Belfast United 2009-2010 (Season 3) - When Worlds Collide

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 08:58 PM

Belfast United FC

A United Belfast?
BELFAST, N.IRE - "What is in a team name? It should be something that represents the city, something that reflects its community, something people can be proud to support." These are the words, which Sir Archibald, founder of Belfast United lives by. His club's name says it all: Belfast United... a united Belfast.

Just ten years ago, such a notion would be laughed at and ridiculed as fantasy. After the Good Friday Agreement, there was a hope for change… that all the people of Belfast could be as one. But what would be the impetus for such an undertaking? A city so divided by religious sectarianism and class warfare had very little in common with one another. That is until they had a football club to call their own.

Previously, one would support a team in the Scottish Premier League such as Rangers FC or Celtic FC. Or if one wanted to be more ambiguous about their ethnicity they might choose to support an English Premier League club such as Manchester United, Liverpool, or Everton. Regardless, there wasn't a true big league club for the people of Belfast to call their own.

That all changed this year with the announcement of Belfast United's promotion and acceptance into the Coca-Cola League 2. The FAI Eirecom League reportedly was courting Belfast United to be incorporated into their league but Sir Archibald had larger ambitions for his club: to reach the Premier tier of the top league in the world. Sir Archibald threw down the gauntlet and the people of Belfast responded.

"People used to ask me if I was Rangers or Celtic and you’d have to worry giving the wrong answer," says Patrick Donovan of South Belfast. "Now when people ask I tell them I support Belfast and that’s the end of it."

"What Belfast needs is a team that unites the city under one banner. Lawrie captured the imagination of our wee country during his run with Norn Iron and finally we had a sense of ourselves. People from both sides of the peace wall could get behind the team. That is what we hope to accomplish with Belfast United."
--Sir Archibald, BUFC founder

Belfast Utd Previous Seasons MM (Click Here)
See where it all started!

The Club
Full Name: Belfast United
Abbreviation: Bfast
Mascot: Bruin (dubbed Hunee Bear)
Nicknames: Bruins, Black & Tans, Browns, Brown Boyos
Founded: 2007
Chairman/CEO: Sir Archibald
Manager: Lawrie Sanchez
League: Coca Cola Championship
Rivals: Celtic FC, Rangers FC
Total Achievements:
2007-08 Coca-Cola League 2 Champions
2007-08 Johnstone's Paint Trophy (lost to Swansea in 1/4 final)
2008-09 Coca-Cola League 1 Champions
2008-09 Johnstone's Paint Trophy Winner
Sponsors: Bushmills
Farm Clubs: Killyleagh Youth Football Club, Killyleagh, Co.

The Kits
2009-2010 Home Kit:

2009-2010 Away Kit:

2009-2010 3rd Kit:

League Status: Coca-Cola Championship
History: Amateur Club est 1913 as Killyleagh FC promoted to League 2 from Conference National in 2007 as Belfast United.
Professional Club promoted to League 1 in 2008 and then to the League Championship in 2009.

---------------
The Park

Stadium Information:
Name: Windsor Park
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Capacity: 21,000
Attendance Record: 11,460 July 17th vs Cork City
Opened: 1905
Surface: Grass
Dimensions: 110 x 75 yards
Supporter Groups: Brown Boyos (~950 members), Black & Tans (~490 members)
Hooliganism Level: Minor incidents at home vs Millwall

Belfast Utd Anthem:
(To the tune of "Belfast" by Elton John)

"Our troubles are lost and gone
Our kits worn on both Shankill and Falls
On the pitch, every inch fought and won
From the Kop the Park is filled with songs of madness
And I never seen a braver club
than BELFAST!"

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 08:59 PM

The Squad
---------------------------------------------------------
BELFAST UNITED ROSTER 2009-2010

Goalkeepers:

Allan McGregor, b.1982, Scotland (GK) ovr:67
Iain Turner, b.1984 , Scotland, (GK) ovr:64

Defenders:

James Collins, b.1983 , Wales, (CB) ovr:72
Ian Pearce, b.1974, England, (CB) ovr:71
Stephen Kelly, b.1983, Ireland, (RB) ovr:69
George McCartney, b.1981, N.Ireland, (LB) ovr:70
James McEveley, b.1985, Scotland, (CB) ovr:68
Simon Webb, b.1978, Ireland, (LB) ovr:63
Jade North, b.1982, Australia, (RB) ovr:62
Ian Paul Joy, b.1981, USA, (LB) ovr:60
Jeff Hughes, b.1985, N.Ireland, (LB) ovr:66

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 08:59 PM

Midfielders:

Barry Ferguson, b.1978, Scotland, (CM) ovr:80 (Captain)

Aiden McGeady, b.1986, Ireland, (LW) ovr:71

Steven Davis, b.1985, N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:73

Stephen Ireland, b.1988, Ireland, (CAM) ovr:76

Damien Johnson, b.1978 , N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:69 from Birmingham City
Stephen Pearson, b.1982, Scotland, (LM) ovr:68
Kristian Sarkies, b.1986, Australia, (CAM) ovr:61
Pat McCourt, b.1983, N.Ireland, (LM) ovr:63

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:00 PM

Forwards:

David Healy, b.1979, N.Ireland, (ST) ovr:71
Tore André Flo, b.1973, Norway, (ST) OVR:67
Gary Beckett, b.1973, N.Ireland, (RS) ovr:60
Sam Morrow, b.1985, N.Ireland, (LS) ovr:58
Kyle Lafferty, b.1987, N.Ireland, (CF) ovr:60

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:00 PM

Reserves:
Scott Gallacher, b.1989, Scotland, (GK) ovr:39
Chris Neal, b.1985, England, (GK) ovr:45
Michael Carvill, b.1988, England, (ST) ovr:50
Chris Fagan, b.1989, Ireland, (ST) ovr:58
Josh McQuoid, b.1989, N.Ireland, (ST) ovr:47
Liam Stockdale, b.1991, England, (ST) ovr:41
Chris Kingsberry, b.1985, N.Ireland, (RM) ovr:57
Mathew Mullen, b.1989, Australia, (CM) ovr:56
Ruaidhri Higgins, b.1984, N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:54
Will Baillie, b.1990, England, (CM) ovr:46
Thomas Butler, b.1981, Ireland, (RM) ovr:53
Mark McChrystal, b.1984, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:59
Craig Cathcart, b.1989, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:53
Mark Reynolds, b.1987, Scotland, (CB) ovr:57
Chris Turner, b.1987, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:57
Chris Casement, b.1988, N.Ireland, (LB) ovr:52
Will McLeod, b.1987, Ireland, (CB) ovr:45
Terry McFlynn, b.1981, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:56
Liam Burns, b.1978, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:60

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:01 PM

The Table

Coca-Cola Championship Table 2009-2010

Note: The English FA has annexed a three clubs from other leagues to make it more competitive. 2 Scottish clubs, Celtic FC and Rangers FC will now be in the CC Championship (same division as Belfast). Linfield of Belfast, Northern Ireland will also join but are placed in CC League One. This will allow for Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to be represented with at least two clubs in the FA and have a chance to reach the UK top tier Barclays Premier League.

The Fixtures
Preseason Fixtures/Results (2-5-0)
07/7 Belfast 0-3 Chelsea (Home Loss)
11/7 Belfast 0-4 Manchester United (Home Loss)
14/7 Belfast 1-3 West Ham (Home Loss)
16/7 Belfast 0-3 Hull City (Home Loss)
18/7 Belfast 2-1 Manchester City (Home Win)
21/7 Belfast 1-0 Fulham (Home Win)
24/7 Belfast 1-2 Liverpool (Home Loss)

Season Fixtures/Results (1-1-0)
30/7 Belfast 6-1 Celtic (Home Win)
04/8 Belfast 1-4 Derby (Away Loss)
11/8 Belfast vs. Doncaster Rovers
13/8 Belfast @ Charlton Athletic
18/8 Belfast @ Plymout Argyle
25/8 Belfast @ Coventry City
27/8 Carling Cup Round 2

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:02 PM

The Manager

Lawrie Sanchez' New Challenge: to Build Expansion Side in Belfast
Former Fulham and Northern Ireland Manager Aims to Regain Former Glory at Windsor Park
---------------
BELFAST, N.I. - Belfast United Chairman & CEO, Sir Archibald Brown, has named Lawrie Sanchez as the Bruins first club manager for their inaugural season. Belfast United is the first professional football club to be allowed entrance into the English Coca-Cola League Two.

Sanchez, whom recently fell from grace after being sacked during Fulham's relegation battle, is looking forward to the new challenge of building a club from the ground up.

"This is a unique opportunity for me that most managers only dream of; Building a club from the foundation. Archie [Brown] is an owner with long term vision. He has been very generous and given me what I need for success. If I fail there is no one to blame but myself," says Sanchez.

Sources say Brown and his ownership group have invested £2 million in order to get the Bruins off the ground. However, the eccentric benefactor Chairman, whom lives in Dufferin Castle in Killyleagh, County Down, has a more philanthropic purpose for his club than just making money.

In Brown's words, "What Belfast needs is a team that unites the city under one banner. Lawrie captured the imagination of our wee country during his run with Norn Iron and finally we had a sense of ourselves. People from both sides of the peace wall could get behind the team. That is what we hope to accomplish with Belfast United."

Sanchez had risen to prominence in the past by unexpectedly taking the Northern Ireland international team to the top of their qualifying group for the European Championships. A victory over Sweden at Windsor Park, Belfast had been another exciting victory to add to previous memorable wins against Spain and over England twelve months earlier in a World Cup qualifying game. Such results had previously only been the matter of dreams for Northern Ireland which had gone for two and a half years without a victory and 1,298 minutes (thirteen games) without scoring a goal prior to Sanchez’s appointment. Sanchez hopes to bring back some of that magic to his Belfast club this summer when they play their home matches at Windsor Park.

"Windsor has many happy memories for me as a player and a manager. I'm thrilled that we'll be calling it home," says Sanchez.
As a player for Wimbledon, Sanchez scored the goal for the club in their FA Cup triumph over Liverpool in 1988 and had made three international appearances for Northern Ireland. When he took up management he had success with Wycombe Wanderers, memorably taking them to an FA Cup semi-final against Liverpool, but failed to build on that and resigned in 2003. He was appointed Northern Ireland manager in January 2004 and was regarded as an unexpected choice, selected ahead of others with higher Northern Ireland credentials, having played for the country because of the connections of his mother.

Sanchez has greatly raised the standing of the Northern Ireland international team, lifting them from 124th to 33rd in the FIFA world rankings during his three years in charge. His most memorable achievement was undoubtedly the success over England at Windsor Park when a goal from David Healy defeated Sven Goran Eriksson’s side denting their World Cup qualifying aspirations.

Manager Profile:
Name: Lawrie Sanchez
D.O.B: October 22, 1959
Place of Birth: Lambeth, England (mother was from N. Ireland)
Manager Rating: 1
Previous Clubs:
1994–1995 Sligo Rovers
1999–2003 Wycombe Wanderers
2004–2007 Northern Ireland National Team
2007 Fulham
Achievements:
FA Cup 1988 (Wimbledon)
Improved Northern Ireland's FIFA ranking from 124th to 33rd
2007-08 Coca-Cola League 2 Champions
2007-08 Johnstone's Paint Trophy (lost to Swansea in 1/4 final)
2008-09 Coca-Cola League 1 Champions
2008-09 Johnstone's Paint Trophy Winner

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:03 PM

The Records

will be posted here

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:03 PM

The Trophy Room

Johnstone's Paint Trophy
(Football League Trophy)
Winner 2008-2009

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:04 PM

The Press Room

Exiled Scots to transfer to Belfast Utd?
Feud means days at Celtic short for McGeady
Healy unhappy with playing time at Sunderland

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:10 PM

The Original XI
Eugene Ferry, b.1988, N.Ireland (GK) ovr:48
Eddie McCallion, b.1979, N.Ireland (LB) ovr:54
Chris Turner, b.1987, N.Ireland (RB) ovr:55
Liam Burns, b.1978, N.Ireland (CB) ovr:62
Mark McChrystal, b.1984, N.Ireland (CB) ovr:54
Ruaidhri Higgins, b.1984, N.Ireland (CM) ovr:52
Chris Kingsberry, b.1985, N.Ireland (RM) ovr:54
Terry McFlynn, b.1981, N.Ireland (CDM) ovr:53
Pat McCourt, b.1983, N.Ireland (LM) ovr:61
Gary Beckett, b.1973, N.Ireland (ST) ovr:55
Sam Morrow, b.1985, N.Ireland (RF) ovr:55

The Transfers
2007-2008 Transferred In:
Michael James, b.1991, England, (CDM) ovr:34, from Killyleagh YFC
Reece Banks, b.1990, England, (CM) over:33, from Killyleagh YFCJosh McQuoid, b.1989, N.Ireland, (ST) ovr:45, from AFC Bournemouth
Liam Dolman, b.1987, England, (CB) ovr:44, from NorthamptonAndrew McNeil, b.1987, Scotland, (GK) ovr:59, from Slalalalahorpe
Will McLeod, b.1987, Ireland, (CB) ovr:43, from Killyleagh YFC
Kristian Sarkies, b.1986, Australia, (CAM) ovr:61, from Adelaide Utd
Jade North, b.1982, Australia, (RB) ovr:63, from Newcastle Utd Jets
Jaroslaw Lubelski, b.1989, Poland, (LM) ovr:43, from Killyleagh YFC
Liam Stockdale, b.1991, England, (ST) ovr:38, from Killyleagh YFC
Will Baillie, b.1990, England, (CM) ovr:44, from Killyleagh YFC
Dan Forrest, b.1991, England, (GK) ovr:36, from Killyleagh YFC
Mathew Mullen, b.1989, Australia, (CM) ovr:52, from Adelaide Utd

2007-2008 Transferred Out:
Eugene Ferry, b.1988, N.Ireland, (GK) ovr:48, to Longford Town FC

2008-2009 Transferred In:
Chris Casement, b.1988, N.Ireland (CB) ovr:56 from Ipswitch
Scott Gallacher, b.1989, Scotland (GK) ovr:56 from Rangers FC
Jeff Hughes, b.1985, N.Ireland (LM) ovr:65 from Crystal Palace
Stephen Ireland, b.1988, Ireland (CAM) ovr:76 from Manchester City
Kyle Lafferty, b.1987, N.Ireland, (CF) ovr:60 from Burnley
Mark Reynolds, b.1987, Scotland, (CB) ovr:63 from Motherwell
Simon Webb, b.1978, Ireland, LB:60 transferred from Drogheda
Michael Carvill, b.1988, England, (ST) ovr:50 from Wrexham
Chris Neal, b.1985, England, (GK) ovr:48 from Preston North End
Ian Paul Joy, b.1981, USA, (LB) ovr:60 from FC St. Pauli
Thomas Butler, b.1981, Ireland, (RM) ovr:54 from Swansea
Tore André Flo, b.1973, Norway, (ST) ovr:67 from Leeds

2008-2009 Transfered Out:
Jaroslaw Lubelski, b.1989, Poland (LM) ovr:43 to Coventry City
Liam Dolman, b.1987, England (CB) ovr:44 to Derry City
Eddie McCallion, b.1979, N.Ireland (LB) ovr:54 to Rochdale

2009-2010 Transferred In:
James Collins, b.1983 , Wales (CB) ovr:71 from West Ham Utd
George McCartney, b.1981, N.Ireland, (LB) ovr:70 from West Ham Utd
Ian Pearce, b.1974, England, (CB) ovr:71 from Fulham FC
Barry Ferguson, b.1978, Scotland, (CM) ovr:76 from Rangers FC
Steven Davis, b.1985, N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:72 from Rangers FC
Allan McGregor, b.1982 , Scotland (GK) ovr:67 from Rangers FC
Aiden McGeady, b.1986, Ireland (LW) ovr:71 from Celtic FC
David Healy, b.1979, N.Ireland (ST) ovr:71 from Sunderland
Stephen Pearson, b.1982, Scotland, (LM) ovr:68 from Derby County
James McEveley, b.1985, Scotland, (CB) ovr:68 from Derby County
Stephen Kelly, b.1983, Ireland, (RB) ovr:69 from Birmingham City
Craig Cathcart, b.1989, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:53 from Manchester Utd
Chris Fagan, b.1989, Ireland (ST) ovr:58 from Manchester Utd
Damien Johnson, b.1978 , N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:69 from Birmingham City
Iain Turner, b.1984 , Scotland, (GK) ovr:64 from Everton

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 09:11 PM

Sorry about restarting this but my OP space was too short in my last one

The Citizen · 10-04-2009, 10:37 PM

Great job Archie

Loving this start, keep up the good work

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 11:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Citizen

Great job Archie;)

Loving this start, keep up the good work:yippee:

Thanks Citizen, planning on filling up this OP with lots of good stuff. Keep checking the front page. What do you think of the graphics so far? I had to hand paint the shirts making it doubly difficult to make the players wear a "Belfast" kit.

Xeneize · 10-04-2009, 11:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ArchieGlen

Thanks Citizen, planning on filling up this OP with lots of good stuff. Keep checking the front page. What do you think of the graphics so far? I had to hand paint the shirts making it doubly difficult to make the players wear a "Belfast" kit.

The graphics are good, but on the player images the kits look a little "2-D". You may want to use the Satin effects/Warp Tool to make it look a little more form-fitting.

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 11:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Xeneize

The graphics are good, but on the player images the kits look a little "2-D". You may want to use the Satin effects/Warp Tool to make it look a little more form-fitting.

Thanks for the feedback. I see what you're talking about. Will look into getting that. Don't think I have that in my Adobe Photoshop version.

The Citizen · 10-04-2009, 11:43 PM

I have CS4, so I may help you with what your doing, but Xen is the better maker

ArchieGlen · 10-04-2009, 11:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Citizen

I have CS4, so I may help you with what your doing, but Xen is the better maker;)

It is a lot of work but if you want to try, go ahead. The kit is posted in the first box.

Does anyone know if McGeady wears any number besides #46? Maybe for the Nat team?

ArchieGlen · 11-04-2009, 01:42 AM

The Derby
Matchday 1; Belfast v Celtic (Derby Match)

New Meets Old

BELFAST, N.I. - Two Windsor Parks would not be enough to accommodate the thousands of fans eager to view the historical first match between the Old and New Firms in what will surely be a heated derby.

This is the first season the two clubs will play in the same league. Last season Celtic were Champions of the Scottish Clydesdale Bank Premier League. The English FA put out an offer to the club, in addition to Rangers FC, to be annexed into the League Championship. With the likelihood of promotion to the English Barclays Bank Premier League next season, Celtic and Rangers agreed.

However, one club looks to throw a wrench into the Old Firm’s plans. Belfast United’s meteoric rise through the lower divisions now has them eyeing the Premier League as well. With an impressive investment in personnel this summer, their chances are looking good.

Celtic FC of Glasgow has a rich history of Irish support. Belfast United has done its best to lure from that base of support from across the causeway by signing Celtic fan favourite, Aiden McGeady, after a falling out with manager Gordon Strachan. The move has both lured McGeady fans but also embittered Celtic fans whom put club over player loyalties. There is an X factor however in the battle for hearts and minds of Glaswegians. That is Belfast United’s mission statement to be a safe haven from sectarianism. Hardliners will balk at such idealism but those whom are tired of the old politics have already made the jump to Belfast United.

Belfast United wasted no time in volleying the first blow as Tore Flo scored with a header just five minutes into the match. Soon, Belfast had completely torn Strachans game plan to shreds and were dominating every facet of the match.

Consecutive goals followed by Stephen Pearson, another by Flo, and a forth by Steven Davis. Celtic had no answer other than a couple frustrated fouls, which resulted in yellow cards.

The melee continued in the second half when hometown hero David Healy put Belfast up by five goals, and fellow countryman Davis added a sixth to add insult to injury. A defeated Celtic did their best to muster some sort of pride and substitute Chris Killen finally put one in during the 88 th minute making the final score 6-1 for Belfast.

Belfast United 6-1 Celtic FC
MOTM Steven Davis

xRonaldinhox10x · 11-04-2009, 03:11 AM

Archie, long time no talk. Will be following this thread of course, good luck as well.

As for matchday 1, 2-2 draw against Celtic.

ArchieGlen · 11-04-2009, 03:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by xRonaldinhox10x

Archie, long time no talk. Will be following this thread of course, good luck as well.

As for matchday 1, 2-2 draw against Celtic.

Nice to see you are still around.

Ahmer50 · 11-04-2009, 03:19 AM

I have seen your 08 thread multiple times, Welcome back, Ill be following

xRonaldinhox10x · 11-04-2009, 03:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ArchieGlen

Nice to see you are still around.

Yes, you were gone for quite some time as well.

I'm sure this will become a great thread.

ArchieGlen · 11-04-2009, 05:28 AM

match report posted

also...

New Signings
Damien Johnson, b.1978 , N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:69 from Birmingham City
Iain Turner, b.1984 , Scotland, (GK) ovr:64 from Everton

Ahmer50 · 11-04-2009, 05:40 AM

Im a big fan of graphics, but that is simply below current standards for match reports, even though its well above graphical standards. Maybe do a few paragraphs of report...

10-04-2009, 08:58 PM	#1 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	Belfast United 2009-2010 (Season 3) - When Worlds Collide Belfast United FC A United Belfast? BELFAST, N.IRE - "What is in a team name? It should be something that represents the city, something that reflects its community, something people can be proud to support." These are the words, which Sir Archibald, founder of Belfast United lives by. His club's name says it all: Belfast United... a united Belfast. Just ten years ago, such a notion would be laughed at and ridiculed as fantasy. After the Good Friday Agreement, there was a hope for change… that all the people of Belfast could be as one. But what would be the impetus for such an undertaking? A city so divided by religious sectarianism and class warfare had very little in common with one another. That is until they had a football club to call their own. Previously, one would support a team in the Scottish Premier League such as Rangers FC or Celtic FC. Or if one wanted to be more ambiguous about their ethnicity they might choose to support an English Premier League club such as Manchester United, Liverpool, or Everton. Regardless, there wasn't a true big league club for the people of Belfast to call their own. That all changed this year with the announcement of Belfast United's promotion and acceptance into the Coca-Cola League 2. The FAI Eirecom League reportedly was courting Belfast United to be incorporated into their league but Sir Archibald had larger ambitions for his club: to reach the Premier tier of the top league in the world. Sir Archibald threw down the gauntlet and the people of Belfast responded. "People used to ask me if I was Rangers or Celtic and you’d have to worry giving the wrong answer," says Patrick Donovan of South Belfast. "Now when people ask I tell them I support Belfast and that’s the end of it." "What Belfast needs is a team that unites the city under one banner. Lawrie captured the imagination of our wee country during his run with Norn Iron and finally we had a sense of ourselves. People from both sides of the peace wall could get behind the team. That is what we hope to accomplish with Belfast United." --Sir Archibald, BUFC founder Belfast Utd Previous Seasons MM (Click Here) See where it all started! The Club Full Name: Belfast United Abbreviation: Bfast Mascot: Bruin (dubbed Hunee Bear) Nicknames: Bruins, Black & Tans, Browns, Brown Boyos Founded: 2007 Chairman/CEO: Sir Archibald Manager: Lawrie Sanchez League: Coca Cola Championship Rivals: Celtic FC, Rangers FC Total Achievements: 2007-08 Coca-Cola League 2 Champions 2007-08 Johnstone's Paint Trophy (lost to Swansea in 1/4 final) 2008-09 Coca-Cola League 1 Champions 2008-09 Johnstone's Paint Trophy Winner Sponsors: Bushmills Farm Clubs: Killyleagh Youth Football Club, Killyleagh, Co. The Kits 2009-2010 Home Kit: 2009-2010 Away Kit: 2009-2010 3rd Kit: League Status: Coca-Cola Championship History: Amateur Club est 1913 as Killyleagh FC promoted to League 2 from Conference National in 2007 as Belfast United. Professional Club promoted to League 1 in 2008 and then to the League Championship in 2009. --------------- The Park Stadium Information: Name: Windsor Park Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland Capacity: 21,000 Attendance Record: 11,460 July 17th vs Cork City Opened: 1905 Surface: Grass Dimensions: 110 x 75 yards Supporter Groups: Brown Boyos (~950 members), Black & Tans (~490 members) Hooliganism Level: Minor incidents at home vs Millwall Belfast Utd Anthem: (To the tune of "Belfast" by Elton John) "Our troubles are lost and gone Our kits worn on both Shankill and Falls On the pitch, every inch fought and won From the Kop the Park is filled with songs of madness And I never seen a braver club than BELFAST!" Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 07:13 AM..

10-04-2009, 08:59 PM	#2 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	The Squad The Squad --------------------------------------------------------- BELFAST UNITED ROSTER 2009-2010 Goalkeepers: Allan McGregor, b.1982, Scotland (GK) ovr:67 Iain Turner, b.1984 , Scotland, (GK) ovr:64 Defenders: James Collins, b.1983 , Wales, (CB) ovr:72 Ian Pearce, b.1974, England, (CB) ovr:71 Stephen Kelly, b.1983, Ireland, (RB) ovr:69 George McCartney, b.1981, N.Ireland, (LB) ovr:70 James McEveley, b.1985, Scotland, (CB) ovr:68 Simon Webb, b.1978, Ireland, (LB) ovr:63 Jade North, b.1982, Australia, (RB) ovr:62 Ian Paul Joy, b.1981, USA, (LB) ovr:60 Jeff Hughes, b.1985, N.Ireland, (LB) ovr:66 Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 06:53 PM..

10-04-2009, 08:59 PM	#3 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	Midfielders Midfielders: Barry Ferguson, b.1978, Scotland, (CM) ovr:80 (Captain) Aiden McGeady, b.1986, Ireland, (LW) ovr:71 Steven Davis, b.1985, N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:73 Stephen Ireland, b.1988, Ireland, (CAM) ovr:76 Damien Johnson, b.1978 , N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:69 from Birmingham City Stephen Pearson, b.1982, Scotland, (LM) ovr:68 Kristian Sarkies, b.1986, Australia, (CAM) ovr:61 Pat McCourt, b.1983, N.Ireland, (LM) ovr:63 Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 06:56 PM..

10-04-2009, 09:00 PM	#4 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	Forwards: David Healy, b.1979, N.Ireland, (ST) ovr:71 Tore André Flo, b.1973, Norway, (ST) OVR:67 Gary Beckett, b.1973, N.Ireland, (RS) ovr:60 Sam Morrow, b.1985, N.Ireland, (LS) ovr:58 Kyle Lafferty, b.1987, N.Ireland, (CF) ovr:60 __________________ Belfast United MM - When Worlds Collide Last edited by ArchieGlen; 10-04-2009 at 09:09 PM..

10-04-2009, 09:00 PM	#5 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	Reserves: Scott Gallacher, b.1989, Scotland, (GK) ovr:39 Chris Neal, b.1985, England, (GK) ovr:45 Michael Carvill, b.1988, England, (ST) ovr:50 Chris Fagan, b.1989, Ireland, (ST) ovr:58 Josh McQuoid, b.1989, N.Ireland, (ST) ovr:47 Liam Stockdale, b.1991, England, (ST) ovr:41 Chris Kingsberry, b.1985, N.Ireland, (RM) ovr:57 Mathew Mullen, b.1989, Australia, (CM) ovr:56 Ruaidhri Higgins, b.1984, N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:54 Will Baillie, b.1990, England, (CM) ovr:46 Thomas Butler, b.1981, Ireland, (RM) ovr:53 Mark McChrystal, b.1984, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:59 Craig Cathcart, b.1989, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:53 Mark Reynolds, b.1987, Scotland, (CB) ovr:57 Chris Turner, b.1987, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:57 Chris Casement, b.1988, N.Ireland, (LB) ovr:52 Will McLeod, b.1987, Ireland, (CB) ovr:45 Terry McFlynn, b.1981, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:56 Liam Burns, b.1978, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:60 __________________ Belfast United MM - When Worlds Collide Last edited by ArchieGlen; 10-04-2009 at 09:09 PM..

10-04-2009, 09:01 PM	#6 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	Table, Results, and Fixtures The Table Coca-Cola Championship Table 2009-2010 Note: The English FA has annexed a three clubs from other leagues to make it more competitive. 2 Scottish clubs, Celtic FC and Rangers FC will now be in the CC Championship (same division as Belfast). Linfield of Belfast, Northern Ireland will also join but are placed in CC League One. This will allow for Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to be represented with at least two clubs in the FA and have a chance to reach the UK top tier Barclays Premier League. The Fixtures Preseason Fixtures/Results (2-5-0) 07/7 Belfast 0-3 Chelsea (Home Loss) 11/7 Belfast 0-4 Manchester United (Home Loss) 14/7 Belfast 1-3 West Ham (Home Loss) 16/7 Belfast 0-3 Hull City (Home Loss) 18/7 Belfast 2-1 Manchester City (Home Win) 21/7 Belfast 1-0 Fulham (Home Win) 24/7 Belfast 1-2 Liverpool (Home Loss) Season Fixtures/Results (1-1-0) 30/7 Belfast 6-1 Celtic (Home Win) 04/8 Belfast 1-4 Derby (Away Loss) 11/8 Belfast vs. Doncaster Rovers 13/8 Belfast @ Charlton Athletic 18/8 Belfast @ Plymout Argyle 25/8 Belfast @ Coventry City 27/8 Carling Cup Round 2 Last edited by ArchieGlen; 12-04-2009 at 12:15 AM..

10-04-2009, 09:02 PM	#7 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	The Manager The Manager Lawrie Sanchez' New Challenge: to Build Expansion Side in Belfast Former Fulham and Northern Ireland Manager Aims to Regain Former Glory at Windsor Park --------------- BELFAST, N.I. - Belfast United Chairman & CEO, Sir Archibald Brown, has named Lawrie Sanchez as the Bruins first club manager for their inaugural season. Belfast United is the first professional football club to be allowed entrance into the English Coca-Cola League Two. Sanchez, whom recently fell from grace after being sacked during Fulham's relegation battle, is looking forward to the new challenge of building a club from the ground up. "This is a unique opportunity for me that most managers only dream of; Building a club from the foundation. Archie [Brown] is an owner with long term vision. He has been very generous and given me what I need for success. If I fail there is no one to blame but myself," says Sanchez. Sources say Brown and his ownership group have invested £2 million in order to get the Bruins off the ground. However, the eccentric benefactor Chairman, whom lives in Dufferin Castle in Killyleagh, County Down, has a more philanthropic purpose for his club than just making money. In Brown's words, "What Belfast needs is a team that unites the city under one banner. Lawrie captured the imagination of our wee country during his run with Norn Iron and finally we had a sense of ourselves. People from both sides of the peace wall could get behind the team. That is what we hope to accomplish with Belfast United." Sanchez had risen to prominence in the past by unexpectedly taking the Northern Ireland international team to the top of their qualifying group for the European Championships. A victory over Sweden at Windsor Park, Belfast had been another exciting victory to add to previous memorable wins against Spain and over England twelve months earlier in a World Cup qualifying game. Such results had previously only been the matter of dreams for Northern Ireland which had gone for two and a half years without a victory and 1,298 minutes (thirteen games) without scoring a goal prior to Sanchez’s appointment. Sanchez hopes to bring back some of that magic to his Belfast club this summer when they play their home matches at Windsor Park. "Windsor has many happy memories for me as a player and a manager. I'm thrilled that we'll be calling it home," says Sanchez. As a player for Wimbledon, Sanchez scored the goal for the club in their FA Cup triumph over Liverpool in 1988 and had made three international appearances for Northern Ireland. When he took up management he had success with Wycombe Wanderers, memorably taking them to an FA Cup semi-final against Liverpool, but failed to build on that and resigned in 2003. He was appointed Northern Ireland manager in January 2004 and was regarded as an unexpected choice, selected ahead of others with higher Northern Ireland credentials, having played for the country because of the connections of his mother. Sanchez has greatly raised the standing of the Northern Ireland international team, lifting them from 124th to 33rd in the FIFA world rankings during his three years in charge. His most memorable achievement was undoubtedly the success over England at Windsor Park when a goal from David Healy defeated Sven Goran Eriksson’s side denting their World Cup qualifying aspirations. Manager Profile: Name: Lawrie Sanchez D.O.B: October 22, 1959 Place of Birth: Lambeth, England (mother was from N. Ireland) Manager Rating: 1 Previous Clubs: 1994–1995 Sligo Rovers 1999–2003 Wycombe Wanderers 2004–2007 Northern Ireland National Team 2007 Fulham Achievements: FA Cup 1988 (Wimbledon) Improved Northern Ireland's FIFA ranking from 124th to 33rd 2007-08 Coca-Cola League 2 Champions 2007-08 Johnstone's Paint Trophy (lost to Swansea in 1/4 final) 2008-09 Coca-Cola League 1 Champions 2008-09 Johnstone's Paint Trophy Winner Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 01:07 AM..

10-04-2009, 09:03 PM	#8 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	The Stats and Records The Records will be posted here Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 01:15 AM..

10-04-2009, 09:03 PM	#9 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	The Trophy Room The Trophy Room Johnstone's Paint Trophy (Football League Trophy) Winner 2008-2009 Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 04:08 AM..

10-04-2009, 09:04 PM	#10 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	The Press Room The Press Room Exiled Scots to transfer to Belfast Utd? Feud means days at Celtic short for McGeady Healy unhappy with playing time at Sunderland Last edited by ArchieGlen; 12-04-2009 at 12:10 AM..

10-04-2009, 09:10 PM	#11 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	The Transfers The Original XI Eugene Ferry, b.1988, N.Ireland (GK) ovr:48 Eddie McCallion, b.1979, N.Ireland (LB) ovr:54 Chris Turner, b.1987, N.Ireland (RB) ovr:55 Liam Burns, b.1978, N.Ireland (CB) ovr:62 Mark McChrystal, b.1984, N.Ireland (CB) ovr:54 Ruaidhri Higgins, b.1984, N.Ireland (CM) ovr:52 Chris Kingsberry, b.1985, N.Ireland (RM) ovr:54 Terry McFlynn, b.1981, N.Ireland (CDM) ovr:53 Pat McCourt, b.1983, N.Ireland (LM) ovr:61 Gary Beckett, b.1973, N.Ireland (ST) ovr:55 Sam Morrow, b.1985, N.Ireland (RF) ovr:55 The Transfers 2007-2008 Transferred In: Michael James, b.1991, England, (CDM) ovr:34, from Killyleagh YFC Reece Banks, b.1990, England, (CM) over:33, from Killyleagh YFCJosh McQuoid, b.1989, N.Ireland, (ST) ovr:45, from AFC Bournemouth Liam Dolman, b.1987, England, (CB) ovr:44, from NorthamptonAndrew McNeil, b.1987, Scotland, (GK) ovr:59, from Slalalalahorpe Will McLeod, b.1987, Ireland, (CB) ovr:43, from Killyleagh YFC Kristian Sarkies, b.1986, Australia, (CAM) ovr:61, from Adelaide Utd Jade North, b.1982, Australia, (RB) ovr:63, from Newcastle Utd Jets Jaroslaw Lubelski, b.1989, Poland, (LM) ovr:43, from Killyleagh YFC Liam Stockdale, b.1991, England, (ST) ovr:38, from Killyleagh YFC Will Baillie, b.1990, England, (CM) ovr:44, from Killyleagh YFC Dan Forrest, b.1991, England, (GK) ovr:36, from Killyleagh YFC Mathew Mullen, b.1989, Australia, (CM) ovr:52, from Adelaide Utd 2007-2008 Transferred Out: Eugene Ferry, b.1988, N.Ireland, (GK) ovr:48, to Longford Town FC 2008-2009 Transferred In: Chris Casement, b.1988, N.Ireland (CB) ovr:56 from Ipswitch Scott Gallacher, b.1989, Scotland (GK) ovr:56 from Rangers FC Jeff Hughes, b.1985, N.Ireland (LM) ovr:65 from Crystal Palace Stephen Ireland, b.1988, Ireland (CAM) ovr:76 from Manchester City Kyle Lafferty, b.1987, N.Ireland, (CF) ovr:60 from Burnley Mark Reynolds, b.1987, Scotland, (CB) ovr:63 from Motherwell Simon Webb, b.1978, Ireland, LB:60 transferred from Drogheda Michael Carvill, b.1988, England, (ST) ovr:50 from Wrexham Chris Neal, b.1985, England, (GK) ovr:48 from Preston North End Ian Paul Joy, b.1981, USA, (LB) ovr:60 from FC St. Pauli Thomas Butler, b.1981, Ireland, (RM) ovr:54 from Swansea Tore André Flo, b.1973, Norway, (ST) ovr:67 from Leeds 2008-2009 Transfered Out: Jaroslaw Lubelski, b.1989, Poland (LM) ovr:43 to Coventry City Liam Dolman, b.1987, England (CB) ovr:44 to Derry City Eddie McCallion, b.1979, N.Ireland (LB) ovr:54 to Rochdale 2009-2010 Transferred In: James Collins, b.1983 , Wales (CB) ovr:71 from West Ham Utd George McCartney, b.1981, N.Ireland, (LB) ovr:70 from West Ham Utd Ian Pearce, b.1974, England, (CB) ovr:71 from Fulham FC Barry Ferguson, b.1978, Scotland, (CM) ovr:76 from Rangers FC Steven Davis, b.1985, N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:72 from Rangers FC Allan McGregor, b.1982 , Scotland (GK) ovr:67 from Rangers FC Aiden McGeady, b.1986, Ireland (LW) ovr:71 from Celtic FC David Healy, b.1979, N.Ireland (ST) ovr:71 from Sunderland Stephen Pearson, b.1982, Scotland, (LM) ovr:68 from Derby County James McEveley, b.1985, Scotland, (CB) ovr:68 from Derby County Stephen Kelly, b.1983, Ireland, (RB) ovr:69 from Birmingham City Craig Cathcart, b.1989, N.Ireland, (CB) ovr:53 from Manchester Utd Chris Fagan, b.1989, Ireland (ST) ovr:58 from Manchester Utd Damien Johnson, b.1978 , N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:69 from Birmingham City Iain Turner, b.1984 , Scotland, (GK) ovr:64 from Everton Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 05:19 PM..

10-04-2009, 09:11 PM	#12 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	Sorry about restarting this but my OP space was too short in my last one

10-04-2009, 10:37 PM	#13 (permalink)
The Citizen Elite Join Date: Dec 2007 Age: 14 Gender: Male Posts: 7,968	Great job Archie Loving this start, keep up the good work __________________

10-04-2009, 11:43 PM	#17 (permalink)
The Citizen Elite Join Date: Dec 2007 Age: 14 Gender: Male Posts: 7,968	I have CS4, so I may help you with what your doing, but Xen is the better maker __________________

11-04-2009, 01:42 AM	#19 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	Matchday 1; Belfast v Celtic (Derby Match) The Derby Matchday 1; Belfast v Celtic (Derby Match) New Meets Old BELFAST, N.I. - Two Windsor Parks would not be enough to accommodate the thousands of fans eager to view the historical first match between the Old and New Firms in what will surely be a heated derby. This is the first season the two clubs will play in the same league. Last season Celtic were Champions of the Scottish Clydesdale Bank Premier League. The English FA put out an offer to the club, in addition to Rangers FC, to be annexed into the League Championship. With the likelihood of promotion to the English Barclays Bank Premier League next season, Celtic and Rangers agreed. However, one club looks to throw a wrench into the Old Firm’s plans. Belfast United’s meteoric rise through the lower divisions now has them eyeing the Premier League as well. With an impressive investment in personnel this summer, their chances are looking good. Celtic FC of Glasgow has a rich history of Irish support. Belfast United has done its best to lure from that base of support from across the causeway by signing Celtic fan favourite, Aiden McGeady, after a falling out with manager Gordon Strachan. The move has both lured McGeady fans but also embittered Celtic fans whom put club over player loyalties. There is an X factor however in the battle for hearts and minds of Glaswegians. That is Belfast United’s mission statement to be a safe haven from sectarianism. Hardliners will balk at such idealism but those whom are tired of the old politics have already made the jump to Belfast United. Belfast United wasted no time in volleying the first blow as Tore Flo scored with a header just five minutes into the match. Soon, Belfast had completely torn Strachans game plan to shreds and were dominating every facet of the match. Consecutive goals followed by Stephen Pearson, another by Flo, and a forth by Steven Davis. Celtic had no answer other than a couple frustrated fouls, which resulted in yellow cards. The melee continued in the second half when hometown hero David Healy put Belfast up by five goals, and fellow countryman Davis added a sixth to add insult to injury. A defeated Celtic did their best to muster some sort of pride and substitute Chris Killen finally put one in during the 88 th minute making the final score 6-1 for Belfast. Belfast United 6-1 Celtic FC MOTM Steven Davis Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 08:03 AM..

11-04-2009, 03:11 AM	#20 (permalink)
xRonaldinhox10x Elite Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Canada Gender: Male Posts: 5,217	Archie, long time no talk. Will be following this thread of course, good luck as well. As for matchday 1, 2-2 draw against Celtic. __________________

11-04-2009, 05:28 AM	#24 (permalink)
ArchieGlen Forum Regular Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 703	match report posted also... New Signings Damien Johnson, b.1978 , N.Ireland, (CM) ovr:69 from Birmingham City Iain Turner, b.1984 , Scotland, (GK) ovr:64 from Everton Last edited by ArchieGlen; 11-04-2009 at 05:39 AM..