TSFFS S2 EP30

Join us as we welcome Andy Barlow, the manager of Skelmersdale United, to this exciting episode!

This week, we're diving into lively discussions with our guest panellist, Andy Barlow, whose stellar non-league football career makes him the perfect voice to discuss local football scenes.

We kick things off with the NWCFL, the Macron Cup, and spotlight some of the league's biggest movers and shakers, lighting up the competition.

Next, we venture into the National League and Northern Premier League, highlighting stories from Bootle, Clitheroe, Prescot, Marine, Southport, and more.

But it's not all about praise—controversy takes centre stage. We explore the disrespect shown by Chelsea players towards young supporters and delve into the ongoing saga at Brickfield Rangers, where referees are being asked not to officiate due to threats and abuse from a manager targeting U18 officials. The blanket ban on refereeing at Rangers at all levels remains in force.

We also reveal the well-kept secret of Dave Kitson's surprising self-outing as the "Secret Football Manager." A former player who penned revealing articles for The Guardian and authored books exposing the darker side of professional football, Kitson took a huge career risk by speaking out in an era when whistleblowing was more dangerous.

Turning to Andy Barlow's journey in football, we explore how he started at Manchester City as a youth and, despite not reaching the top tiers, achieved notable milestones, including advancing to the FA Cup second round and drawing Manchester United in the third-round draw!

We wrap up with our signature predictions and insightful analysis of upcoming fixtures.

All that and much more—stay tuned and get ready for an episode packed with passion, controversy, and expert insights.

TSFFS S2 EP29

This week, we dive into a lively roundup of the NWCFL, highlighting all the key movers and shakers shaping the league.

We also explore the vibrant world of local non-league football in the National League North and the Northern Premier League.

Bury fans' long-standing wish came true as Anthony Johnson parted ways with Radcliffe. However, this change sparked a split in the football club, with Bernard Morley remaining at Radcliffe. Managing his boyhood team has always been a dream for Johnson, so it is an understandable departure.

In a heated segment, we examine Droylsden's FA Vase triumph over Bilston Town—a victory marred by a shocking outbreak of violence at the final whistle.

Chester supporter Lee Newman faces a three-year ban after an incident at Worksop Town, where he entered the away dressing room to hurl abuse at his own players and staff following a 2-1 defeat. While crossing boundaries raises the question: Is there a limit to what's acceptable when it comes to fan conduct?

We wrap up with our weekly predictions and expert insights, promising an exciting finish to this episode.

All this and more, coming your way.

Join us once again as we immerse ourselves in the vibrant world of the NWCFL. With the season hurtling toward its exhilarating climax, we spotlight the clubs soaring to new heights and those facing tough challenges.

We'll celebrate Marine and Southport, fresh off remarkable victories in the FA Trophy's fifth round, and reveal their upcoming quarter-final opponents.

The Northern Premier League West heats up, with Lower Breck enduring three straight defeats and Runcorn Linnets climbing to the summit. Their crucial clash this weekend could be a game-changer—a true six-pointer.

Meanwhile, Morecambe has made headlines by replacing its manager and bringing back club legend Jim Bentley for the rest of the season. What's driving the trend of interim managers, and why are clubs hesitant to commit long-term?

Who will step into Chester's managerial role next? Once again, a club has issued a termination notice. More clubs seem to be taking this route—could they already have successors in mind, waiting in the wings?

The FA's plans to expand Step Six leagues from 17 to 24 raise questions. Will this dilute the divisions further? Could it lead to financial challenges as divisions possibly shrink? The NWCFL already faces tough times with fewer than 20 teams in the North and South. Could we see divisions reduced to just 16 teams?

With Wolverhampton Sporting Community resigning from NWCFL Div One South, we ask: Is the strain of heavy travel too much to bear? Or should clubs prepare for these challenges? Finding the right balance in non-league football feels more complicated than ever—and perhaps it's an issue the FA needs to address.

We conclude with our latest update on Skem, bold predictions for the week ahead, and expert insights to keep you ahead of the game.

All this and much more await you. Dive in and stay tuned for an action-packed journey through non-league football.