Three new Ardrossan teams, Castlehill Athletic, Sand Dabs and Snowflake Minstrels were found in reports of 1897.
ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL
ATHLETIC 1 - ARDROSSAN SAND DABS 2
Echoes From Montfod
We may
inform those of our readers who are not in the know that the above (Montfod)
is the name of the field on which the Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic juniors
chase the little piece of inflated leather and on Saturday last (9 January 1897),
they formally opened their hunting ground by engaging in a friendly match with
those keen opponents of the game known in the district as the Sand Dabs.
A few enthusiastic supporters turned out to witness the match and to urge their
favourites on to victory. In the visitors' ranks, there were one or two players
of some experience and it was thought that the homesters would have to put up
with a severe thrashing but when the signal was given for a cessaton of hostilities,
it was found that he narrow margin of only one goal separated the teams. On
the whole, the game was stubbornly fought and some good bits of play were exhibited
on both sides. The Sand Dabs won the toss and elected to play against
the wind. The Athletics kicked off and for a time gave the opposing defence
loads of work but do as they liked, the home forwards could not score. The visitors
broke away with a good run and out of a scrimmage, they notched the first goal
of the match. The play in this half was fairly well divided but at half time
no advance had been made in the scoring department. From the way in which the
visitors started the second period, it looked as it the ground team were in
for a severe flogging but the Athletic defenders stood nobly to their
guns and for some time ably negotiated the good intentions of their opponents
but at length from a stray shot, the Sand Dabs found an opening and the
Athletics were now two goals down. The Athletics, although having
the worst of the game, continued to play gamely and just to show their rivals
that they had not 'shot their bolt', they scampered off in the opposite direction
and succeeded in registering their first and only point. From this to the finish,
the Sand Dabs were the aggressive party but the homesters manged to keep
them out and the game terminated in favour of the visitors by two goals to one.
The Mondfod trundlers, clad in white shirts and blue trousers, looked a very
tidy lot and with a few more games should be able to give some of the neighbouring
junior teams a stiff run for supremacy. Now that a football club has been formed
in Ardrossan once more, it is to be hoped the lovers of the game in the district
will turn out and encourage the new organisation.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 15 January 1897
'Echoes from Montfod' is the name of a column
in the sports page of the Herald that gave news of Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic.
The spelling of 'Montfod' is as it was consistently spelt at that time and not
as the modern 'Montfode'.
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC MATCH POSTPONED
The Saltcoats Brewery XI journey to Largs tomorrow (23 January 1897), the occasion
being their semi-final cup-tie with Overton. The young Breweryites hope to give
as good account of themselves on Saturday as they have done on previous occasions
this season on the same ground. Now, Brewery, altogether this time. This is
unfortunate for the Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic who were as good as
fixed to play Saturday first (23 January 1897). The Breweryites, however, hope
to be able to give the Ardrossan lads another date soon.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 22 January 1897
ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 2 - ARDROSSAN SNOWFLAKE MINSTRELS 4
Another defeat has to be chronicled against the Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic,
the Snowflake Minstrels beating them last Saturday (23 January 1897)
by four goals to two. At one time, it was expected that the Saltcoats Brewery
Eleven would have been the guests of the Athletic but owing to the Breweryites
having a cup-tie to play at Largs, they cried off. A good number of spectators
turned out to see the game, though one or two of these would have been much
better outside the field, as the language they used to some of the players was
not of the choicest description. The game started briskly on the hard ground,
the Minstrel boys showing their opponents clean heels and ere the game
was long in progress, they captured the Athletic's citadel being the
first goal of the match. Shortly after this success on a high drooping shot
being sent in, another point fell to the visitors, the Athletic custodian
being under the impression that the sphere would go safely over the horizontal
bar. The Athletics were now two goals in arrears but in the succeeding
play, they managed to lessen the gap which separated the teams and before half-time
was announced, they cried quits with their opponents, two goals each. After
the usual breather, the game was resumed with the Athletics bombarding
the Minstrels' goal for a short time but the visitors' keeper proved
a big obstacle in the way of success and, do as they liked, the Athletics
could not find an opening. Beaten back empty-handed, the Minstrels instituted
a combined run on the part of their right wing and capped the effort with a
third goal to which they added a fourth immediately afterwards. From this to
the finish, the game was very evenly contested and no further scoring occurred
and the Athletics found themselves defeated by four goals to two. The
game was contested on most friendly terms and the Athletics expressed
the hope that it won't be long till the Snowflake Minstrels again appear
at Montfod. We understand the Athletics
will try conclusions with the Kilwinning Abbeygate on Saturday first (30 January
1897) at Montfod and as the Abbies are a
pretty fair lot of juniors, the Athletics may depend on getting hard
trot.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 29 January 1897
ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL
ATHLETIC FIXTURE WITH KILWINNING ABBEYGATE TO BE PLAYED TOMORROW
The Kilwinning Abbeygate who, owing to the severity of the weather, were prevented
from fulfilling their fixture with Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic last
Saturday (30
January 1897) have,
we understand, agreed to play the game at Montfod
Park tomorrow (6 February 1897).
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 5 February 1897
There was no match report in the following week's Herald.
ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL
ATHLETIC MATCH OFF
The Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic juniors felt a bit 'cut' last Saturday
(20 February 1897) when they were informed that their match with Stewarton Star
had been declared off. They had all turned up at the station and were just about
to leave for their destination when the unwelcome news arrived. A needless journey
to Stewarton was thus saved on the nick of time but the disappointment was rendered
all the keener by that account. Some explanation might have been given by the
Star officials why the match was put off.
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 26 February 1897
ARDROSSAN
SNOWFLAKE AMATEUR MINSTRELS CHARITY CONCERT
On
Friday evening (26 February 1897), the Snowflake Minstrels gave a concert in
aid of local charities. The public turned out well and the Saltcoats Town Hall
was comfortably filled with a most appreciating audience. This concert marked
a decided advance on the last public appearance. There was more case in action
and the choruses was fuller in volume. The programme was varied, consisting
of solos, duets, choruses, step-dancing, banjo selections and the usual Minstrel
dialogues. All acquitted themselves well. The accompaniments were played by
Mr Slater and Mr J Brown. Archibald McClay and Tom Morris from the Dennistoun
Amateur Minstrels kindly assisted with songs, sketch and top-boot dancing. We
look forward to the reappearance of the dusky brothers next season with new
songs and fresh jokes.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 5 March 1897
ARDROSSAN
SNOWFLAKE AMATEUR MINSTRELS DONATIONS FROM CHARITY CONCERT
Stevenston Nursing Society £2; Saltcoats Nursing Society £3;
Ardrossan Nursing Society £3; Saltcoats Clothing Society £2; Ardrossan
Clothing Society £2; Mission Coast Home £1 10s; Home for Destitute
Children - Mr Galloway £1 10s; total £15. This is a very gratifying
result of the season's practice and their two public appearances.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 12 March 1897
SALTCOATS
BREWERYITES 4 - ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 2
Though defeated by four to two in their match with the Saltcoats Breweryites
(on 6 March 1897), the result says a lot for the Castlehill Athletic
juniors and by steady perseverance in the game, success will yet crown their
efforts. As yet, the Athletics have no clubhouse but we believe that
convenience will soon be placed on their pitch at Montfod
and for which some money has already been collected.
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 12 March 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 7 - ARDROSSAN SNOWFLAKE MINSTRELS 2
Castlehill Athletic who entered on their fifth match last Saturday (13
March 1897). The four games were lost but last week they managed to chronicle
their first victory. It's a long road that hasn't a turn. On Saturday, they
tackled the Snowflake Minstrels. "Tomorrow the sun may be shining
although it is cloudy today." This may be said of the Castlehill Athletic
who entered on their fifth match last Saturday (13 March 1897). The four games
were lost but last week they managed to chronicle their first victory. It's
a long road that hasn't a turn. On Saturday, they tackled the Snowflake Minstrels
for the second time since the club was formed and with a stronger team than
that which represented them in the initial game while the Minstrel lads
were also a more capable eleven. There was a good turnout of spectators and
both sides received every encouragement from their supporters. The teams were:
Minstrels - Todd; Fullerton and Kerr; McDowall, Ritchie and McQueen;
Bain, D Harvey, Baird, J Harvey and Wylie. Athletic - Muirhead; Campbell
and Greene; Adams, McDonald and Breckenridge; Ingles, Glover, McFarlane, Speedie
and Barbour. The Athletics won the toss but selected to play against
the wind. For a time, play was dull with the Minstrels having the best
of matters and about fifteen minutes from the start, they scored the initial
point. Shortly after, the homesters put on the equaliser and from this to the
interval, play was pretty even but without any further scoring. Resuming, the
Athletics started well by registering a second goal but some two minutes
later the Minstrels, not to be denied, replied with the equaliser. Thereafter,
the visitors seemed to have 'shot their bolt' as the ground forwards simply
toyed with the opposing defence and goal followed goal until the Athletics
had scored no less than seven. The Minstrels failed to make any impression
on the home defence and a pleasant game ended in favour of the Athletics
by seven to two.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 19 March 1897
ARDROSSAN
AMATEUR SNOWFLAKE MINSTRELS CONVERSAZIONE AND DANCE
On Friday evening last (22 March 1897), the Ardrossan Snowflake Amateur Minstrels
held a conversazione and dance in the Lesser Town Hall, Saltcoats. Mr Arthur
Guthrie, honorary president, presided at the former and after tea, congratulated
the Minstrels on the success which had attended their first year's practice.
Their two public appearances, so very creditable in every way, had shown how
zealously they had worked and the sum realised after defraying expenses, how
much the public had appreciated their efforts. The local charities had greatly
benefited and they had brightened the lives of the community by giving entertainments
which, while entertaining and amusing, were entirely free from vulgarity in
any shape. An interesting feature followed. Mr J Ritchie read a report which
showed that from the first concert given on 1 December 1896, the receipts, roughly
speaking, were £25. At the second concert on 28 February 1897, £29,
a total of £54 and after defraying expenses, they were able to hand over
to several charities £15 as reported in the Herald. They were satisfied
with the result and hoped that in a coming season, beside giving concerts at
home, to go further afield. Mention was made of the able assistance give by
Mr Brown of the Dennistoun Minstrels and the gratitude to Mr Craig, their able
conductor, they desired to acknowledge by the present of an umbrella. Without
him, Mr Ritchie said in conclusion, they were nothing but with him, they had
done much. Mr J Craig, in suitable terms, expressed his pleasure at receiving
this mark of their approval of the services they had rendered. An excellent
programme of songs, selections on the piano and on the violin was gone through
and after votes of thanks were give to entertainers and the chairman, an assembly
was held. Mrs Manson purveyed an excellent tea and Mr H Stevenson, Sorbie, was
a tactful master of ceremonies.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 26 March 1897
ARDROSSAN
AMATEUR SNOWFLAKE MINSTRELS TO PERFORM FOR THE LODGE OF GOOD TEMPLARS
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 2 April 1897
There was no future advertisement in a subsequent Herald.
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 3 - WEST KILBRIDE 1
The Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic recorded their second victory Saturday
last (3 April 1897) when they met and defeated West Kilbride Athletic on Montfod
Field. There were a few supporters of each team present. Against a cold
easterly breeze, the West Kilbride lads started the game. Play was almost entirely
confined to their territory during the initial half and Castlehill's
backs and goalkeeper had little or nothing to do, all or nearly all falling
on the wings to leeward. The first goal of the match was the result of a splendid
effort of the part of Campbell, the Montfod Field
right-back, his kick from three-quarter field sailing into goal in grand style,
placing his team one up. The West Kilbride custodian ought to have stopped the
shot but he didn't. Throughout the rest of the first half, play was somewhat
slack and uninteresting, good chances being lost repeatedly on both sides. Against
the wind in the second period, Montfod Field,
with only one goal to the good, had to look out. Their defence was pretty sure,
however, and the attacks of the West Kilbride players lacked system and combination.
However, a pass from the latter's right wing was at length converted into a
goal by Armstrong who was standing almost underneath the bar. Two goals were
afterwards registered by the homesters due to the grand play of Speedie, Macfarlane,
Inglis and Glover and at the close the scores stood three to one in favour of
Castlehill. Tomorrow the Castlehill lads will try conclusions
with Galston Athletic at Montfod Field.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 9 April 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 0 - GALSTON ATHLETIC 6
On Saturday last (10 April 1897), before a fair turnout of spectators, the local
juniors tackled the Galston Athletic at Montfod
Park and once again suffered defeat, this time to the extent of six goals
to nil. The Castlehill team was a little under strength. Still, we can
hardly attribute the defeat to this fact for although they had been fully represented,
the general opinion was that they would have been no match for the Galston lads
who were a good pack of juniors. The game was not long started till the visitors
took the upper hand and fairly bombarded the Castlehill goal. Luckily
their shooting was a bit 'oph' and the early period of the game was drawing
near a close before the Galston youths succeeded in notching the first and only
point in this half, a result which says something in favour of the home defence.
With the wind and sun in their favour in the second period, it was thought that
the locals would be seen to more advantage but it was not to be. The visitors'
halves and backs fairly bottled all attempts on the part of the homesters and
score the latter could not. The combination of the Galston forwards was really
good - the way in which they manipulated the ball, fairly outwitting the home
trio and once they got on the run, it was not easy to stop them. After about
fifteen minutes play, a second goal was registered for the visitors and to make
a long story as brief as possible, another four goals fell to their credit before
time was announced and the Galston lads thus retired easy winners by six goals
to nil. For a junior team, the young 'miners' are a smart lot - in fact, the
best playing eleven that has appeared at Montfod.
The forwards know how to play the passing game and hit a good shot as some of
the goals they scored on Saturday will testify. We hope when the return game
falls to be played at Galston, the same friendly feeling will be shown as that
which characterised the game last Saturday.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 16 April 1897
ARDROSSAN SNOWFLAKE MINSTRELS CONCERT
The Ardrossan Snowflake Minstrels entertained a Saturday evening (17
April 1897) audience in the Assembly Hall last week.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 23 April 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 2 - SALTCOATS RECHABITES 0
The Castlehill Athletic had a visit from the Saltcoats Rechabites on
Saturday last (17 April 1897) when the former had to put up with another defeat
to the extent of three goals to two. In the first half, the Saltcoats lads played
with the wind and rain at their backs and managed to put on three points while
the homesters failed to notch a single point although they had a good share
of the play. Resuming the second period, the Athletic hemmed in their
opponents and ere ten minutes had elapsed they scored number one which was shortly
after supplemented by a second. No further scoring took place and a very uninteresting
game ended in favour of the visitors as above stated.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 23 April 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC v GOVAN MAYFIELD CANCELLED
On Monday evening last (19 April 1897), the Athletics were billed to
play the Govan Mayfied at Montfod Park but,
as the visitors failed to turn up, there was no game.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 23 April 1897
ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 3 - STEVENSTON RECHABITES 3
On Wednesday evening (21 April 1897), the Castlehill Athletic engaged
a game with the Stevenston Rechabites and a draw of three goals each was the
result. Tomorrow (24 April 1897), the Athletic brigade intend visiting
Beith where they will try conclusion with the Rechabites of that ilk.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 23 April 1897
BEITH RECHABITES 1 - ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 4
Muir Field, Beith, being closed for the day, the Beith Rechabites took advantage
of it to have a friendly game (on 24 April 1897) with the Ardrossan Castlehill
Athletic, the Beith management magnanamously granting the use of the filed
for the day, a concession which was heartily appreciated. The Beithites picked
a strong eleven to represent them but when it came to the time for starting,
a number of these, tempted by the good weather no doubt, failed to put in an
appearance having gone off on ways of their own. The Ardrossan team,
on the other hand, though a little rearranged turned out a good lot which, as
subsequent events proved, was strong enough to whip the members of the 'on to
victory' tent. The day was a splendid one for football and the pitch was perfectly
dry which was decidely lucky for the Ardrossan lads who, had they had
found Muir Field in its ideal winter or or wet-weather condition, would have
been at a loss how to travel through the mud. The game opened very quietly,
the Ardrossan lads at the outset getting possession and keeping play
at the Beith end. The Beithites, however, worked their way out and after some
give-and-take play, they notched the first point of the match with a good shot.
Play kept very open with the visitors having the best of it and soon the equaliser
was scored. It looked as if this half would end ina draw but just about the
interval, the visitors registered a second goal and thus crossed over with a
one goal lead. In the second half, the Athletics had to face the breeze and
the hill and though the homesters kept play pretty well from their own goal,
still the strangers got in on two occasions, putting the ball through and carried
off a pleasant game by the creditable score of four goals to one. The Castlehill
lads played well together, putting in some strong work which proved effective.
The Beithites intend having a strong team when the return game comes off at
Montfod and are determined to reverse the
score so a good tussle may be expected when they again meet.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 30 April 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 6 - ARDROSSAN SNOWFLAKE MINSTRELS 2
The Castlehill Athletic have now managed to erect a neat little clubhouse
on Montfod Field and are to be congratulated
on the energy and success which they have displayed in carrying out their work
in this, their first season. On Saturday last (8 May 1897), the Snowflake
Minstrels turned out for the third time this season to do battle with the
Athletic. A goodly number of spectators put in an appearance and in this
connection we have again to congratulate the Castlehill lads for among
those present were a few of the fair sex. Strong and cold was the 'nor'-wester'which
blew, against which the Snowflakes played in the initial period of the
game and this in some measure accounts for the five to zero record which stood
against them at half-time. It was expected that the change of ends would soon
reveal a different state of matters and the Snowflakes early raised the
hopes of their supporters by notching a point. This goal was the result of a
very good effort. Another point was awarded the Minstrels - a goal which,
though the sphere did go over the bar, they wrought hard for. Castlehill
also added another point to their total and the game ended in their favour by
six to two.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 14 May 1897
STEVENSTON
ATHLETIC 4 - ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 0
The Athletics visited Warner Park on Tuesday evening (11 May 1897) and
engaged in a friendly with Stevenston Athletic. Victory rested with the latter
to the extent of four to zero.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 14 May 1897
GALSTON ATHLETIC 4 - ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 2
On Saturday last (22 May 1897), the Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic journeyed
to Galston and played their return fixture with the Athletics of that ilk on
the public park. The visitors were late in arriving and consequently the game
was one of short duration. The first meeting of the teams at Ardrossan culminated
in an easy victory for Galston by six goals to nil and on Saturday, they were
again on the winning side. The Ardrossan lads, however, had some comfort
in the thought that they came out of their last engagement with more credit
than the first, the result being four to two in favour of Galston.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 28 May 1897
WHEN
WE GET THAT ESPLANADE
The delay in high quarters regarding the request of the Ardrossan Commissioners
for the South Beach Green to be handed over to the town has moved a local poet
thus:
When We Get That Esplanade
When we get that esplanade,
my friend, our time of toil will cease
In fact, I'm sure our
days will end in luxury and peace
For I've just perused
the speech again that the scheme's proposer made
And it won't surprise,
should our fortunes rise when we get that esplanade
They
will come from out the Glesga reek, will visitors galore
We'll
charge them thirty bob a week for sleeping on the floor
We'll
knock out Largs and Rothesay too when our Green is nicely laid
We'll
have strolls sublime and a splendid time when we get that esplanade
There's
those who watch the Saun' Dabs play, that crowd can fairly howl
You
hear them half a mile away say "corner", "goal" and "foul"
Said
crowd will cheer their favourites on from a grandstand ready made
For
from off the wall, they will shout and bawl when we get that esplanade
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 20 August 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC LOOK FORWARD TO NEW SEASON
In the junior circles, the Ardrossan Castlehill Athletics are looking
forward to a hard and, it is hoped, better season that last and if success is
only equal to the enthusiasm which prevails, the Athletics will feel
justly proud. This club, we may state, was formed only last season and, of course,
took no part in any of the Junior Cup competitions but with commendable pluck
they has this season entered for the Ayrshire Junior Cup, the Irvine and District
and Irvine Herald trophies and thus for the first time, the Athletics
are determined to show their paces in these different competitions with what
success, time alone will disclose, but being a young organisation, we presume
their ambition is of a modest nature although there is no doubt every member
will do his best to bring honour to his club and it maybe bring the seaport
town of Ardrossan to the front rank in Ayrshire junior football. The Athletics
first important engagement will be on 11 September when they will combat with
Crosshouse at Montfod
Park in the initial round of the Ayrshire Junior Cup and as a number of
years have elapsed since a cup-tie was played at Ardrossan, it is hoped that
the lovers of the game in the district will rally round the Athletics
next Saturday. The following week on 18 September, the Athletics must
journey to Dreghorn to meet the team of that ilk in the first stage of the Irvine
and District Cup competition.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 3 September 1897
ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 2 - IRVINE CALEDONIA 3
On Saturday last (4 September 1897), Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic opened
the season with a visit from Irvine Caledonia, winners of the Irvine Herald
Cup last year, when there was fair sprinkling of spectators to witness the opening
match. In the first half, the Caley, with the wind, which was blowing from goal
to goal in their favour, scored three goals while the homesters failed to find
an opening and so the visitors led at the interval by three goals to nil. With
the change of ends, the Athletic taxed the defence of the Royal Burgh
team to the utmost but only managed to score on two occasions while the visitors
failed to increase their score and a very evenly contested game ended in favour
of the Irvine lads by three to two. The result of this match should give the
Athletic more confidence in their game with Crosshouse tomorrow (11 September
1897) in the first round for the Ayrshire Junior Cup at Montfod
Park when we hope we shall see them pass safely into the second round. We
shall see.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 10 September 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 1 - CROSSHOUSE 4
Saturday last (11 September 1897), was a big day for the Ardrossan Castlehill
Athletic being the first occasion on which the club competed for the Ayrshire
Junior Cup. That the luck of the ballot was in their favour when drawn to play
Crosshouse at Montfod Park, no-one will deny
but despite this advantage, the Athletics had some qualms about the result
of their first attempts at Cup honours. Crosshouse, on the other hand, who seemed
to be the weightier lot when the teams appeared on the somewhat 'lumpy' pitch
may have felt more confident of success than the homesters who were to be excused
for any over-excitement caused by the importance of the occasion. When the teams
trotted out, it was seen that several of the Crosshouse players wore jerseys
too much alike in colour to those in which the Athletics appeared which
ought to have been avoided and which with many teams would most certainly have
been objected to. As far as we are aware, the registered colours of the respective
teams differ as much from each other as night from day and by Crosshouse failing
to turn out in their true colours, the Athletics no doubt presume they
have found a strong pin whereon to hang a protest. But to the game. In the presence
of a rather limited attendance of spectators, the teams lined up thus. Crosshouse
- Heron; Cook and T Fulton; Richmond, Beattie and Kennedy; Fulton, Milligan,
Brown, Murray and McChristie. Castlehill - Muirhead; Campbell and Greene;
T Breckenridge, McDonald and Barbour; Inglis, Stirling, G Breckenridge, McFarlane
and Clasper. The home team lacked the services of two of their usual players,
Speedie and Ballantine, Clasper and G Breckenridge filling the vacancies. The
game started briskly and, playing down the hill, the Athletics forced
the pace for some time causing the Crosshouse custodian to save his colours.
This he did easily enough for the simply reason that he got sufficient time
to do so. Crosshouse got over the hill different times but Barbour as half-back
and Greene in the rear were largely responsible for keeping the visitors at
bay. The home forwards and especially Stirling and Inglis continued to make
inroads on their opponents but failed badly at goal. Crosshouse broke away on
their right and the first raid they made ended in the first goal of the match
being scored by the visitors which was well taken. The homesters, however, were
having the best of the play and by this time ought to have been leading in the
matter of goals. Twice they had the sphere between the posts but on these occasions,
Breckenridge in centre unfortunately punted the ball home with his head and
the honours were lost. Other attacks by the ground team were recklessly thrown
away through inaccurate shooting. Play was eager on both sides and now and again,
Crosshouse came within shooting distance of Muirhead and had several good tries
but their efforts to increase their total were successfully nullified. The Athletics
still had the best of matters and after repeated failures to find an opening,
they were at length rewarded with a point. It came none too soon as, two minutes
later, the signal was given for a halt. The teams thus retired at the interval
with one goal each though on the play shown, the Athletics ought to have
been in the ascendant by several goals. With the restart, the Athletics
were first in evidence, but their visit was both short-lived an unsuccessful.
Crosshouse soon took up the running and pressing the homesters back on their
lines, Muirhead had to acknowledge himself beaten with a second shot. The friends
of the ground lads, however, did not lose hope in their pets yet but when Crosshouse
bracketed goal number three a few minutes later, these same hopes received a
rude shake. Although two goals in arrears, the Athletics fought gamely
and if they did not succeed in augmenting their score, it is but fair to state
that their efforts deserved some measure of increased success. Crosshouse had
got the lead but they were not allowed to have a monopoly of the play which,
if not brilliant, was at least very well balanced. As time advanced, Crosshouse
scored a fourth point and the Athletics' exit from the competition now
seemed a certainty. In the play which followed, both teams sent the sphere between
the uprights but these efforts were disallowed on the plea of offside. The game
ultimately finished without any further scoring and Crosshouse emerged victorious,
by four goals to one, a result which does not give a true indication of the
run of the game. For the winners, Heron in goal played his part well and of
the two backs, Fulton on the left excelled his mate. The trio were a fair lot
and Fulton, Milligan and McChristie were prominent in the front rack. For Athletic,
Greene at back was more effective than Campbell especially in the first half.
Barbour and T Breckenridge were the most pronounced at half back and in the
quintet, Stirling, Clasper and Inglis carried off the honours.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 17 September 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 1 - DREGHORN 8
The Ardrossan Castlehill youths travelled to Dreghorn last Saturday (18
September 1897) and engaged the team of that name in the first round of the
Irvine and District Cup competition. This was a heavy undertaking for a team
of juniors of last year's formation and there hopes of chronicling a victory
must have been very remote. Win or lose, the Athletics faced their more
experienced opponents and, as expected, Dreghorn retired easy winners by eight
goals to one. Rather heavy, Mr Editor, but this is not to be wondered at when
the merits of the teams are taken into consideration, Dreghorn ranking among
the best junior elevens in the shire. Though defeated, the Athletics
have displayed commendable pluck in forming a connection with the leading junior
associations in the county and it is to he hoped the spirit which urged them
to move in these directions will yet reap more encouraging and successful rewards
than those experienced in the Ayrshire Junior and Irvine and District competitions
this week. Regarding the protest lodged by Ardrossan Castlehill against
Crosshouse which cropped up at the recent junior tie between these teams, a
decision on the protest was delayed at the Association meeting held last Thursday
evening week (16 September 1897) on account of the referee failing to put in
an appearance. The Athletics await the issue with composure.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 24 September 1897
BUNTING
IN ARDROSSAN FOR MARRIAGE
Ardrossan flew a lot of bunting yesterday (30 September 1897) in honour of the
marriage of Mr George Stewart, son of Captain James Stewart, Eglinton Street.
George is an old Ardrossan boy. He learned to play football in the Ardrossan
Ensign teams of ten or a dozen years ago and since going to South Africa, he
has had the ball pretty much at his feet. He is now connected with the Bulawayo
mines, we believe.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 1 October 1897
George Stewart
was mentioned in Ardrossan and Saltcoats Heralds of 19
August 1887 and 1 August 1890.
DALRY
4 - ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 2
The Ardrossan Castlehill
Athletics travelled to Dalry on Saturday last (2 October 1897) and engaged
the Dalry A team in a friendly. Victory rested in favour of the homesters by
four goals to two.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 8 October 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL CLUB CONVERSAZIONE
The members of the Castlehill Athletic Club held a function of the above nature
under the auspices of the Castlehill Tent Independent Order of Rechabites in
the Assembly Hall, Ardrossan (shown below as the Winton Rovers' Club in 1974)
on Friday
evening last (29 October 1897) when there was a large attendance. The hall was
prettily decorated with banners etcetera for the occasion and the display reflected
much credit on the taste of those having the supervision in this matter. Mr
T B Stevenson, C R of the Tent, occupied the chair and in the course of a brief
though neat speech expressed his regret that he was not able to call all those
present 'brothers and sisters' and concluding by pointing out the benefits accruing
from a connection with the Order. A lengthy programme of vocal and instrumental
music etcetera was them entered upon and was much enjoyed by all present. The
following contributed to the programme - Misses Osborne and McCummin, Glasgow;
Miss Green, Galston; Miss Craig, Saltcoats and Messrs H Jamieson, H Hughes and
W McFarlane, Ardrossan. A dialogue was cleverly produced by several members
of the Tent. The usual votes of thanks brought this part of the proceedings
to a close. A word of praise is specially due to Mr A McMillan for the splendid
way in which he did the purveying and it is hardly necessary to say that it
could not have been in better hands. An assembly followed which was also well
attended. Mr J Barbour made an efficient master of ceremonies and to the strains
of Mr Finlay Hannah's quadrille band from Saltcoats, dancing was kept up with
the greatest enthusiasm till an early hour in the morning. The dance programme
was pleasantly interspersed with songs, step-dances and games. The committee
in charge of the general arrangements are to be congratulated on the completeness
of these, everything passing off without a hitch.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 5 November 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 3 - IRVINE MEADOW 2
Castlehill Athletic had as their opponents at Montfod
Field on Saturday last (6 November 1897) the Irvine Meadow XI in the first
round of the Irvine Herald Cup competition, second game. The first game of the
tie was played off at Irvine as reported in our columns and resulted in the
Meadow lads drubbing their visitors to the extent of eight goals to nil. It
will be apparent that a big account fell to be squared up by the latter and
that they meant to settle up if possible in the return match was evident in
the team selected for duty on the occasion. However, to select a team is one
thing. To line up the selection on the field in time for the whistle is quite
another. It was so in the case of the Athletic at least as four auxiliaries
of 'Saun' Dab' fame sported the white shirts on Saturday and a very good
account they gave of themselves, without doubt. From the commencement, it was
seen that the play was not to be all one-sided. For a time, both teams had a
fair share of the ball till a shot from the right brought down the Castlehill
colours somewhat easily. Strong pressure on the Meadowites' stronghold ensued
from the kick-off and a well played for goal which equalised matters kept the
interest keen and was the signal for no slight outburst of cheering. A penalty
kick against the visitors was well taken, returned to the goalkeeper and after
a few exchanges was banged through. The ground team with their one goal lead
were playing a hard game seemingly much encouraged by their success. Ere the
interval, Irvine's defence was again beaten and the Athletic chalked
up their third and last goal. The change of ends was followed by good play on
both sides. From the smart right wing, again came efforts which added another
goal to Irvine's score gain and which concluded the match so far as goal-getting
was concerned. The closing stages of the game were characterised by determined
pressure on the Athletic's goal, their opponents playing hard for a draw
but the defence was too strong and on several occasions the Meadow XI's goal
seemed on the point of downfall as the result of breakaway. The result, three
goals to two in favour of Athletic, when compared with the result of
the previous game seems to suggest something very far wrong down Irvine way
or something as it should be in the Montfod district. The finished and more
systematic play of the Meadow representatives was such as might be expected
from a team of their experience but there was on their part a lack of the 'dash'
which, for the greater part of the game, was displayed by the opponents who
throughout the tie must have been pleased to wipe out that eight-nil defeat
and record a win in its stead. The performance of the Athletic team on
Saturday may serve to stimulate local interest in the matches at Montfod
Field. True, a pretty fair number of spectators witnessed the above game
but the admission was 2d and many of them witnessed it from outside the 'dyke'.
The Ardrossan Castlehill youths felt a bit proud over their win of last
Saturday but the general opinion is that the outside aid which the Athletics
called into play had a large say in the victory scored against the Irvine Meadowites.
Rumour has it that a disturbance cropped up in the Meadowites' camp lately and
perhaps this explains why the Irvine lads had been found on the wrong side in
some of their latest matches, Saturday's included.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 12 November 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC TO PLAY LARGS
Tomorrow (4 December 1897), the Ardrossan Castlehill Athletics will journey
to Largs and engage the Thistle of that ilk in a friendly. Several weeks have
elapsed since the Athletics last figured in a match but with a good representation
they hope to make the Jags trot the full ninety minutes and if the latter have
no objections to place a victory to their credit.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 3 December 1897
ARDROSSAN SNOWFLAKE AMATEUR MISTRELS CONCERT
We have a letter, received too late for publication, from 'Willing Helper' calling
upon the public to encourage the forthcoming concert by the Snowflake Minstrels
on account of the laudable object the members have in view.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 3 December 1897
LARGS THISTLE 3 - ARDROSSAN CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 0
On Saturday last (4 December 1897), the Castlehill Athletic journeyed
to Largs and engaged in a friendly with the team of that ilk. The visitors were
strengthened a bit for the occasion having the assistance of Quinn of Stevenston
Thistle and Robertson of Stevenston Athletic, both of whom rendered good service.
The ground was in a fearful condition being very heavy on account of recent
rains. The game was late in starting and Largs commenced with ten men but it
was not long till the absent 'junior', one whom we know has done duty for a
senior team in his day took the field. Right after the start, it was seen that
the play
was inclined to be rough as McWhirter of Largs and Muirhead of Castlehill,
the goalkeeper, were at loggerheads before the game was five minutes old. The
Thistle's centre had no cause whatever for the manner in which he made on Muirhead
on different occasions and had the referee known his book, he would have ordered
McWhirter to the pavilion which might have ended of mended matters. As it was,
no goals were scored in the first part and the teams, of course, started the
second part on level footing. It was in this half that damage was done. About
half an hour after the restart, McColl opened the scoring for Largs. Shortly
after this, the Castlehill custodian, Muirhead, after he had punted the
ball out, was kicked from behind by one of the Largs players and naturally a
show of fisticuffs was a result. The game was stopped for a few minutes and
the spectators rushed onto the field. The committee cleared the pitch and the
game was resumed in darkness. Largs added two points to their total and the
victory rested with them by three to nil. The result is credible to the Montfodians
considering that the last two goals were scored in darkness and when time had
expired, had the field been dry, the issue might have expired differently. As
to the referee - pardon me for using the term - he was simply lead away with
the crowd and allowed the players to do as they pretty well liked. When the
scene between Muirhead and the home player occurred, the referee ought to have
ordered both men to the club-house but, instead of that, he was heard to ask
one of the Largs players if he would order Muirhead to the pavilion - just fancy!
Moreover, after Largs scored their third goal, the referee came forward to one
of the Castlehill team and asked how long they were playing. The first
half was finished in something like thirty-nine minutes while it took about
fifty minutes to complete the second period. Truly, he is a referee the Largs
team would do well to preserve. We are convinced that if the secretary of the
Castlehill club had known the treatment that was likely to be meeted
out to the team, a fixture would never have been arranged with Largs. Both on
and off the field, the treatment was anything but friendly. However, it is to
be hoped the return match will be fought out in a different spirit. At the time
of writing, the Castlehill boys are without a fixture for tomorrow (11
December 1897) but they are endeavouring to get the Ardeer Rangers to visit
Montfod Park. Should they succeed, a full
team is expected to turn out in view of their cup-tie with Vale of Garnock a
fortnight hence.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 10 December 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 5 - ARDEER RANGERS 1
On Saturday (11 December 1897), the Athletics had a visit of the Ardeer
Rangers, a team in which there are some smart juniors and who defeated the Ardrossan
lads by four goals the last time the teams met. In the first half of the game,
the Rangers played with the wind in their favour but only managed to put on
one goal while the homesters succeeded in lowering their opponents' colours
on two occasions. During the second portion, the Athletics took the game
in hand and fairly monopolised play - the visitors very seldom having a look-in.
The Montfodians added another three goals to their score and won a pleasant
game by five goals to one.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 17 December 1897
ARDROSSAN
SNOWFLAKE AMATEUR MISTRELS CONCERT
Tonight
(10 December 1897), the Ardrossan Snowflake Minstrels give their first entertainment
for the season in the town Hall, Saltcoats. We understand they have been giving
steady practice and their programme will be found to be as entertaining as their
last season's which gave unqualified satisfaction to large audiences. It should
be remembered too that the Minstrels devoted the surplus proceeds to charitable
objects such as the local nursing associations and the homes for destitute children.
Their attractive programme and their worthy aim should commend the entertainments
tonight to the general public. For the convenience of Ardrossan attenders, a
special train has been arranged to leave Saltcoats at 10.20 pm calling at South
Beach.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 10 December 1897
ARDROSSAN
SNOWFLAKE AMATUER MINSTRELS CONCERT
The Ardrossan Snowflake Amateur Minstrels presented a fine array of woolly wigs
and coloured countenances to a crowded audience in Saltcoats Town Hall on Friday
evening last (10 December 1897) and also presented a very entertaining programme.
The opening overture by the orchestra followed by the Marche Pour Entier and
the opening chorus by the company were well received, the youthful voices at
the rear being very effective in last. The songs comprised in the initial part
of the programme were varied and the singers acquitted themselves very creditably
indeed. The tall nigger who warbled forth his Bid Me To Love appeal gave a good
account of himself as did the nautical individual whose shipwrecked On The Mediterranean
The Mighty Deep was well rendered. Local bids and hints, unmistakable in their
application, were interspersed throughout and part one was well sustained by
all taking part in it, deserving the appreciation evinced by the audience. During
the interval, the Washington Post March by the orchestra under Mr James Blair
MA, received pleasing and spirited interpretation and part two of the programme
started with one of the features of the entertainment - dancing by Little Chick.
Everyone present was anxious of course to keep the dancer's feet in view and
this accounts for the twisting and neck-stretching noticeable in the body of
the hall during Little Chick's two clever performances. We experienced the sensations
of the unfortunate who chanced to be seated behind a splendid example of the
extension and expansion of the milliner's art.
'Twas a grey felt hat with towering crown
Like a six inch flower post upside down
Over locks of lovely golden brown
With an ostrich plume o'er all
Quite a nice hat mounted neatly
But it blanked us out completely
And we couldn't see the Little Chick at all
'Twas a restless hat jerked to and fro
Where e're we turned that hat would go
It would have gone to Jericho
If wish could have made it stir
Though that girl near drove us frantic
We forgive her every antic
She was dodging someone's hat in front of
her.
The two little fellows who sang a plantation duet and who acted as pupils to
the music teacher were worthy of all the applause they evoked and the Twin's
banjo case selection was excellent. Messrs Brown and McLay of the Dennistoun
Minstrels in their mournful wall of woe brought down the building. To them must
be accredited some of the most amusing and mirth-provoking incidents of the
evening. A sketch written by one of the members and acted by the company concluded
the programme. Altogether, a pleasant evening's amusement was provided by the
Minstrels and a broad grin was visible on not a few blacks visages as they viewed
the large audience which had responded to their appeal to encourage local charities.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 17 December 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC 2 - STEVENSTON ATHLETIC 1
At Montfod Field on Saturday (18 December
1897), Castlehill Athletic met Stevenston Athletic in a friendly. Stevenston
lacked the services of some of their usual players but the places of the absentees
were filled by substitutes. Two forty-fives were played. Play was not of an
uncommonly brilliant description throughout though at times good combination
was shown by the visitors but both teams had their share of the play and both
missed good chances. The score stood two-nil in favour of the Castlehill
lads till well on in the second half when the Stevenston representatives scored
their only point. The goalkeeper of the Castlehill had no chance whatever
to save his trust being 'grassed' in the course of the pressure on his goal.
There seemed a little inclination to 'lay on wait' particularly towards the
close and this the referee checked pretty efficiently any suspicious tactics
being promptly penalised. The final result, two goals to one in favour of Castlehill,
is an improvement on their last appearance against the Stevenston boys.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 24 December 1897
ARDROSSAN
CASTLEHILL ATHLETIC TO PLAY MONTGREENAN?
The Ardrossan Castlehill Athletic expects to have a game on Monday first
(3 January 1898) and in view of their coming Consolation Cup tie with the Vale
of Garnock which has been postponed till a future date, a match of some kind
is desirable. Montgreenan is mentioned as the expected visitors to Montfod
Park on Monday first.
Ardrossan
and Saltcoats Herald, 31 December 1897
There was no report in the following week's Herald.