Strangers match on Audlem pitch

This week we were told we had no game. Fixtures of Cup competitions were taking precedence as the League tries to get back into kilter with all the delayed games of the past weeks.

So I thought, good, gives a chance for the pitch to have a rest.

But imagine my chagrin when a call from Ocean F C of Crewe tells me that Cheshire East, in their wisdom, have decreed that Ocean shall play their game versus Market Tavern on our pitch, the Audlem Playing Field.

This is a facility that in October 2014, at a full meeting of villagers, we voted that the Parish Council here should take up the offer from CE to become the owners of this vital facility. Here we are 18 months later and still Cheshire East calls the tune. As is their right. They own the Car Park and the Field. So we dance to their tune and have to help the outsiders with our nets and our changing room.

If only the wheels of the Council had moved with some desire, we would now own what is the prime village facility for all to use.

I also must make mention of the fact that Cheshire East are charging Ocean £67 to play here! And we, Audlem FC, have already paid over £400 to have the privilege of using our own facility (I am still hopeful of help from Audlem Parish Council on this cost.)

Our next game now is at home on Sunday 3rd April versus Wistaston Athletic, who knocked us out of the Cup with a 4-0 result.

The Ocean versus Market Tavern match, played on our pitch, was so very cruel, with just seven players turning out for MT. Like shooting ducks in a barrel. Ocean refused their request for a better balance and to make a game of it.

I congratulated MT for their spirit as they did not stop until the final whistle. Their goalie stopped many goals keeping it below the 20 that Ocean were seeking to get a good goal difference on Wistaston. Such a very cruel rule to have to play with just 7 players. We met the fate with a fine – and loss of three very, very valuable points in spite of giving much notice well ahead of the match. Again I say such a cruel rule by the powers that be for Sunday footballers.

And Ocean were charged £67 to use the pitch in spite of the fact that we had paid over £400 to use the pitch. Unfair I say.

Ralph Warburton
Audlem F C

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