The week started positively with continued progress on the installation of showers and toilets in the changing rooms—further proof that, even with the season not yet over, we're still moving forward as a club.

Training was strong this week. Tuesday’s session focused on final tactical preparations for Saturday’s Life Members Cup Final and saw excellent attendance. Thursday’s lighter session helped the lads stretch out and stay relaxed ahead of the big day, rounded off nicely with a drink together at The Morris Dancer in Kelsall—a great moment for team spirit.

Cup Final Day – A Special Occasion

Saturday morning began with a relaxed team breakfast at The Royal Oak with myself and the coaches, before we boarded the coach to Chester with the players and some fantastic supporters. A big thank you to Kay, Linda, and Chris who went ahead to set up the dressing room, giving the players the professional environment they deserved.

The squad was in good spirits and ready. The game kicked off with half-chances at both ends. We struggled to execute our game plan in the first half, so going in at 0–0 was a fair outcome but one we were slightly fortunate with.

After the break, we started brightly. Tommy Astbury and Mikey Taylor both forced great saves from the Mersey Royal goalkeeper, and a well-rehearsed set piece saw Tom Hulme connect with a superb delivery from Tom Lea—again denied by the keeper. But it was Mersey Royal who broke the deadlock on 65 minutes, capitalising on a second ball from a free kick. That goal gave them the momentum and, despite our efforts to respond, we were caught twice more as we chased the game.

Final Score: Kelsall FC 0 – 3 Mersey Royal Vets

It was a tough result to take, especially with the amount of effort the lads put in. While 3–0 flattered the opposition, we must congratulate Mersey Royal—they’ve had an exceptional season and took their chances when it mattered. I believe the first goal was key, and had it gone our way, the story might have been different.

I want to thank all of our brilliant supporters who turned up in numbers and created a great atmosphere—we're sorry we couldn't deliver the win for you on this occasion. The squad left everything on the pitch, and although we didn’t play our best football, we’ll take the lessons into pre-season and come back stronger.

Looking Ahead

We’ll take a short break now before returning in early June with a schedule of pre-season trials already lined up. Keep an eye on our social media for more details.

This marks the final report of the 2024/25 season. It’s been a positive year for the club, full of progress both on and off the pitch. I’d like to take this opportunity to offer my thanks to:

• The players for their effort and commitment all season
• The coaching and management team for their support and dedication
• Our volunteers who help with everything behind the scenes
• Danny, our tireless groundskeeper, for his incredible work on the pitch and clubhouse
• Our sponsors and benefactors who continue to invest in our journey
• Geoff Newsome, whose contribution to this club cannot be overstated

And finally, to you, our supporters – we couldn’t do this without you.

Get Involved

Don’t forget to join our 100 Club – a one-off £20 payment gives you the chance to win £100 each month for the next 10 months. Find out more via our website or social media pages.

Also, look out for our Race Night later this year – a great evening to support the club and bring the community together.

Enjoy your summer break. We’ll see you next season at The Field of Dreams.

Thank you,
Paul