Words probably don’t do any justice to how the world has been turned upside down for everyone in recent times. Many of the things we’ve been used to doing, were taken away from us. Thankfully football resumed and the club were in a position to hit the ground running and the players have put an unbelievable run of results together to finish the year positively.

How have you managed with the stop start nature of the season?

It’s been challenging, keeping the players ticking over when there was no restart date insight. But credit to the group, when we’ve been able to resume, the players have really stepped up to the plate and been committed to the cause.

You’ve been coaching at the club for a few years now, how have you found the transition since moving into the role of first team manager?

Managing the first team is very different role to the reserves due to the added responsibility that comes with being in charge, but my principles remain the same. I like to create an atmosphere and environment that players want to be involved in, so they turn up every week and enjoy their football. Coupled with a focus on what we’re hoping to achieve game by game, encourages a drive towards our collective goal.

We’ve seen opportunities for players to make the step up as well, how have the group responded to your appointment?

We have a great mixture of experience and young players within our senior’s section, and everyone is working hard to be involved on a matchday. I don’t have any reservations to selecting younger players, providing they give 100% on the pitch and every player respect’s that. Our 8 wins from 9 games has a been a fantastic reaction, although it’s only the start. The hard work must continue.

A promising start to life as first team manager, you must be looking forward to 2022. What can we expect in future?

Absolutely, I can’t wait for competitive football to resume. I’m hoping we can pick up where we left off in 2021 to keep moving in the right direction, whilst continuing to introduce our youth players which has always been the Rangers way.

I’m very fortunate to have a talented set of players to work with, a very supportive committee working hard behind the scenes and a team of coaches who are dedicated to their roles in developing the players. With Lee and Gareth continuing to push our reserves players and Dom implementing our systems and tactics will be a huge contribution to future performances.

There are many positive aspects to the club’s future, things are looking bright for Hawarden Rangers.

Rangers face Coedpoeth United in their next fixture on Saturday 22nd January, a 1:30 kick off at The Gladstone. We look forward to welcoming you to the game.