In 1887, Gorton A.F.C. turned professional and moved to a new ground at Hyde Road, renaming to Ardwick A.F.C. to reflect the new location in the east of the city.
Their first match at Hyde Road was meant to be against Salford A.F.C. on the 10 September 1887, but the "grand opening" of the new ground was a non-event as Salford failed to turn up.