Heswall FC end the football year with a win and a loss but plenty of optimism

Above: a gallery of pictures by Bob Shaw

In our final games of the year and following a spate of recent postponements, it was great to get back out on the pitch as both our First Team and reserves were in action on Saturday. The Firsts made the short trip to Wallasey to face current league leaders Ashville in the West Cheshire League First Division. In an equal first half, it was an unfortunate own goal from Matty Beaman which put the hosts ahead, arguably against the run of play, but the lads are renowned for their fighting spirit and got themselves back into the game with a goal from Nathan Johnston who curled into the far post from the edge of the box to continue his fine form this season. Jonno continues to develop into a tremendous player and one who has all the attributes to play at higher levels. Unfortunately the hosts rallied and took the points with a late winner to consolidate their place at the top of the league. In our first season back at the top table, we are pleased to have been competitive and find ourselves in 9th place in the league. We knew it was to be a tough season and a big step up for the lads, but they continue to show their resilience and their class and we remain confident we will finish strongly. Manager Andy Cass and his team of Ben Scoffield and Jake Cripps have done a tremendous job and we will push on and do all we can to bring success back to Gayton Park. Our Reserve Team, once again under the stewardship of stand-in gaffer Dave Hird, welcomed Ellesmere Port Town Reserves to Gayton Park. Following an early season drubbing at the hands of the same opponents, our boys were keen to erase that memory and end the year on a high. In a tight first half, chances were at a premium and the game meandered into halftime without too much incident to speak of. The second half however was a much improved performance, and we got our reward when goalscorer extraordinaire Dan O'Halloran smashed in from the edge of the box to register his 11th goal of the season. The lead was doubled when that man O'Halloran was needlessly pushed over in the box and Conor Egan was the man on the spot, calmly slotting home to the goalkeeper's right to make it 2–0, with Heswall seemingly cruising toward victory. The complexion of the match took a turn midway through the half when the Port keeper lost his cool and was rightly sin-binned following a verbal tirade at the referee. We were able to take advantage when Dan O'Halloran was on hand at the corner of the six yard box to pass the ball home following a corner - a very smart and exquisite finish to take him to 12 goals for the season. The Port soon had the opportunity to get themselves back in the game when the ref handed them a penalty following the most accidental handball you are likely to see. Stand-in goalkeeper Lewis Boardman was given the chance to become a hero, but the Port striker made his job easier by firing the spot kick high over the bar in what was a cruel indication of the day for the Port side. Further woe was to befall our visitors when we were awarded a second penalty for another clumsy foul by the Port goalkeeper, allowing Callum Walsh to smash the penalty home to make it 4–0. Game over. A second win in two for Dave Hird who was rightly delighted with the performance, the win and the deserved clean sheet for Lewis Boardman who, while not a regular goalkeeper, stepped up and made a number of fine saves, looking composed throughout. Here at Heswall Football Club, we would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a prosperous new year. We are especially grateful to our incredible sponsors and supporters who are truly appreciated. Your backing is second to none and we are eternally grateful. Thank you so much.