We were hugely disappointed that Saturday’s game was postponed. We’d trained brilliantly all week and everyone was ready for the challenge against Avro. In my view, if you finish above Avro, you’ll probably win the league. There’s a lot to admire about them - apart from actually having to play them - but we’ll park that battle until mid-December.

This Saturday we welcome Stalybridge Celtic for another fantastic test. I won’t hide from the fact that our league position has brought some sleepless nights and plenty of internal pressure. But make no mistake - the challenge this league brings week after week is exactly what I wanted. And for a squad sitting in the bottom four, our lads carry themselves with the positivity, intensity and attitude of a top-four side. That’s down in no small part to the staff, who are absolutely smashing it behind the scenes.

Stalybridge Celtic handed me the biggest defeat of my managerial career back on 23 September 2025. I wanted to play them again the very next day - not out of frustration toward them, but because they were outstanding and taught us a lesson. I want to keep facing top teams like that until we crack it. When you’ve been used to winning for as many years as we have, nothing is more motivating or humbling than taking a few knocks. It sharpens you, focuses you and reminds you what the climb really feels like.

When we were flying, I’d get ten messages a day from people. This year, even the club cat barely gives me a meow - which, honestly, I love. It fires me up like I’m 21 again. The only way we don’t become successful again is if I choose not to be - because I’ve always believed in taking responsibility for my own success.

Now I need you. Over this next block of six games, your support will make a massive difference. Please come down, get behind the lads, make as much noise as you can, and enjoy the football. We’ll give you everything we’ve got.