FOOTBALLERS at Middlewich Town have completed an unusual forfeit after falling short of a points target set by their manager.

Their post-match meal following Saturday’s home game against Golborne, during which they had scored six goals in a victory, included a side-order of sheep’s testicles.

Ross Speight had challenged players in the club’s first team to collect 16 points during seven Cheshire League games during last month.

However a sequence of three wins and as many draws, plus a defeat, left them with only 12.

“It was my suggestion,” he said.

“I usually take a football book on holiday with me, and this summer I read Sam Allardyce’s autobiography.

“He did a similar thing when he was manager at Bolton Wanderers, except it was related to whether they won or lost by four goals in a game.

“I stole his idea!”

Had the Witches reached their objective then Speight, along with co-bosses John O’Sullivan and Michael Welch, would have had to complete the forfeit instead.

A 1-0 reverse against Styal last Saturday meant the total was beyond their side’s reach even if they had beaten neighbours Lostock Gralam in midweek.

The club has also used the challenge to raise money for charity by asking for donations, and the squad has chosen St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice to benefit.

“We did it as a bit of a laugh, and to collect a few quid for a cause that we wanted to support,” added Speight.

“It was a bit of a gamble because we tried setting a points-target a couple of years ago, admittedly without a forfeit, and it didn’t work at all.

“The players felt under pressure, and results didn’t follow.

“I’m not ruling out another one yet though!”

He may not need to.

A 6-1 thrashing of Golborne, during which five different players found the net, has propelled Middlewich up to second spot in the standings.

Northwich Guardian:

From left, Middlewich Town players Jamie Garner, Scott Twite and Michael Whitehead show their support for St Luke's Cheshire Hospice