By Thomas Ritchie
Following the passing of former chairman John Palmer, Farsley Celtic has confirmed its game on New Year’s Day against Bradford (Park Avenue) will be dedicated to John.
John, alongside his wife Margaret, devoted much of his life to Farsley Celtic, and is chiefly responsible for ensuring that there is still a football club in Farsley to serve the local community.
Palmer’s association with the club stretched back 50 years, beginning in 1972 when he was asked to get involved at Throstle Nest by a friend.
John and Margaret Palmer are also the founders of popular Palmer Plants in Farsley.
Ahead of the contest with Bradford (Park Avenue), there will be a minute’s applause to honour John’s life, whilst the match programme will also be dedicated to him, featuring a number of tributes for his lifelong devotion to the club.
Match preview of derby clash
Farsley Celtic welcome local rivals Bradford (Park Avenue) to the Citadel on Sunday, looking to kick off the new year in style.
Both sides were forced to settle for a share of the spoils on Boxing Day, drawing 1-1 at the Horsfall Stadium, setting up a potentially pivotal fixture on New Year’s Day.
Following Monday’s draw, the Avenue remain six points above Farsley, but have played two games more, meaning a win for Russ Wilcox’s side would be huge in their fight to escape the relegation zone.
Sunday also marks the start of a hectic, and what could be a decisive, month for the Celts, who play eight times, five of which are at home.
Ahead of our clash with Bradford (Park Avenue), Russ Wilcox said: “It’ll be a different game, they play their pitch well, and I like to think we play our pitch well.
“It’ll be a different type of game I would have thought, you never quite know, Mark (Bower) said to me at the end why didn’t we just win one each, which would have been a good idea!
“But hopefully now we can go on and win, and pick up the four points which will be important.”
Farsley Celtic will be supporting Shelter’s #NoHomeKit campaign on Sunday, alongside the rest of the Vanarama National League, in the fight to eradicate homelessness. The Celts will be sporting a blue away kit during the game to help raise awareness for the difficulties faced by many.
Team news
Boxing Day saw Adam Clayton play his first minutes since the end of September, featuring as a midfielder as he got 15 minutes under his belt following injury.
Russ Wilcox will also check on the health of Lewis Turner and Chris Atkinson, who have both been absent with illness.
Tickets
The game kicks off at 1pm.
Adults: £14
Concessions (Over 60s, Students with a valid NUS card): £9
Ages 10-17: £5
Ages 6-9: £2
Under 6s: Free
Tickets can be purchased at the gate at the Citadel, or in advance online HERE.
You can view full ticket information HERE.
Thabang Dube joins Ilkeston on dual registration
Thabang Dube has signed for Southern League Premier Division Central side Ilkeston Town on dual registration terms.
The forward has made seven appearances for the Celts this season, all from the bench, after joining the club in August.
Dube has now linked up with Ilkeston Town to gain regular first-team football, whilst remaining registered with Farsley.
He was involved in the Robins’ matchday squad on Boxing Day as they drew 1-1 with Basford United.
