 City developed the Knotty Ash stadium within their meagre means, mainly by fencing it and erecting a small grandstand.In 1956, they hosted the touring Australian national team, losing 40–12 in front of a crowd of over 4,700.In July 1964, the club's board were informed by the Carmelite convent that owned the land that their lease on Knotty Ash would not be renewed.