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ConIFA – Prost International [PINT] http://prostinternational.com The International Division of Prost Soccer Sun, 19 Dec 2021 11:14:15 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 http://prostinternational.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Templogo2-150x150.png ConIFA – Prost International [PINT] http://prostinternational.com 32 32 Kernow hammer Cascadia 8-1 to take home Prost Soccer Challenge Cup http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/24/kernow-hammer-cascadia-8-1-to-take-home-prost-soccer-challenge-cup/ Mon, 24 May 2021 16:30:29 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=261802

Kernow inflicted Cascadia’s heaviest-ever defeat to claim the inaugural Prost Soccer Challenge Cup at the Fenton Engineering Stadium.

With picturesque scenery provided by eighth-tier hosts, Northwood FC, Darren Gilbert’s side cruised to victory with goals from Tallan Mitchell, Hayden Turner, Harry Clarke, two from Dan Jennings and a standout hat-trick from Max Gilbert.

Cascadia were not expected to fold over as easily as they did with names amongst their lineup such as former Canadian international Gavin McCallum who was looking to score on his second international debut, having initially done so for the Canucks in 2010.

Gilbert’s men got off to a better start and should have taken the lead. Mark Goldsworthy spun Cascadian skipper Patrick Wilson after receiving the ball from a throw-in on the left-hand side. His cross deflected off keeper James Mayo, but strike partner Jennings could only head over the bar from close range.

It wasn’t long until Kernow got the goal they deserved though. After receiving the ball on the edge of the penalty area, Mitchell produced a great piece of skill and struck a crisp finish into the bottom corner to send the Kernow camp wild.

Winger Turner soon doubled the advantage following more impressive link-up play from Goldsworthy. His ball allowed Turner to cut inside and fire past Mayo to provide Cascadia boss James Nichols with an uphill task.

Goldsworthy deserved a goal, and he should have made it three. After Gilbert was smartly played through, the midfielder squared to Goldsworthy for what looked like a simple tap in. But Kernow’s all-time top goalscorer somehow spooned his effort away from goal.

The striker then failed to connect with Will Tinsley’s cross from the right-hand side which led to a sliced clearance from a Cascadian defender. But Gilbert was on hand to convert and extend his team’s lead.

Kernow were fitter, sharper, and ultimately better than their North American counterparts who were restricted to speculative efforts from range throughout the first half before they were handed a lifeline in the 36th minute.

Excellent skill from wide-man Kellen Fisher drew a mistimed challenge in the penalty area from James Ward, which gave referee Stuart Kyle no choice but to point to the spot. Max Oldham converted the penalty confidently to reduce the deficit.

The half-time whistle arrived with Gilbert presumably the happier out of the two managers. But with Cascadia netting before the interval, Nichols was provided with a glimmer of hope.

That glimmer diminished less than five minutes after the restart. A swift move from back to front included yet another sublime piece of technical play from Goldsworthy who cushioned the ball at shoulder height to play through Gilbert, as the midfielder smashed home an impressive half-volley after a loose first touch.

Gilbert -no relation to his manager- completed a well-deserved hat-trick after firing home from inside the penalty area following an impressive solo run. A goal worthy of being captured on Prost’s global broadcast with viewers tuning in from the likes of North America and Asia.

Half-time Kernow substitute Cam Turner played an inch-perfect pass over the defensive line to find fellow sub Clarke who cheekily lobbed Mayo to rub salt in the Cascadian wounds. Without a doubt, they made an instant impact to make it 6-1.

Will Tinsley’s ball across the face of goal was tapped home by Jennings who wrote the wrongs of his earlier missed opportunity to make it seven-heaven for the Cornish.

Had Jennings converted that aforementioned chance he would have ended up with a hat-trick after bundling in a set-piece opportunity to bring the goalscoring proceedings to a close with the final score at 8-1.

Whilst Jennings managed to find the net twice, Goldsworthy should feel incredibly hard done by. His work ethic as well as his quality in possession proved to be priceless for Gilbert’s side. Prost understands the striker even booked a London hotel to gain a good night’s sleep, he must have left his shooting boots in the lobby though.

There was only one contender for the man of the match award. Those in Kernow do not consider Max Gilbert as a goalscoring threat from midfield, but his intelligent, well-timed runs into the penalty area for his first and third goals combined with a clinical finish for his second suggest he has added a new dimension to his game.

Kernow FA chairman, Jason Heaton sang the praises of the Cornish players when speaking to Prost. “I’m just massively delighted for the team. They‘ve put so much hard work in for such a long period of time without any games in between.”

Heaton also explained just how much it meant to have Kernow fans alongside the team. “It means everything. Cornwall is a family-orientated place and everyone that came today is part of our family!

Speaking to Prost, captain Ward expressed his delight at the fact his side performed so admirably. “It’s a big day for the county being our first away game, and I thought the boys were brilliant from the off. We talked about implementing everything we’ve worked on in training, and I think we did that.

The captain was keen to acknowledge that Cascadia were gracious in defeat and gave “quite a few complements” despite the thrashing. It is believed both parties are hoping that this fixture is the start of a strong relationship.

From a Cascadian perspective, it was a dull afternoon, even if the clouds were replaced by sunlight at full-time. Several late dropouts left Nichols with an improbable mission, so he cannot be blamed. But the scoreline was a fair one despite the significant margin.

Those in attendance appeared to enjoy the game whilst there was an abomination of positive comments coming through online, praising the work of those ensuring the match ran smoothly.

The community feel that football provides was there to be seen at the Fenton Engineering Stadium. And whilst it is easy for both teams to get wrapped up in the result, there’s a lot to be said for the return of normality to football games at a variety of levels. Let’s hope that football and most importantly life continue in this manner.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

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Journalist covering game shocked to discover he is eligible for Cascadia http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/22/journalist-covering-game-shocked-to-discover-he-is-eligible-for-cascadia/ Sat, 22 May 2021 07:30:03 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=261578

UCFB journalism student Matt Smith found out something quite surprising while preparing to organise the external media covering the friendly match between Cornwall and Cascadia.

It came to light that the 20-year-old from West Bromwich was eligible to play for Cascadia through family in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Smith is a BA (Hons) Sports Business & Sports Broadcasting at UCFB Etihad Campus in Manchester and had been helping the Cascadia Football Federation (CAFF) reach out to media interested in their game at Northwood FC.

In a partnership agreement between the CAFF, Prost Soccer and UCFB, young potential sports professionals were given placements to gain expertise in helping a live event come to fruition in areas from broadcasting to finance.

Smith has represented a variety of local clubs as well as his former school and sixth form. His career initially began as a goalkeeper as he stands at a towering six feet and four inches.

Smith explained to Prost “I literally discovered I was eligible to play for Cascadia on Thursday after a discussion with my mother.

“I was telling her about the constituent parts of Cascadia and she produced the gem about my roots.”

The Cascadian side contains players at a much higher level than Smith has ever experienced. But that didn’t prevent Cascadia coach James Nichols from receiving the news with a grin:

“With the opportunity that has become available, it would great to add Matt to the squad for our game against Kernow for the experience.

“I’ve enjoyed reading the articles he’s written about the game but this was a totally unexpected turn. He’d add a physical presence to our side.”

Any experience that Smith would enjoy is likely to lean heavily on any guidance offered by veteran Cascadia captain Patrick Wilson who is currently undertaking the UEFA A coaching course.

Wilson also oversees the AFC Bournemouth’s under 13’s side and would act as a perfect mentor to his inexperienced teammate should he be called upon.

Cascadia has fielded players of the calibre of former MLS Cup winner James Riley and Saturday’s game will see Canadian international Gavin McCallum make his Cascadia debut.

In the true spirit of the game, Cascadia boss James Nichols has at least added his name to the squad for the match against Kernow at Northwood FC on Saturday but Smith will still have to carry out his main duties looking after the visiting press contingent which includes journalists from BBC Cornwall and The Football Pink.

Tickets are still available and can be purchased by following this link. Adults tickets are £10, OAP’s Students and 16-18-year-old tickets are £5, whilst under-16’s go free!

Those who cannot attend the fixture can watch the whole 90 minutes streamed on the Prost International YouTube Channel. Commentary will be provided by Christof Walker of “CWSportRadio”.

Sponsorship packages act as a great way to show your support for both teams and non-league football.

Contact 07743260385 for more information on a variety of opportunities.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

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Kernow vs Cascadia – How to watch live online http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/21/kernow-vs-cascadia-match-preview/ Fri, 21 May 2021 14:00:25 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=261478 Kernow and Cascadia are set to return to action after a lengthy absence of matches at Northwood FC’s Fenton Engineering Stadium this weekend.

Both teams haven’t played an international fixture in two years, therefore the upcoming game is an eagerly anticipated one. There is a trophy at stake with both teams will battle it out for Prost Soccer Challenge Cup.

Who are the teams?

Kernow (Cornish for “Cornwall”) is recognised by Cornish and Celtic political groups as one of six Celtic nations are managed by Darren Gilbert and captained by former Truro City defender James Ward.

Cascadia represents a North American region that includes Oregon and Washington State and the Canadian province of British Columbia. Carlisle City boss James Nichols takes charge of the side that once boasted the likes of former MLS star James Riley, and former Canadian youth international Calum Ferguson.

On Saturday though, their star turn will be Canadian international Gavin McCallum.

Northwood FC will play host to the teams with kick-off at 15:00 BST.

The eighth tier club were “very close to completely closing” in 2014 according to chairman Ian Barry. But with a modernised clubhouse now in place, they are now the “envy” of fellow clubs.

How are the sides preparing?

Gilbert’s side have been making great strides in their preparation following a friendly fixture against Camelford FC. They passed that test with flying colours. A massive 7-1 win will provide a timely confidence boost, though Cascadia will prove a much sterner challenge.

Nichols has also been making the finishing touches to his squad for the upcoming game.

He secured the addition of former Lincoln City, Hereford United and Canadian international McCallum, who could join an elite set of players to have scored for two international teams.

There was also interest in former Aston Villa, Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion defender Liam Ridgewell, who qualifies for Cascadia following his five-year spell with Portland Timbers in the MLS.

What have the staff said?

Cacadia boss Nichols told Prost: “We’ve all missed football probably even more than we first thought. The boys are absolutely buzzing at the chance to get out on the field again.

“I’d like to thank Cornwall most sincerely for coming up to London to play this game. Without them this wouldn’t be happening and we hope to provide them a warm Cascadian welcome albeit miles from home.

“Both Northwood FC and the students from UCFB have contributed to make this event and even more memorable occasion than it would’ve been.

“Prost Soccer has always been a great friend of the Cascadian team but the fact that they have put up trophy and silverware for both sides to play for, goes above and beyond expectations. One of these sides will collect a trophy. They’re also working to stream the game online so our fans in Cascadia can see their team.

“Lastly thank you to my players without whom we wouldn’t have a team.

“I’ve been in the game a long time but I can’t recall an adrenaline buzz like this one for many a year. Roll on 3 o’clock on Saturday and a chance to play football in front of the people who matter most – real football fans.”

Kernow’s Director of Football Andrew Bragg was very generous in his gratitude to the Cascadians.

“First of all I’d like to thank the Cascadia FA & all their backroom staff for making this fixture possible.

“We at Kernow were obviously disappointed after the cancellation of both the World Cup & European Championship but with our eyes firmly set on aiming to qualify for the next CONIFA International tournament what could be a better way to start than with a monumental fixture verses Cascadia.

“We hope to bring the passion, history & supporters of Kernow to London and make this an auspicious occasion!”

How can I watch the game?

Tickets for the match remain on sale and can be ordered online to ensure you won’t be turned away on the day. Follow this link to get yours. An adult ticket is only £10, OAPs, students and 16 to 18-year-olds can attend for just £5, whilst under 16’s go free.

Northwood Hills is the nearest tube station.

Whilst those who cannot physically attend the fixture will be delighted to know that the whole 90 minutes plus further coverage will be streamed live across the world on the Prost International YouTube Channel.

The action will be called by Christof Walker of “CWSportRadio” who has called Cascadia matches twice before.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

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Kernow and Cascadia to play for Silverware http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/20/kernow-and-cascadia-to-play-for-silverware/ Thu, 20 May 2021 17:00:57 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=260940

Kernow and Cascadia will battle it out at the Fenton Engineering Stadium to get their hands on the Prost Soccer Challenge Cup this weekend.

With the two sides meeting on Saturday 22nd May at 15:00, the victorious party will be awarded a unique one-time trophy to celebrate their success.

The opportunity for both teams to win a trophy will come as promising news, following the cancellation of the 2020 CONIFA Football World Cup and for Kernow, the 2021 CONIFA European Football Cup.

There will also be a trophy provided to the man of the match, offering an extra incentive for players to showcase their ability at the home of Northwood FC.

Rob Holland will kindly be donating both trophies as the owner of Sports and Trophies. The South Oxhey based company not only supplies trophies, but also a vast range of sports clothing and equipment.

Sports and Trophies have gained a prestigious reputation having partnered with the likes of Watford, QPR, Barclays and the FA.

No photo description available.

Sponsorship Coordinator, Max Fleet claimed, “the team have all been working extremely hard over the last week to try and finalise our sponsors for the match on the 22nd.”

“Having Rob from Sports and Trophies come in as our Man of the Match sponsor is absolutely incredible and demonstrates the opportunity for local businesses to gain exposure from an international fixture.”

He also added, “over the next week or so, we would love to speak to as many interested businesses and individuals as possible to maximise the effect this match has and allow us to continue putting on these amazing events in the future.”

“We cannot wait to see as many people at the game as possible, to cheer on both set of players.”

Packages are available now! Interested parties should contact 07743260395 for more information.

Tickets are also available for purchase – follow this link to complete your booking.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

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The face behind the voice – Christofer Walker http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/19/the-face-behind-the-voice-christofer-walker/ Wed, 19 May 2021 09:30:42 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=261325

With Cascadia’s upcoming clash against Kernow at the Fenton Engineering Stadium to be streamed live on the Prost International YouTube channel, commentator Christofer Walker will be calling the shots, quite literally!

Walker first came across Cascadia back in 2018 following a pulsating 3-3 draw against Panjab in the CONIFA Cup, where James Nichols’ side were edged out on penalties. He had covered all Panjab’s games that tournament.

Experience behind the microphone is an attribute that Walker has a wealth of. Having not only covered Panjab matches, but he has also commentated on fellow CONIFA affiliates Yorkshire and Surrey, as well as the Heritage Atlantic Cup in 2019.

His background and path into commentary is an interesting one too. Having initially began in hospital, community and local radio, he then enjoyed a stint as a touchline reporter/match commentator with Southampton FC in their first Premier League spell.

A route back into radio work was presented to Walker through covering Kings Langley FC and Watford Ladies in 2017. Having been restricted to only cover Kings Langley away games in the 2018/2019 season, he utilised newly free time slots to produce commentary for his very own radio station “CWSportRadio.”

Walker says he commentates purely for enjoyment and nothing more:

“‘It is a hobby but of course if it was to lead to something more I wouldn’t complain, but in the meantime I’m enjoying it all and of course spreading the word of non league football across internet radio and on social media,” Walker told Prost in 2019.

As previously mentioned, Walker has covered a range of CONIFA-linked events and is set to add Kernow vs Cascadia to his portfolio. He famously attracted 670 listeners to a match between Berkhamstead Raiders and Grendon Rangers and now covers Cambridge United Women.

Walker considers commentary as the perfect role for himself due to the combination of two intensive interests:

“It’s a labour of love doing this and to combine my two passions of sport and radio is brilliant but having said that I am looking out for potential sponsors for the broadcasts as the global reach of the internet has seen the commentaries picked up in nearly 100 countries so far,” he added.

You can find more on Christof by following him on Twitter @MottysMic and visiting www.cwsportradio.com/.

Sponsorship packages act as a great way to show your support for both teams and non-league football.

Contact 07743260385 for more information on a variety of opportunities.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

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Cascadia’s clash with Kernow to be streamed live on You Tube http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/18/cascadias-clash-with-kernow-to-be-streamed-live/ Tue, 18 May 2021 14:30:09 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=261276

Cascadia’s May 22 fixture against Kernow at the Fenton Engineering Stadium will be streamed live on the Prost International YouTube channel.

With both sides ramping up preparations for the match at Northwood FC, coverage will be available online with kick-off at 15:00 BST, 7am Cascadia time.

Coverage will include both pre and post-match interviews as well as top-level commentary provided by Christof Walker who has called Cascadia matches before on two occasions.

Cascadia manager James Nichols has recently made the big-name addition of former Hereford United and Lincoln City star Gavin McCallum.

Whilst Nichols is interested in bringing in an ex-Premier League defender ahead of the game hosted by Northwood FC.


Who is commentator Christof Walker?

Canadian international Gavin McCallum aims to join unique band who’ve scored for two countries

Kernow ramp up preparations for Cascadia clash with friendly win

Northwood FC to host international friendly between Cornwall and Cascadia


Kernow are also making strides prior to the fixture. James Ward led his side to a convincing 7-1 victory in a friendly against Camelford FC.

Kernow now have five wins in their five matches and now face the opportunity to turn that run into their first-ever silverware.

The victorious party will get their hands on a match-dedicated trophy. Players also have an extra incentive to showcase their ability with a Man of the Match award to be handed out.

The effect of having the match streamed live across the world isn’t lost on Nichols:

“It’s great to have the match streamed globally. This will be extremely beneficial for our fans in Cascadia who aren’t able to attend the game.”

For those who can attend, tickets are available now through Northwood FC’s online ticketing function. The nearest tube station is Northwood Hills.

Sponsorship packages act as a great way to show your support for both teams and non-league football.

Contact 07743260385 for more information on a variety of opportunities.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

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Canadian international Gavin McCallum to play in Northwood friendly http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/17/canadian-international-gavin-mccallum-to-play-in-northwood-friendly/ Mon, 17 May 2021 20:30:09 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=261203

Dartford full-back Gavin McCallum is set to join that unique club of players to have represented two nations.

Furthermore, the former Sutton, Hereford, Woking and Welling defender may join an even more unique band to have scored for two after being called up to represent Cascadia in this Saturday’s  friendly against Kernow at Northwood.

McCallum earned a solitary cap for Canada in 2010 and even scored a 92nd-minute equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw with Venezuela.

With their upcoming clash against Kernow less than a week away, Cascadia head coach James Nichols is looking to give his squad their best possible opportunity by bringing in the experienced McCallum.

McCallum is set to make his long-awaited Cascadia debut having initially been called up for the game against Chagos Islands in Whyteleafe, however, he was then ruled out.

McCallum would have been available for the CONIFA Football World Cup in North Macedonia last year which was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Finally though, his opportunity to join that unique club arrives on Saturday against unbeaten Kernow.

Now 33, he was born in Canada Mississauga, Toronto and moved England in 2004. He qualifies for Cascadia through family in British Columbia.

His professional career started at Yeovil Town from where he had a number of loans to Crawley, Tamworth and Dorchester.

He was released and went to Weymouth before playing in the Conference for different teams over three years such as Havant & Waterlooville and Sutton United, a venue where Cascadia played in the ConIFA World Cup.


Kernow ramp up preparations for Cascadia clash with friendly win

Cascadia target Liam Ridgewell to play in London friendly

From financial peril to hosting an international fixture – Northwood FC

Northwood FC to host international friendly between Cornwall and Cascadia


McCallum then signed a contract in League Two with Hereford United FC where he played 27 matches and scored eight. This earned him a move to Lincoln City Football Club again in League Two where he played over 50 games.

Upon leaving Lincoln, he moved to for Woking FC , Sutton United FC and Eastbourne Borough FC and is currently representing Dartford.

If playing for two countries isn’t rare enough, McCallum could complete an even more remarkable feat if he finds the net for Cascadia having scored for the Canucks in Merida.

Cascadia Head Coach, James Nichols was delighted to finally have his services:

“It’s great to have a player of Gavin’s calibre on board, and his experience will be invaluable to the squad”

Tickets for the fixture on Saturday 22nd May at the Fenton Engineering Stadium are on sale now by clicking on the graphic below and on the day.

The nearest tube is Northwood Hills.

Sponsorship packages act as a great way to show your support for both teams and non-league football.

Contact 07743260385 for more information on a variety of opportunities.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

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Kernow ramp up preparations for Cascadia clash with friendly win http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/16/kernow-ramp-up-preparations-for-cascadia-clash-with-friendly-win/ Sun, 16 May 2021 14:06:01 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=261036

Kernow have increased the level of their preparations for their upcoming clash against Cascadia following their 7-1 win against Camelford FC.

After quickly going ahead, the Cornish side doubled their advantage through a spectacular overhead kick from striker Mark Goldsworthy.

Two then became three thanks to an own goal, which provided the Camels with an uphill challenge. And it was 4-0 before the break with Goldsworthy netting again.

A neat piece of play from Dan Jennings allowed Billy Pallfrey to make it five. And despite Camelford scoring a consultation goal, Kernow were rampant and fully deserved the 7-1 victory.

With the upcoming game against James Nichols’ side less than a week away, getting minutes on the board should prove vital.

Whilst, Nichols’ men are also making large strides of their own ahead of the match at the Fenton Engineering Stadium, and want to add former Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion defender Liam Ridgewell to their ranks.

The game takes place on Saturday 22nd May at 15:00, with tickets available by following this link.

Sponsorship packages act as a great opportunity to show your support for both sides and non-league football. With a range of options available, contact 07743260395 for further information.

Follow us on Twitter @ProstInt

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Cascadia target Liam Ridgewell to play in London friendly http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/13/cascadia-target-liam-ridgewell-to-play-in-london-friendly/ Thu, 13 May 2021 07:50:39 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=260639

Liam Ridgewell was a very popular player in Portland
Photo: Diego Diaz/Prost Amerika

Cascadia Association Football Federation want to convince former Premier League defender Liam Ridgewell to come out of retirement.

Whilst Ridgewell is widely associated with West Midlands football, he qualifies to represent Cascadia following his successful five-year spell in the United States with Portland Timbers which included a famous MLS Cup win.

Prost International understands that Cascadia coach James Nichols is a big admirer and would like to invite the West Midlands legend.

Adding Ridgewell to the Cascadia ranks would prove an invaluable step ahead of the upcoming fixture against Kernow at the Fenton Engineering Stadium.

The exhibition match is a 15:00 kick-off on 22nd May, with tickets on sale through the Northwood FC website and on the day.

36-year-old Ridgewell retired in 2019 following a brief stint with Southend United. He now forms part of the coaching staff at Dover Athletic.

The former Aston Villa, Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion star is fondly remembered in the States having joined Timbers in 2014 and going on to captain them to MLS Cup success on a famous night in Columbus in 2015.

Despite enjoying a career glittered with England-youth recognition and a cup final win, Ridgewell credits Portland with rejuvenating his career after being released by the Baggies and admitted that his first taste of the MLS action only whetted his appetite.

In 2018 he claimed “The very first game I watched, they were playing FC Dallas,” recalls Ridgewell,“

“They were 2-0 down at half-time., I couldn’t hear myself think when the players were coming in at half-time for the fans singing. Not shouting or chucking things, as I was used to, but singing. I thought that could work for me.’”

With the Timbers faithful known for their loyal and passionate support, Ridgewell drew comparisons between the atmosphere at Premier League grounds and MLS fixtures.

Ridgewell celebrates Timbers’ MLS Cup win in Portland in 2015

His arrival coincided with Timbers’ most successful era in modern times.

Having struggled defensively in their 2014 campaign, Ridgewell led the defensive rearguard to help the franchise finish third in the Western Conference.

The defender coolly netted a penalty in the playoff game against Sporting Kansas City, which is largely remembered for Saad Abdul-Salaam’s “double post” penalty miss. The unfortunate SKC player hit both posts during a shoot out and fate seemed to suggest it was Portland’s year.

A rock-solid defensive showing from Ridgewell and co, saw Timbers progress past Vancouver Whitecaps to advance to the Conference Final where they then defeated FC Dallas 5-3 on aggregate.

With the Timbers not content as just Western Conference Champions, they made history by beating Columbus Crew 2-1 to become the first side from the Cascadia rivalry to win the competition, soon to be followed by Sounders FC.

One of Portland or Seattle has appeared in every final since as Cascadia has exerted its dominance on the Western Conference.

Ridgewell also gained a reputation with his signature goal celebration, “The Ridgy Roll” which surprised both British and American fans alike.

His time with the Timbers came to an end in 2019 having found game time hard to come by under Gio Savarese.

But having been a cult hero amongst the Timbers fanbase and with evergreen memories from his time with the club, Nichols hopes Ridgewell may just be tempted to don the Cascadia colours.

He told Prost:

“As a follower of English football, I know the Liam’s abilities well.

James Riley played for Cascadia before and I was amazed just how much credibility and kudos, as well as his talent and leadership, that brought us.

Hopefully, we can get word out to Liam in time so he can player, as well as give his West midlands fans a chance to show their appreciation.”

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From financial peril to hosting an international fixture – Northwood FC http://prostinternational.com/2021/05/12/from-financial-peril-to-hosting-an-international-fixture-northwood-fc/ Wed, 12 May 2021 18:12:04 +0000 http://www.prostinternational.com/?p=260569 With Northwood Football Club set to host its first-ever international fixture, chairman Ian Barry gave a greater insight into the club’s past and what the future holds.

Kernow and Cascadia will meet at the Fenton Engineering Stadium on Saturday 22nd May with tickets currently on sale. The exhibition fixture will also be the first game Northwood have hosted since December, with COVID-19 restrictions forcing divisions below the National League to be cancelled.

Ian Barry has held the position of chairman at the club since 2007, and in that time has seen various ups and downs, with Northwood facing financial ruin seven years ago. Though the future is now looking bright with a modernised clubhouse facility.

But Barry admitted that the financial boost provided by the facility was desperately needed. “We needed more income, to put it bluntly. We were very close to completely closing our doors around 2014, the income just wasn’t meeting the outgoings.”

Though his determination to leave a legacy at the club saw work for a rejuvenated social facility commence. Barry explained “our clubhouse -like many at non-league level- was tired. I had this pipe dream to make the clubhouse look like what you see today.”

“But I knew that it would take a lot of organisation, a lot of money, a lot of desire, and a lot of belief from people to see what I was trying to do for this club.”

“I won’t lie, I massively underestimated the amount of work involved. But I was lucky enough to have a great team of people who believed in what we had planned.”

Barry claimed that the completion of the project convinced fans of his ambition for the club and created a new “wave” of supporters coming through the gates.

While Northwood’s initial goal was to ensure that their existence was not threatened in the short term, Barry is now looking to the next “hundred years” with Northwood “the envy” of fellow clubs.

“The Woods” are also making admirable strides off the field too. Next season’s first-team kit will be made out of recycled material with the club taking great responsibility in its environmental surroundings.

The “impeccably kept” Northwood cemetery surrounds the Fenton Engineering Stadium, with the “unique” setting screened by remarkable conifer trees to form a special non-league ground.

Despite being somewhat unfamiliar with the area of Cascadia, Barry acknowledged Northwood share various similarities and look forward to welcoming the team.

Appreciation of trees -Cascadia is symbolised by the Douglas Fir Tree- and environment awareness are values prioritised by both parties.

To conclude, Barry pointed out that Northwood’s fanbase is “largely formed by an older demographic”, but he hopes the club can “capitalise on attendance figures rising by 100% prior to the stoppage of games” in what will be the first fixture played by a Cornish team at Northwood Football Club.

Various Sponsorship opportunities are also available contact 07743260395 for more info!

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