CONTACT: Christmas 1971

The Bank football team has made a very successful start to the present season. The high standard of football in the South Birmingham League Division Three  has given the Bank a chance to show its capabilities and at the present time the Club are in third position.

The team are also through to the Semi-Finals of the Roy Ashford Memorial Shield and the Quarter-Finals of the Presidents P M Cup.

The most satisfying victories, however, have been achieved in the Northern Savings Banks Cup Tournament. The Bank have one match to play in Group Two of this tournament and have already defeated Chester & Wrexham, Preston and Blackburn. The unbeaten record was lost when, on a cold and windy afternoon, Wigan Trustee Savings Bank beat the Bank by a single goal. A victory over the holders of the Cup, Liverpool, is now essential to ensure a place in the Semi-Finals.

The following players have attributed to the team's success:

M Reed (Goalkeeper)

A very competent goalkeeper who has 'saved' the Bank on many occasions. Michael is always ready to have a joke and a laugh on and off the field.

C Mace (Full Back)

Clive's main strength is his ability to tackle a player hard, and usually fairly!

A Woodbridge (Full Back)

Alan was a regular player for many seasons but now plays only occasionally. A good tackler, Alan's presence in the side is sadly missed.

K Prentice Half Back)

Ken is having his best season in Bank colours and his efforts are now being rewarded.

A Byrne (Mid Field)

Tony has played in many positions for the Bank and always gives 90 minutes effort. His best position is probably in the back four.

J Mace (Captain)

John started the season at Centre Forward and scored many goals from that position, but injuries to other players meant that John reverted back to Centre Half to add height and weight to the defence. John is the best all-round player the Bank has had for many years.

R Garner (Half Back)

Yours truly has played for the Bank for ten seasons, and during that time many changes have taken place. I still enjoy playing football and I hope to continue playing for this very good Bank side.

D Burke (Mid Field)

David has many skills and his ability to beat his man and pinpoint a pass to a colleague is quite amazing. A converted winger, David is now at home in mid field.

T Hinz (Mid Field)

Terry is a very good all-round player. He is fast and can play in attack or defence. His presence was missed recently when illness kept him out of the side for three weeks. Terry is an asset to the Bank team.

I Galloway (Mid Field)

Ian is the most experienced player the Bank has registered. Once an attacker, Ian has reverted to mid field and commands this position very well. His ability to use either foot means the forwards benefit from his prompting on both sides of the pitch.

D Horner (Forward)

Derek, like myself, has played for the Bank since its formation in 1962. During the last ten seasons Derek has scored many great goals, usually with his head, but now plays deeper and creates chances for other players. A good club man and very modest.

B Wilkins (Forward)

Brian has only been with the Bank for a few months but during this time has shown his capabilities as a striking winger. Possessing a powerful shot with either foot Brian has already scored some great goals and I hope he will continue to play for the Bank for many years to come.

K Lediard (Forward)

Kevin is a newcomer to the football team but has already made his mark in the side. A natural footballer who with experience will command a place for many years.

L Strong (Half Back)

Leslie is a very keen and capable players. This is his first full season and he has played many outstanding matches to date.

R Moll (Half Back)

Ron has played for the Bank for many seasons usually at Centre Half but now only plays the occasional game. A great player, Ron's ability is missed by the Bank defence. A very good header of the ball and perhaps the best defender ever to wear Bank colours.

R Parker (Mid Field)

Roger is very keen and capable of playing in many positions. A dependable person who often plays at very short notice. A good man to have on our side.

E Stokes (Mid Field)

A regular player last year, Eddie is  now committed to other teams but still plays the occasional match when called upon.

R M Garner

Hon Secretary