History of Morecambe Football Club The Early Times
History Of Morecambe FC Since 1920
Page 3
On 19 May 1900 the cricket club moved to its present home at Woodhill Lane, opening the ground and pavilion. The football section played on the adjoining field, probably where the playing fields are now, between Woodhill Lane and Acre Moss Lane. This field was used until 1910, except for 1906-07, when the cricket field was used. A small stand was erected, opening on 8 February 1908. The admission charge was 2d.. A move was made in February 1910 to a new ground called appropriately the New Road Ground, on West End Road. The stand moved with the team. By now the team was called the 'Seasiders'. In those days they played in blue or blue & white.
1902 letter relating to Morecambe FC's
bank account.
It was a matter of pride to the team that they were an amateur side, composed entirely of local players and they started to absorb other local teams Morecambe Rangers in 1903, Morecambe Amateurs in 1907, although it is possible that Rangers actually took over Morecambe FC, with their name.
Most seasons were a struggle to avoid finishing bottom of the local league and in 1905-06 they did finish bottom. However, at this time the town's rugby club folded. Rugby had been the town's main sport but now football became the premier pastime.
The club president was then C. J. Clark, with F. F. Bairstow the secretary, and these two were determined to improve the club's fortunes. In 1906-07 the club did achieve runners up.
In their current league the club had a shortage of fixtures, so for 1907-08 and 1908-09 they entered the Ulverston & District League, becoming champions for both seasons. They also played in the North Lancashire & District League in 1907-08 (champions) and 1908-09 (runners up).
The local knock out cup was the Infirmary Senior Cup (from 1906 called the Lune FA Senior Cup), which was entered without success, although the final was reached in 1909-10, when they lost 2-1 to Carnforth Rangers on 23 April at Bolton le Sands. On 30 January 1909 for the second round, FA President Lord Kinnaird kicked off for Morecambe against Lancaster Reserves at Giant Axe. Morecambe lost 1-2. On 29 April 1909 Morecambe beat the Crusaders in the final of the Lancaster FC medal competition at Giant Axe.