By Jonathan White
Nantwich Town FC Men’s Sunday Team are inviting new players to join their growing football family as they continue their exciting 2025/26 season.
The Dabbers produced a spirited and entertaining performance in their latest fixture — a closely fought home tie against Sandbach Town in the first round of the David Salmon Memorial Trophy, played on Malbank School Field on Sunday 5th October.
In a lively encounter that went right down to penalties, Sandbach Town narrowly edged the win. The visitors took a 2–0 lead against the run of play through goals from Tew and Dom Vernon, before Nantwich Town hit back impressively with two well-taken strikes to level the score before half-time.
The second half remained end-to-end, with both sides creating chances to win it. Sandbach goalkeeper Jack Sehne made several superb saves to deny the Dabbers, and in the shootout, Sandbach proved more clinical, with Tim Morris and Aron Shatwell converting to secure a 2–1 victory. Despite the blustery and wet conditions brought by Storm Amy, the match was played in terrific spirit.
Nantwich Town FC Men’s Sunday Team starting XI: Wayne Capper, Alex Chandler, Mark Chandler, Danny Griggs, Adam Lee, Lee McGuinness, Christian Morris, Matthew Parker, Andy Parkinson, Mathew Scott, Andrew Scarle.
The team is managed by Mark “Shandy” Chandler, who re-formed the side last season after returning to the game he loves following a 15-year break from football.
Mark – a familiar face to long-time Dabbers fans – played for the club’s first team in the late 1990s and early 2000s, lining up alongside club greats such as Danny Griggs, Chris Morris, Lyndon Hall, John Scarlett and Stuart Heaps, and facing strong opponents like Fleetwood Town, St Helens and Atherton in the North West Counties League.
“At 44, I wanted to feel that buzz of competitive football again before it was too late,” said Mark. “When I spoke to a few of the old lads, they were just as keen – what started as one last dance for a bunch of ex-players has turned into something much bigger.
“The club has been fantastic in backing us, and there’s a real family feel now. Players bring their partners, kids and friends along – and the Sunday morning atmosphere is just brilliant. It’s proof that no matter your age, you can still play competitive football, have fun, and be part of something special.”
Now looking to build on their growing momentum, Nantwich Town FC Men’s Sunday Team are keen to expand their squad and welcome new players of all abilities to join their friendly, community-focused side.
Training takes place every Thursday evening from 7–8pm on Nantwich Town FC’s Applewood Arena 3G pitch, Waterlode, Nantwich (CW5 5BS).
Anyone interested in getting involved can email [email protected] , search ‘Nantwich Town FC Men’s Sunday Team’ on Facebook, or visit their team page at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560894311270