Toolstation NCEL Premier Division
Athersley Rec
By their former joint manager Jason Dodsworth’s own admission, the Rec looked doomed with six or seven games to go last season. That was until the Rec’s legendary fighting spirit came to the fore and earned them several excellent results kept them up. The Rec have to build on that.
Manager
Sean Margison
Sean Margison is in sole control of Athersley. Picture: whiterosephotos.co.uk
Long-serving player, coach and now manager Margison is going it alone this year after Jason Dodsworth stepped down because of personal reasons. The solo Rec boss has brought in assistants Wayne Thompson and Kevan Locke and sprinkled his team with a few new additions.
Opening Five Fixtures
AFC Emley (A) – Emirates FA Cup, Teversal (A) – LC, Maltby Main (A), Albion Sports (A), AFC Mansfield (A).
Player Movement
In: Gareth Hunter (Athersley Rec), Brad Kilburn, Brad Johnston, Sam Bebbington.
Out: TBC
One to Watch
Ryan Smith
Ryan Smith celebrates his goal for Athersley in the 1-0 win over a Barnsley X1. Picture: thesaturdayboy.co.uk
The young striker hit the headlines after scoring the winner against a Barnsley X1 and he is someone who could surprise a few this season.
Prediction
Bottom Half