Despite December’s schedule finishing for us on the 16th, we still managed to play 15 matches, with only our D and G teams missing out in the league.
Starting the review with the top flight Crewe “A” are top of the pops with 7 pts from 7 matches. This is of course rather misleading as Alsager “A” are shown in 2nd place having got 7 pts from just 4 matches. Oddly enough I can guarantee that Crewe “A” will remain top of the league for at least 6 more weeks as January only sees two fixtures. By which time it is very likely that Holmes Chapel “A” will become the 4th team on 7pts to join Macclesfield’s strong revival and join the fight to be NSDCA champions. Defending champions Crewe “B” have not hit the dizzy heights this time around (3 pts from 6 matches) and are currently one place above the wooden spoon. Newcomers Northwich face a tough schedule at the start of 2026 playing the three contenders (Alsager, Holmes Chapel and Macclesfield). Crewe “C” have 4 pts from 6 games and hope to avoid relegation.
Division 2’s table shows a firecely competitive scrap to be top dog with six of the seven teams in with a serious chance of taking the trophy. Crewe “F” have exceeded expectations to lead the way with 8 pts from 6 games, in a section where every team has dropped at least two points. The inclusion in their squad of two first division captains has boosted their chances but would create problems if gaining promotion. Crewe D ( 7pts from 5) had made a promising start to the season but were soundly beaten by 6th place Alsager B last time out showing how tough the division is. 3rd place Cheddleton “A” (6 pts from 4) are probable favourites as they can field a team rated well over 7000 when at full strength, but have a tough run in with three trips to Crewe in their last 4 games of the season. Crewe “E” have 6 pts from 6 (W2, D2, L2) and should remain mid table. Stafford down in 5th place (5pts from 4) will have a big say in final placings, tend to enjoy home advantage with a squad amply capable of beating any other team in the division. Alsager B (4 pts from 5) showed their ability by beating then league leaders Crewe D but have not been consistent, but on their day are a hand full. Newcastle are yet to notch up their first points but have recently been reinforced by a returning player who is the 3rd highest rated in the whole league !
Division 3 shows Holmes Chapel “B” (10pts) in a commanding position, as the only team with a 100% record throughout the league. Next up they face their nearest rivals – Cheddleton B (9 pts from 6)- which will probably be their toughest match. With all other teams (than the top two) having dropped at least 4 pts it’s hard to see any other winners than Holmes Chapel. Bare in mind they have struggled in division two in recent seasons it’s good to see their top two teams unbeaten so far and challenging for honours. Alsager C (8 pts from 6) are performing well, above Crewe G and Gables “A”. Kidsgrove “A” have elected to put themselves in a higher division this season and have 5 pts in the bag already, giving them a safety cushion over Crewe H and Alsager D who have the same 1 pt from 6 matches.
Division 4 looks to be closely contested too, with 3 pts separating the top 5 places. Cheddleton C have dropped the least number of points so far to lead the table with 9 pts from 6, ahead of Gables B and Crewe I who both have 8 from 7. Mid table sees Crewe J with the unlikely record of no wins or losses after 7 matches. A further draw may see this team with an NSDCA record of most drawn matches in a season, as I am struggling to find evidence from the archives with any team drawing more than 7 in one season. Kidsgrove B appear relativly safe on 6 pts, with Fenton and Alsager E on 3 pts.
Division 5 sees Meir setting the pace with 13 pts from 7 matches. Chedd’s D team though are still within striking distance with two games in hand sitting on 9 pts. Holmes Chapel C are a welcome addition this season, as Gables juniors continue to improve and Crewe now have an all junior team in the shape of Crewe L.
In the Cup competitions two matches were played during December with Crewe progressing to the semi-finals in the Major and Meir making it through to the quarters in the Perry Cup. Most pleasing is the fact that 209 players have participated in the NSDCA so far this season, a significant increase from recent seasons.
Part 2 – Crewe’s Club Championship & Internal News Report will follow after the final club night of the year on 30th December.
Finally to wish all our readers (and passers by) a merry christmas and a prosperous new year