Irlam were caught cold after the jubilation of a semi-final victory over the same opponents just 3 days previously. Both sides fielded much changed line-ups and the game was unsurprisingly a dull affair; Missed chances would prove costly for Irlam as Glossop struck twice to head back to the hills with all 3 points, a battling victory which showed why they would go on to be crowned league champions.

Sat 12/04/14
Irlam FC Res 3-1 Cheadle Town Res
MOM: Tommy Smith

With masses of players unavailable over the first team and reserve squads, a combination of youngsters, current players and club ‘legends’ were assembled for the game against local side Cheadle Town. Adam Newall, Dave Castle, Daniel Butters and Gary Prescott all starting the game in what looked like a scene from 2008 down at Silver Street. However the current crop would grab the win, with Tommy Smith, Lewis Adams and Evanildo grabbing the goals to secure victory.

Mon 14/04/14
Silsden Res 5-5 Irlam FC Res
MOM: Ryan Hutchinson

A long and painstaking trip to Yorkshire side Silsden would eventually result in one of the strangest games and results of the whole season. After going 1-0 down early on in the game, Ryan Hutchinson and a Karl Cassell double would restore Irlam’s lead on two occasions, before a capitulation saw Irlam go in 5-3 down at half-time. A re-organisation and a different way of thinking ensured Irlam wouldn’t concede again in the game, with Burgess making it 5-4 before Hutchinson capped off a wonderful performance with the equalising goal, smashing high into the roof of the net. Irlam pushed and pushed for the winner but it wasn’t to be.

Sat 19/04/14
AFC Darwen Res 0-1 Irlam FC Res
MOM: Jack Lee

Another shortage of players saw several under 18’s blooded into the squad, on a boiling hot day at Darwen. Jack Lee was introduced to the midfield with youngsters Alex Brooks, Kyle Galbraith and Adam Parker making up the substitutes. It would be Lee who caught the eye, a superb disciplined performance kept Irlam ticking over and it was no surprise when Lewis Rathbone bundled the ball home after Karl Cassell’s shot was initially blocked. The defensive partnership of Castle and Campbell were superb on the day, along with youth team goalkeeper Jordan Hamilton who kept everything solid at the back.

Wed 23/04/14
New Mills Reserves 2-4 Irlam FC Res
MOM: Daniel Butters

Daniel Butters would choose this game to roll back the years, leading the line brilliantly on a great night for Irlam. After going in 1-0 down at half time, Butters would grab the equaliser before Connor Payne, Gaz Meredith and Dean Burgess would take Irlam clear with a 4-1 lead. A late consolation goal didn’t dampen Irlam’s spirits and the bus trip home was a happy one. Our first win at New Mills for many years, if ever!

The reserves now look forward to the Reserve Division Cup Final, to be played at AFC Darwen on Thursday 8th May. We have also achieved runners-up spot in our Reserve Division Trophy group, ensuring another semi-final before the season ends. One final push is needed from the boys to bring some silverware back to Silver Street.