was simply pride, and Rossington were able to end a much improved second half of the season positively with a 2-0 victory.

In a close encounter at Oxford Street a three minute spell either side of the interval proved crucial as young William McGhie struck twice for Colliery to secure the victory. His first goal coming on the stroke of half-time and his second, just three minutres after the break were enough to put the game beyond the Vics and let Colliery see out the season with a deserved 2-0 victory.

On paper Colliery's season looks a poor one; finishing second bottom with twenty-four points. However, the truth is this could be a revolutionary season for Rossington Main. Twenty-two of those points came under the new management regime of Wilson and Burton who took the helm with nineteen games to go. Had the club matched that form for the opening thirteen matches of the season then a much more comfortable twelth place would have been theirs.

And so the end of season high is not simply contained within this 2-0 victory instead it extends across the club as Rossington seek to establish a more professional set-up, and one which has local players and people at its heart.

Saturday 19th April; Colliery Undone by the Too Good Old Boys

The Colliery's aim of finishing outside the division's bottom two came to an end in emphatic fashion at Oxford Street, as a disasterous quarter of an hour midway through the second half helped Barton Town Old Boys to a 5-0 win. The defeat condemns Rossington to a sixteenth place finish in Division One as they sit six points behind Yorkshire Amateur with just one game remaining.

It was a disappointing afternoon for Colliery in every way with the heavy defeat inflicted in front of the club's lowest home league gate of the season. Just 30 spectators were on hand to see the Humberside team take their tally of goals against the Colliery to 12 for the season as they followed on February's 7-3 victory with a convincing 5-0 defeat. Despite the heavy scoreline the match began witha fairly even half and only Gareth Barlow's twenty-ninth minute strike seperated the sides at half-time.

In the second period though a devastating fifteen minute spell did for the home team, which began with Barlow doubling Barton's tally after sixty-one minutes. Four minutes later Matty McKay was on hand to make it 3-0, whilst Barlow completed his hat-trick just four minutes later to give the visitors a 4-0 lead with twenty-minutes to play. In this period though Barton added only one more, Tom Lee's 76th minute goal completing the scoreline.

As disappointing as this defeat is, Rossington can of course still take heart from a spirited second half of the season. Looking like eternal wooden spoonists with just two points at Christmas they have taken nineteen points since the festive period, including spirited performances against promotion challengers Bottesford Town and Gedling Town. Main will be looking to finish the season on a high at home to Borrowash next weekend and so have plenty to build upon over the summer months.

Saturday 12th April; Colliery Met Their Match at Leeds Carnegie

Rossington's hopes of climbing out of the bottom two took a significant knock with their first defeat in four games coming at the hands of Leeds Met Carnegie on Saturday. Needing a result of any kind other than a defeat to aid their survival hopes Main suffered the worst possible start at Throstles Nest as they went behind just two minutes in when Paul Harrison struck for the home side.

Within quarter of an hour Main were already facing a decidedly difficult uphill task when Kev Ryan doubled the home sides advantage with just quarter of an hour played. Rossington needed goals but had to wait until the second half to get on the score sheet when after an hour's play the referee awarded them a penalty. For the second succsessive game William McGhie tucked home the spot-kick hoping to kick-start a late rally by the Colliery.

Unfortunately though it was not to be for Rossington as the students held on for a 2-1 win. Defeat was made even worse for Rossington with the news that fifteenth place Yorkshire Amateur had picked up a 2-0 away win in their local derby at Tadcaster Albion. That result leaves Colliery five points adrift of the next side Borrowash Victoria with two games to play. Main need the Vics to lose their game in hand at Worsborough Bridge on Tuesday and away at Scarborough next Saturday to set up a potential winner takes all clash between the two at Oxford Street on the 26th.

Saturday 5th April; Professional Performance as Colliery Defeat Amateurs

Rossington edged ever closer to the safety with a third match unbeaten lifting them within three points of today's opponents Yorkshire Amateur. In what could prove a vital match in determining the relegation spots in Division One Colliery secured a much needed 3-1 win over the Amateurs at Oxford Street. (more to follow...)

Saturday 29th March; Impressive Draw Dented by Other Results

Following on from last week's dramatic victory over Gedling Town the Colliery continued their impressive run against the division's top sides with a 2-2 draw at third placed Bottesford Town. However Rossington's joy from events at Birch Park was shortlived as unexpected wins for their nearest rivals Borrowash Victoria and Yorkshire Amateur leaves Main five points adrift from fifteenth.

An impressive away draw against one of the division's top sides none the less, but it could have been even better for Colliery as they took a surprise lead at Birch Park as William McGhie found the net twenty-one minutes in. Far from sitting on their lead Rossington managed to double it within four minutes as Andrew Culshaw scored the Colliery's second for a shock 2-0 lead just twenty-five minutes in.

Bottesford are near the top of the table for a reason however and they pulled a goal back before the break as Phil Jackman made it 2-1 on the stroke of half-time to keep the Poachers in the match. However, Rossington held firm and looked set to return to South Yorkshire with all three points until the home side snatched a late equaliser three minutes from time; Craig Lill striking in the 87th minute to dent Colliery's recovery.

Saturday 22nd March; Colliery Back on Track after Easter Resurrection

After five successive defeats the Colliery returned to winning ways in dramatic style at Oxford Street to triumph in a seven-goal thriller with promotion chasing Gedling Town. In an Easter Saturday epic both sides led before Rossington suceded with a last gasp winner from the penalty spot to claim a vital three points. The win brings Colliery back within three points of fifteenth placed Borrowash Victoria, although the Vics do have a game in hand.

As has been their style of late Colliery started well and capitalised with an early goal as skipper Michael MacDonald found the net inside the opening ten minutes. A goal from top scorer Lee Holmes doubled Rossington's advantage ten minutes before the break, however before half-time came Gedling had halved the defecit as Dennis Simms found the net for the visitors.

As the second half began Gedling continued where they had left off before the break as they restored their promotion form with an equaliser after fifty-four minutes; Barry Payne levelling things up at 2-2. With just under twenty minutes to go it seemed that Colliery's dreams ahd been quashed as Alan Jeffries tucked away a penalty to give Gedling a 3-2 lead.

Thankfully for Main though there were still more goals in the game and more penalties too, as within five minutes of Gedling taking the lead Rossington had a chance to level the match again as they too were awarded a spot-kick. Sean Greaves stepped up and made no mistake to score the equaliser. At 3-3 the match remained a nervy encounter and in the final minute the advantage swung back to Colliery as the referee awarded Main a second spot-kick. Greaves stepped up again, and ignoring the pressure calmly slotted the ball home to give Rossington a much needed and deserved 4-3 win.

Saturday 15th March; No Sunshine at Rainworth as Colliery Lose Again

Rossington's worrying slump continues as they suffered a fifth successive league defeat away to Rainworth Miners Welfare. For the third match in a row Colliery failed to find the net as they left the Welfare Ground on the wrong end of a 2-0 scoreline. The defeat was made all the more frustrating for Rossington with the news that all of their nearest rivals picked up points, including Pontefract Collieries who picked up only their second point in fifteen matches with a 2-2 draw at Worsborough to move within six points of Rossington.

It was Colliery who started brightest at Rainworth as Chris Allen came close after the home side failed to clear a Chris Burton free-kick. However Rossington chances became few and far between as the home side got on top of what was a decidedly scrappy first half. However despite facing a few chances from Rainworth's lively forward line the Colliery back line stood firm and it remained goalless at the break.

In the second half the home side made their second placing in the league table clear and Colliery had already cleared one effort off the line before the home side eventually took the lead twenty minutes in as Sam Betts rounded off some good work by Adam Lille for the opener. Ten minutes later and the hosts put the game beyond doubt as Betts was on hand again to fire home after Colliery failed to clear a corner.

Colliery did manage a rare attack late on as Jason Stokes tested the Rainworth keeper, however it was to prove too little too late as the home side secured a much needed 2-0 win to keep up their promotion challenge. Rossington on the other hand remain rooted in sixteenth and in need of points from their Easter Saturday clash with Gedling Town to return to form.

Tuesday 11th March; Colliery Slump Cotinues as Tevie Triumph

Amidst the wind and rain of a wild night on the Nottinghamshire border the Colliery slipped to their fourth successive defeat on the wide open sapces of Teversal's Carnarvon Street home. After the five goal defeat at home to Hall Road Rangers it was to be another goalless match for the Colliery as the home side recovered from their own recent downward slide with a 2-0 win.

Rossington went behind in the very first minute as Teversal's Dean Short gave the home side the perfect start. Within quarter of an hour it had gone from bad to worse for Colliery as the hosts doubled their lead just sixteen minutes in through Marc Scott. Colliery failed to recover from this early set-back and it could have been an even worse evening for them had Short not failed to convert a penalty for the hosts.

The defeat keeps Colliery in the bottom two of Division One five points adrift of fifteenth place Borrowash Victoria and now having played a game more than the Vics. Main will retun to Nottinghamshire in four days time to face Rainworth Miners Welfare as they look to return to their early New Year form.

Saturday 9th March; Hall Road Raid Rossington

A disappointing day at Oxford Street for The Colliery as they slumped to their third successive defeat to remain rooted in penultimate place in the Division One table. Following on from defeats to Emley and Dinnington Rossington went down to a five goal defeat at the hands of promotion chasing Hall Road Rangers on Saturday afternoon.

It took just twelve minutes for the visitors to open their account as Paul Farley struck to give Rangers the lead. However Main matched their opponents and the rest of the first half remained goalless, as did the start of the second until Hall Road eventually doubled their lead on the hour mark as Jamie Barnwell was on target. Despite Colliery's best efforts three goals in the final ten minutes turned the scoreline from a defeat to an arguably unfair routish appearnce. First to strike for Rangers was Adam Walker to make it 3-0 after eighty minutes and then two late penalties but the match well beyond Rossington as Martin Thacker struck twice from the spot in the final two minutes to end the match 5-0 to Hall Road.

A bad day at the office was compunded with Rossington's nearest challengers picking up vital wins to pull themselves clear of Main. Worsborough Bridge Athletic continued their recent upturn in fortunes with a 3-0 win away at the Colliery's next opponents Teversal and now sit well clear of the bottom in 13th place. Meanwhile Borrowash also picked up another much needed win as four goals in the final twelve minutes helped them to a 6-2 win at Tadcaster Albion, putting the Vics five points of Rossington. The Colliery will have a chance to shrink that gap in midweek as they travel to face an out of form Teversal who are without a win in their last ten matches.

Saturday 1st March; Colliery Fail to Upset the Odds at Dinnington

Alas St Davids Day proved to offer little cheer for Welshman Ian Wilson as his Rossington Main went down to a second successive defeat at Division One leaders Dinnington Town. Admittedly few would have predicted Colliery to pick up points at Phoenix Park against a side fifteen points clear at the top of the table going into this game. And so perhaps encouragement can instead be drawn in the fact that Main found the net twice against the Champions elect in a 4-2 defeat.

In front of an impressive crowd of 144 Main matched their hosts for the early excahnges; however Dinnington eventually broke the deadlock midway through the first half as Grant Allot found the net. As half-time approached the league leaders doubled their advantage when Michael Blythen was on target after 38 minutes. The Colliery refused to lay down for their opponents though and two minutes before the break they reduced the defecit as Andy Culshaw pulled a goal back.

Rossington's joy was short lived though, as within three minutes of the restart Dinnington restored their two goal advantage as Ant Lynam struck a crucial blow. Despite the Colliery's best efforts the home side extended their lead further on the hour mark as Blythen scored his second goal to make it 4-1. However Main were not for rolling over and grabbed a second goal themselves as Jason Stokes brought some respectability to the scoreline on 80 minutes.

Saturday 23rd February; Home Defeat to Emley Dents Colliery Recovery

A disappointing afternoon at Oxford Street as The Colliery maintained their win-one-lose-one run of form with a home defeat to AFC Emley. The 3-1 loss was compunded with the news that Worsborough Bridge Athletic picked up a surprise three points away at in form Staveley MW to leave Rossington more isolated in the division's penultimate place.

It hadn't been doom and gloom all afternoon for Main though as things started very much as hoped with an early goal. Top scorer Lee Holmes struck in the second minute; his 11th league goal of the season giving The Colliery an early lead. However midway through the first half the visitors equalised as Allan Laud found the net for Emley, and it remained level until half-time.

Despite chances for both sides it was the visitors who struck next; Steven Kenworthy on hand to make it 2-1 to Emley with twenty minutes remaining. The West Yorkshire side held firm and eventually doubled thair advantage in the final minute as Laud struck from the penalty spot for his second goal of the game and secure the points for AFC Emley with a 3-1 win.

Saturday 16th February; Colliery Victorious over Vics

Rossington shrugged off the disappointment of a midweek defeat at Gedling Town in the best possible fashion with victory away at Borrowash Victoria. A 3-2 victory for The Colliery moves them to within two points of the opponents and fellow strugglers Worsborough Bridge Athletic in the bottom four of the NCEL Division One table.

The Colliery began in the best possible fashion at the Robinson Construction Bowl as Nathan Hill struck inside the opening quarter of an hour to give Rossington the lead. And within minutes Main had doubled their advantage as Jason Stokes made it 2-0 just seventeen minutes in. However the home side were not in a mood to roll over and eight minutes before the break Tommy Leighton pulled a goal back for Borrowash.

Within a couple of minutes of the start of the second half the match took on a whole new look as Victoria levelled things up; Leighton grabbing his second goal of the afternoon to equalise. This is a more resilient Colliery side to that of the opening months of the season and with twenty minutes to go they forced themselves back in front as recent signing Andrew Culshaw found the net to give Rossington the lead at 3-2.

That proved to be the last goal action of the game as Main held on for all three points and continue their recent resurgence. Four wins from seven matches since the start of the new year have lifted Colliery clear of bottom side Pontefract Collieries and victory at home to AFC Emley next weekend could lift Main up to fourteenth in the table.

Tuesday 12th February; Colliery slip to defeat by the Riverside

Perhaps The Colliery suffer from an aversion to water. After a 7-3 defeat by the Humber at Barton ten days ago comes another loss; this time on the banks of the Trent at the hands of Gedling Town. In a rearranged match at the Riverside Ground, following the abandonmment of the original tie last month, the hosts had just enough to overcome Colliery with a 2-0 win.

Rossington can probably count themselves unlucky to slip to defeat at the hands of their third place opponents with both goals coming in the first half. The Ferrymen took the lead after ten minutes however the final touch on their opening strike seemed to come from a Rossington player. After thirty-five minutes Gedling doubled their lead as Alan Jeffries struck from the penalty spot. Main rallied in the second half but it proved a bridge too far to catch the Ferrymen and Gedling held on for a 2-0 win that leaves Colliery four points adrift of Worsborough Bridge in penultimate place in Division One; Bridge's 2-1 defeat to Emley the only consolation from the night for Rossington.

Saturday 9th February; Winning Ways Return as Colliery Bridge the Gap

After the disappointment of last week's heavy defeat at the hands of Barton Town Old Boys The Colliery were in vital need of a win at home to fellow strugglers Worsbrough Bridge Athletic. Thankfully they managed to achieve just that; a 2-0 win making it three victories in the past five games for the Colliery and bringing them within four points of their fellow South Yorkshire opponents.

In front of the biggest crowd at Oxford Street since the visit of Scarborough in November Rossington made the breakthrough after thirty minutes as top scorer Lee Holmes found the net to give The Colliery the lead. Within four minutes that lead had been doubled with a goal from recent acquisition William McGhie. Those too strikes proved enough for victory as Main held on to their lead for the second forty-five minutes to register a vital three points.

Wednesday 6th February; Culshaw to Make Impression on Colliery

Rossington Main have made another dip into the transfer market with the acquisition of Andrew Culshaw. A Rossington local Andrew was originally on the books of Scunthorpe United. After being released by the Iron Andrew had a spell with Conference North side Gainsborough Trinity and was most recently with Unibond League side Ossett Town. This week however Culshaw, still only 19, returned to his home town club and could well feature in the side for Saturday's visit of Worsbrough Bridge Athletic.

Saturday 2nd February; Colliery Lose Out in Ten Goal Thriller

The Colliery's recent resurrection suffered a significant set-back in North Lincolnshire with a heavy defeat to Barton Town Old Boys. In the type of match for which the term 'eventful' doesn't quite seem to do it justice the goals rained in on the banks of the Humber with Rossington eventually going down to a 7-3 defeat to The Swans.

The hefty scoreline dowsn't quite tell the whole story though as Rossington were very much in this match for the duration of the first half at least. Despiet going behind to a third minute strike from Matty McKay the Colliery had squared thing up within thr opening ten minutes as Chris Lees netted for the visitors. Midway through the half a Mark Anderson strike restored Barton's lead, but back came the Colliery and a goal from new signing William McGhie levelled the match again three minutes from half-time. However the hosts restored their advantage a third time before the break; McKay's second strike making it 3-2 at the interval.

As the second half began the home side began to assert themselves on the game, and two goals from Gareth Barlow; the first early in the half and a second on the hour mark gave them a 5-2 advantage. A strike from Michael MacDonald threatened to set-up a n intersting final twenty minutes as he reduced the defecit to two goals. Sadly though what goals did come went against the Colliery as a third for G. Barlow (take that!) and a late Gary Dickinson strike made it something of a rout for the home side.

A disappointing road trip for the Colliery served as a firm reminder as to their current league position Division One. With an important bottom of the table clash with fellow strugglers Worsbrough Bridge Athletic on the horizon Rossington will be hoping recent form returns in time for next Saturday.

Saturday 26th January; Colliery Off the Bottom

What a difference a month makes. At the end of December The Colliery were already staring relegation in the face. At the foot of the table with just two points to show for the whole season new manager Ian Wilson faced a task that was not so much uphill as against a rock face.

Now four weeks and four games on the club's fortunes look decidedly more horizontal. A 2-1 win at Staveley MW a fortnight ago brought Main within touching distance of the rest of their division. And this afternoon the gap was breached with a 3-0 win over fellow strugglers Pontefract Collieries at Oxford Street. Colliery are off the bottom; displacing their opponents in 16th place in Division 1.

The leagues bottom two looked to have cancelled each other out in a goalless first half, however two goals in five minutes from The Colliery's top goalscorer swung the game in Rossington's favour. Lee Holmes netted twice, his first coming after fifty-five minutes and the second on the hour mark to give Rossington a two goal lead. Colliery held firm for the rest of the game and put the match beyond Pontefract with a third goal in the final minute from Bradley Billam.

Thursday 24th January; McGhie Joins Colliery

Rossington Main have ventured into the transfer market with the signing of William McGhie from Northern Counties East League Premier Division side Armthorpe Welfare. McGhie makes the short move across Doncaster in time to join the side for Saturday's bottom of the table clash against Pontefract Collieries.