ANDYSMANCLUB
WHAT IS ANDYSMANCLUB?
ANDYSMANCLUB is a free peer-to-peer group that provides a place for men to come together in a safe and open environment to talk about the issues or problems that they have faced or are currently facing.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The process is about bringing men together who have been in similar situations, to help each other on a peer to peer basis, sharing how they have dealt with various situations through lived experiences. No matter how big or small your problem feels, we are here to support each other. The 5 questions that are asked each week are designed not only to encourage men to talk, but to start to focus on the positives and on strategies to keep moving forward. There is no pressure to answer any of the questions and it is not uncommon for men to just listen for the first few sessions.
The clubs all run on the same format and adhere to the same guidelines. A key principle of ANDYSMANCLUB is anything that is said in the club, stays within the club.
WHO IS IT FOR?
The club is open to any man 18 or over, who is going through a storm, been through a storm or just wants to meet a good group of people with the aim of improving one another.
WHEN IS IT?
ANDYSMANCLUBs meet every Monday at 7pm (excluding Bank Holiday Mondays).
WHERE IS IT?
ANDYSMANCLUB has over 100 locations across the UK. Check our website below for a full list.
HOW DO I JOIN?
Just turn up on the night. No registration or referral is required, all we ask is that you arrive before 7pm. The full list of our locations available on our website.
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
Widnes Football Club Information
Home Ground: HALTON STADIUM, LOWERHOUSE LANE, WIDNES, WA8 7DZ
Year Formed: 2003
Record Attendance: 633 v Runcorn Linnets (NPL West Division) - 04.01.2025
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.
From the Assistant Manager - Chris Lawton
Good afternoon everyone, welcome to this afternoon’s game against a very good Chasetown side.
Since I last spoke to you we have played Bootle in the league and Everton in the Liverpool cup. The Bootle game was all about getting the win and that is exactly what we did. I must say I thought it was a very well deserved win, I thought barring the last 5 minutes in the first half we was excellent and was disappointed to come in at half time all square. In the second half, although we wasn’t as dominant, I still feel we were the team pushing for the win and we got our rewards with a great header from Niall. It was a massive result for us, especially with all the other teams winning their games too.
We then had the glamorous tie against Everton. We decided as a management team to use this game to give some of our lads much needed minutes which will stand us in good stead over the coming weeks. The likes of Jack Walls, Brendan, Jack Byrne and our newest signing Alec all needed some match practice having not played for one reason or another over the last couple of weeks. We still felt really confident going into the game and gave a good account of ourselves throughout the game, especially in the second half when I feel we caused them problems. Jack Byrne was excellent on the night, Alec scored a brilliant goal but more importantly we didn’t pick up any knocks or suspensions which will be vital over the coming weeks. So on the whole it was a positive night for us.
Today’s opponents Chasetown, are a very good side that are sitting comfortably in the play off positions and will still have aspirations of catching us. In my opinion they are one of the best sides we have played this season and have players that are effective in the right areas of the pitch. Glover is a player we really rate and we understand the importance of him in their team. They also have other players that can massively hurt you if you
don’t defend against them properly. They beat us in the reverse fixture at their place, which was a really tight game but one that they probably deserved to win on the day. It will be up to us today to avenge that defeat and put a bigger gap between us both. In order to do that, we will have to apply ourselves properly, defend well and be much more clinical than we have been over the last few games. We work on this continuously in training and the lads are more than capable of being more ruthless than they have been against Bootle and Everton so hopefully they can show that in today’s game.
It’s a huge game for us, because it’s the next game and the placing of both sides in the league. We have to treat it like a cup final and if we do then I’m confident we can pick up a positive result. Thanks for your continued support and we hope we can repay you with a win and 3 points comes 5pm.
Cheers Lawty
Chasetown Player Profiles
Curtis Pond - Goalkeeper
After a season away from the Scholars in the 2023/24 season playing for Hereford FC in the National League (North). Pondy has made his return at the start of preseason for the 2024/25 season. The Pink Panther as he is known by the supporters is a great shot stopper and isn’t afraid to claim the ball in tough situations.
Matt Sargeant – Goalkeeper
Sarg rejoined the club in Summer 2023 having won promotion with Tamworth in the 2022-23 season. The stopper boasts Alvechurch and Leamington amongst his previous clubs as well as the Scholars. He has always been a very good keeper and has played at higher levels.
Bradley Clarkson - Goalkeeper
Brought in as backup for the 2023/24 season, Clarkson found himself between the sticks on a number of occasions during that season putting in impressive performances each time he was on the pitch. A young goalkeeper with bags of talent and always willing to learn from the other keepers in and around the club.
Jordan Evans – Defender
Jordan joined the Scholars in July 2020 from neighbours Lichfield City after four years at the club. An athletic, attack minded left back who has really added competition in that area for us. With his willingness to get forward Evans has added another dimension to our attacking system.
Kris Taylor – Defender
Originally brought in predominately to be part of our coaching set up Taylor has found himself as a regular at the back. With his vast footballing knowledge Tayls has been solid at the back and a clear leader within the defensive set up.
Tom Unwin – Defender
We welcomed the ex-Kettering centre half back to Church Street in Summer 2023 after a spell with us during the previous season. Tom is a commanding and uncompromising centre half who finds himself as a regular starter in the side with his aerial presence and ability to read the game well.
Joe Dunne - Defender
Joe joined the Scholars in December 2023 with his previous clubs including, Rochdale, Matlock and Stafford Rangers. Joe is a young, hungry lad who has a good pedigree despite his age. He is a game and combative defender who can play at centre back or left back. Joe is a good footballer too and is comfortable on the ball.
Mitch Clarke – Defender
Mitch re-joined the club from National League (North) Rushall Olympic in the summer of 2024 after being with the Scholars for two previous spells. He is a commanding and athletic centre half who has plenty of experience within non-league to help strengthen our back line.
Kieren Fenton - Defender
The commanding defender joins the Scholars in summer 2024. Having previously played for Coalville, Ilkeston and Basford at higher levels. Having previously captained sides who have been promoted from step 4, Fents is clearly a strong leader and great character to have within the squad.
Sam Griffiths - Defender
Griff joined Chase in July 2024 having previously played for: Stafford Rangers, Halesowen Town and two spells at neighbours Hednesford Town, whom he captained. He brings a wealth of experience and will add leadership within the impressive defensive outfit at the club.
Oli Hayward – Midfielder
Hayward joined Chase in June 2017. As well as being an accomplished midfielder he is also a fantastic right back. Oli suffered a double leg break during the first game of the 2018/2019 season. But since Swann’s arrival we have seen Hayward go from strength to strength. Hayward is a talented and dependable player picking up the ‘triple crown’ last season when he was named players, managers and supporters’ player of the season for the 2023/24 season.
Jack Langston – Midfielder
Jack is in his second spell for the club arriving back in November 2017. He originally joined the club in March 2014. Jack is regularly among our top scorers and is an established member of the squad and will pop up with a goal or two when the team really need it.
Danny O’Callaghan – Midfielder
In July 2020 O’Callaghan agreed to once again join the Scholars. Having won everything in sight for our reserve side under Mark Swann, Docca has since gone on to forge a fantastic career in non-league. Danny lists Romulus, Sutton Coldfield Town, AFC Telford United and Stourbridge FC among his former clubs and joined us from Rushall Olympic in 2020.
Sam Wilding – Midfielder
Wilding signed during the 2022-23 season and had a great half of the season with us. After attracting interest from teams higher up in the non-league pyramid we are delighted that we have secured Sam for the upcoming season. He was instrumental in our upturn of form in 2022-23 and we are chuffed he has decided his future lies at Church Street. Sam finished the 2022-23 season being awarded the Players’ Player award.
Joe Thompson - Midfielder
Despite his young age Joe has had a great career so far playing for the likes of Hednesford and Telford. At the latter he made his debut at 22 years old. Thompson joined The Scholars in the summer of 2024. The pacey and commanding midfielder is another boost to our competitive midfield.
George Cater – Midfielder
Cater re-joined the team in 2024 following a few seasons away at Tamworth and Halesowen. Cater is no stranger to the Chasetown fans and is known for being a pacey player who can play as a winger or a striker. He has an eye for goal and is a handful for any defender.
Lewi Burnside - Midfielder
Burnside joined Chase from local neighbours Lichfield City in May 2024. Comfortable playing in midfield or full back, Lewi adds more depth to the squad. He is a very talented young player and was part of the Aston Villa academy for 9years.
Jonno Atherton – Midfielder
Jono is another player who left Church Street and then returned during the 2022-23 season, and we feel that with his fitness and health issues behind him we will get to see the best of him during the upcoming campaign.
Ben Lund – Midfielder/Striker
Lund joined Chasetown during 2020 and has been an asset so far to the team in both seasons that did not finish due to COVID. He is an intelligent midfielder who knows how to perform his defensive duties but is also confident supporting the attacking play and will get amongst the goals to help the team.
Luke Yates – Midfielder/ Striker
Luke joined from Sporting Khalsa in Summer 2022. He is an athletic, fast paced and creative attacking player, he will add another option to our attacking line up. He has been a great addition to the club assisting in a number of goals each season he has played for Chase, as well as scoring a few himself.
Max Chimenes - Striker
Max is an ex-Port Vale scholar and joined the Scholars in March 2024 after spells at Newcastle Town, 1874 Northwich and Northwich Victoria. He is a quick, strong athletic striker who knows where the goal is. He is a handful for any opposition defenders.
Danny Glover – Forward
Danny well be well known to the Scholars fans after spending a number of years down the road at Hednesford as both a player and manager. The front man has an eye for goal and that was highlighted with him scoring the only goal to secure the 3 points in his first match in November 2023. Fans and management alike are looking forward to seeing how Danny progresses with the team and hoping he can bag a few more goals for the Scholars.
Joey Butlin - Striker
Joey is no stranger to Chase fans having been a hugely popular figure during his previous spell at the club. Rejoining in summer 2024 Butlin is still one of the best number nines around. He will certainly strengthen our attacking options and he will enjoy the physical battles in this division.
Good afternoon everyone and welcome back to the DCBL Stadium.
It goes without saying who pleased we were to get the win last week against Bootle.
It was a difficult game and I think especially when they went down to 10 men we knew it was always going to be difficult to break them down but we found a way in the end.
The lads deserve massive credit after the Clitheroe game where we were so far off from our standards, we have answered that with back to back wins and that was all we could of asked for.
Today is another massive challenge versus Chasetown who are a very good side, so we will have to raise that level again and hopefully put in a good performance and with a good result to follow.
Enjoy the game
Stevie
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Widnes 100 Club by the Widnes Wanderer
Widnes FC: A Legacy Forged in Grit, Glory, and Unshakable Resolve.
Nestled in the industrial heartland of Cheshire, where the River Mersey carves its path through a landscape of chimneys and community pride, Widnes FC stands as a beacon of footballing tenacity. Established in 2003 as The Dragons A.F.C, this unassuming outfit emerged from humble beginnings a group of local enthusiasts united by a shared vision to bring competitive football to the town. Those early days were defined by modest pitches, limited resources, and a fierce determination to succeed against the odds. By 2012, a transformative partnership with the Widnes Sports Group heralded a new era, rebranding the club as Widnes FC and setting the stage for a remarkable ascent through the non-league pyramid.
The journey since has been nothing short of a saga. The 2015 season tested the club’s mettle like never before, as relegation cast a long shadow over years of hard- earned progress. The threat of demotion could have broken a lesser side, but Widnes FC responded with characteristic defiance. Players dug deep, supporters rallied, and the club clawed its way back from the brink a defining chapter that showcased the steel running through its core. The COVID19 pandemic posed another formidable hurdle, halting seasons and plunging non-league football into uncertainty. Yet Widnes adapted, finding ways to keep the flame alive and a relentless commitment to returning stronger.
For every trial, there have been moments of sheer ecstasy to balance the scales. The 2017–18 campaign remains the jewel in the club’s crown. Guided by the astute leadership of comanagers Steve Akrigg and Kevin Towey, Widnes FC stormed through the Northwest Counties League with a brand of football that married grit with flair. Promotion was clinched with games to spare, and the Challenge Cup triumph secured The final whistle sparked scenes of jubilation: players embraced in the centre circle, scarves twirled in the stands, and children danced on the terraces, all united in a shared euphoria that transcended the sport itself.
Now a proud member of the Northern Premier League Division One West, Widnes FC calls the DCBL Stadium home a venue that hums with history and raw emotion. Once known as the Halton Stadium, this ground has witnessed every shade of footballing drama: thunderous lastminute equalisers, soul- crushing defeats, and the quiet pride of a hard-fought draw on a cold Tuesday night. Through it all, the Widnes faithful have been the club’s beating heart, their voices echoing across the Mersey, urging their heroes onward. This is a club that thrives on its connection to its people a bond forged in the crucible of adversity and celebration alike.
The Prestigious 100 Club: Icons of Loyalty and Legacy
In the ever-shifting sands of non-league football, where ambition often pulls players toward greener pastures and bigger pay checks, loyalty is a currency more valuable than gold. At Widnes FC, the Prestigious 100 Club honours those rare souls who have given their all to the cause, amassing 100 or more appearances in the white shirt. These are not just players; they are pillars of the club’s identity, their names etched into the lore of Widnes with every tackle, goal, and sweat-soaked performance.
Since the club’s rebranding in 2012, only 13 individuals have earned this coveted distinction over 12 years a roll call of heroes whose contributions have shaped Widnes FC’s modern era. Below is the definitive list, complete with their stats and the moments that launched their Widnes odysseys:
Mike Burke
Jay Roberts
6/8/2016 Prestwich Heys
21/3/2017 Holker Old Boys
Tom Mitchell
James Steele 142
17/8/2019 Ramsbottom United
Kevin Towey 137 73 6/8/2016 Prestwich Heys
Chris Lomax
24/9/2016 Chadderton
Alex Davies 109 14 03/08/2013 Cheadle Town
Sam Sheen 106 6 04/10/2016 Whitchurch Alport
George Lomax 103 43 24/10/2016 Chadderton
Owen Wheeler 103 0 21/01/2017 Silsden
Matty Rain 103 5 02/11/2022 Clitheroe
Ben Hodkinson 102 42 10/11/2017 Squires Gate
Kevin Pollard 101 19 06/08/2016 Prestwich Heys
Spotlight on the Titans
• Mike Burke (196 appearances, 8 goals): The undisputed king of the 100 Club, Mike Burke’s seven-year reign at Widnes FC is the stui of legend. A centre-back with the heart of a lion, Burke debuted against Prestwich Heys in 2016 and quickly became the bedrock of the defence. His 196 appearances are a record unlikely to be challenged soon, but it’s the intangibles his leadership, his calm under pressure that truly set him apart. Fans still speak in hushed tones of his towering header in the dying moments against Atherton Collieries in 2018, a goal that snatched a draw from the jaws of defeat and kept the promotion dream alive. When Burke hung up his boots in 2023, he left as a colossus, his name a byword for Widnes resilience.
• Kevin Towey (137 appearances, 73 goals): If Burke was the shield, Kevin Towey was the spear. A striker of rare potency, Towey’s 73 goals in 137 appearances tell only half the story. Arriving in 2016, he doubled as co -manager during the golden 2017–18 season, steering the club to promotion and cup glory with a blend of tactical nous and clinical finishing. Towey’s departure in 2020 marked the end of an era, but his legacy as a playermanager extraordinaire endures.
• James Steele (142 appearances, 45 goals): Since bursting onto the scene in 2019 against Ramsbottom United, James Steele has been Widnes FC’s talisman. A forward blessed with pace, guile, and a venomous shot, Steele has notched 45 goals none more memorable than his curling eiort against City of Liverpool in 2021, a strike that sealed a 2-1 win and sent the DCBL Stadium into raptures. Still a linchpin of the current squad, Steele’s journey through the 100 Club is far from over, his every appearance a step toward immortality among Widnes greats.
• Jay Roberts (174 appearances, 8 goals): Versatility personified; Jay Roberts has been the heartbeat of Widnes FC since his debut against Holker Old Boys in 2017. Whether anchoring midfield or shoring up the backline, Roberts brought an unyielding work rate and a quiet authority to the pitch. His 174 appearances rank him second only to Burke, a testament to his consistency across multiple seasons. Fans recall his lung-busting run to set up a late winner against Barnoldswick Town in 2019 a moment that epitomised his selfless devotion to the cause.
• George Lomax (103 appearances, 43 goals): A flair player with a striker’s instinct, George Lomax lit up the DCBL Stadium like few others. Debuting against Chadderton in 2016, he wasted no time in announcing himself with a 25-yard screamer that flew past a helpless keeper. His 43 goals in 103 games included countless highlights none more thrilling than his acrobatic volley against Daisy Hill in 2017, a goal that drew gasps from the stands and cemented his status as a crowd darling.
Every name on this list carries its own weight. Tom Mitchell (144 appearances) laid the groundwork in the club’s early years, while Ben Hodkinson (102 appearances, 42 goals) dazzled with his predatory instincts. Owen Wheeler (103 appearances), and Matty Rain (103 appearances) has emerged as a modern- day stalwart since 2022. Together, they form a tapestry of talent and tenacity that defines Widnes FC.
of talent and tenacity that defines Widnes FC.
The Meaning of 100: A Badge of Honour and Heart
Reaching 100 appearances in the unforgiving realm of non-league football is no small feat it’s a marathon of endurance, sacrifice, and love for the game. For Widnes FC’s 100 Club members, it’s a milestone that encapsulates late-night drives to distant grounds, mud- caked boots on freezing evenings, and the roar of the crowd after a hard-won victory. These players have weathered injury setbacks and the relentless churn of the fixture list, all while wearing the Widnes badge with pride.
Consider Alex Davies, whose 109 appearances from 2013 onward helped stabilise the club during its rebirth. Or Kevin Pollard, who kicked oi his 101-game stint alongside Burke and Towey in 2016, contributing 19 goals including a nerveless penalty in a 2017 cup tie that kept Widnes alive. Each milestone is a story of perseverance, from Chris Lomax’s 28 goals in 116 games to Sam Sheen’s understated excellence across 106 outings. These are men who chose Widnes over fleeting glory elsewhere, becoming custodians of a club that thrives on its underdog spirit.
In an age of fleeting allegiances, the 100 Club is a throwback to football’s soul a celebration of roots, loyalty, and the unspoken pact between players and fans. It’s why the DCBL Stadium erupts when a player nears the mark, and why their names are sung long after they’ve left the pitch.
Teetering on the Edge: Sean Miller and Louis Isherwood
As Widnes FC gazes toward the horizon, two young stars are poised to etch their names into the 100 Club, embodying the blend of youth and experience that fuels the club’s ambitions.
• Sean Miller (94 appearances): A midfielder with a dynamo’s engine and an artist’s touch, Sean Miller has been a revelation since joining in 2019. With 94 appearances under his belt, he’s just six games from the century a milestone he could reach by mid-spring if injuries spare him. Miller’s defining moment came against Congleton Town in January 2025, when his 25-yard free-kick arced past a despairing keeper, igniting the DCBL Stadium and earning him a standing ovation. His passion evident in every crunching tackle and deft pass makes him a fan favourite and a future 100 Club icon.
• Louis Isherwood (93 appearances): At 23, Louis Isherwood is a prodigy whose 93 appearances belie his youth. A centre-back with poise beyond his years, he’s seven games shy of 100 a target within sight by April. His headed goal against Witton Albion this season, towering above a crowded box to nod home a corner, was a glimpse of his growing authority. Coaches whisper of captaincy potential, and fans see in him the next great Widnes leader. His journey to 100 will be a landmark for club and community alike.
For Miller and Isherwood, the 100 Club beckons not just as a personal triumph but as a symbol of Widnes FC’s enduring promise a bridge between past glories and future dreams.
The 2024–25 Season: A Campaign of Courage and Ambition
This season has been a whirlwind for Widnes FC in the Northern Premier League Division One West. Injuries have bitten hard, and a fixture pile-up has stretched the squad to its limits. Yet, like always, Widnes has refused to buckle. With promotion tantalisingly close, every match is a battle none more so than the recent 1-0 win over Stalybridge Celtic, where Steele’s tenacity and Isherwood’s resolve shone through a gritty, rain-lashed afternoon.
The team’s spine bolstered by Steele’s goals and the emerging duo of Miller and Isherwood is finding its stride at the perfect moment. But the real magic lies in the stands. The Widnes faithful have turned out, their chants a lifeline through the toughest moments. As the season hurtles toward its climax, their role will be decisive lifting the players when legs tire and spirits waver.
A Call to Arms, Widnes Faithful
The final stretch looms, and it’s time for the supporters to step up. Fill the DCBL Stadium to the rafters, bring your mates, your kids, your nan if she’s game and make it a cauldron of noise that rattles opponents and inspires our lads. Miller and Isherwood are on the cusp of history; Steele is chasing more goals; the playois are within grasp. Your voices can tip the scales.
This is Widnes FC born of struggle, sustained by heart, and driven by us all. Let’s make 2024–25 a season etched in gold. Up the Whites!
All Stats correct up to Friday 28th February 2025
The Widnes Wanderer
Widnes Player Profiles
Mark Halstead – Goalkeeper
Former Blackpool goalkeeper Mark made his Premier League debut for the Seasiders in a defeat to Chelsea in November 2010. The 34-year-old has made over 70 EFL appearances, winning promotion to League One with Morecambe in 2021.
Niall Battersby – Defender
Imperious in the air, 24-year-old central defender Niall signed for the club in December 2023 and went on to make 15 appearances in the second half of last season. Niall has played at Step 3 for Ashton United and came through the youth ranks at Bolton Wanderers.
Owen Beamon – Defender
Highly rated youngster Owen is one to watch at the DCBL Stadium. The 19-year-old spent much of last season on dual registration at Litherland REMYCA and will start this season at Litherland Sports Park too.
Sam Bhatti – Defender
Equally adept at right-back and holding midfield, youngster Sam is a talented prospect who captained Crewe Alexandra as a trainee. Sam made 19 appearances last season and spent time on dual registration at Litherland REMYCA.
Louis Isherwood – Defender
Louis is embarking on his second full season with the club. A natural centre-half, the 23-year-old can cover at both full back positions and is comfortable playing in central midfield. He signed his first senior contract with Chorley in 2021 and had loan spells at various Step 4 clubs before settling at Widnes.
Brendan O’Brien – Defender
Brendan returned to the club for a second spell in late 2023, making 13 appearances last season. The 24-year-old first joined in 2019 on loan from Blackpool, where he came through the ranks under the tutelage of former Widnes midfielder Danny Ventre.
Matty Rain – Defender
Left-back Matty has been a virtual ever-present since joining from Bootle in October. The 23-year-old possesses a wand of a left foot and lists Burnley, FC United of Manchester and Curzon Ashton amongst his former clubs.
Michael Simpson – Defender
Right-back Simmo joined the club from City of Liverpool in November 2024. Equally adept in central midfield, the 31-year-old has played for manager Michael Ellison twice previously and won the NPL West with Warrington Rylands in 2022.
Jack Walls – Defender
Right-back Jack previously played at Step 4 for City of Liverpool, playing under Michael Ellison. The 23-year-old spent the majority of last season on dual registration at AFC Liverpool, appearing once for Widnes.
Fisnik Hajdari – Midfielder
Fis is the club’s longest-serving player having first joined up in the summer of 2019. The 27-year-old has made 89 appearances for the Whites, a number that would be significantly higher had it not been for the COVID pandemic and injury.
George Hassall – Midfielder
Versatile George arrived at the DCBL Stadium in October 2022 to re-join manager Ellison after working together at City of Liverpool. The 26-year-old came through the youth ranks at Shrewsbury Town, and has previously represented AFC Fylde, Marine and Prescot Cables.
Steven Irwin – Midfielder
Club Captain Ste joined the club from Warrington Rylands in autumn 2022 and quickly became an influential figure in the changing room. The 34-year-old won the division with Rylands in 2022 and skippered Liverpool to an FA Youth Cup final appearance in 2009. He also lists FC United and Marine amongst his former clubs.
Harry McGee – Midfielder
22-year-old Harry linked up with the Whites from Witton Albion in November 2024. He came through the ranks at Wigan Athletic, earning a professional contract in 2021, before switching to FC United of Manchester.
Dominic McGiveron – Midfielder
Dom is a cultured and well-travelled attacking midfielder. The 28-year-old has represented clubs across two continents and five different countries. Off the pitch, Dom is Lead First Team Video Scout at Huddersfield Town.
Sean Miller – Midfielder
A technically gifted footballer, you’ll find few better players in the NPL West than Sean Miller. The 29-year-old is a talismanic figure for the Whites, capable of scoring extraordinary goals week in and week out. He has National League experience at Altrincham, Chester and Curzon Ashton and featured for Chorley in their run to the fourth round on the FA Cup in 2021.
Ben Rydel – Midfielder
Ben appeared in every game at Step 3 for Atherton Collieries last season. A central midfielder who can deputise at left-back and play out wide, the 21-year-old has linked back up with manager Ellison this summer, who gave Rydel his first senior appearance when on loan at City of Liverpool from Salford City in 2021.
Kingsley Williams – Midfielder
Kingsley returned to the club for a third spell earlier this summer. The 32-year-old is vastly experienced at Step 4, captaining Radcliffe to the NPL West title in 2019. He has since skippered both Colne and Witton Albion under Jon Macken.
Ethan Danku – Forward
Impressive performances on trial during preseason, including goals at Prescot Cables and Marine, convinced manager Ellison to offer Ethan a deal earlier this summer. The 19-yearold spent last season playing for St Helens Town in the Cheshire League and is currently on dual registration at Euxton Villa.
Josh High – Forward
Josh is a fans’ favourite at the DCBL Stadium after a series of eye-catching performances off the bench last season. The 20-year-old scored four goals in 16 appearances, despite starting just twice.
Sharif Deans – Forward
Sharif returned to the DCBL Stadium for a second spell in April 2024, scoring on his debut against Prescot Cables. The 22-yearold is a pacey wide man who is equally competent playing as a central striker due to his impressive aerial ability.
Jacob Holland-Wilkinson – Forward
Wide man Jacob arrived from Lancaster City in November 2024. The 22-year-old boasts impressive pedigree having been on the books at Preston North End, Stoke City, Sunderland, Chorley and Bury.
Jack McGowan – Forward
32-year-old striker Jack ended a seven-year association with Bootle to join the club early last season. A classic no.9, Jack is efficient in his build-up play and equally devastating in front of goal.
James Steele – Forward
Steelie enjoyed the most impressive season of his career last season, scoring 19 goals off the flank. The 24-year-old has made over 100 appearances in a Widnes shirt and has also featured for Newcastle Town, Runcorn Linnets and City of Liverpool at Step 4.
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.
Warning signs may include light-headedness, fainting, palpitations, swollen legs, breathlessness. ARVC can be found in one in every 1,000 to 5,000 young adults - IF IT IS LOOKED FOR.
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 dwfoundation5
thedanielwilkinsonfoundation thedanielwilkinsonfoundation.org contact@thedanielwilkinsonfoundation.org @dannywilks5
Widnes Staff Profiles
Michael Ellison - Manager
Ello was appointed Widnes boss in September 2022. He has now managed over 150 games in the Northern Premier League despite having just six full managerial seasons under his belt. He became manager of Runcorn Linnets in 2016, steering them to promotion to the NPL in 2018, finishing narrowly ahead of Widnes. He would then go on to manager City of Liverpool from 2020-2022.
Chris Lawton – Assistant Manager
Lawty is another to have served under Ello at three different clubs. His retirement from playing in 2018 saw his promotion to first team coach at Runcorn Linnets, before moving to City of Liverpool alongside Ello in 2020. Chris was a centre-half during his playing days, representing Linnets, Runcorn Town, Trafford and Atherton Collieries.
Lee Bignell – First Team Coach
Lee joined up with the management team earlier this summer after a stint as joint manager at Runcorn Town. Well known throughout the North West, Lee has also had a spell in temporary charge of Prescot Cables.
Ryan Brookfield – Goalkeeper Coach
Goalkeeper Coach Ryan is another valued member of Michael Ellison’s backroom staff. He previously worked under Ello at City of Liverpool. As a player, Ryan played in the Football League for Chester City.
WWidnes Football Club History
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Premier League - West Table
League Table Season 2024/25
bring some much needed new stimulus to the club. David Day remained on the newly established Board of Directors, headed by incoming Chairman Ian Ross that brought the necessary expertise and drive to enable the Club to progress over the coming seasons.
In September 2016, former Runcorn Linnets Manager Joey Dunn was appointed the new First Team Manager.
Joey’s first season ended with an unbelievable 14 game winning streak which ended with the Division 1 title.
After an inconsistent start to the 2017 -2018 campaign, Dunn resigned his post, and players
Steve Akrigg & Kev Towey jointly took the reigns.
During their first season they guided the club to back to back promotions, and so up to the Northern Premier League, with a tremendous run of 70 points from the remaining 75 available to claim the runner up spot behind Runcorn Linnets. They then went on to claim a remarkable double, lifting the Macron Challenge Cup with a 2 -1 win over Burscough FC at Fleetwood Towns ‘Highbury Stadium to end the season on an even greater high.
Further success soon followed with a convincing 3 -0 win away at Runcorn Linnets in the NWCFL season curtain raiser, The Reusch Champions Cup.
ALITTLE
more than 11 miles separate
Aldershot Town and Woking with the rivals sharing some epic encounters down the years.
We could be in for another next month when the duo meet at the Shots’ EBB Stadium in the Isuzu FA Trophy semi-final – a place at Wembley on the line.
Aldershot have never played at the home of English football. Woking have lifted the Trophy three times, although not since 1997. It’s a huge game guaranteed to command a full house.
Aldershot beat Sittingbourne 3-0 in the quarter-finals, finally ending the Step 4 side’s remarkable campaign that saw them beat National League Southend United in the last 16.
Spennymoor Town led the headlines on Saturday evening. Main man Glen Taylor scored twice as the National League North side dumped out Step 1 Sutton United.
“It’s hard work winning football games, it hurts and it’s painful, but when you get a result like that it’s worth it,” boss Graeme Lee said.
Spenny will face Rochdale in the semis, who came through a tricky encounter against Altrincham 2-0.
“A lot of teams from divisions above Sittingbourne have fallen on their sword,” Aldershot boss Tommy Widdrington said. “They have had an unbelievable run and we were under no illusions. We knew it wasn’t going to be a walk in the park.”
Woking certainly had no stroll in their quarter at Oxford City. Needing a late Inih Effiong equaliser to make it 2-2 and force penalties, the two sides then shared a missfilled shoot-out. The Cards won it 2-1 after keeper Will Jaaskelainen saved three of Oxford’s four misses before planting home the winner himself.
“I am standing here due to fantastic goalkeeping heroics and even then we nearly blew them through the penalties, and I am really flat we were that bad,” an irked Woking boss Neal Ardley admitted.
Of course, Spennymoor lifted the FA Vase back in 2013 when they beat Tunbridge Wells on the hallowed turf.
The Vase is also down to the final four. There was late drama at Whistable Town where a 2,656 crowd saw the hosts come from 2-0 down to win 3-2 when Harry Smith converted the rebound of his own penalty.
“It was an unbelievable turnaround from being 2-0 down,” manager Jamie Coyle said. “To turn that around and into a win, that’s testament to the players.”
They have been drawn against Hartpury University for the two-legged semi-finals, with Andover New Street making the most of their reprieve earlier in the competition to reach this stage and set-up a semi with AFC Whyteleafe.
Wembley awaits on Sunday, May 11. We’re close to knowing which four teams will be there.
Matt Badcock Editor at large The
Non-League Paper
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The Squads
Widnes FC
Mark Halstead
Josh McGreavy
Niall Battersby
Owen Beamon
Sam Bhatti
Louis Isherwood
Matty Rain
Jack Walls
George Hassall
Steven Irwin
Sean Miller
Brendan O’Brien
Ben Rydel
Kingsley Williams
Ethan Danku
Sharif Deans
Josh High
Jack McGowan
Liam Paton
James Steele
Harry McGee
Dominic McGiveron
Michael Simpson
Chasetown
Curtis Pond
li Hayward
Joe Dunne
Kieran Fenton
Danny O’Callaghan (C)
Sam Wilding
Tom Thorley
Jack Langston
Joey Butlin
Sam Unitt
Luke Yates
Kris Taylor
Joseph Thompson
Max Chimenes
Ben Lund
Matt Sargeant
Match Officials
Referee: Daniel Hitchell
Assistant 1: Jamie Tomlinson
Assistant 2: Adrian Duicu