All about FC United of Manchester

This Saturday, the Grecians will be entertaining FC United. Like Exeter City they are no ordinary club.

Founded in 2005 by Man Utd fans frustrated by the Glazers takeover of their club, and also by the many problems of modern football, such as changed kick-off times to suit TV coverage, heavy-handed stewarding and excessive ticket pricing.

The option to support another local club didn’t seem right. Why would it? You can’t change your loyalty. So a new United was created. A community club, that would serve the people of Manchester. An anti-thesis to premiership football, where the fan and the community are at the centre. A chance to create an atmosphere and enjoy attending football.

The model of FC United differs from ours, in that it has direct ownership by its fans, but still based on the Industrial and Provident Society (IPS) company model as is Exeter City.

They started life in North West Counties Football League. FC United made their debut in division two at Leek CSOB at the start of the 2005/06 season. They finished that season as winners of the Division. Onwards and upwards as they say. Karl Marginson as been their manager through all of this. He has now guided them to the Northern Premier League, where last season they finished 6th, one place off the play-offs for the Blue Square North.

They play their home matches at Gigg Lane home of Bury FC. They are looking to move to a brand new stadium, paid for by a community share issue, but their plans have not yet met the approval of the local authorities in Manchester.

They’ll will bring a few supporters on Saturday, so lets hope that with a fullish away end, that they have some sunshine!

Remember that under 18s can watch this game for FREE. Kick off on Saturday is 3pm, the rest of the prices are: Flybe (seating): Adult £6, Concession £4, Under 18s free and Big Bank (standing): Adult £5; Concession £3: Under 18s free.

This will also be the first chance for City fans to see the new Joma home kit in action.