News in Sandbach

Ex-Northern Ireland international Steve Jones struck late to seal a 2-1 win at Maine Road.

A wet and windy afternoon saw Andy Hockenhull make only one change from the comfortable 4-0 derby win over Alsager Town, with new signing Billy Buckley marking his return to the Ramblers with a start.

Elworth 126/2 beat Little Stoke 125 all out by 8 wickets

If Elworth followers feared that escaping with a draw at Hem Heath had, more or less, used up their supply of luck

Andy Hockenhull welcomed back Aaron Knight into the starting line-up following his recovery from a foot injury, whilst Steve Jones also passed a late fitness test to take his place on the bench.

Following a period of unavailability, Chris Rowntree was also welcomed back into the squad and started alongside Sean Moscrop in midfield.

Sandbach United will look to make it four games without a loss as they welcome Eccleshall to Hind Heath Road on Saturday afternoon.

The Cheshire side dropped their first points of the NWCFL season away to Ellesmere Rangers last weekend but given the circumstances and only equalising in the 92nd minute, many fans were happy with the point to a team they've historically struggled against on the road.

Hem Heath 99/4 in reply to Elworth 108 all out

Hem Heath 8 points, Elworth 6

A stoppage-time equaliser from Bobbie McDonnell ensured Sandbach remained unbeaten this season after drawing 1-1 against Ellesmere Rangers.

Andy Hockenhull named an unchanged starting lineup following the 6-0 demolition of St Martins in midweek, and they started the stronger side at Beech Grove, with Scott Evans putting a great cross into the box after 3 minutes but Declan O'Riordan's header flew wide.

Sandbach United beat NWCFL newcomers Brocton FC 3-1 to begin the 2021/22 season with maximum points.

Manager Andy Hockenhull welcomed back creative outlet Aaron Knight to the starting 11, opting for a 4-3-3 formation and deploying fearsome forwards Bobbie McDonnell and Scott Evans either side of Knight.

Sandbach United have had a solid pre-season, scoring wins over St Helens, Eastwood Hanley and Wythenshawe Amateurs.

However, seasoned Ramblers fans will know that the NWCFL is a different kettle of fish and there are no easy games. Andy Hockenhull said it best before the Liverpool match, claiming "Bottom can beat top in this division, every game can surprise you".

Jay Rowland spoke to the Sandbach United manager ahead of their final pre-season friendly, and here's what he had to say.

JR: You had a good start to last season but things like COVID meant it couldn't be finished, are you hoping that you can push for promotion again this season?

South Liverpool won 4-0 against a new-look Sandbach United side days before the league campaign begins.

Manager Andy Hockenhull said before the game that the team would contain several reserve players and trialists to avoid injury to key first team players and for resting purposes.