The 1906-07 Season
The 1906-07 season was a very eventful one for Wigan Town. On the field all appeared to be going in the right direction culminating in a 3rd place finish in the league, off the field the club lurched from one disaster to another.
As early as November 1906, rumours were circulating that the Town had folded and a number of public meetings were held to discuss the situation. It appears that Roger Charnley left the club around this time when he paid himself over six months
outstanding wages and expenses from the transfer of Harry Stringfellow, leaving
just £2 for the club from a fee of £75.
Poor crowds due to a long, harsh winter, rising unemployment in the area and being out on a limb geographically gave rise to low gates which meant the club had difficulty paying its staff, having to resort to an “arrangement” with three players. This involved payment by instalments for monies owed. Meanwhile the Football Association had been alerted to the matter and a “sine die” ban followed preventing any further matches until outstanding wages had been paid. With finances in a perilous state it was the last thing the club needed and a representative in the form of Scotsman, James Harold, was sent to London to explain Wigan Town’s position, which he resolved. By February Harold had been appointed manager, by the end of March he had also taken over the duties of the secretary. Harold was an aggressive and active manager organising a series of friendly matches with First Division clubs at Springfield Park to raise additional funds, but to no avail, as towards the end of the season several key players were sold or left for pastures new and results took a turn for the worse. Town finished this season as the previous one, with a draw against Tranmere and abject failure in their application for a place in League Division 2. This time they did not register a single vote……
As early as November 1906, rumours were circulating that the Town had folded and a number of public meetings were held to discuss the situation. It appears that Roger Charnley left the club around this time when he paid himself over six months
outstanding wages and expenses from the transfer of Harry Stringfellow, leaving
just £2 for the club from a fee of £75.
Poor crowds due to a long, harsh winter, rising unemployment in the area and being out on a limb geographically gave rise to low gates which meant the club had difficulty paying its staff, having to resort to an “arrangement” with three players. This involved payment by instalments for monies owed. Meanwhile the Football Association had been alerted to the matter and a “sine die” ban followed preventing any further matches until outstanding wages had been paid. With finances in a perilous state it was the last thing the club needed and a representative in the form of Scotsman, James Harold, was sent to London to explain Wigan Town’s position, which he resolved. By February Harold had been appointed manager, by the end of March he had also taken over the duties of the secretary. Harold was an aggressive and active manager organising a series of friendly matches with First Division clubs at Springfield Park to raise additional funds, but to no avail, as towards the end of the season several key players were sold or left for pastures new and results took a turn for the worse. Town finished this season as the previous one, with a draw against Tranmere and abject failure in their application for a place in League Division 2. This time they did not register a single vote……
WIGAN TOWN’S NEW MAN
Wigan Town Club have secured the services of Tom Jones, right full back, of Hull City, and among the other new players who are to assist the Springfield Park organisation during the coming season are Sandland of Lancaster, goalkeeper; Lewis of Wrexham, an English Combination forward; and Parker of Preston, another forward.
Partington, who figured with Newtown St. Marks, last season, has also signed as a reserve goalkeeper.
Wigan Observer: August 31 1906: Page 8, column 4
Wrexham 1-v-2 Wigan Town [1]
League : September 1 1906 : The Racecourse Ground (ht 0-2)
Teams:
Wrexham: W. Thorley, W. Bradshaw, T. F. Haygarth, J. Fanning, T. Williams, A. Lloyd, E. Clark, T. Read, O. Jones, L. Griffiths, W. Wiliams.
Wigan Town: Partington, Britnall, Dobson, Greenall, M. Atherton, A. Culshaw, Taylor, Lewis, Parker, H. Isherwood, Hart.
NEW CENTRE HALF FOR WIGAN TOWN
On Tuesday evening Wigan Town signed on a new centre half in Stringfellow, a former captain of Leeds City, and who has figured with Everton and Portsmouth. Stringfellow has been selected to turn out with the Wiganers at Springfield Park this Saturday when Wrexham Victoria will be the visitors.
Wigan Examiner: September 8 1906: Page 7, column 5
Wigan Town 1-v-0 Wrexham Victoria [2]
League : September 8 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Sandland, Britnall, Jones, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Taylor, Lewis, Parker, Tudor, Hart.
Wrexham Victoria: Husband, Smith, Jones, Davies, H. Wiliams, P. Williams, Hughes, Forkin, Thomas, Parry, Green.
Rhyl P-v-P Wigan Town
League : September 15 1906 : Belle Vue
Wigan Town 0-v-1 Adlington
Lancashire Junior Cup : September 15 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town:
Adlington: Smith
Wigan Town 1-v-1 Oswestry Town [3]
League : September 22 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Sandland, Britnall, Jones, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Walford, Lewis, Parker, Tudor, Heathcote.
Oswestry: Frank Williams, Roberts, Lockie, Richards, Hampson, Groves, T. H. Jones, Finchett, Newbound, Wynn, T. Williams.
Bangor City 0-v-0 Wigan Town [4]
League : September 29 1906 : Maes-y-Dref (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Bangor City: Wilham, Bob Roberts, W. Evans, Davie, Pritchard, Arridge, Williams, Burns, Jones, H. Davie, Oliver.
Wigan Town: Sandland, Jones (c), Britnall, Greenay, Atherton, Isherwood, Walford, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor.
Wigan Town Club have secured the services of Tom Jones, right full back, of Hull City, and among the other new players who are to assist the Springfield Park organisation during the coming season are Sandland of Lancaster, goalkeeper; Lewis of Wrexham, an English Combination forward; and Parker of Preston, another forward.
Partington, who figured with Newtown St. Marks, last season, has also signed as a reserve goalkeeper.
Wigan Observer: August 31 1906: Page 8, column 4
Wrexham 1-v-2 Wigan Town [1]
League : September 1 1906 : The Racecourse Ground (ht 0-2)
Teams:
Wrexham: W. Thorley, W. Bradshaw, T. F. Haygarth, J. Fanning, T. Williams, A. Lloyd, E. Clark, T. Read, O. Jones, L. Griffiths, W. Wiliams.
Wigan Town: Partington, Britnall, Dobson, Greenall, M. Atherton, A. Culshaw, Taylor, Lewis, Parker, H. Isherwood, Hart.
NEW CENTRE HALF FOR WIGAN TOWN
On Tuesday evening Wigan Town signed on a new centre half in Stringfellow, a former captain of Leeds City, and who has figured with Everton and Portsmouth. Stringfellow has been selected to turn out with the Wiganers at Springfield Park this Saturday when Wrexham Victoria will be the visitors.
Wigan Examiner: September 8 1906: Page 7, column 5
Wigan Town 1-v-0 Wrexham Victoria [2]
League : September 8 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Sandland, Britnall, Jones, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Taylor, Lewis, Parker, Tudor, Hart.
Wrexham Victoria: Husband, Smith, Jones, Davies, H. Wiliams, P. Williams, Hughes, Forkin, Thomas, Parry, Green.
Rhyl P-v-P Wigan Town
League : September 15 1906 : Belle Vue
Wigan Town 0-v-1 Adlington
Lancashire Junior Cup : September 15 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town:
Adlington: Smith
Wigan Town 1-v-1 Oswestry Town [3]
League : September 22 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Sandland, Britnall, Jones, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Walford, Lewis, Parker, Tudor, Heathcote.
Oswestry: Frank Williams, Roberts, Lockie, Richards, Hampson, Groves, T. H. Jones, Finchett, Newbound, Wynn, T. Williams.
Bangor City 0-v-0 Wigan Town [4]
League : September 29 1906 : Maes-y-Dref (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Bangor City: Wilham, Bob Roberts, W. Evans, Davie, Pritchard, Arridge, Williams, Burns, Jones, H. Davie, Oliver.
Wigan Town: Sandland, Jones (c), Britnall, Greenay, Atherton, Isherwood, Walford, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor.
Crewe Alexandra 1-v-2 Wigan Town [5]
League : October 6 1906 : Gresty Road (ht 1-1)
Teams:
Crewe Alexandra: Hissey, Dodd, Moreton, Moss, Hobson, Ollier, Morgan, Blackburn, Cope, Whittingham, Knifton.
Wigan Town: Sandland, Jones, Britnall, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Taylor, Tudor, Duckworth, Isherwood, Walford.
Nantwich 3-v-1 Wigan Town [6]
League : October 13 1906 : Jackson Avenue (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Nantwich:
Wigan Town:
Football Jottings by “Referee”
“Wigan Town missed their train!” such was an announcement I saw in an evening paper on Saturday, with a few other babblings to the effect that Chirk were disappointed.
Chirk say they are not having an excuse like that in the 20th century. They ask, “Why they had not visited Mr. Timberlake’s palatial motor garage,” and gone to Chirk as though they were “Lords of all they surveyed.” Why not?
Chirk were minus a “gate,” but the Town team will undertake the journey on some future occasion. The Wiganers will have to take care to rise earlier next time.
Wigan Examiner: November 3 1906: Page 7, column 3
Wigan Town 1-v-1 Chester [7]
League : November 3 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 1-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Dobson, Britnall, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Walford, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor.
Chester: Keeley, Russell, J.Jones, Delaney, Grainger, Galley, Williams, Lee, Walker, W. Jones, Riding.
Tranmere Rovers 2-v-1 Wigan Town [8]
League : November 10 1906 : Prenton Park (formerly Ravenshaws Field) (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Tranmere Rovers: Newman
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnall, Blackburn, Greenie, M. Atherton, A. Culshaw, Walford, Lewis, Duckworth, Taylor.
Wigan Town played the entire match with 10 men as Dobson failed to appear. They also had a goal disallowed.
Football Jottings by “Referee”
Anent some comments I made last week relative to the position of the Wigan Town organisation, I have received a communication from a gentleman who does not wish his name to be disclosed here.
He says : “With reference to your remarks in last weeks issue of the “Examiner” concerning Wigan Town A.F.C., could you not see your way to open up a subscription in aid of the same.
“As an ardent supporter of the soccer code I should be pleased to do what little I can, and also to promise that several others of my acquaintance would do likewise.
“I am perfectly satisfied that the few who are at the head of affairs at present deserve much better support than they have hitherto received. At present, however, I make a suggestion to you and will not further encroach upon your time. Trusting you will see your way to do this in the interests of the game.”
I regret that it is not in my power to do what the writer suggests. It is altogether out of my province. What ever I can do to give the Town a “lift,” I am prepared to do.
I agree with my correspondent that the Town Club officials have not received the support they deserve. Personally, I should very much like to see the “soccer” game placed on a good footing in Wigan. Surely there is room for a prominent team in the borough.
Perhaps the best course for those who are aiming to further the “code” in our midst to take would be to communicate with Mr. R. Whitfield, 24 Corporation-street, Poolstock, Wigan.
Mr. Whitfield is carrying out the secretarial duties, and I am sure he would only be too pleased to give any information that was asked for in the matter.
Wigan Examiner: November 17 1906: Page 7, column 2
Wigan Town 1-v-1 Stalybridge Rovers
Friendly : November 17 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Jones, Britnell, Greenie, Atherton, Culshaw, Walford, Lewis, Duckworth, Taylor, Tudor.
Stalybridge Rovers: Dawes, Taylor, Green, Gerrard, A.N. Other, Davies, Brown, A.N. Other, Davidson, A.N. Other, Bramhall.
The match was delayed for an hour due to bad weather and still played in a downpour, without a referee.
League : October 6 1906 : Gresty Road (ht 1-1)
Teams:
Crewe Alexandra: Hissey, Dodd, Moreton, Moss, Hobson, Ollier, Morgan, Blackburn, Cope, Whittingham, Knifton.
Wigan Town: Sandland, Jones, Britnall, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Taylor, Tudor, Duckworth, Isherwood, Walford.
Nantwich 3-v-1 Wigan Town [6]
League : October 13 1906 : Jackson Avenue (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Nantwich:
Wigan Town:
Football Jottings by “Referee”
“Wigan Town missed their train!” such was an announcement I saw in an evening paper on Saturday, with a few other babblings to the effect that Chirk were disappointed.
Chirk say they are not having an excuse like that in the 20th century. They ask, “Why they had not visited Mr. Timberlake’s palatial motor garage,” and gone to Chirk as though they were “Lords of all they surveyed.” Why not?
Chirk were minus a “gate,” but the Town team will undertake the journey on some future occasion. The Wiganers will have to take care to rise earlier next time.
Wigan Examiner: November 3 1906: Page 7, column 3
Wigan Town 1-v-1 Chester [7]
League : November 3 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 1-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Dobson, Britnall, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Walford, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor.
Chester: Keeley, Russell, J.Jones, Delaney, Grainger, Galley, Williams, Lee, Walker, W. Jones, Riding.
Tranmere Rovers 2-v-1 Wigan Town [8]
League : November 10 1906 : Prenton Park (formerly Ravenshaws Field) (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Tranmere Rovers: Newman
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnall, Blackburn, Greenie, M. Atherton, A. Culshaw, Walford, Lewis, Duckworth, Taylor.
Wigan Town played the entire match with 10 men as Dobson failed to appear. They also had a goal disallowed.
Football Jottings by “Referee”
Anent some comments I made last week relative to the position of the Wigan Town organisation, I have received a communication from a gentleman who does not wish his name to be disclosed here.
He says : “With reference to your remarks in last weeks issue of the “Examiner” concerning Wigan Town A.F.C., could you not see your way to open up a subscription in aid of the same.
“As an ardent supporter of the soccer code I should be pleased to do what little I can, and also to promise that several others of my acquaintance would do likewise.
“I am perfectly satisfied that the few who are at the head of affairs at present deserve much better support than they have hitherto received. At present, however, I make a suggestion to you and will not further encroach upon your time. Trusting you will see your way to do this in the interests of the game.”
I regret that it is not in my power to do what the writer suggests. It is altogether out of my province. What ever I can do to give the Town a “lift,” I am prepared to do.
I agree with my correspondent that the Town Club officials have not received the support they deserve. Personally, I should very much like to see the “soccer” game placed on a good footing in Wigan. Surely there is room for a prominent team in the borough.
Perhaps the best course for those who are aiming to further the “code” in our midst to take would be to communicate with Mr. R. Whitfield, 24 Corporation-street, Poolstock, Wigan.
Mr. Whitfield is carrying out the secretarial duties, and I am sure he would only be too pleased to give any information that was asked for in the matter.
Wigan Examiner: November 17 1906: Page 7, column 2
Wigan Town 1-v-1 Stalybridge Rovers
Friendly : November 17 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Jones, Britnell, Greenie, Atherton, Culshaw, Walford, Lewis, Duckworth, Taylor, Tudor.
Stalybridge Rovers: Dawes, Taylor, Green, Gerrard, A.N. Other, Davies, Brown, A.N. Other, Davidson, A.N. Other, Bramhall.
The match was delayed for an hour due to bad weather and still played in a downpour, without a referee.
A WIGAN TOWN RUMOUR
During the past week there has been a rumour persistently circulated that the Wigan Town Association Football Club had ceased to exist. We were authoritively informed that there was no truth in the rumour. It is however, admitted that the organisation is in a somewhat critical condition owing to the lack of public support.
A movement has been set on foot with the object of enlisting the assistance of those who are interested in the Association game, and it is evident that unless aid is forthcoming the club cannot long survive. At the same time it is felt that there is plenty of room for the dribbling code in the borough, and it is hoped that the efforts which are now being made to gain a new lease of life for the Wigan Town Club will meet with success.
Wigan Examiner: November 28 1906: Page 3, column 3
Football Jottings by “Referee”
Wigan Town were without a fixture last weekend, but I should like to be permitted to say a few words regarding a particular matter which is likely to create “copy” for the correspondence columns of the “Wigan Examiner.”
What I desire to mention has reference to the letter which appeared in the Wednesday’s issue of the “Examiner,” penned over the nom-de-plume of “Soccer.” Your correspondent bewails the fact that the pastime is in such low water, so far as the borough itself is concerned.
The writer appears to take the officials of the Wigan Town Club to task in not doing more to further the interests of the game in the town. Great Scot!
At times I have simply marvelled at the patience of those responsible for the existence of the Springfield Park organisation. In my opinion they have done all that mortals could do to put the pastime on a sound footing in our midst.
And look at the noble reward that has been theirs. Why, even the mighty Football Association itself seems to have been prone to give the Wigan Town club “the dirty kick out.”
And what about the support which has been accorded locally? It has been sufficiently large to make even the poorest mongrel sick at heart. No “Soccer,” and those who think with you. I cannot agree with the comments put forward.
I have said in these columns, and I say it again, that one of the stumbling blocks to success has been the ground itself. Apart from that, however, The Wigan Town Club has been worthy of far more assistance than has been forthcoming up to the present. The Wigan Town Officials themselves have battled nobly. They have given us a team which has done extremely well, and which is capable of
giving us good displays. But when the men are so wretchedly backed up by the public as they have been, surely they have good reason to think, “Yes, we are a bit downhearted.”
What I sincerely hope is that the correspondence which has commenced in the columns of the “Examiner” will bear good fruit. Let those who profess to have the “Soccer” code at heart rally to the support of the Town Club. The officials will welcome assistance in what ever form it is extended.
Wigan Examiner: December 1 1906: Page 7, column 2
Rhyl Town 2-v-0 Wigan Town (Abandoned due to poor light)
League : December 1 1906 : Belle View (ht A-A)
Teams:
Rhyl Town:
Wigan Town:
The match was abandoned due to poor light with the score at 2-0 and expunged from the records. The train carrying Wigan Town was due to arrive in Rhyl at 2.10pm, but only arrived at 3.05pm due to a "mishap" at Helsby.
Wigan Town 4-v-0 Druids [9]
League : December 8 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Sandland, Jones, Britnell, Greenay, Culshaw, Atherton, Tudor (3), Taylor, Duckworth, Lewis, Leyland.
Druids: Owens, Evans, Edwards, Makinson, T. Williams, Butler
Football Jottings by “Referee”
Reverting to the round “leather” and bidding farewell to the “oval,” I must congratulate Wigan Town on their highest win of the season.
As I heard one of the supporters of the Town say last week, “The gods, the
elements, and every mortal thing are against the Town having a long and honourable career.”
Those in charge certainly had my sympathy, for the conditions were vile. A North Pole wind was blowing enough to cut away what few blades of grass remain to be seen on this classic enclosure. This was accompanied at intervals by showers of bitterly cold rain and hail, and it was a rare sight to see the spectators bravely facing the elements and sheltering in a careworn and draughty grandstand.....
..….I understand that the Town Club has come to a satisfactory arrangement with Sandland and Jones, or these players would not have turned out on Saturday.
Enthusiasts who would like to see the Town Club placed on a sound footing should make it convenient to attend a meeting, which is to be held at the Pagefield Hotel at eight o’clock on Monday evening next. Important business is to be discussed.
Wigan Examiner: December 15 1906: Page 8, column 2
Birkenhead 5-v-6 Wigan Town [10]
League : December 15 1906 : Duke Street (ht 3-5)
Teams:
Birkenhead: Evans, Jones, Williams (2), Hughes
Wigan Town: Tudor (2), Lewis (2), Taylor
Druids 3-v-3 Wigan Town [11]
League : December 22 1906 : Wynnstay Park (ht 1-3)
Teams:
Druids: Westley, Makinson, Griffeths, Evans, Cowper, Phillips,Owen, Butler, Edwards, Butler, Wright.
Wigan Town: Maines, -------, Britnell, Greenay, Atherton, Leyland, Bannister, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor
Once again Wigan Town played a full match with only 10 men as Jones failed to appear this time. Bannister was unwell.
There is to be another public meeting held on Friday night at the White Horse Hotel, Standishgate. The chair will be taken at 8 o’clock, and a hearty invitation is extended to all Association followers.
Wigan Examiner: December 24 1906: Page 3, column 4
Southport Central 1-v-0 Wigan Town
Friendly: December 25 1906 : Ash Lane (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Southport Central: Bullivant, Spink, McWhan, Sinclair, Edmonds, Turner, Taylor, Aaron, Monks, Gara, Alexander.
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Jones, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Yarwood.
During the past week there has been a rumour persistently circulated that the Wigan Town Association Football Club had ceased to exist. We were authoritively informed that there was no truth in the rumour. It is however, admitted that the organisation is in a somewhat critical condition owing to the lack of public support.
A movement has been set on foot with the object of enlisting the assistance of those who are interested in the Association game, and it is evident that unless aid is forthcoming the club cannot long survive. At the same time it is felt that there is plenty of room for the dribbling code in the borough, and it is hoped that the efforts which are now being made to gain a new lease of life for the Wigan Town Club will meet with success.
Wigan Examiner: November 28 1906: Page 3, column 3
Football Jottings by “Referee”
Wigan Town were without a fixture last weekend, but I should like to be permitted to say a few words regarding a particular matter which is likely to create “copy” for the correspondence columns of the “Wigan Examiner.”
What I desire to mention has reference to the letter which appeared in the Wednesday’s issue of the “Examiner,” penned over the nom-de-plume of “Soccer.” Your correspondent bewails the fact that the pastime is in such low water, so far as the borough itself is concerned.
The writer appears to take the officials of the Wigan Town Club to task in not doing more to further the interests of the game in the town. Great Scot!
At times I have simply marvelled at the patience of those responsible for the existence of the Springfield Park organisation. In my opinion they have done all that mortals could do to put the pastime on a sound footing in our midst.
And look at the noble reward that has been theirs. Why, even the mighty Football Association itself seems to have been prone to give the Wigan Town club “the dirty kick out.”
And what about the support which has been accorded locally? It has been sufficiently large to make even the poorest mongrel sick at heart. No “Soccer,” and those who think with you. I cannot agree with the comments put forward.
I have said in these columns, and I say it again, that one of the stumbling blocks to success has been the ground itself. Apart from that, however, The Wigan Town Club has been worthy of far more assistance than has been forthcoming up to the present. The Wigan Town Officials themselves have battled nobly. They have given us a team which has done extremely well, and which is capable of
giving us good displays. But when the men are so wretchedly backed up by the public as they have been, surely they have good reason to think, “Yes, we are a bit downhearted.”
What I sincerely hope is that the correspondence which has commenced in the columns of the “Examiner” will bear good fruit. Let those who profess to have the “Soccer” code at heart rally to the support of the Town Club. The officials will welcome assistance in what ever form it is extended.
Wigan Examiner: December 1 1906: Page 7, column 2
Rhyl Town 2-v-0 Wigan Town (Abandoned due to poor light)
League : December 1 1906 : Belle View (ht A-A)
Teams:
Rhyl Town:
Wigan Town:
The match was abandoned due to poor light with the score at 2-0 and expunged from the records. The train carrying Wigan Town was due to arrive in Rhyl at 2.10pm, but only arrived at 3.05pm due to a "mishap" at Helsby.
Wigan Town 4-v-0 Druids [9]
League : December 8 1906 : Springfield Park (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Sandland, Jones, Britnell, Greenay, Culshaw, Atherton, Tudor (3), Taylor, Duckworth, Lewis, Leyland.
Druids: Owens, Evans, Edwards, Makinson, T. Williams, Butler
Football Jottings by “Referee”
Reverting to the round “leather” and bidding farewell to the “oval,” I must congratulate Wigan Town on their highest win of the season.
As I heard one of the supporters of the Town say last week, “The gods, the
elements, and every mortal thing are against the Town having a long and honourable career.”
Those in charge certainly had my sympathy, for the conditions were vile. A North Pole wind was blowing enough to cut away what few blades of grass remain to be seen on this classic enclosure. This was accompanied at intervals by showers of bitterly cold rain and hail, and it was a rare sight to see the spectators bravely facing the elements and sheltering in a careworn and draughty grandstand.....
..….I understand that the Town Club has come to a satisfactory arrangement with Sandland and Jones, or these players would not have turned out on Saturday.
Enthusiasts who would like to see the Town Club placed on a sound footing should make it convenient to attend a meeting, which is to be held at the Pagefield Hotel at eight o’clock on Monday evening next. Important business is to be discussed.
Wigan Examiner: December 15 1906: Page 8, column 2
Birkenhead 5-v-6 Wigan Town [10]
League : December 15 1906 : Duke Street (ht 3-5)
Teams:
Birkenhead: Evans, Jones, Williams (2), Hughes
Wigan Town: Tudor (2), Lewis (2), Taylor
Druids 3-v-3 Wigan Town [11]
League : December 22 1906 : Wynnstay Park (ht 1-3)
Teams:
Druids: Westley, Makinson, Griffeths, Evans, Cowper, Phillips,Owen, Butler, Edwards, Butler, Wright.
Wigan Town: Maines, -------, Britnell, Greenay, Atherton, Leyland, Bannister, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor
Once again Wigan Town played a full match with only 10 men as Jones failed to appear this time. Bannister was unwell.
There is to be another public meeting held on Friday night at the White Horse Hotel, Standishgate. The chair will be taken at 8 o’clock, and a hearty invitation is extended to all Association followers.
Wigan Examiner: December 24 1906: Page 3, column 4
Southport Central 1-v-0 Wigan Town
Friendly: December 25 1906 : Ash Lane (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Southport Central: Bullivant, Spink, McWhan, Sinclair, Edmonds, Turner, Taylor, Aaron, Monks, Gara, Alexander.
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Jones, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Yarwood.
Wigan Town 2-v-1 Bangor [12]
League : January 5 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnall, Jones, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Banister Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor
Bangor: Owens, Edwards, Oliver, R. Davies, D.T. Davies
Wigan Town Suspended
THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION AND THREE PLAYERS
A surprise for the Local Club
“For, it is alleged, neglecting to observe the orders of the Football Association with regard to penalties inflicted by the Emergency Committee because of supposed wrong treatment of certain players, the Wigan Town Club are suspended sine die.”
This paragraph, appearing in the daily papers on Tuesday morning created quite a sensation in local football circles.
It came as a surprise not only to the supporters of the club, but to the Executive, who had no idea such a course was about to be taken. However, by Tuesday morning’s post, Mr. R. Whitfield, the secretary of Wigan Town, received a communication from the Football Association intimating that the club was suspended sine die.
The letter was as follows:- “The Football Association, Limited, 104, High Holborn, London, W.C., 7th January 1907. Mr. R. Whitfield, Wigan Town A.F.C. Dear sir,- Your club is suspended sine die. When you have paid the amounts due to Jones, Sandland and Currie we will further consider what penalty should be imposed for breach of our orders. When the monies have been paid please forward the receipts to me, together with the fine of £1 in Sandland’s case.- Yours truly F. J. Wall.”
It appears that the Town executive had made an agreement with the players named to pay off money that was owing to them at so much per week, in addition to the current wages in the case of Sandland and Jones, Currie not having played with them this season.
The matter, however, has apparently been reported to the Football Association. Sandland has been given his “papers,” and is not connected with Wigan Town now.
The letter from the Football Association means that the money owing to the players will have to be paid (and this we understand will be done immediately), and then it is expected the club will be allowed to continue their matches. In fact the Town Executive hope that they will be able to play their match with Ince Athletic in the first round of the Wigan Cup Competition at Springfield Park on Saturday.
Wigan Examiner: January 9 1907: Page 2, column 3
WIGAN TOWN’S FIGHT FOR EXISTENCE.
BRIGHTENED PROSPECTS
The officials of the Wigan Town A.F.C. are making a desperate fight for existence against the many obstacles that have been placed in their path, and a representative of the “Examiner” yesterday (Friday) was in formed by one of the officials of the Town organisation that the prospects of a successful career were brighter than ever. The suspension has not yet been removed, but next week the Town Club hope to be ready for the field again.
The serious position in which the club was placed in consequence of the suspension, and the demands of the English Association, caused no small amount of anxiety amongst the Town officials, and it was felt that the Association in London were accidently labouring under a misapprehension. Accordingly it was decide to send a delegate to interview Mr. Wall, the secretary of the English Association, and on Wednesday Mr. Harold attended and explained to Mr. Wall the true position of affairs. Our representative was informed that the Association had regarded the actions of the Wigan club in a very serious light, and it was at first intended to suspend the club for this and next season. However, after hearing the ordeals through which the Town Club have had to go, and the difficulties that have had to be met, Mr. Wall expressed his sympathy with the Wiganers. Furthermore, he is asked to have promised the Wiganers every possible assistance in helping forward “soccer” in Wigan, and that he would lay the matter fully before the English Association on Monday evening, when he hoped the suspension would be removed. Other matters appertaining to the welfare of the club were mentioned by Mr. Wall, and it is understood that a minor international match will, in the course of the next few weeks, be arranged to take place at Springfield Park.
The Town officials are naturally pleased with the result of the meeting of their delegate with Mr. Wall, and we are informed that a practice match will be played this Saturday at Springfield Park. The officials are endeavouring to come to an agreement with all their players until the club is in a better financial condition. The match arranged with Preston North End should prove a great attraction, and should be of great benefit to the club. The date of the visit has not been settled upon, but February 2nd is the day mentioned. The undertaking with the North End is that five of the first team players (including Bond) should play in the team against Wigan.
A week hence, provided the suspension is removed, the Town will play their Cup-tie with Ince Athletic.
Wigan Examiner: January 19 1907: Page 5, column 4
The Suspension of Wigan Town
Football Association’s Decision
Followers of the soccer code in Wigan would be pleased to hear the news on Tuesday that the suspension of Wigan Town had been removed, after they had been prevented from fulfilling engagements for a fortnight, through not complying with the demands of the Football Association in regard to the payment of certain players.
On Tuesday, Mr. Whitfield, the secretary, received the following telegram :- “High Holborn. Whitfield. 10 Worsley-terrace, Wigan. Suspension withdrawn. Writing you. Football Association.”
Wigan Town, it is understood, will play their Wigan Challenge Cup match with Ince Athletic on Saturday.
Wigan Examiner: January 23 1907: Page 2, column 4
Wigan Town 4-v-0 Ince Athletic
Wigan Challenge Cup : January 26 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Jones, Greenie, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor (2), Taylor.
Ince Athletic: Calderbank, Williams, Smith, Gledhill, Foy, Gee, Rankin, Fleetwood, Hulse, Grundy, Crowther
WIGAN TOWN A.F.C.
APPOINTMENT OF A MANAGER
A full directors’ meeting of the above club was held on Thursday, when Mr. J. Harold was appointed to the position of team manager. Mr. Harold, who is a Scotchman, has taken a practical interest in Wigan Town, and it was he who interviewed Mr. Wall, of the Football Association, on the question of the clubs suspension. He has always been an enthusiastic supporter of “Soccer,” and was for some time identified with Edinburgh Hibernians, being the first to “spot” Raisbeck, now of Liverpool, while he was assisting a junior club. Mr. Harold has many personal friends occupying prominent positions in the football world. It is hoped that with such men as Mr. Harold, Mr. R. Whitfield (secretary) and Mr. J. Yarwood (treasurer), and a hard working committee, the organisation will prosper, and that the public will give them encouragement in their efforts to raise a first class Association club in Wigan.
Wigan Examiner: February 2 1907: Page -, column 5
Wigan Town 2-v-2 Birkenhead [13]
League : February 2 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell (pen), Yarwood, Greenie, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor. (Res: Warner, Walford, Foster)
Birkenhead: Prince, Walsh, Hughes, Evans
NEW GOALKEEPER FOR WIGAN TOWN
Wigan Town have signed on a new goalkeeper of the name of Robertson, who has been connected with a Second Division Scottish League team. Robertson is 24 years of age, stands 5ft. 10 ¾ inches in height, and weighs 11 stone 10lbs. It is stated that he will play for Wigan against Wrexham at Springfield Park this Saturday.
Wigan Examiner: February 6 1907: Page 3, column 3
Wigan Town 3-v-2 Wrexham [14]
League : February 9 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Yarwood, Greenie, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Duckworth (3), Walford, Tudor, Warner.
Wrexham: Jones, Dawson, Moss, Hesketh, Gordon, Hughes, Williams, Roberts, Read, Griffiths, Clark
League : January 5 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnall, Jones, Greenay, Atherton, Culshaw, Banister Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor
Bangor: Owens, Edwards, Oliver, R. Davies, D.T. Davies
Wigan Town Suspended
THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION AND THREE PLAYERS
A surprise for the Local Club
“For, it is alleged, neglecting to observe the orders of the Football Association with regard to penalties inflicted by the Emergency Committee because of supposed wrong treatment of certain players, the Wigan Town Club are suspended sine die.”
This paragraph, appearing in the daily papers on Tuesday morning created quite a sensation in local football circles.
It came as a surprise not only to the supporters of the club, but to the Executive, who had no idea such a course was about to be taken. However, by Tuesday morning’s post, Mr. R. Whitfield, the secretary of Wigan Town, received a communication from the Football Association intimating that the club was suspended sine die.
The letter was as follows:- “The Football Association, Limited, 104, High Holborn, London, W.C., 7th January 1907. Mr. R. Whitfield, Wigan Town A.F.C. Dear sir,- Your club is suspended sine die. When you have paid the amounts due to Jones, Sandland and Currie we will further consider what penalty should be imposed for breach of our orders. When the monies have been paid please forward the receipts to me, together with the fine of £1 in Sandland’s case.- Yours truly F. J. Wall.”
It appears that the Town executive had made an agreement with the players named to pay off money that was owing to them at so much per week, in addition to the current wages in the case of Sandland and Jones, Currie not having played with them this season.
The matter, however, has apparently been reported to the Football Association. Sandland has been given his “papers,” and is not connected with Wigan Town now.
The letter from the Football Association means that the money owing to the players will have to be paid (and this we understand will be done immediately), and then it is expected the club will be allowed to continue their matches. In fact the Town Executive hope that they will be able to play their match with Ince Athletic in the first round of the Wigan Cup Competition at Springfield Park on Saturday.
Wigan Examiner: January 9 1907: Page 2, column 3
WIGAN TOWN’S FIGHT FOR EXISTENCE.
BRIGHTENED PROSPECTS
The officials of the Wigan Town A.F.C. are making a desperate fight for existence against the many obstacles that have been placed in their path, and a representative of the “Examiner” yesterday (Friday) was in formed by one of the officials of the Town organisation that the prospects of a successful career were brighter than ever. The suspension has not yet been removed, but next week the Town Club hope to be ready for the field again.
The serious position in which the club was placed in consequence of the suspension, and the demands of the English Association, caused no small amount of anxiety amongst the Town officials, and it was felt that the Association in London were accidently labouring under a misapprehension. Accordingly it was decide to send a delegate to interview Mr. Wall, the secretary of the English Association, and on Wednesday Mr. Harold attended and explained to Mr. Wall the true position of affairs. Our representative was informed that the Association had regarded the actions of the Wigan club in a very serious light, and it was at first intended to suspend the club for this and next season. However, after hearing the ordeals through which the Town Club have had to go, and the difficulties that have had to be met, Mr. Wall expressed his sympathy with the Wiganers. Furthermore, he is asked to have promised the Wiganers every possible assistance in helping forward “soccer” in Wigan, and that he would lay the matter fully before the English Association on Monday evening, when he hoped the suspension would be removed. Other matters appertaining to the welfare of the club were mentioned by Mr. Wall, and it is understood that a minor international match will, in the course of the next few weeks, be arranged to take place at Springfield Park.
The Town officials are naturally pleased with the result of the meeting of their delegate with Mr. Wall, and we are informed that a practice match will be played this Saturday at Springfield Park. The officials are endeavouring to come to an agreement with all their players until the club is in a better financial condition. The match arranged with Preston North End should prove a great attraction, and should be of great benefit to the club. The date of the visit has not been settled upon, but February 2nd is the day mentioned. The undertaking with the North End is that five of the first team players (including Bond) should play in the team against Wigan.
A week hence, provided the suspension is removed, the Town will play their Cup-tie with Ince Athletic.
Wigan Examiner: January 19 1907: Page 5, column 4
The Suspension of Wigan Town
Football Association’s Decision
Followers of the soccer code in Wigan would be pleased to hear the news on Tuesday that the suspension of Wigan Town had been removed, after they had been prevented from fulfilling engagements for a fortnight, through not complying with the demands of the Football Association in regard to the payment of certain players.
On Tuesday, Mr. Whitfield, the secretary, received the following telegram :- “High Holborn. Whitfield. 10 Worsley-terrace, Wigan. Suspension withdrawn. Writing you. Football Association.”
Wigan Town, it is understood, will play their Wigan Challenge Cup match with Ince Athletic on Saturday.
Wigan Examiner: January 23 1907: Page 2, column 4
Wigan Town 4-v-0 Ince Athletic
Wigan Challenge Cup : January 26 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Jones, Greenie, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor (2), Taylor.
Ince Athletic: Calderbank, Williams, Smith, Gledhill, Foy, Gee, Rankin, Fleetwood, Hulse, Grundy, Crowther
WIGAN TOWN A.F.C.
APPOINTMENT OF A MANAGER
A full directors’ meeting of the above club was held on Thursday, when Mr. J. Harold was appointed to the position of team manager. Mr. Harold, who is a Scotchman, has taken a practical interest in Wigan Town, and it was he who interviewed Mr. Wall, of the Football Association, on the question of the clubs suspension. He has always been an enthusiastic supporter of “Soccer,” and was for some time identified with Edinburgh Hibernians, being the first to “spot” Raisbeck, now of Liverpool, while he was assisting a junior club. Mr. Harold has many personal friends occupying prominent positions in the football world. It is hoped that with such men as Mr. Harold, Mr. R. Whitfield (secretary) and Mr. J. Yarwood (treasurer), and a hard working committee, the organisation will prosper, and that the public will give them encouragement in their efforts to raise a first class Association club in Wigan.
Wigan Examiner: February 2 1907: Page -, column 5
Wigan Town 2-v-2 Birkenhead [13]
League : February 2 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell (pen), Yarwood, Greenie, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Lewis, Duckworth, Tudor, Taylor. (Res: Warner, Walford, Foster)
Birkenhead: Prince, Walsh, Hughes, Evans
NEW GOALKEEPER FOR WIGAN TOWN
Wigan Town have signed on a new goalkeeper of the name of Robertson, who has been connected with a Second Division Scottish League team. Robertson is 24 years of age, stands 5ft. 10 ¾ inches in height, and weighs 11 stone 10lbs. It is stated that he will play for Wigan against Wrexham at Springfield Park this Saturday.
Wigan Examiner: February 6 1907: Page 3, column 3
Wigan Town 3-v-2 Wrexham [14]
League : February 9 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Yarwood, Greenie, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Duckworth (3), Walford, Tudor, Warner.
Wrexham: Jones, Dawson, Moss, Hesketh, Gordon, Hughes, Williams, Roberts, Read, Griffiths, Clark
Football Jottings by “Referee”
I notice that Mr. Harold, who has recently been appointed manager of the Wigan Town Club, is making a strong appeal to football enthusiasts for support.
In his letter which appears in another column, he refers to the large number of people who were crowding on the Bolton “special” on Saturday, when the Wanderers were playing Aston Villa.
He asks these people “to transfer their allegiance” to the Springfield Park Club, and I hope his appeal will not be in vain. The Town have a winning team, and are doing well in the English Combination, but what does it profit a club if they win all their engagements and receive no support? Of course, many reasons have been adduced for the poor attendances at Springfield Park this season, and it is unnecessary to go into them again.
What I say is the Town deserve to have much better support accorded them.
Mr. Harold, who is a Scotchman, has expressed his intention of “making things hum.” Scotchmen are keen business men, and I hope Mr. Harold will succeed in his endeavours to bring “Soccer” to the front in Wigan.
Wigan Examiner: February 9 1907: Page 7, column 2
Wigan Town Football Club
An Appeal
(To the Editor)
Sir,-Will you allow me through the columns of you valuable paper to make an appeal to those followers of Association football who journey to Bolton and elsewhere every Saturday to induce them to transfer their allegiance to the above club, and give us a chance to gain admission to the Second Division of the League next season? I was
surprised on my arrival at Wigan L. and Y. Station last Saturday afternoon to see the crowds of people who waiting for the train to take them to Bolton to watch the Villa match. I want to acquaint the people with the fact that we intend to have the same class of football at Springfield Park next season, and it rests with them whether we
accomplish that object or not. When I was in London the other week interviewing Mr. Wall, I met several secretaries of League Clubs, and one and all told me that there was no more convenient place in England than Wigan for a League eleven, because they could take their teams there and back the same day, which was more than they could do when they had to visit other places. They further assured me that we had only to keep on winning and drawing the crowds to make our admittance to the League secure. We on our part are carrying out the first part of their advice. I want the Association public of Wigan to help us to do the second part.
I can assure them we have got together a thoroughly capable team, which up to now has only twice been beaten in the League, and in both those games we were compelled to play with ten men due to unforeseen circumstances. Anyone who was at Springfield Park last Saturday watching the game with Birkenhead will tell you that the excitement and play during the last thirty minutes especially were equal to any English cup tie or League match played at Bolton or elsewhere. I sincerely
trust that all who read this appeal will come down to Springfield Park this Saturday when we play Wrexham, a team that has produced many fine players for the English clubs, and is playing good football at the present time, and give us that support which the players and directors are surely deserving of from their own townsmen. I may say we have a run of home matches up to March 2nd , with a visit from Preston North End League team (including the great McBride) in between, and negotiations are in progress for a match with Aston Villa to be played at an early date. I might
also say that I intend as manager of this club to give all local lads a chance to distinguish themselves with our second team, and every facility will be given them to bring out their football qualities, so that any promising junior between the ages of 18 and 24 who makes application to me at the offices, 10 Worsley Terrace, will receive my best attention, but all applications must be by letter stating the team they presently play for, with their age, height, and weight. I might also add that any
further information can be had from Mr. R. Whitfield, the secretary ; Mr. J. Yarwood, treasurer ; and at the Pagefield, the White Lion, and the White Horse Hotels. Hoping this appeal will be the means of bringing a big crowd to Springfield Park this Saturday, and thus lay the foundation stone for building up a League eleven in Wigan next season, and of having one of the Internationals played there, which is only a question of short time, I am, sir, yours truly
J. HAROLD
Manager Wigan Town A.F.C.
Wigan Examiner: February 9 1907: Page 2 (sup), column 4
WIGAN TOWN A.F.C. A DISCLAIMER
(To the Editor)
Sir,-My attention having been called to paragraph in a letter from Mr. Harold, the manager of the Wigan Town Association F.C., which appeared in your last week’s issue, to the effect that any information regarding the Association Club, could be obtained, among other places, at the White Lion Hotel, I beg to state that I know nothing about the matter, nor have I any connection whatever with the Association Club referred to. I may state that it is well-known that I am a Rugbyite pure and simple, and have no intention to abandon that code. As I am at present a member of the Wigan F.C. (Rugby) Committee, I shall be pleased if you will kindly insert this letter in your paper, as I do not wish it to go forth that I am sitting on a Rugby Committee and helping the other code.-Thanking you in anticipation. Yours,
THOS. CRITCHLEY
White Lion Hotel
Market-street, Wigan
Wigan Examiner: February 16 1907: Page 7, column 4
I notice that Mr. Harold, who has recently been appointed manager of the Wigan Town Club, is making a strong appeal to football enthusiasts for support.
In his letter which appears in another column, he refers to the large number of people who were crowding on the Bolton “special” on Saturday, when the Wanderers were playing Aston Villa.
He asks these people “to transfer their allegiance” to the Springfield Park Club, and I hope his appeal will not be in vain. The Town have a winning team, and are doing well in the English Combination, but what does it profit a club if they win all their engagements and receive no support? Of course, many reasons have been adduced for the poor attendances at Springfield Park this season, and it is unnecessary to go into them again.
What I say is the Town deserve to have much better support accorded them.
Mr. Harold, who is a Scotchman, has expressed his intention of “making things hum.” Scotchmen are keen business men, and I hope Mr. Harold will succeed in his endeavours to bring “Soccer” to the front in Wigan.
Wigan Examiner: February 9 1907: Page 7, column 2
Wigan Town Football Club
An Appeal
(To the Editor)
Sir,-Will you allow me through the columns of you valuable paper to make an appeal to those followers of Association football who journey to Bolton and elsewhere every Saturday to induce them to transfer their allegiance to the above club, and give us a chance to gain admission to the Second Division of the League next season? I was
surprised on my arrival at Wigan L. and Y. Station last Saturday afternoon to see the crowds of people who waiting for the train to take them to Bolton to watch the Villa match. I want to acquaint the people with the fact that we intend to have the same class of football at Springfield Park next season, and it rests with them whether we
accomplish that object or not. When I was in London the other week interviewing Mr. Wall, I met several secretaries of League Clubs, and one and all told me that there was no more convenient place in England than Wigan for a League eleven, because they could take their teams there and back the same day, which was more than they could do when they had to visit other places. They further assured me that we had only to keep on winning and drawing the crowds to make our admittance to the League secure. We on our part are carrying out the first part of their advice. I want the Association public of Wigan to help us to do the second part.
I can assure them we have got together a thoroughly capable team, which up to now has only twice been beaten in the League, and in both those games we were compelled to play with ten men due to unforeseen circumstances. Anyone who was at Springfield Park last Saturday watching the game with Birkenhead will tell you that the excitement and play during the last thirty minutes especially were equal to any English cup tie or League match played at Bolton or elsewhere. I sincerely
trust that all who read this appeal will come down to Springfield Park this Saturday when we play Wrexham, a team that has produced many fine players for the English clubs, and is playing good football at the present time, and give us that support which the players and directors are surely deserving of from their own townsmen. I may say we have a run of home matches up to March 2nd , with a visit from Preston North End League team (including the great McBride) in between, and negotiations are in progress for a match with Aston Villa to be played at an early date. I might
also say that I intend as manager of this club to give all local lads a chance to distinguish themselves with our second team, and every facility will be given them to bring out their football qualities, so that any promising junior between the ages of 18 and 24 who makes application to me at the offices, 10 Worsley Terrace, will receive my best attention, but all applications must be by letter stating the team they presently play for, with their age, height, and weight. I might also add that any
further information can be had from Mr. R. Whitfield, the secretary ; Mr. J. Yarwood, treasurer ; and at the Pagefield, the White Lion, and the White Horse Hotels. Hoping this appeal will be the means of bringing a big crowd to Springfield Park this Saturday, and thus lay the foundation stone for building up a League eleven in Wigan next season, and of having one of the Internationals played there, which is only a question of short time, I am, sir, yours truly
J. HAROLD
Manager Wigan Town A.F.C.
Wigan Examiner: February 9 1907: Page 2 (sup), column 4
WIGAN TOWN A.F.C. A DISCLAIMER
(To the Editor)
Sir,-My attention having been called to paragraph in a letter from Mr. Harold, the manager of the Wigan Town Association F.C., which appeared in your last week’s issue, to the effect that any information regarding the Association Club, could be obtained, among other places, at the White Lion Hotel, I beg to state that I know nothing about the matter, nor have I any connection whatever with the Association Club referred to. I may state that it is well-known that I am a Rugbyite pure and simple, and have no intention to abandon that code. As I am at present a member of the Wigan F.C. (Rugby) Committee, I shall be pleased if you will kindly insert this letter in your paper, as I do not wish it to go forth that I am sitting on a Rugby Committee and helping the other code.-Thanking you in anticipation. Yours,
THOS. CRITCHLEY
White Lion Hotel
Market-street, Wigan
Wigan Examiner: February 16 1907: Page 7, column 4
Football Jottings by “Referee”
I see from a contemporary that Jones has had a trial with Oldham Athletic. His place in the Town ranks is being well filled by Yarwood, a local lad.
Seddon, the left full-back of the Wigan Volunteer contingent has been hooked by Wigan Town. He is to appear in Yarwood’s place this Saturday. Yarwood has been chosen to figure at right half. Greeney, I hear is on the injured list.
I am told that at a meeting of the Wigan Town Club, on Tuesday, it was unanimously decided to again apply for admission to the Second Division of theEnglish League for next season.
There will be many who wish the Town good luck in their attempt to get into such high circles. To say the least of it the Springfield Park people are plucky.
Wigan Examiner: February 16 1907: Page 7, column 2
Wigan Town 2-v-1 Chirk [15]
League : February 16 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 2-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Seddon, Britnell, Yarwood, Atherton, Culshaw, Bannister, Tudor, Warner, Duckworth, Walford.
Chirk: Morris, Owens, Jones, Evans, Roberts, Williams, T. Jones, J. Roberts, Jarman, A. Hughes, T. Hughes.
Wigan Town 0-v-1 Preston North End
Benefit : February 20 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Gore, Yarwood, Atherton, Culshaw, J. Smith, Tudor, Bannister, Duckworth, Smith.
Preston North End: Lavery, Bond, Todd, McLean, G. Barlow (WGSOB), J. Healy (Old Xaverians), Read, Pearson, Rodway.
Rhyl 0-v-1 Wigan Town [16]
League : February 23 1907 : Belle Vue (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Rhyl:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Gore, Yarwood, Atherton, Culshaw, F. Smith, E. Tudor, A. Walford, S. Duckworth, J. Smith.
This was the third attempt to play this game
“A POSSIBLE EVERTONIAN”
“CAPTURED” BY WIGAN TOWN
The Wigan Town management, on Saturday effected what was regarded as an important “capture,” viz., James Smith, a young outside right, from Newtown St. Mark’s, who had been sought after by Everton. Referring to Smith, a Liverpool contemporary, on Saturday, under the heading of “A Possible Evertonian,” says he is “a youth who is fast making a name for himself in Wigan. Commencing with Britannia F.C., he was snapped up by Ince Amateurs, and then went to Newtown St. Mark’s. He turned his attention to the Rugby game awhile. Ultimately he returned to Newtown, for whom he has since played sterling football.
Possessed of a fair turn of speed, he makes a capital outside right. He is also a splendid shot; indeed, not many weeks ago he electrified a Newtown crowd by shooting against the side of the net with such force that the ball went clean through the rigging! Of late his prowess has come to the ears of organisations gracing higher circles than the Alliance, and Everton, for one, are at present considering the desirability of securing first right to his services. As he is only nineteen years of age, he has plenty of time in which to develop into a first-class forward. His weight is 11st, and his height 5ft. 5in”
Wigan Examiner: February 27 1907: Page 3, column 3
WIGAN TOWN SECRETARYSHIP
Mr. Robert Whitfield, owing to business reasons, has resigned the secretaryship of the Wigan Town A.F.C., and the Committee have appointed Mr. Harold to be
manager and secretary, while Mr. J. Yarwood has been appointed financial
secretary of the club.
Wigan Examiner: March 27 1907: Page 3, column
Wigan Town 1-v-0 Nantwich [17]
League : March 3 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Gore, Yarwood, Atherton, Culshaw, F. Smith,
E. Tudor, A. Walford, S. Duckworth, J. Smith. (Res: Warner, Wilson)
Nantwich: Pedley, Henshall, Foster, Roddan, Brooks.
Wigan Town 2-v-6 Sheffield United
Friendly : March 9 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 2-2)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Gore, Yarwood, Atherton, Culshaw, J. Smith,
Tudor, Bannister, Duckworth, F. Smith.
Sheffield United: Livesley, Benson, Johnson, McGuire, Wilkinson, Needham, Thompson, Bluff (2), Brown (3), Drake, Lipsham.
Wrexham Victoria 1-v-2 Wigan Town [18]
League : March 23 1907 : The Recreation Ground (ht 1-1)
Teams:
Wrexham Victoria: Morgan, Smith, Williams, Jones, Williams, P. Williams,
Hughes, Lamb, Thomas, Johnson, Parry.
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Gore, Yarwood, Greenay, Atherton, J. Smith, Tudor,
James, Richards, Duckworth, F. Smith.
Wigan Town 1-v-2 Heywood United
Friendly : March 29 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-2)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Sheppard, Gore, Atherton, Culshaw, Smith, Tudor,
Walford, Duckworth, Yarwood.
Heywood United: Kirkman, Rothwell, Standring, Steel, Hennifor, Briggs, Poulston,
Hill, Morris.
Wigan Town 2-v-3 Crewe Alexandra [19]
League : March 30 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell(pen), Atherton, Gore, Yarwood, F. Smith, Tudor,
Richards, F. Smith.
Crewe Alexandra: Churchill, Davies, Astle, Knifton (2), Dodd, Ball, Moreton, Dobb, Smith.
Chester 3-v-0 Wigan Town [20]
League : April 1 1907 : Sealand Road (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Chester: Lees, Walker, J. Lewis (3), Williams, Grainger
Wigan Town:
Wigan Town 0-v-4 Stoke City
Friendly : April 1 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-2)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Burgess, Makin, Sheppard, J. Smith, Walford, F. Smith
Stoke City: Rathbone, Arrowsmith, W.C. Davies, Miller, Chalmers, Baddeley
PERSISTENT WIGAN
The people who control the Association game in Wigan are determined that the code shall flourish in spite of many failures and the fact that Wigan is one of the few towns where the Northern Union game has maintained its hold on the people. Certainly the Association enthusiasts have not received much encouragement from the fountain head, though, of course, the promoters of the new club have not been
free from blame in many matters. Mr. Robert Whitfield, the secretary, who has striven hard to push the interests of the club, has recently resigned the secretaryship, and the position has been filled by a gentleman from over the border, Mr. Harold, who is of the pushful order, though I am afraid that there is not much chance of the club becoming members of the Football League next season.
Certainly there is no better centre in the county than Wigan, and there is no doubt that someday the operations of the enthusiasts will be realised.” – “Harricus” in the “Athletic News.”
Wigan Examiner: April 3 1907: Page 3, column 6
Wigan Town 1-v-2 Whitchurch [21]
League : April 6 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-2)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Sheppard, Gore, Culshaw, Atherton, Blackburn, J. Smith,
Yarwood, Duckworth, Tudor, F.Smith.
Whitchurch: Pennington, Landop, Smith, McGuinness, Callow, Mitchell, Davies, Foster, Hughes, Evans, Watkins.
Oswestry 4-v-0 Wigan Town [22]
League : April 13 1907 : Victoria Road (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Oswestry: Williams, Jones (2 - 1 pen), Newbould, Gowers (2)
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnell, Nevison, Shepperd, Yarwood, Holden, Greenay, Duckworth, J. Smith, Magee, F.Smith
Wigan Town 0-v-1 Birmingham
Friendly: April 17 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Frodsham, Sheppard, Parkinson, Greenay, Dean, Healy, J. Smith, Duckworth, Eastham, Berry, G. Barlow.
Birmingham: Robinson, Glover, Stokes, Corman, Hartwell, Dougherty, Tickle, Green, Gooch, Jones, Eyre.
Wigan Town 1-v-1 Aston Villa
Friendly: April 20 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Maines, Britnall, Makinson, Culshaw, Greenay, J. Healy, G. Barlow,
Howarth, Yarwood, Sutton, Smith.
Aston Villa: Cooch, Spencer, Creighton, Price, Read, Mitchell, Webb, Worrall,
Kimberley, Abbey, Moulton.
Chirk 3-v-1 Wigan Town [23]
League : April 20 1907 : Holyhead Road (ht 1-0)
Teams:
Chirk:Jarman
Wigan Town: Ganner
Whitchurch 5-v-0 Wigan Town [24]
League : April 24 1907 : Yockings Park (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Whitchurch: Smith, Lindop, Callow, Davies, Evans, Chetwynd, McGuinness
Wigan Town: Frodisham, Britnell, Huxley, Yarwood, Smith, Howarth.
Wigan Town 5-v-1 Rhyl [25]
League : April 27 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 4-1)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Frodisham, Britnell, Sheppard, Greenay, Woods, Culshaw, Smith,
Seddon (2), Yarwood, Riding, Howarth.
Rhyl: Blackburn, W. Williams, Roberts, T. Evans, J. Hughes, Shipton, Amos.
Wigan Town 0-v-0 Tranmere Rovers [26]
League : April 29 1907 : Springfield Park (ht 0-0)
Teams:
Wigan Town: Frodisham, Britnell, Sheppard, Crossland, Ward, Culshaw, Smith, Seddon, Yarwood, Riding, Howarth.
Tranmere Rovers: G. Robertson, J. Lee, W. Ingram, A. Hilton, F. Ringold, E. Milner, T. Rothwell, Kelly, G. Hampson, A. Newman, H.F. Norris.
The final English Combination league table for 1906/07:
Wigan Town A.F.C.’s Affairs.
MEETING OF MEMBERS
The annual meeting of the Wigan Town A.F.C. was held at the Minorca Hotel, on
Monday evening. Mr. T. McGowan presided, and he was supported by Messers. Isherwood, R.Whitfield, Swallwell (directors), W. B. Garry, W. Winstanley, Staveley, Baker, and Glover (committee), J. Harold (secretary and manager), and J. Yarwood
(treasurer).
The Chairman referred to the many difficulties the club had had to contend with
since its inauguration. Mr. R. Charnley, the former manager, had left them at a critical time, though it was true the club owed Mr. Charnley a certain amount for wages. Then they had the misfortune to be suspended by the football association.
Mr. Wall, however, sympathised with them and promised to be a friend to the club. (Hear, hear.) They also had the bad luck to be thrown out of the Lancashire Combination after having gained admission to that League. Mr. Harold, with reference to the proposed application to the Second Division of the English League, said he considered that the more clubs outside of Lancashire who were applying for admission, the better it would be for Wigan Town. The Lancashire clubs, who were in a majority, would no doubt favour Wigan’s application.
He added that he thought Wigan was one of the finest centres in England as far as the Association game was concerned. The people would pay to see a good thing, and it only wanted bringing before them. The reason why they had done badly from a financial point of view was because they had to play in the English Combination, in which there was no interest locally; and none of the teams visiting Wigan brought any supporters with them. They had also made application for admission to the Lancashire Combination, and as they would be playing many local clubs if admitted to that League, they would have a good season. He would like to take that opportunity of thanking the proprietors of the “Wigan Examiner” for the great assistance they had given the club as regarded publishing information for the benefit of Wigan Town.
Mr. R. Whitfield submitted the accounts of the club from the commencement in July
1905, until April 30th 1907. These were adopted.
A member asked for an explanation as to the action of Mr. R. Charnley in leaving
the club in the manner he did.
Mr. Whitfield said that Mr. Charnley received a cheque for £75 from Preston North
End for the transfer of Stringfellow. Twenty nine weeks wages, at £2 per week, were due to Mr. Charnley. Prior to this transaction Mr. Charnley was offered a cheque for £20 towards his wages, but this was not accepted, and when Mr. Charnley received the money from Preston he paid about £2 to the credit of Wigan Town, the difference between the £58 due to him and the remainder of the amount being made up by out of pocket expenses.
Mr. Swallwell said he heard when Preston North End came to Wigan a few months ago, that Wigan Town were being spoken of as “Shylock and Co.” at Preston, in
correspondence of the action over the transfer named. The directors thought nothing could be gained by taking further steps, and they let the matter drop.
Mr. Harold expressed the opinion that it was through the dilatoriness of Mr. Charnley that the Town did not enter the English Cup Competition.
The Chairman informed those present that the club had entered both the English Cup
and Lancashire Cup competitions for next season. The time was not far distant when, instead of being “kicked about in the street, it would be “good morning” to them. He truly believed that Wigan Town had had more knocks than any other football club in England.
Mr. Swallwell, in conclusion, said it was admitted that the local Rugby Football Club had not covered themselves with glory during the latter part of the past season, and that if Wigan Town had had the means that the Rugby club had they would have shown better results.
Wigan Examiner: May 11 1907: Page 2, column 6
The Lancashire Combination
Wigan Town’s Successful Application
The annual meeting of the Lancashire Football Association was held at Bolton on
Thursday evening. The most important business, as far as this district is concerned, was the considering of the applications for positions in the “B” section of the Lancashire Combination.
Ashton Town, Newton-le-Willows and Oswaldtwistle Rovers had to apply for re- election by reason of finishing in the last four, Skelmersdale, the wooden spoonists,
not seeking admission again. In addition, Wigan Town, Pendlebury, Turton, and Heywood United were also desirous of figuring in the League, and as Stockport County had withdrawn, there were seven applications for five positions.
The voting resulted as follows:- Pendlebury 29, Oswaldtwistle Rovers 27, Newton-le-Willows 26, Wigan Town 26, and Heywood United 25. Turton, who secured 24 votes, and Ashton Town 23, were unsuccessful.
Wigan Examiner: May 18 1907: Page 8, column 7
Capture by Wigan Town
INTERNATIONAL FULL-BACK SIGNED ON
On Thursday, Mr. Harold, the secretary and manager of Wigan Town A.F.C., was successful in securing the signature of Peter Boyle, the full-back of Clapton Orient, and who is on the Sheffield United register. Boyle is an International, having played for Ireland on no fewer than eight occasions, while he figured in the English Cup three times. Although he has been participating in League football for many years,
Boyle is not yet 30 years of age, and Wigan Town are to be congratulated on the
capture.
Wigan Examiner: June 1 1907: Page 3, column 4
WIGAN TOWN AND THE SECOND DIVISION
UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICATION
At a meeting of the Football League, held in London on Friday, there were nine
applications for the three vacancies in the Second Division of the League. Lincoln City, Chesterfield and Burton United applied for re-election, and Bradford (Park Avenue), Fulham, Oldham Athletic, Rotherham Town, Salford United and Wigan Town were the new clubs seeking admission.
Mr. Harold, on behalf of Wigan Town, said they had got one of the finest grounds in
the country, and the only thing they wanted was the support of the League. The League had given their support to Bradford, Leeds and Hull, and the people of Wigan thought they should have it too. “If,” said Mr. Harold, “you people take it into your heads to create a sensation and elect Wigan there will be such a cry in that town to-night as will be heard from one end of the country to the other.” (Laughter)
RESULT OF THE BALLOT
Voting was by ballot, and the result was as follows:- Fulham 28, Lincoln City 28,
Chesterfield 23, Oldham Athletic 17, Bradford Park Avenue 11, Burton United 7. Wigan, Salford and Rotherham did not share one vote between them. Fulham, Lincoln City, and Chesterfield were therefore declared elected.
“The Athletic News” reported Mr. Harold’s speech reads as follows:- “Mr. Harold, of
Wigan Town, said they had given Bradford, Leeds and Hull a chance, and the people of Wigan thought they should be accorded a similar favour. If only they would take it into their heads to cause a sensation that night by voting in Wigan the population of that joyous town would cry with one accord : ‘Long live Association’ –a sally that made grave seignieurs audibly smile.”
Wigan Examiner: June 8 1907: Page 2, column 7
New Player for Wigan Town A.F.C.
Wigan Town have signed on Henry Dean, of the Adlington Club. Dean, who plays either as centre half or right half, assisted the Town last season in the match with
Birmingham. He is stated to be twenty-two years of age, 5ft 11in. in height, and weighs 12 stone, and it is also reported that he has had offers from other clubs.
Wigan Examiner: June 29 1907: Page 5, column 8
MEETING OF MEMBERS
The annual meeting of the Wigan Town A.F.C. was held at the Minorca Hotel, on
Monday evening. Mr. T. McGowan presided, and he was supported by Messers. Isherwood, R.Whitfield, Swallwell (directors), W. B. Garry, W. Winstanley, Staveley, Baker, and Glover (committee), J. Harold (secretary and manager), and J. Yarwood
(treasurer).
The Chairman referred to the many difficulties the club had had to contend with
since its inauguration. Mr. R. Charnley, the former manager, had left them at a critical time, though it was true the club owed Mr. Charnley a certain amount for wages. Then they had the misfortune to be suspended by the football association.
Mr. Wall, however, sympathised with them and promised to be a friend to the club. (Hear, hear.) They also had the bad luck to be thrown out of the Lancashire Combination after having gained admission to that League. Mr. Harold, with reference to the proposed application to the Second Division of the English League, said he considered that the more clubs outside of Lancashire who were applying for admission, the better it would be for Wigan Town. The Lancashire clubs, who were in a majority, would no doubt favour Wigan’s application.
He added that he thought Wigan was one of the finest centres in England as far as the Association game was concerned. The people would pay to see a good thing, and it only wanted bringing before them. The reason why they had done badly from a financial point of view was because they had to play in the English Combination, in which there was no interest locally; and none of the teams visiting Wigan brought any supporters with them. They had also made application for admission to the Lancashire Combination, and as they would be playing many local clubs if admitted to that League, they would have a good season. He would like to take that opportunity of thanking the proprietors of the “Wigan Examiner” for the great assistance they had given the club as regarded publishing information for the benefit of Wigan Town.
Mr. R. Whitfield submitted the accounts of the club from the commencement in July
1905, until April 30th 1907. These were adopted.
A member asked for an explanation as to the action of Mr. R. Charnley in leaving
the club in the manner he did.
Mr. Whitfield said that Mr. Charnley received a cheque for £75 from Preston North
End for the transfer of Stringfellow. Twenty nine weeks wages, at £2 per week, were due to Mr. Charnley. Prior to this transaction Mr. Charnley was offered a cheque for £20 towards his wages, but this was not accepted, and when Mr. Charnley received the money from Preston he paid about £2 to the credit of Wigan Town, the difference between the £58 due to him and the remainder of the amount being made up by out of pocket expenses.
Mr. Swallwell said he heard when Preston North End came to Wigan a few months ago, that Wigan Town were being spoken of as “Shylock and Co.” at Preston, in
correspondence of the action over the transfer named. The directors thought nothing could be gained by taking further steps, and they let the matter drop.
Mr. Harold expressed the opinion that it was through the dilatoriness of Mr. Charnley that the Town did not enter the English Cup Competition.
The Chairman informed those present that the club had entered both the English Cup
and Lancashire Cup competitions for next season. The time was not far distant when, instead of being “kicked about in the street, it would be “good morning” to them. He truly believed that Wigan Town had had more knocks than any other football club in England.
Mr. Swallwell, in conclusion, said it was admitted that the local Rugby Football Club had not covered themselves with glory during the latter part of the past season, and that if Wigan Town had had the means that the Rugby club had they would have shown better results.
Wigan Examiner: May 11 1907: Page 2, column 6
The Lancashire Combination
Wigan Town’s Successful Application
The annual meeting of the Lancashire Football Association was held at Bolton on
Thursday evening. The most important business, as far as this district is concerned, was the considering of the applications for positions in the “B” section of the Lancashire Combination.
Ashton Town, Newton-le-Willows and Oswaldtwistle Rovers had to apply for re- election by reason of finishing in the last four, Skelmersdale, the wooden spoonists,
not seeking admission again. In addition, Wigan Town, Pendlebury, Turton, and Heywood United were also desirous of figuring in the League, and as Stockport County had withdrawn, there were seven applications for five positions.
The voting resulted as follows:- Pendlebury 29, Oswaldtwistle Rovers 27, Newton-le-Willows 26, Wigan Town 26, and Heywood United 25. Turton, who secured 24 votes, and Ashton Town 23, were unsuccessful.
Wigan Examiner: May 18 1907: Page 8, column 7
Capture by Wigan Town
INTERNATIONAL FULL-BACK SIGNED ON
On Thursday, Mr. Harold, the secretary and manager of Wigan Town A.F.C., was successful in securing the signature of Peter Boyle, the full-back of Clapton Orient, and who is on the Sheffield United register. Boyle is an International, having played for Ireland on no fewer than eight occasions, while he figured in the English Cup three times. Although he has been participating in League football for many years,
Boyle is not yet 30 years of age, and Wigan Town are to be congratulated on the
capture.
Wigan Examiner: June 1 1907: Page 3, column 4
WIGAN TOWN AND THE SECOND DIVISION
UNSUCCESSFUL APPLICATION
At a meeting of the Football League, held in London on Friday, there were nine
applications for the three vacancies in the Second Division of the League. Lincoln City, Chesterfield and Burton United applied for re-election, and Bradford (Park Avenue), Fulham, Oldham Athletic, Rotherham Town, Salford United and Wigan Town were the new clubs seeking admission.
Mr. Harold, on behalf of Wigan Town, said they had got one of the finest grounds in
the country, and the only thing they wanted was the support of the League. The League had given their support to Bradford, Leeds and Hull, and the people of Wigan thought they should have it too. “If,” said Mr. Harold, “you people take it into your heads to create a sensation and elect Wigan there will be such a cry in that town to-night as will be heard from one end of the country to the other.” (Laughter)
RESULT OF THE BALLOT
Voting was by ballot, and the result was as follows:- Fulham 28, Lincoln City 28,
Chesterfield 23, Oldham Athletic 17, Bradford Park Avenue 11, Burton United 7. Wigan, Salford and Rotherham did not share one vote between them. Fulham, Lincoln City, and Chesterfield were therefore declared elected.
“The Athletic News” reported Mr. Harold’s speech reads as follows:- “Mr. Harold, of
Wigan Town, said they had given Bradford, Leeds and Hull a chance, and the people of Wigan thought they should be accorded a similar favour. If only they would take it into their heads to cause a sensation that night by voting in Wigan the population of that joyous town would cry with one accord : ‘Long live Association’ –a sally that made grave seignieurs audibly smile.”
Wigan Examiner: June 8 1907: Page 2, column 7
New Player for Wigan Town A.F.C.
Wigan Town have signed on Henry Dean, of the Adlington Club. Dean, who plays either as centre half or right half, assisted the Town last season in the match with
Birmingham. He is stated to be twenty-two years of age, 5ft 11in. in height, and weighs 12 stone, and it is also reported that he has had offers from other clubs.
Wigan Examiner: June 29 1907: Page 5, column 8
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