Memories

Local Football in the 80's to 90's

I lived in Whiston from 1960 to 1979 - age 0-19yrs.

Even when I moved, I still frequented the local pubs - Sitwell, Chequers and the Golden Ball.

I played for both Sitwell and Chequers football teams in the 80's. One notable achievement for the Village was that both teams won their respective Sunday Leagues during the same season.

I was the manager of the Sitwell Cavaliers and Ron Muscroft was the manager of the Chequers. The good thing about both these teams is that almost everyone who played was a 'native' or lived in Whiston.

Sitwell's home ground was on Guilthwaite Hill.

Great rivalry existed between the clubs. They played in different leagues but played an annual charity match between the sides on Boxing Day for a trophy donated by both pubs. Not only did this raise money for local charities but provided a great spectacle for many locals who used to come and watch. Sitwells colours were Black and white stripes with black shorts and socks. I can't remember what colours the Chequers played in!

This is the photo of the football team receiving the Trophy for winning the Sunday League (Fallons 3 Diamonds at the time). The photo was taken outside the Chequers pub,where the trophy was awarded. I think the year was 1990.
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We had a great season that year not only winning the league but also beating our rivals The Chequers 4:1 in the annual Boxing day Charity match.Every one on the Photo bar the Landlord/Lady,the Lg chairman and his girlfriend plus our physio was from Whiston, or living in the Village at the time. No foreign imports here!

Ian Stewart