Widnes v Hednesford Town

WIDNES FC

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME SEASON 2024-25

v HEDNESFORD TOWN The Northern Premier League West Division Saturday, 19th October 2024 Kick Off 3.00pm

£2.00

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Widnes Football Club Information

Chairman: IAN ROSS Directors: DAVID DAY JOHN McKEOWN GARETH HARTLEY ADRIAN BEVAN VICTORIA ROSS Club Secretary: ADRIAN BEVAN Match Day Secretary: BILL MORLEY Treasurer: VICTORIA ROSS Media Officer: CALLUM CHADWICK Assistant Media Officer: CHARLIE ROSS Photographer: PAUL WATSON of www.fja-photography.co.uk Club Ambassadors: PAUL PENNINGTON Match Day Sales: JANET MORLEY Club Development Officer: BILL MORLEY Manager: MICHAEL ELLISON Assistant Manager: CHRIS LAWTON Coach: PAUL BOWES Goalkeeper Coach: RYAN BROOKFIELD Kit Man: CRAIG PATTERSON

Home Ground: HALTON STADIUM, LOWERHOUSE LANE, WIDNES, WA8 7DZ Year Formed: 2003 Record Attendance: 630 v Macclesfield (NPL West Division) - 02.01.2023 Previous Leagues: West Cheshire League North West Counties League Honours: The Reusch First Division Winners 2016/17 The Hallmark Security League Premier Division Runner Up 2017/18 The Macron Challenge Cup Winners 2017/18 The Hallmark Security League Champions Cup Winners 2017/18 Website: www.widnesfootballclub.co.uk Twitter: @Widnes_FC Main Sponsor: www.nplfa.co.uk Kit Manufacturer: MACRON Online Club Shop: http:// macronstorecheshire.co.uk/widnesfc League Rule 2.13 Ownership:

In accordance with the Football Association Rule 2.13 Publication of ownership in relation to Step 1 to Step 6 Clubs within the Football pyramid, we hereby confirm that the Legal Status of WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB LIMITED identified

by Company Number 08960635, takes the ‘Form’ of a Private Company limited by Shares (incorporated 26th March 2014).

Shareholder David Day holds a significant interest in the club as defined by the Football Association with 45.4% of the total company shares.

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 03

Blackpool & District Amateur League: 1958 to 1961 Squires Gate were formed in 1948 as Squires Gate British Legion FC and competed in the Blackpool & District Amateur League. They won the leagues Rawling Shield in their first season. The name of the club was changed to Squires Gate FC in 1953. They won the leagues First Division in 1955–56 and 1956–57; also the Blackwell Cup in 1958–59 and 1959–60. They spent the 1960–61 in the Fylde District League, winning the Fylde Cup and losing finalists in the Bannister Cup.

West Lancashire League: 1961 to 1991 The following season they moved up to the West Lancashire League where they spent the next thirty years. From 1961 until 1980 they were in Division Two and were promoted in 1981 as champions. In the 1986–87 season they won the Richardson Cup.

The following season they moved up to the West Lancashire League where they spent the next thirty years. From 1961 until 1980 they were in Division Two and were promoted in 1981 as champions. In the 1986–87 season they won the Richardson Cup. North West Counties League: 1991 onward They were elected into the North West Counties Football League for the 1991–92 season, joining Division Two for the 1991–92 season. Squires Gate won the leagues Fair Play Award for the 1993– 94 season and were losing finalists in the 1997–98 Division Two Trophy.

They won the 2001–02 season Division Two Trophy and then the following season they missed the runner-up spot on goal difference but were still promoted to Division One following the demise of Stand Athletic who had originally been promoted as Division Two champions. They reached their highest league placing in the 2005–06 season also reaching the quarter finals of the FA Vase then last season, under the Management of Andy Clarkson, Gate improved still further on their best ever placing, finishing sixth in what is now the Premier Division.

On 10 March 2007 Squires Gate played a home match against FC United of Manchester at Curzon Ashton F.C.s ground. The club had approached Blackpool F.C. about playing the game at Bloomfield Road but the ground was not available. And so they played the match in Ashton-under-Lyne, as it was felt that FCUM fans were more likely to attend with the match being staged in the Greater Manchester area. A crowd of 1,650 saw Squires Gate lose 0-1 and Squires Gate earned about £7,000.

From the Manager - Michael Ellison Good afternoon everyone, we go into todays game on the back of a really big three points away at Congleton, it was one of those where I was delighted with the win but not the performance, we certainly wasnt at our best but again found away to win the game and another occasion where the subs had a massive impact.

We know we will certainly need to play better today if we’re to get anything from the game, Hednesford are a top side and I’ve no doubt they will be up there come the end of the season. We will need to be defensively solid as they’ve got lads at the top end of the pitch who can really hurt you, but like in every other game we’ve played this season we know we will get chances, if we can keep the back depot shut then we will have a feat chance of getting something.

As always thanks for your support, Ello

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 05

Hednesford Town Club History

E

arly Formation and Grounds Hednesford Town FC, formed in 1880 through the amalgamation of Red and Whites (also known as West Hill) and Hill Top, played initially at ‘The Tins’ before moving to ‘The Cross Keys’ in 1904. In the 1994/95 season, the club transitioned to the purposebuilt ‘Keys Park’ stadium, which boasts a 6039 capacity and a Football Association Grade B ground grading certificate.

Turning Point in 1990 The club’s fortunes changed in January 1990 when former goalkeeper John Baldwin was appointed manager, steering the team clear of relegation from the Beazer Homes Midland Division. The following season, they finished third and secured promotion to the Premier Division in 1991/92, also becoming the first English team to play at the Welsh National Stadium, losing the Welsh Cup final to Cardiff City.

Climbing the Ranks After a strong debut in the Premier Division and subsequent seasons, the Pitmen won the Beazer Homes League Premier Division in 1994/95, earning promotion to the GM Vauxhall Conference. The 1996/97 season was particularly memorable as the team reached the FA Cup fourth round, facing Middlesbrough.

Cup Success and Challenges In the late 90s, Hednesford Town continued their FA Cup success, notably beating Hull City and Barnet in successive seasons. However, league performance fluctuated, and by 2000, the team faced relegation. Despite winning the FA Trophy in 2004 under Barry Powell, the club experienced managerial

instability and further relegations.

FA Trophy Triumph The pinnacle of Hednesford Town’s cup success came in the 2003/04 season when they triumphed in the FA Trophy. The Pitmen defeated Canvey Island 3-2 in a thrilling final at Villa Park. This victory remains one of the most celebrated moments in the club’s history, highlighting their capability to compete and win on the national stage.

Recent History (2010-2023) • 2010-2015: Appointed in 2010, Rob Smith and Larry Chambers turned the team around, finishing 2nd in the Southern League Premier Division, winning the Southern League Cup, and narrowly missing promotion in the 2010/11 playoffs. The 2012/13 season saw them finish second in the league and secure promotion to the Conference via the play-offs, complemented by winning both the Birmingham and Staffordshire Senior Cups. In 2013/14, they reached the playoffs again and the FA Cup First Round.

They ended the 2014/15 season in 8th place in the Conference North.

• 2015-16: Managerial changes led to relegation. Bernard McNally replaced Rob Smith and Larry Chambers, only to be succeeded by Frank Sinclair. Despite efforts, the team was relegated.

• 2016-17: Liam McDonald was appointed but left for Solihull Moors FC. Paul Casey and Gary Birch followed but did not stabilize the club. Neil Tooth was appointed but soon left, leading to the return of Rob Smith and Larry Chambers, who improved results temporarily but finished 16th.

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Hayden Dando returned as Chairman, with Glover and Dan Crane rebuilding the team.

• 2017-18: Mixed results with Smith and Chambers, ending in 16th place.

• 2018-19: Nicky Eaden was appointed, succeeded by Gary Hayward, who left midseason. The season was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

• 2020: New ownership under Graham Jones and Hayden Dando. Andy Morrell was appointed manager but was replaced

by Keenen Meakin-Richards and Graham Deakin due to poor results.

• 2023-24: After struggling, new management appointments included Harry Harris and Steve Hinks, and later Paul Moore.

New Ownership and Management In 2024, Craig and Amanda Gwilt became the new owners, saving the club in the process, appointing Steve King as manager, signaling a new era for the club.

• 2021-23: Continued managerial changes, with Danny Glover taking over as playermanager but unable to avoid relegation.

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 07

Hednesford Town Player Profiles Steve King – Manager Steve, 55 began his career with Lewes taking them from the Isthmian league Division One South to the National League Premier within 5 years; a trophy laden period that included 3 titles and two top 5 finishes. Lewes were unable to play in both play-offs because of ground grading issues. He is the most successful manager in Conference South history, finishing 1st, 2nd (twice), 3rd (twice), 4th, 5th and 6th; winning 5 Senior cups and embarking on countless FA Cup runs which included reaching the 1st and 2nd rounds, reaching the playoffs 8 times and being in 4 finals as well.

Steve has managed a wealth of top non-league clubs over his career including Northwich Victoria, Farnborough, Macclesfield, Whitehawk, Welling Utd, Dartford, Gloucester City etc, a phenomenal career by any standards we are delighted that he has joined us at Keys Park Junior Lewis – Assistant Manager Junior Lewis had a fantastic playing career starting at Fulham and then appearing in the Premier League with Leicester City. Junior amassed over 400 appearances throughout the EFL and non—League before moving into coaching roles. He had a short spell at Leeds United and has also been first team coach at Barnet and Dagenham and Redbridge as well as a spell with Steve King at Gloucester City.

Matthew Barnes-Homer – Player/Coach MBH is an experienced striker who started his career with Wolverhampton Wanderers and has played for a number of top clubs including Kidderminster Harriers, Macclesfield, Luton Town and Forest Green Rovers. He has also played for England C team. Matt has now teamed up with Steve King on the coaching staff after playing for him at Havant and Waterlooville.

Liam Stonely – Goalkeeper Coach Liam has recently joined the club with extensive experience with Chester FC as first team GK coach and then with Salford City FC as Head of Academy GK. Liam also has experience coaching in the women’s game as Head of Goalkeeping with Stoke City Women.

Adam Paget – Sports Therapist Adam joined the Pitmen as Sports Therapist after a 3 year spell at AFC Telford United, he has previously also worked with AFC Wulfrunians, AFC Bridgnorth and Bilston Town. Adam works in the private health sector as a neuro therapist specialising in brain and spinal injury rehabilitation and also runs his own sports rehabilitation clinic AP25 SPORTS THERAPY. Dan Brayson – Sports Therapist Dan joined the medical team in July 2024, he holds a Sports and Exercise Science BSc and a Sports Therapy MSc. He has previously worked with Boldmere St Michaels FC women and Stourbridge FC. Jack Rose - Goalkeeper Experienced shot-stopper joined the club on a long loan from Sutton United just before the start of the 2024-25 season. Jack started his career at West Bromwich Albion rising through the ranks before making an FA Cup debut for Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup against Notts County. He made a move to Crawley Town before being snapped up by Southampton.

A 3 year spell with League 2 Walsall followed before joining Sutton United where he has been since 2022.

Ryan Brown - Goalkeeper Ryan joined the Pitmen in February from Kidsgrove Athletic FC after a successful loan spell earlier in the season. The 22 year old stopper, began his career with Port Vale in the Academy before joining Kidsgrove making 19 appearances in his first season in senior football 3 years ago. He signed a 3 year contract with Kidsgrove and with a brief loan spell at Eccleshall has plenty of Step 4 experience already. Known as a tall, athletic goalkeeper with a good command of his box, he will be a great asset for the club.

Blaine Rowe - Defender An excellent young prospect who has recently joined the Pitmen from Darlington FC. Blaine is a speedy attacking right full back who progressed through Coventry City’s academy.

He has also had experience in Scotland with Ayr United and Falkirk.

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Joel Taylor - Defender Joel joined the club in late May 2024 from Chester FC. An exciting attacking left back, Joel started his career with Stoke City FC before moving to Kidderminster Harriers. He also has Chesterfieeld, Notts County and Wealdstone FC on his excellent football CV. Kory Roberts - Defender A classy central defender, Kory started his career with Walsall FC and recently signed for the Pitmen after a spell at Rushall Olympic.

Kory also played for a number of teams in the South of England, Bromley, Dartford and Hemel Hempstead.

Elliott Johnson - Defender Elliott joined the club in the close season from Dagenham and Redbridge FC. This hugely talented left sided defender played 235 games for Barnet FC, many of these in League 2 of the EFL before moving to Dagenham and Redbridge where he was a key player for 4 seasons. Has taken on the captain role at Keys Park Ollie Harrison – Defender Ollie is a towering central defender that joined the Pitmen from Leek Town in October 2024 for an undisclosed fee. The powerful defender graduated from Crewe Alexandra Academy and has been at Leek for a few seasons, being nominated for the NPL West Team of the Year for the last 3 seasons. Ollie will be a great acquisition for the club.

Josh Endall – Defender Josh rejoined the club from Bedworth United in November 2023, 6ft 5″ Josh is a physically strong, left footed defender, who is very experienced with spells at Coventry City, Solihull Moors, Stafford Rangers and Stratford Town, as well as here at Keys Park.

Omar Holness – Midfielder A dynamic midfielder, who joined the Pitmen from FF Jaro in Finland. Omar is a full Jamaica international who played for 5 years in the USA including for Real Salt Lake City in the MLS and has also had successful spells in England with Darlington, Bath City and Gloucester City.

Simeon Maye – Midfielder Simeon has returned to Keys Park after an 8 year absence, where he played for Solihull Moors, Hereford, Braackley Town, Leamington, Banbury and Rushall Olympic. A phenomenal engine and competitive nature make Simeon a much sought after player and we are delighted that he has returned to Keys Park Sion Spence – Midfielder Another excellent midfielder, Sion came through the Cardiff City academy before joining Crystal Palace in 2020. In the 202122 season he went on loan to Joey Barton’s Bristol Rovers where he played a part in their promotion to EFL League 1. Sion then joined Gloucester City where he played under current manager Steve King.

Dan Sparkes - Midfielder Dan is a cultured and experienced left side midfielder with a great pedigree of over 366 appearances in the National League with Braintree Town, Torquay United, Dagenham and Redbridge and Barnet. A midfielder with a good goal tally of 41 goals at that level, Dan also scored a spectacular FA Cup equaliser for Braintree against Brentford in the FA Cup. Jack Bearne – Midfielder Jack joined the club from Greenock Morton in Scotland in late July. An exciting attacking midfielder who started his career at Notts County before then getting a dream move to Liverpool FC. He was given a first team debut there in the EFL League Cup against Aston Villa before then going on a season long loan to Kidderminster Harriers. Jack then made the move north of the border to Greenock Morton FC but has returned to England where he has joined Steve King’s Keys Park revolution Abdulrasaq Alamu-Tajudeen – Midfielder Raz is a speedy and tricky winger, comfortable on either side of the pitch. He started his career in Ireland as part of the Shelbourne Academy before making the move across to England where he joined Chippenham Town. He then went on to play for Bromsgrove Sporting before signing for Steves King’s Pitmen for the forthcoming season.

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 09

Daniel Trickett-Smith – Midfielder Steve King moved promptly to sign one of the standout players of the NPL West Division last season, bringing in Daniel Trickett-Smith from Leek Town after being prominent in their League winning season. Dan started his career with Crewe Alexandra before making a £300,000 move to Liverpool FC. Injuries hampered his progress and he then went to play in USA for Sacramento Republic, before returning to play for Leek Town, Port Vale and then a second spell at Leek Town. A very talented and influential attacking midfielder with an eye for a goal Jacob Gwilt- Midfielder Jacob is a versatile player who has appeared in midfield, out wide and also at left back, Jacob has played for Rio Grande in America where they were ranked 4th in the country. Jacob was most recently at AFC Wulfrunians before joining the Pitmen in the 2023-24 season.

Dom McHale – Midfielder/Forward Dom was Steve King’s first official signing of the summerThe highly skilled attacker started his Career in the Manchester City youth set up playing alongside players such as Devante Cole, Tosin Adarabioyo and Marcos Lopes before moving to Barnsley who were then in League 1 of the football Pyramid. Dominic spent time in Cyprus playing for Achyronas Liopetriou before returning to England where he gained further high-level experience playing for teams such as FC United, Oldham, Salford City and AFC Telford Utd where he was a regular starter before moving to Gloucester City being signed by our new Manager Steve King. Dom was also voted as one of the top players in the Conference North for the year 2023 by Supporters and Peers.

Jake Jervis – Midfielder/Forward Jake started his career with Birmingham City and enjoyed successful loan spells with Hereford, Notts County and Swindon Town.

Following a short spell at Ross County, Jake signed for Plymouth Argyle where he made 108 appearances and scored 27 times. Jake has gone on to play in Turkey, Finland and India before starting this season at Brackley Town FC

Manny Duku – Forward Manny, 31, started his career in The Netherlands before making the move to England where he enjoyed successful spells at Banbury and Kings Lynn however it was at Hayes and Yeading where he really made his name, scoring 33 goals in 39 games earning himself a move to League 2 side Cheltenham Town. During his time at Cheltenham he had successful loan moves to Barnet (where he played with Elliott Johnson and Dan Sparkes) and also Halifax before moving North of the border to Raith Rovers and subsequently Inverness Caledonian Thistle. The powerful forward then made the move back across the border to Havant and Waterlooville where he scored 7 goals in 18 games before earning a move to York City in the National League. After a short spell in Gibraltar, Manny signed for Maidstone Utd where he was a pivotal figure in their famous FA Cup run and victory at Ipswich Town before finishing the season at Wealdstone Utd. Rob Stevenson – Forward This summer the club were delighted to announce the signing of prolific forward and newly crowned NPL West Division Player Of The Season, Fans’ Player Of The Season and Golden Boot winner Rob Stevenson from Leek Town.

21 goals in the league (26 in all competitions) gave our new striker the Golden Boot award in Blackpool during the end of the season awards, where he also picked up the prestigious double award of Fans’ Player of the Season and League Player Of The Season: a spectacular achievement from our new striker.

Zidan Sutherland – Forward In July the Pitmen completed the signing of exciting Centre forward Zidan Sutherland from Redditch Utd. The 22 year old striker joins the Pitmen after fishing the season with Redditch having left Dover Athletic of the National League South where he finished the season as their top goalscorer. The forward previously helped Lye Town to promotion in the 2022/23 season.

10 WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME

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From the Skipper - Ste Irwin Good afternoon everyone.

Hope you’re all looking forward to the game this afternoon.

We were delighted with the win last week. I know we wasn’t at our best but it’s credit to the lads that we found a way to get over the line in the end.

We know we will have to perform better to keep the wins coming especially against Hednesford who will be in a great mood after a very impressive 2 games I. The FA Cup. Enjoy the game Stevie

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14/10/2021 11:36 WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 13

Widnes U13’s Yellows - A Team on the Rise Kick-Off: Four seasons ago, the Widnes U13’s Yellows burst onto the scene as plucky Under 10s, with coaches Ian Hilton and the youthful prodigy Max Jones at the helm. Max, barely 16 at the time, needed a veteran presence, and thus, I donned my coaching hat, a decision I wear with pride to this day.

Early Squad Formation: Our starting lineup was a dynamic mix, featuring both boys and girls ready to take on the world.

However, as the game got tougher, our female teammates decided to switch to a league of their own, leaving us with a core group of warriors: Ollie, Bobby, Leo, Hendrix, George, and Charlie D - the original six who’ve seen it all.

First Season Hiccups: Our opening season was more of a fumble in the park than a sprint to glory, but like any good sports saga, it set the stage for our comeback story.

Current Season: We’re holding our ground in the middle of the league table with an even record of three victories and three defeats. Each match is a lesson, each goal a celebration of our journey.

Coach’s Corner: My philosophy? It’s not just about the football. It’s about instilling values - respect, teamwork, the spirit of the game. If our lads leave the field grinning, knowing they’ve given their all, then I’ve scored the real victory.

Looking Ahead: Here at Widnes U13’s Yellows, we’re not just playing the game; we’re building future sportsmen. Each match, each season, we’re not just chasing a ball; we’re chasing dreams.

And in this beautiful game of grassroots football, every Saturday is a chance to teach, learn, and most importantly, enjoy the thrill of the game.

Ian Hilton.

The Comeback: With the arrival of Coach Phil Smith, akin to a seasoned midfielder, our team started to gel.

Recruitment brought fresh legs, and over three seasons, we’ve clawed our way from the bottom to the spotlight.

Last Season’s Triumph: The Yellows clinched a respectable third in the Warrington Saturday Junior League – Division 9, a testament to their growing prowess. Post-summer, we’ve been promoted to Division 7, stepping up our game to the full 11-a-side pitch.

14 WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 15

F

A CUP first round draw day is always one Tranmere Rovers, while Aldershot Town will be of the most eagerly-awaited of the Non- looking to repeat their heroics of last season when they make the trip to Bradford City’s Valley Parade.

League calendar.

It’s the day when all those dreams and aspirations of drawing a big club are realised, when cup fever really kicks in.

Every year it throws up a tie or two to whet the appetites of the minnows, but this year’s helping was unlike any other.

In fact, I can honestly say that the roll of the balls served up by Bradford City legend Stuart McCall and former Manchester United and Salford City winger Danny Webber on Monday night – were about as kind to Non-League clubs as I’ve ever known it to be.

Not just the odd tasty match-up to help fill a few column inches in The NLP on a Sunday, but a whole host of absolute belters to ensure we are bursting with preview ideas in the build-up to the weekend of November 2.

Of the 40 ties pulled out of the hat, 23 see a NonLeague club pit their wits against their counterparts from Leagues One or Two. Eleven of those ties are at home,12 away.

Of the Non-League home ties drumming up interest, Tamworth are getting ready for a monster clash when Huddersfield Town, winners in 1921-22, visit The Lamb, while all eyes will also be on National League North high-flyers Curzon Ashton when they host Mansfield Town.

Southend United were rewarded for their last-gasp victory over Eastleigh in the last round with a home tie against Charlton Athletic, while Boreham Wood have pulled it out of the hat once again, this time landing a crunch home clash with League One Leyton Orient.

Wood’s National League South rivals Chesham United were paired with League One Lincoln City, Woking pulled out struggling Cambridge United and Worthing will fancy their chances of an upset at home to Morecambe.

But the top pick must surely be Sutton United, who undoubtedly pulled out the plum draw – a home tie against big-spending League One title chasers Birmingham City at Gander Green Lane.

A further four are all-Non-League affairs, ensuring there’ll be plenty of interest in the second round too come November 30.

The U’s are no strangers to welcoming high-profile opponents, of course, after famously pulling out Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal in the fifth round back in 2016-17.

While the grudge match between MK Dons and AFC Wimbledon will naturally be seen as the pick of the bunch by many, there are a number of mouthwatering ties with a strong derby feel.

At the time of writing, before Tuesday night’s replays, Step 3 Harborough Town were the lowest ranked club left in the competition having ended Bury’s cup dream in the last round.

Take Kettering Town, for example. The Poppies are already FA Cup folk heroes as the country’s highest FA Cup goalscorers. Their 2-1 win at Farsley Celtic on Saturday extended their record to 920 – seven more than Tottenham Hotspur.

And the Bees will relish a trip to Tonbridge Angels, of National League South, in what manager Mitch Austin describes as a “winnable tie”.

A healthy crowd gathered at the Latimer Park clubhouse on Monday night to witness their fate and they were toasting long into the night as they were handed an away tie to near neighbours Northampton Town.

Also celebrating a derby to savour were WestonSuper-Mare, who were handed an away tie at Bristol Rovers, and Alfreton Town, who will relish their short trip to face Notts County.

Elsewhere, Oldham Athletic boss Micky Mellon and striker James Norwood return to former club

Whatever happens come November 2, the eyes of the nation will be on the Non-League clubs once again with the ‘three-up’ brigade ready with their stats books to prove that the gap between the fourth and fifth tiers is narrower than ever.

Replays, of course, are no more hereon in, so it’s a straight 90-minute shoot-out, decided by extra-time and then penalties if necessary.

Either way, the cup gods have shone on us and the stage is set for our Non-League clubs to earn a place in history. It promises to be a weekend to remember.

By Jon Couch

16 WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME

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Widnes Football Club History

W

idnes FC’s origins can be traced back to 2003 when the club was originally formed as a youth football club.

In 2012, the groundwork was laid for the club to make the set up into senior football as in March of that year, a consultation process began with Widnes Vikings RLFC to become part of the Vikings Sports brand, a partnership that would enhance the clubs community status.

A First Team was formed with the initial shortterm goal of gaining admission into the North West Counties Football League under the guise of ‘Widnes Vikings FC.’ Steve Hill was appointed First Team manager in September 2012 and steered the Club to a 4th placed finish in its inaugural and so far, only season in the West Cheshire League Third Division. During this season, the Club also submitted its application to join the North West Counties Football League for the 2013/14 campaign.

Prior to the new season, Widnes’ application was successful, and the Club began life in the North West Counties Football League Third Division with a 3-1 home defeat to Cheadle Town before winning their first game in the NWCFL with an emphatic 5-1 away win over Northwich Flixton Villa.

Hill eventually guided his side to a 14th placed finish in their inaugural season in the First Division with 36 points from 36 games.

Off the pitch, the Club would be re-named as Widnes Football Club after ending their partnership with Widnes Vikings.

The 2014/15 season saw the Club make significant progress in cup competitions.

Widnes reached the last 16 of the League Cup before falling to eventual League Champions Glossop North End and reached the quarter-

final of the Liverpool Senior Cup, beating Prescot Cables before being knocked out in the last eight by eventual winners Skelmersdale United.

The season also oversaw the Club’s first foray in the FA Vase. Widnes were knocked out in the Second Qualifying Round following a 2-0 defeat at AFC Emley.

Following the season’s conclusion, winger Ben Tollitt became the first former Widnes player to play for a Football League club as he signed a one-year deal with 2008 FA Cup winners Portsmouth, after impressing on trial with Paul Cook’s side during pre-season. Tollitt’s performances earned the former Widnes man a one-year extension after scoring once in 16 games in all competitions for the EFL League Two club.

Tollitt has since gone on to achieve two promotions with Tranmere Rovers, and is now on the books at Blackpool in League One. The following season saw the Club again reach the quarter-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup, coming up against an Everton XI managed by David Unsworth. The young Toffees excelled in the game and beat Widnes 8-0 despite an admirable performance from the home side.

After a 13th placed finish, Chairman David Day and Manager Steve Hill stepped down from their roles, allowing a new Board of Directors and management team to be appointed to bring some much-needed new stimulus to the club.

Mr Day remained on the newly established Board of Directors, headed by incoming Chairman Ian Ross that bring the necessary expertise and drive to enable the Club to progress over the coming seasons.

Danny Meadowcroft and Brian Pritchard where appointed as joint managers heading into the 2016/17 season but later left the Club by mutual

20 WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME

Ultimately, manager Dunn would depart in early October, resigning from his position as manager.

Senior players Kevin Towey and Steve Akrigg were installed as player/joint-managers and would go on to enjoy a massively successful first foray into management.

consent following an indifferent start to the season in September. Danny Salt was appointed interim manager, leading the side to a win and a draw in his two games in charge.

Former Burscough, Warrington Town and Runcorn Linnets manager Joey Dunn was appointed as new First Team Manager later that month.

The duo began their stint with three successive 2-2 draws, with Widnes scoring late equalisers in each of those games to rescue a point. Their first win would come with an emphatic 5-1 win over Maine Road at the Halton Stadium as Sam Sheen netted twice.

Dunn’s appointment led to a massive turnaround in results, with Widnes putting together a run of just two league defeats in their final 32 league games as the Whites surged to the North West Counties First Division title.

The title and promotion was secured with a game to spare after a 5-1 win at AFC Blackpool, with Widnes winning 14 straight games to finish at the top of the pile. The Whites also performed admirably in cup competitions that season, reaching the last eight of both the League Cup and Liverpool Senior Cup, and the semi-final of the First Division Cup before losing out to eventual winners City of Liverpool.

During the season, Kevin Towey became the Club’s new record goalscorer following a brace at Skelmersdale United in November – a record that still stands to this day at 72 goals.

The summer of 2017 oversaw the Club’s attempts to re-establish a junior setup with two youth teams at Under-7s and Under-9s, and the section has thrived ever-since become a pillar of the local community.

The 2017-18 season started with Widnes’ firstever FA Cup game which ended in a heavy 5-0 defeat at home to Handsworth Parramore at the Halton Stadium.

Widnes would endure an inconsistent start to life in the North West Counties Premier Division (level 9 of the National League system) – the highest level in the Club’s short history.

Inconsistency would continue to plague the Whites in the following weeks, emphasised by a 3-3 draw at Padiham late in October that went viral after Widnes conceded twice in the last two minutes in a bizarre stoppage time period that was reported by various National Media outlets including the Guardian, the BBC and a feature on Soccer AM, while Champions League and World Cup winning goalkeeper Iker Casillas would tweet about the game on his Twitter account.

This would eventually have a positive effect on the side as Widnes never really looked back.

A 3-0 home defeat to Charnock Richard in November would be the last time Widnes would taste defeat in the league until March as the Whites won 23 of their 25 remaining games to seal a second successive promotion to the Northern Premier League, beating out local rivals Runcorn Town on the final day.

In truth, Widnes’ form from November onwards was remarkable, only tasting defeat twice against Marine (Liverpool Senior Cup semi-final) and Barnoldswick Town – a run that included a 5-1 home win over Southport in the Liverpool Senior Cup, and league double over neighbours Runcorn Linnets.

The form would continue in the League Cup, as Widnes would end the season with a trophy after beating Burscough in the final at Fleetwood Town’s Highbury Stadium, with the Whites coming from behind to win with goals from Ben Hodkinson and a late Sheen winner.

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 21

The Daniel Wilkinson Foundation is a charity set up in memory of Daniel Wilkinson who died in 2016 aged 24, while playing the game he loved, from an underlying heart condition called Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC).

Dan played football from an early age and joined Hull City AFC when he was 10, earning a professional contract aged 18. Loughborough University followed where he completed a degree in Accounting and Financial Management while playing non-league football. He was an athlete who enjoyed the gym and took his health and nutrition very seriously. He lived life to the full and had so much ahead of him.

Other than feeling light-headed on a few occasions in the month before he died, he had no symptoms!

SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH IN THE YOUNG (SCD) SCD is the leading cause of death in young athletes during sport and the majority of deaths occur with NO SYMPTOMS or family history.

ARVC can be found in one in every 1,000 to 5,000 young adults - IF IT IS LOOKED FOR. Warning signs may include light-headedness, fainting, palpitations, swollen legs, breathlessness.

Every week in the UK, 12 apparently fit and healthy young people (aged 35 and under) die from previously undiagnosed heart conditions.

In Italy, where screening is mandatory for all young people engaged in organised sport, they have reduced the incidence of young sudden cardiac death by 89%.

OUR MISSION The Daniel Wilkinson Foundation has been set up to raise awareness of SCD and to provide funding towards heart screening, defibrillators and CPR/defibrillator training primarily for grass-roots sporting teams.

Tragedies can be prevented through cardiac screening. It is vital that young people are identified and treated.

Find out more @dannywilks5 thedanielwilkinsonfoundation dwfoundation5 contact@thedanielwilkinsonfoundation.org thedanielwilkinsonfoundation.org

To donate: mydonate.bt.com/charities/thedanielwilkinsonfoundation

Widnes Football Club History (Continued) The summer of 2018 saw Widnes’ preparation for a first-ever season in the Northern Premier League Division One West (level 8 of the National League system) disrupted by pitch problems at the Halton Stadium, which had failed its FIFA artificial pitch test. With the surface due to be relaid after the conclusion of the Rugby League season, Widnes were forced to begin the season at Barnton’s Townfield Lane.

Once again, the Club continued to make significant strides as one of Halton’s best junior football clubs. The 2018-19 season saw the junior section expand to 14 teams across eight age groups, including two girls’ teams at Under 12s and Under 14s.

Widnes would once again consolidate their position in the NPL Division One North/West in 2019-20, sitting comfortably in mid-table when the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed the campaign early.

The Club did however reach the first qualifying round of the FA Cup for the first time following an extraordinary replay win at Mossley in the preliminary round, in which Conor Ready netted a 93rd minute winner after the nine-man hosts had come from behind to equalise in the 90th minute.

Despite the pandemic, the club have continued to grow with its burgeoning junior section now overseeing 26 teams including a new Under-17s side and the popular Wildcats initiative.

Promotion to the Northern Premier League also allowed the Cub to enter a team into the NPL Football Academy, forming the Widnes FC ‘Education and Football Academy’ – an alternative to college, ideal for any 16/17 yearold who wants to gain a great education and develop as a footballer at the same time.

After the pandemic brought an early halt to the 2020-21 season, the Whites began the 2021-22 campaign with fresh optimism, but a poor start led to the departure of co-bosses Akrigg and Towey after a hugely successful three-and-a-halfyear spell in charge.

The Club’s first season at Step 4 proved to be an inconsistent one, with co-bosses Akrigg and Towey ultimately guiding the side to a consolidatory 12th placed finish. Widnes would again advance to the Liverpool Senior Cup semifinal, losing to Prescot Cables on penalties.

Dave Dempsey was appointed new manager in September 2021 and would steer the club away from relegation danger to a comfortable midtable position – a run which included a highly impressive set of results and to date, the club’s best ever run in the FA Trophy.

Widnes did add another trophy to the cabinet though with a 3-0 win at Runcorn Linnets to lift the North West Counties Champions Cup.

The Club’s junior section continued to expand, with the total number of teams now standing at over 30 ahead of the 2022-23 season.

It was a significant season for a number of players, with Kev Pollard, Mike Burke and Chris and George Lomax reaching a century of Widnes appearances, while Accrington Stanley loanee Niall Watson would become the Whites’ youngest ever player and goalscorer in a 2-2 draw against Colwyn Bay in January aged 18 years and 211 days.

After a poor start to the campaign, Dempsey was relieved of his position as manager and was replaced by Michael Ellison.

Despite being seven points from safety at the foot of the table with 14 games to play, Ellison led a remarkable turnaround and Widnes secured their Step 4 status on the final day of the season with Laurence Smith scoring the only goal in a win over 1874 Northwich.

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 23

Home Ground: HALTON STADIUM, LOWERHOUSE LANE, WIDNES, WA8 7DZ Year Formed : 2003 Record Attendance: 462 v Charnock Richard (NWCFL Division 1) - 22nd April 2016 Previous Leagues: West Cheshire League North West Counties League Honours: The Reusch First Division Winners 2016/17 The Hallmark Security League Premier Division Runner Up 2017/18 The Macron Challenge Cup Winners 2017/18 The Hallmark Security League Champions Cup Winners 2017/18 Website : WWW.WIDNESFOOTBALLCLUB.CO.UK Twitter: @Widnes_FC Main Sponsor: WWW.NPLFA.CO.UK Kit Manufacturer : MACRON Online Club Shop: http://macronstorecheshire.co.uk/widnesfc League Rule 2.13 Ownership: In accordance with the Football Association Rule 2.13 Publication of ownership in relation to Step 1 to Step 6 Clubs within the Football pyramid, we hereby confirm that the Legal Status of WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB LIMITED identified by Company Number 08960635, takes the ‘Form’ of a Private Company limited by Shares (incorporated 26th March 2014).

Shareholder David Day holds a significant interest in the club as defined by the Football Association with 45.4% of the total company shares.

24 WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME

League Table Season 2024/25 Northern Premier League - West Table

Pd W L D HW HL AD AW AL AD GF GA GD Pts 1 Widnes 12 7 3 2 5 1 0 2 2 2 24 10 14 24 2 Vauxhall Motors 12 8 0 4 3 0 3 5 0 1 26 18 8 24 3 Stalybridge Celtic 13 6 2 5 4 1 2 2 1 3 20 17 3 20 4 Nantwich Town 11 6 1 4 2 1 2 4 0 2 21 18 3 19 5 Trafford 10 6 0 4 2 0 2 4 0 2 13 16 -3 18 6 Runcorn Linnets 13 5 3 5 2 1 3 3 2 2 16 22 -6 18 7 Bootle 13 5 2 6 3 0 3 2 2 3 20 24 -4 17 8 Wythenshawe 13 new 4 stimulus 4 5 to the 2 club.

3 David 1 2 remained 1 4 on17 24 -7 bring some much needed Day the newly es- 16 9 Clitheroe 9 4headed 3 by 2 incoming 4 2 Chairman 0 0Ian 1 20 15the 5nec-15 tablished Board of Directors, Ross 2that brought 10 Chasetown 9 to4enable 3 the 2 Club 4 to progress 1 1 over 0 the 2 coming 1 18 13 5 15 essary expertise and drive seasons.

11 Newcastle Town 10 3 6 1 1 2 1 2 4 0 12 10 2 In September 2016, former Runcorn Linnets Manager Joey Dunn was appointed the new 15 12 Kidsgrove Athletic 2 2 2 2 1 3 14 14 0 15 First Team Manager. 12 4 3 5 13 Mossley 11 with 4 an 3unbelievable 4 3 141 game 1 winning 1 2streak 3 which 12 ended 13 with -1 15 Joey’s first season ended 14 Wythenshawe 9 4 2 3 2 1 2 2 1 1 16 10 6 14 the Division 1Town title.

15 Avro 11 to4the 2 5 3campaign, 1 1 Dunn 1 resigned 1 4 his post, 14 and 15 players -1 14 After an inconsistent start 2017-2018 16 Congleton Town 10 jointly 4 1took5the reigns.

2 0 2 2 1 3 19 17 2 13 Steve Akrigg & Kev Towey 17 Hednesford 3 the 2 club 1 to back 2 1to back 2 promotions, 1 1 16 so 11up to5 the 12 During theirTown first season8 they3guided and 18 Stafford Rangers 12 with 3 a 3tremendous 6 1 run 2 of 70 3 points 2 from 1 the 3 remaining 11 21 75-10 12 Northern Premier League, available to claim the runner on claim a0 10 19 Witton Albion 9 up spot 3 behind 1 5 Runcorn 2 1Linnets.

2 They 1 then 0 went 3 13to 13 remarkable double, 20 City of Liverpool FC lifting 9 the 2 Macron 3 4Challenge 0 3Cup 2with a22-1 0win over 2 Burscough 12 13 FC -1at 9 Fleetwood Towns ‘Highbury an even 21 Atherton Collieries 10 2Stadium 2 to 6 end1the season 1 4 on 1 1 greater 2 4high.15 -11 8 Further success soon followed Linnets 22 Hanley Town 12 1 with 4 a convincing 7 0 13-0 win 5 away 1 at3 Runcorn 2 9 18in the -9 7

NWCFL season curtain raiser, The Reusch Champions Cup.

WIDNES FOOTBALL CLUB MATCH DAY PROGRAMME 25

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Ever thought of volunteering to help your local football club?

There are many different volunteer roles in non-league football and Northern Premier League football clubs need your help with them.

The Trident Leagues and Pitching In’s online Volunteer Hub is the place where you can find opportunities and contact your local football club.

Please visit Pitchinginvolunteers.co.uk to find out more

Mark Halstead Josh McGreavy Niall Battersby Owen Beamon Sam Bhatti Lewis Coulton Louis Isherwood Matty Rain Jack Walls Adam Bott George Hassall Steven Irwin Sean Miller Brendan O’Brien Ben Rydel Kingsley Williams Nathan Corness Ethan Danku Sharif Deans Josh High Jack McGowan Liam Paton James Steele Andy Briggs

Match Officials

Referee: Joel Buckle Assistant 1: Jamie Kilgannon Assistant 2: Robert Slinger

Hednesford Town Jack Rose Ryan Brown Blaine Rowe Kory Roberts Josh Endall Ollie Harrison Elliott Johnson Joel Taylor Dan Sparkes Jacob Gwilt Simeon Maye Omar Holness Dan Trickett-Smith Abdulrasaq Alamu-Tajudeen Sion Spence Dom McHale Jack Bearne Rob Stevenson Manny Duku Zidan Sutherland Jake Jervis Matthew Barnes-Homer

Played Scored

Widnes FC

Played Scored

The Squads