Ian Templeman

Members of Bundesliga club FC Augsburg unexpectedly attended Daisy Hill’s FA Vase match against Cheadle Town while staying in Manchester for a friendly against Leeds United. The squad watched the entire game, received a match-worn Daisy Hill shirt and discussed their appreciation for grassroots football. After losing 4-0 to Leeds, Augsburg returned to Germany to prepare for their DFB Pokal and Bundesliga campaigns. Daisy Hill vice-chairman Colin Higson said the club enjoyed meeting the players and would follow Augsburg’s season closely.

Daisy Hill manager Nicky Hunt is considering changes to his attack for the FA Vase first qualifying-round tie against Cheadle Town after a disappointing 1-1 draw at Ashville. Daisy Hill remain unbeaten in the league and have won both home matches, but Hunt says the team must improve its finishing. Cheadle Town, who play one division higher and have won both away games this season, will visit Daisy Hill on Friday at 7:45 p.m.; the tie will be settled by penalties if necessary.

Daisy Hill preserved its unbeaten North West Counties League First Division North record with a 1-1 draw at Ashville. Ashville took the lead through Matthew Williams despite having Joseph Levey sent off, while Will Shawcross equalized for Daisy from the penalty spot before half-time. Daisy dominated possession and created chances but could not break down Ashville’s well-organized ten-man defense, prompting manager Nicky Hunt to criticize the team’s lack of attacking sharpness. Daisy will next host Cheadle Town in the FA Vase.

Daisy Hill were eliminated from the first round of the Edward Case Cup after losing 4-3 on penalties to Uppermill following a 1-1 draw. Tommy Lent put Uppermill ahead just before half-time, and James Salkeld equalised for Daisy Hill in the 70th minute after Hugo Nowacki's effort rebounded off the post. Despite creating chances and dominating possession for periods, Daisy Hill could not find a winner. Manager Nicky Hunt said the team could take positives from its fitness, physicality and late pressure as it returned its focus to league action.

Daisy Hill FC will begin its North West Counties League First Division North campaign with home matches against Steeton and AFC Knowsley within three days. Manager Nicky Hunt says the team has concentrated on tactical preparation and defensive improvement after conceding heavily during pre-season. He emphasizes the importance of a strong start, recalling that last season’s poor opening contributed to Daisy Hill missing the playoffs, while acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding both opponents.