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 today’s huge game against Nantwich.
It’s been a few weeks since I last wrote some programme notes and in that time we have dropped points that really we shouldn’t have done. Our last game at home against Witton was a performance that was very lacklustre. We felt we just let the game drift by and didn’t stamp our authority on it and then we conceded a really poor goal towards the end and walked away with zero points. I’m not saying we deserved to lose the game but at this time of the season you have to make things happen and that is something we discussed as a team after the Witton game and we all agreed that over the remaining 5 games we wasn’t going to let that happen again.
We have then had 2 really tricky away games against teams that have always been massively competitive in this league. We have picked up 2 draws in them games and I feel we have been far the better side in both games. The pitches are at that stage now where minimal football can be played so we have asked the players to adapt the way we want to play and they have done this really well. To go away from home and dominated both Newcastle and Mossley in the way we have is really hard to do. Having said all that football is about what you do in both boxes and over the last two games we haven’t been good enough in our attacking box and have missed some guilt edge chances and then we have made two mistakes in our defensive box and conceded two really soft goals from our point of view.
So we now find ourselves in a really tight title race, at the time of writing this we are still currently 3 points clear at the top of the league but due to Hednesford playing Friday we could be kicking off in second place. There is now no more room for slip ups by any side at the top of the league with only 3 games to go. What
we have to do now is remain calm and back ourselves for the full 90 minutes. This group of players have shown time and time again this season that they can prove their doubters wrong, we need to do this 3 more times and the reward at the end of it will be a league title that no one will ever be able to take away from us.
Today’s game will be much tougher than the 3 previous games in my opinion. I expected Nantwich to be right up at the top end of the table but for whatever reason they have had a couple of difficult months and find themselves sat in mid table. They have some of the best players in the league in Kai Evans, Harrison and Saunders and believe me when I say this, if we defend poorly in key moments today then these players will punish us. We have to remain focused for the whole game today, take our chances when they are presented to us and hopefully come 5pm we will be top of the league going into the final 2 games of the season.
Your support is going to be vital over the last 3 games, be as loud as possible and let’s drag the players over the line.
Cheers Lawty
Nantwich Town Player Profiles
BEN GARRATT
Goalkeeper 25 APRIL 1994
The 30-year-old is best known for his many years spent at Crewe Alex, where he came through the academy and went on to make 246 appearances for the first team after being given his break by former Dabbers manager Steve Davis. The former England under-19 international also made nearly 100 appearances for Burton Albion before leaving at the end of 2022/23. He signed a 2-year contract in the summer to remain with the Dabbers.
ERIC MERNER
Goalkeeper 17 SEPTEMBER 2001
22-year-old Eric made 3 appearances for Leek Town last season, and has also played for Connah’s Quay Nomads, Sandbach United and Eccleshall. Eric made his debut for Nantwich in the Cheshire Senior Cup match against Hyde United this season.
KELVIN MELLOR
Defender 25 JANUARY 1991
Mellor returned this summer to the Dabbers, where he started his career in 2007. He played in the 2007-08 season for the Dabbers under Steve Davis before joining Crewe Alex as a 17-year-old. He was briefly back on loan at Nantwich in 2009, before Davis was reunited again with Mellor at the Alex and it was under Steve that Kelvin had his breakthrough into Crewe’s first team, ending in two pieces of Wembley glory in the League 2 play-offs and the EFL Trophy in 2012 and 2013. Across two spells at Crewe he made over 130 appearances. He has vast EFL experience across several other clubs including Blackpool, Plymouth Argyle, Bradford City, Morecambe, Carlisle, and Accrington Stanley.
TROY BOURNE
Defender 13 JANUARY 1998
Troy is a graduate from the Dabbers’ youth team, having impressed former manager Phil Parkinson in 2015/16 pre-season training. He spent much of the 16/17 campaign on a dual registration at Alsager Town but did make a couple of first-team appearances for the Dabbers. Troy is now the club captain and picked up four awards at the 2022/23 end of year awards night, including players’ player of the season and managers player of the season. Troy is in his testimonial season after celebrating his 10 years with the club with a friendly against Wolves in pre-season.
BEN HOCKENHULL Defender 03 SEPTEMBER 2001
The 23 year old central defender recently arrived on a dual registration with Curzon Ashton. The Crewe based defender was at the Manchester United academy from the age of 6. However he left and transferred to Brentford to become part of their B side in 2020 on a 2 year deal, and trained with the first team squad on a number of occasions.
At the end of his contract Ben joined Tranmere Rovers on a two year deal, and made his professional debut against Crewe Alexandra. During his time at Tranmere he had a number of loan spells particularly at Warrington Rylands and Southport.
Ben signed a contract with Stafford Rangers at the start of this season before transferring to Bury. However he departed in January 2025 to join Curzon Ashton and has been dual registering with Mossley and now with Nantwich Town since.
PERRY BIRCUMSHAW
Defender 21 DECEMBER 1994
Equally capable at centre back or full back, Perry joined the Dabbers early on in the 22/23 season, initially on dual registration terms from Winsford United.
But such was the manner he impressed the staff at Nantwich with his performances, he was quickly signed up permanently in September 2022 and has become a fixture in defence since.
JON MORAN (MANAGER)
Defender 20 JUNE 1997
Moran returned to the Dabbers in 2022 for his second spell after being first signed in 2015 by Phil Parkinson. Jon made a big impact, becoming an integral part of the side that went on the famous run to the FA Trophy semi-finals, knocking out higher ranked Salford City, Stockport County and Dover Athletic in the process. His performances that season turned a lot of heads, and he was bought by then National League side Forest Green Rovers in the summer of 2016. After loans at Halesowen and Weston-Super-Mare, he joined Chester on a free in 2018, and Bradford Park Avenue in the summer of 2019. That winter, he moved to Stafford Rangers where he stayed until February 2022, when his spell was mutually ended due to injury, captaining the side at times for them.
He’s achieved over 100 playing appearances for Nantwich across his two spells. Jon has recently taken on the position of manager on a permanent basis after taking on the reins initially on an interim basis in late September 2024 when Paul Carden took up the opportunity to return back to Warrington Town.
JAMES MELHADO
Defender 29 JANUARY 2001
The 23-year-old full-back impressed during a trial period in early pre-season and has now been brought in for good. Melhado started his career at Newcastle Town, via a loan at Hanley, and made enough of an impression to be signed by Salford City in 2021, playing for them in the EFL Trophy.
While at Salford, there were loans at Ashton, Hereford, and AFC Telford United. Most recently, he was plying his trade in Cornwall at Truro City in the National League South, but is now back up north and ready to contribute for the Dabbers.
PADDY KENNEDY Defender
The 20-year-old did play for the Dabbers as a trialist in pre-season but saw that period cut short by injury. Kennedy was at Litherland REMYCA in the North West Counties Premier for the last two seasons and captained them during the last campaign.
Paddy has impressed since his baptism of fire into the first XI, and after rejecting a couple of seven day approaches from other NPL clubs, Paddy signed his first contract with the club much to the delight of everyone connected with the club.
JOEL CONNOLLY
Midfielder 19 NOVEMBER 2002
The 21-year-old is a product of the Burnley youth academy, making it to their under 21s before being released.
He then joined Prescot and made 14 appearances for them before joining Paul Carden here at the Dabbers for the run-in to the end of the 2022/23 season and beyond.
Nantwich Town Player Profiles
MATTHEW TWEEDLEY
Midfielder 16 APRIL 2004
The 20-year-old was a product of the Bolton Wanderers academy and played for their B team before being leaving last summer.
He is familiar with the NPL system too, having made 15 appearances on loan for Lancaster City in the NPL Premier in 2022/23.
Tweedley scored a truly spectacular goal as a trialist for the Dabbers in the 140th Anniversary Match against Prescot Cables that immediately had supporters asking for him to be signed, and here he is.
TOM PRATT
Midfielder 03 JUNE 1995
The attacking midfielder is known to Dabbers supporters from his brief loan spell last season, where in just 1 month and 3 matches he racked up 6 assists, winning all of the trio of games he was involved in by an aggregate score of 11-1.
Previously at Guiseley, he scored 8 goals in 28 games for them last season, and before that a long and highly successful period at Hyde United over 6 years.
JOE ROBBINS
Midfielder 20 FEBRUARY 2002
Joe Robbins started his career in the academy at Crewe Alexandra, Joe signed a professional contract in 2020 and made his debut for Crewe, scoring in a 3-0 win over Wolves U21s in the EFL Trophy. Joe’s first stint was on loan at Nantwich for a large part of the 2021-22 season, scoring a hat-trick at Bower Fold in Nantwich’s win over Stalybridge Celtic in February 2022. Joe signed permanently for Nantwich before joining Ashton in 2022. He then spent the second half of last season with
NPL play-off semi-finalists Bamber Bridge playing 20 games, before re-joining Ashton this summer under Steve Cunningham. Having featured eight times this season for Ashton, Joe joins Nantwich after starting this season at Stafford Rangers.
KAI EVANS
Forward 27 JANAURY 2004
After impressing in pre-season of the 2023/24 season, Evans was signed by The Dabbers after being released by Wrexham in the summer. Evans signed his first pro contract at the Welsh side in the COVID hit 2020 season and showcased his talents over the course of the following season when he topped the scoring charts in the National League Youth Alliance from midfield. He won the Dabbers’ Young Player of the Season for 2023/24.
BYRON HARRISON
Forward 15 JUNE 1987
The 6ft3, vastly experienced striker has nearly 150 Football League appearances, the majority of which were during a successful spell at Cheltenham Town where he scored 20 goals in 94 games between 2012 and 2015.
In more recent years, he also performed strongly for Barrow in the National League, scoring 32 times in 67 appearances in 2 seasons that ended in 2018, before he returned in 2019/20 to help them gain promotion to the EFL.
Starting his career in non-league with clubs like Havant and Waterlooville and Boreham Wood, he earned a move to League 2 Stevenage in 2010, before spending time at AFC Wimbledon and Chesterfield as well as that run with Cheltenham.
In 2018, he returned to non-league, and has played for teams such as Sutton, Barnet and most recently Altrincham. He was the Dabbers’ top scorer and Player of the Season in 2023/24.
CALLUM SAUNDERS
Forward 26 SEPTEMBER 1995
Currently in his second spell at the club. Saunders has been a consistent goalscorer for several years. He scored 29 goals in 75 appearances across his previous time at the Dabbers.
He was the Dabbers’ top scorer in the 2018/19 season and curtailed 2020/21 season.
Callum was most recently at Stafford, where he spent the 2022/23 campaign. The season before, he was joint third highest goalscorer in the NPL Premier with 18 goals.
Outside of the NPL Saunders made 27 senior appearances for Crewe Alexandra where he began his footballing career at a young age.
NATHAN SANDISON
Forward 02 FEBRUARY 2006
Nathan played schoolboy football in Liverpool and then joined Wigan Atheltic. He plays as a striker or a ten, with football ability beyond his years. As part of the Wigan Athletic youth setup, he played for them in the FA Youth Cup. However he was released last summer.
ALEX PANTER
Forward 09 DECEMBER 2001
Alex Panter is a mid-season signing from Wythenshawe Town. The young forward has been on somewhat of a meteoric rise over the last year. Up to the end of last season he was at Poynton in the Cheshire League, scoring 20 goals as they won 3 trophies in 2023/24.
That earned him a move into the North West Counties system with Maine Road (10th tier). The step up didn’t seem to faze him at all. Between July and November 2024 he scored 11 goals and set up 4 more in 23 appearances.
This caught the attention of Wythenshawe Town, who he made 9 appearances for after joining in November. He played against Nantwich in the game earlier in January and will now seek to continue his progress with the Dabbers.
KOFI MOORE
(On Loan from Oldham Athletic)
Forward 25 SEPTEMBER 2004
Kofi is on a season long loan from Oldham Athletic. Kofi had a brief spell with Nantwich on a one month loan at the start of the season, and was starting to impress towards the end of his first spell.
Kofi made 5 appearances in his initial loan spell between August and September this season, scoring once and impressing with his general attacking play.
Since his first spell, he has made the matchday squad for Oldham in an FA Cup First Round tie against Tranmere in a sign of his progress.
Good afternoon everyone and welcome back to the DCBL stadium.
Obviously we were reallly disappointed after the last few results especially last week conceding so late after controlling the game so well.
There’s 2 wins that we havnt come away with but there’s nothing we can do about that now we just have to focus on another huge test.
We have had a good weeks training and the lads are all up and ready to hopefully put another good performance in and if we can just iron out the small mistakes then I’m sure we can get the result we want in the end.
It’s a huge weekend with 2 games back to back so we willl have to use the whole squad which we have done all season but eveyone is ready and raring to go from today!
Enjoy the game.
Stevie
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the UK. Their journey has taken them to footballing landmarks such as Arsenal's Stadium, Manchester United's Old Tra8ord, and Manchester City's Etihad Stadium, Widnes for what proved to be a memorable encounter.
IWidnes FC U18s Edge Out Apalachee High School in Poignant Friendly
n a poignant and spirited friendly match at the humble yet charming P&P ground affectionately dubbed the “beautiful potato field” Widnes FC’s U18 team hosted Apalachee High School from Georgia, USA, in a contest that transcended the boundaries of sport.
gap, Apalachee’s players being a year or two American side showed remarkable composure ensuring the match remained fiercely competitive early exchanges were evenly poised, with carving out promising opportunities. It was struck first, as Luke unleashed a clinical strike the penalty area to break the deadlock and side the lead.
The visitors, whose squad includes survivors of a tragic school shooting on 4 September last year, are on a fundraisinginspired tour of the UK. Their journey has taken them to footballing landmarks such as Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, Manchester United’s Old Trafford, and Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, before arriving at Widnes for what proved to be a memorable encounter.
however, responded with flair. Demonstrating and audacity, one of their forwards caught goalkeeper Corey o8 his line, executing a sublime lob the net to restore parity. The first half and flow, with both sides threatening. closest to taking the lead when a long-range Corey into an outstanding save, tipping the ball wide to ensure the teams went into 1-1.
Drama
Second-Half Drama
Despite the age gap, Apalachee’s players being a year or two younger the American side showed remarkable composure and skill, ensuring the match remained fiercely competitive throughout. The early exchanges were evenly poised, with both teams carving out promising opportunities. It was Widnes who struck first, as Luke unleashed a clinical strike from the edge of the penalty area to break the deadlock and give the home side the lead.
for the second half with renewed vigour, dominating possession and creating a chances. Yet, despite their pressure, they struggled to find the target. Max Spruce restored Widnes’s lead when he met Max F’s corner with a powerful header, only Apalachee goalkeeper to produce a breathtaking save that kept the scores level.
Widnes emerged for the second half with renewed vigour, dominating possession and creating a flurry of chances. Yet, despite their pressure, they struggled to find the target. Max Spruce thought he had restored Widnes’s lead when he met Max F’s corner with a powerful header, only for the Apalachee goalkeeper to produce a breathtaking save that kept the scores level.
breakthrough finally arrived through Ethan Campbell, who marked his first goal for Widnes Perfectly positioned, he slotted home a squared pass from Christian to put the up. But Apalachee refused to be subdued. Moments later, they equalised once through a brilliantly taken free kick that left Corey with no chance.
moment came shortly after, with Luke once again proving Widnes’s talisman. With fortune assisted by the uneven P&P turf he netted what would be the winning goal, victory for the home team.
the Scoreline
Apalachee, however, responded with flair. Demonstrating both precision and audacity, one of their forwards caught Widnes goalkeeper Corey off his line, executing a sublime lob that sailed into the net to restore parity. The first half continued to ebb and flow, with both sides threatening. Apalachee came closest to taking the lead when a long-range effort forced Corey into an outstanding save, tipping the ball wide to ensure the teams went into the break level at 1-1.
The breakthrough finally arrived through Ethan Campbell, who marked his first goal for Widnes in fitting fashion. Perfectly positioned, he slotted home a squared pass from Christian to put the home side 2-1 up. But Apalachee refused to be subdued. Moments later, they equalised once more, this time through a brilliantly taken free kick that left Corey with no chance.
result, this match was a testament to the unifying power of football. Played in an both teams displayed sportsmanship and mutual respect, with the Apalachee reportedly relishing the experience. For Widnes, it was a performance that did their club
The decisive moment came shortly after, with Luke once again proving Widnes’s talisman. With a touch of fortune assisted by the uneven P&P turf he netted what would be the winning goal, securing a 3-2 victory for the home team.
A Game Beyond the Scoreline
proud, while for the visitors, it was
the face of adversity, the beautiful game
Beyond the result, this match was a testament to the unifying power of football. Played in an exemplary spirit, both teams displayed sportsmanship and mutual respect, with the Apalachee players reportedly relishing the experience. For Widnes, it was a performance that did their club proud,
Goals: Luke (2), Ethan Campbell
Men of the Match: Luke and Corey
while for the visitors, it was another step in their healing journey a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the beautiful game can bring joy and connection.
Goals: Luke (2), Ethan Campbell
Men of the Match: Luke and Corey
a reminder that
Kevin Towey: A Pillar of Widnes FC’s Modern Era
column delves into the depth of his career at Widnes, examining his loyalty, consistent performance, leadership, achievements, and lasting impact.
and Longevity: A Steadfast Presence
By Widnes Wanderer, Widnes
Football Club Matchday Programme, April 2025
where player movement is often dictated by ambition or circumstance, Kevin Towey’s five-year commitment to Widnes stands as a beacon of loyalty. Arriving in the summer of 2016, quickly became a cornerstone of the squad, amassing 136 arances and netting 73 goals, a remarkable tally that both his talent and his enduring dedication to the club. longevity is particularly striking in the non league landscape, the transient nature of careers often disrupts continuity. Towey’s presence was a constant, providing stability through of triumph and challenge alike.
By Widnes Wanderer, Widnes Football Club Matchday
Kevin Towey: A Pillar of Widnes FC’s Modern Era
Programme, April 2025
loyalty extended beyond his playing duties. In 2017, Towey the mantle of joint manager alongside Steve Akrigg, a held until 2021. This dual commitment as both player and underscored his deep connection to the club, particularly during the turbulent 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons, COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of football at every level. As noted in the oIicial statement upon his resignation, Towey’s service during these years was nothing “distinguished.” His willingness to shoulder such responsibility in times of uncertainty volumes about his character and his devotion to Widnes FC.
In the rich tapestry of nonleague football, few figures embody the spirit of loyalty, performance, and leadership quite like Kevin Towey. His fiveyear tenure with Widnes Football Club, from 2016 to 2021, stands as a defining chapter in the club’s history, marked by a rare blend of on-field brilliance and off-field influence. As both a prolific striker and a guiding force in management, Towey’s contributions have etched his name into the Chronicles of Widnes FC, earning him a place of reverence among supporters and players alike. This column delves into the depth of his career at Widnes, examining his loyalty, consistent performance, leadership, achievements, and lasting impact.
Loyalty and Longevity: A Steadfast Presence
Consistent High Performance: A Goal-Scoring Maestro
In an era where player movement is often dictated by ambition or circumstance, Kevin Towey’s five-year commitment to Widnes FC stands as a beacon of loyalty. Arriving in the summer of 2016, Towey quickly became a cornerstone of the squad, amassing 136 appearances and netting 73 goals, a remarkable tally that reflects both his talent and his enduring dedication to the club.
was the foundation of Towey’s career at Widnes, his consistent high performance was glittering edifice built upon it. From the moment he donned the white and black, Towey’s scoring prowess was evident. In his first 19 games, he struck 21 times, a blistering start him surpass Ben Tollitt to become the club’s all-time leading goal scorer by November This early feat was no flash in the pan; Towey maintained a remarkable scoring rate throughout his tenure, finishing with 73 goals in 136 appearances an average of 0.53 goals per
Loyalty and Longevity: A Steadfast Presence
In an era where player movement is often dictated by ambition or circumstance, Kevin Towey’s five-year commitment to Widnes FC stands as a beacon of loyalty. Arriving in the summer of 2016, Towey quickly became a cornerstone of the squad, amassing 136 appearances and netting 73 goals, a remarkable tally that reflects both his talent and his enduring dedication to the club. His longevity is particularly striking in the non-league landscape, where the transient nature of careers often disrupts continuity.
In the rich tapestry of non-league football, few figures embody spirit of loyalty, performance, and leadership quite like Kevin His five-year tenure with Widnes Football Club, from 2016 stands as a defining chapter in the club’s history, marked blend of on-field brilliance and oI-field influence. As both striker and a guiding force in management, Towey’s contributions have etched his name into the Chronicles of Widnes FC, a place of reverence among supporters and players alike. column delves into the depth of his career at Widnes, examining loyalty, consistent performance, leadership, achievements, lasting impact.
His longevity is particularly striking in the non-league landscape, where the transient nature of careers often disrupts continuity. Yet, Towey’s presence was a constant, providing stability through seasons of triumph and challenge alike.
Yet, Towey’s presence was a constant, providing stability through seasons of triumph and challenge alike. His loyalty extended beyond his playing duties. In 2017, Towey took on the mantle of joint manager alongside Steve Akrigg, a role he held until 2021. This dual commitment as both player and manager underscored his deep connection to the club, particularly during the turbulent 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons, when the COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of football at every level. As noted in the club’s official statement upon his resignation, Towey’s service during these years was nothing short of “distinguished.” His willingness to shoulder such responsibility in times of uncertainty speaks volumes about his character and his devotion to Widnes FC.
Consistent High Performance: A Goal-Scoring Maestro
His loyalty extended beyond his playing duties. In 2017, Towey took on the mantle of joint manager alongside Steve Akrigg, a role he held until 2021. This dual commitment as both player and manager underscored his deep connection to the club, particularly during the turbulent 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons, when the COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of football at every level. As noted club’s oIicial statement upon his resignation, Towey’s service during these years was short of “distinguished.” His willingness to shoulder such responsibility in times of uncertainty speaks volumes about his character and his devotion to Widnes FC.
Consistent High Performance: A Goal-Scoring Maestro
If loyalty was the foundation of Towey’s career at Widnes, his consistent high performance was the glittering edifice built upon it. From the moment he donned the white and black, Towey’s goal-scoring prowess was evident. In his first 19 games, he struck 21 times, a blistering start that saw him surpass Ben Tollitt to become the club’s all-time leading goal scorer by November 2016. This early feat was no flash
If loyalty was the foundation of Towey’s career at Widnes, his consistent high performance the glittering edifice built upon it. From the moment he donned the white and black, goal-scoring prowess was evident. In his first 19 games, he struck 21 times, a blistering that saw him surpass Ben Tollitt to become the club’s all-time leading goal scorer by 2016. This early feat was no flash in the pan; Towey maintained a remarkable scoring throughout his tenure, finishing with 73 goals in 136 appearances an average of 0.53 game.
in the pan; Towey maintained a remarkable scoring rate throughout his tenure, finishing with 73 goals in 136 appearances an average of 0.53 goals per game.
Such consistency is rare in the rigours of non-league football, where physical demands and competitive intensity often take their toll. Yet, Towey’s ability to deliver season after season, particularly in the Northern Premier League, speaks to his technical skill, mental fortitude, and unyielding work ethic. His performances were not merely about numbers; they were about lifting the team when it mattered most, as seen in crucial fixtures and high-stakes encounters. In the words of a club insider, Towey was “a player who could change a game with a single touch,” a sentiment echoed by fans who witnessed his artistry firsthand.
Leadership On and Off the Pitch: A Guiding Force
Leadership, both visible and subtle, defined Towey’s influence at Widnes FC. On the pitch, his presence was commanding—a striker who led by example, inspiring teammates with his relentless drive and clinical finishing. Off the pitch, his leadership
took on a more formal role when he was appointed joint manager in October 2017. Tasked with steering the club through the competitive waters of the Northwest Counties League, Towey, alongside Akrigg, orchestrated one of the most successful periods in the club’s recent history.
The 2017-18 season remains a standout, with Widnes securing promotion to the Northern Premier League and lifting the Northwest Counties Challenge Cup. Under Towey’s guidance, the team embarked on a remarkable run, winning 23 of their final 25 games to finish as runners-up with 96 points a feat that cemented his managerial acumen. His ability to balance the dual roles of player and manager, a rarity in modern football, highlighted his versatility and tactical intelligence. Beyond the first team, Towey’s leadership extended to the grassroots level, coaching the club’s under-9’s team and showcasing his commitment to nurturing the next generation.
Memorable Moments and Achievements: Defining the Era
Towey’s career at Widnes is studded with moments that will be recounted for years to come. Chief among them is his ascent to the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, a milestone achieved with a brace against Skelmersdale United in the Liverpool Senior Cup in November 2016. Yet, for Towey, the goals were always a means to an end, victory for the team. As a manager, his crowning achievement came in the 2017-18 season, when Widnes clinched promotion and cup success. The image of Towey lifting the Northwest Counties Challenge Cup remains iconic, a testament to his ability to galvanise the squad during that campaign.
Such consistency is rare in the rigours of nonfootball, where physical demands and competitive intensity often take their toll. Yet, Towey’s ability deliver season after season, particularly in the Premier League, speaks to his technical skill, fortitude, and unyielding work ethic. His performances were not merely about numbers; they were about the team when it mattered most, as seen in crucial fixtures and high-stakes encounters. In the words club insider, Towey was “a player who could change game with a single touch,” a sentiment echoed who witnessed his artistry firsthand.
Leadership On and O? the Pitch: A Guiding Force
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intelligence. Beyond the first team, Towey’s leadership extended to the grassroots level, coaching the club’s under-9’s team and showcasing his commitment to nurturing the next generation.
Impact Beyond Statistics: A Legacy of Inspiration
While statistics provide a framework for understanding Towey’s contributions, his true impact lies in the intangible qualities he brought to Widnes FC. His tenure as joint manager was not just about wins and losses; it was about instilling a culture of resilience and ambition. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Towey’s steady hand helped navigate the club through uncertainty. His work with the under-9’s team further exemplifies his broader influence, fostering
Memorable Moments and Achievements: Defining the Era
a sense of belonging and aspiration among the next generation. Upon his resignation in 2021, the club paid tribute to his “immense contribution” and “unwavering dedication,” words that only scratch the surface of the respect he commanded.
Towey’s career at Widnes is studded with moments that will be recounted for years to come. Chief among them is his ascent to the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, a milestone achieved with a brace against Skelmersdale United in the Liverpool Senior Cup in November 2016. Yet, for Towey, the goals were always a means to an end, victory for the team. As a manager, his crowning achievement came in the 2017-18 season, when Widnes clinched promotion and cup success. The image of Towey lifting the Northwest Counties Challenge Cup remains iconic, a testament to his ability to galvanise the squad during that campaign.
Conclusion: A Chapter Closed, A Legacy Endures
As Widnes FC looks to the future, the echoes of Kevin Towey’s contributions will reverberate through the club for years to come. His loyalty, performance, leadership, and impact have woven him into the fabric of the club’s identity. For the supporters who cheered his goals, the players who thrived under his guidance, and the young talents who benefited from his mentorship, Towey’s name will forever be synonymous with a golden era in Widnes FC’s history. His career was not just about football; it was about building something timeless.
Sources: Widnes FC official website, historical
Impact Beyond Statistics: A Legacy of Inspiration
While statistics provide a framework for understanding Towey’s contributions, his true impact lies in the intangible qualities he brought to Widnes FC. His tenure as joint manager was not just
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.
Northern 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.
CROWN
dependencies offshore football clubs have become part and parcel of the NonLeague Pyramid in recent years with Guernsey, Jersey Bulls and FC Isle of Man all valued members of our National League System.
But I wondered what the arrangements entail for opposition teams flying across to play on these islands, so I joined the official Southall party heading to Guernsey for their Isthmian South Central; fixture last Sunday to find out more.
The build-up saw Guernsey sending travel details to their opponents. In effect, the host club covers the cost of return flights for a group of up to 25 people from Southall plus coach transport to and from Guernsey Airport. This forms part of Guernsey’s agreement to compete in mainland competitions. Here is my diary of how the mammoth matchday experience unfolded…
7.00am – Meet up deadline at Gatwick Airport South Terminal. The Southall players arrive on time smartly dressed in club tracksuit tops.
7.15am – Southall’s enthusiastic chairman Sanjeev Sharma does a final headcount to make sure everyone is present. He grins: “I’m feel like I am the players’ dad looking after them all!”
8.00am – We are through security and on to the plane. I am sitting next to Southall manager Max Howell. He admirably video calls his young children prior to take-off.
8.35am – The Aurigny Airline flight to Guernsey departs on schedule. It’s a one-hour journey spanning 160 miles. Also on board are the three match officials for this afternoon’s game. Not surprisingly, they respectfully keep their distance.
older guys readily tuck into fried eggs and black pudding! 12noon – The coach is ready to take us to the game.
12.30pm – We pull up at Guernsey’s newly unveiled £10 million Victoria Park Stadium which is staging only its second fixture. The Southall party are warmly greeted by Guernsey directors John Loveless and Nic Legg.
12.35pm – I take a peek at the facilities consisting of two excellent grandstands on either side (offering 700 seats combined) and covered terracing behind both goals. I am thoroughly impressed by the 3,000 capacity venue. It is easily up to National League South grading criteria. The Guernsey Football Association offices are here too.
1.00pm – Several of the Southall players don’t have football boots compatible with requirements specified by Victoria Park’s artificial pitch manufacturer. However, Guernsey are able to loan replacement boots.
8.50am – There is escalating merriment amongst the Southall squad because midfielder Chris Mulindwa has fallen asleep with his mouth wide open. So, his crafty teammates rest a coffee stirrer on his lower lip. I take a photo to capture the moment for posterity.
9.00am – Max explains his deep-thinking managerial philosophy to me. “My players are chess pieces that I move around the pitch,” he says, reflecting on his nine years at Southall as a player, then coach and now manager.
9.35am – We touch down in Guernsey and the local coach appears outside the tiny airport. Our driver is a dead ringer for TV personality Bill Oddie. Much to my amazement, he negotiates the narrow island roads by frequently mounting pavements to pass oncoming cars. This time, I am sat alongside chairman Sanjeev. He describes his burning desire to find his beloved club a permanent stadium in Southall. It will end 33 years of nomadic groundsharing following the loss of their spiritual home at Western Road. They are currently based out of the area at Burnham but will switch to Hayes & Yeading next season.
10.00am – We stop off at a very nice hotel where Southall booked pre-match breakfast. It is good to see the players choosing healthy options from the buffet spread although some of us
1.10pm – I approach Southall director Stephen Harrison for an in-depth chat. His family possess a long association with the club and Stephen outlines how he decided to become a coowner. In addition, I spot a couple of loyal Southall supporters visiting Guernsey for the weekend.
2.00pm – Kick-off in our Isthmian League South Central Division encounter. Guernsey have the wind behind them and dominate pulsating first half exchanges without scoring. Into the second period, Southall muster a great 20 minutes peppering the home goalmouth. All of a sudden, Guernsey break away and Sam Murray decisively shoots into the net. Two minutes later, Southall are reduced to ten men (Ryan Hope red card) thereby affecting their chances of gaining a positive result.
3.50pm – Final score…Guernsey 1 Southall 0, attendance 891. A vital three points for the ‘Green Lions’ in battling against relegation.
4.20pm – Guernsey serve a delicious sit-down meal of Thai green curry to the Southall party in a reserved section of the plush clubhouse. Yet the West London players are visibly disappointed by the match outcome and eat in near silence.
5pm – The coach returns to take us to the airport ahead of our 6.10pm flight.
7.10pm – After the Southall contingent waited patiently in Departures throughout an unexpected one-hour delay, we embark on our plane back to London. I’m seated again beside manager Max who is considerably deflated by this defeat. He gives me a fascinating blow by blow analysis of the match I’ve just watched. I tell him that he can take plenty of positives from his team’s performance.
8.15pm: We land at Gatwick Airport to conclude our lengthy day out. There are handshakes all around as the exhausted Southall party go their separate ways freshly anticipating local derbies versus Rayners Lane and Uxbridge over Easter.
Needless to say, I was pretty cream crackered when I eventually arrived home, but the trip will go down as one of my most memorable ever.
By Tony Incenzo
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
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
Match Officials
Referee: Adewunmi Soneye
Assistant 1: Matthew Pointer
Assistant 2: Daniel Manning
Nantwich Town
Perry Bircumshaw
Troy Bourne (Club Captain)
Joel Connolly
Kai Evans
Ben Garratt (GK)
Ben Hockenhull
Byron Harrison
Steven Hewitt
Paddy Kennedy
James Melhado
Kelvin Mellor
Eric Merner (GK)
Kofi Moore
Alex Panter
Tom Pratt
Joe Robbins
Callum Saunders
Matthew Tweedley
Reece Vaughan