Cunningham: 'Finishing fifth was great - now it's about progression'

29 Jul 2022 By Andy Sykes

Part 9 - Hurst Green finished in their highest ever position last season in fifth. Manager Steve Cunningham, a 52-year-old milkman, is keen to deliver more success to the Ribble Valley villagers.

How do you sum up last season?
“It was the first full season that I have experienced in the West Lancs Prem and the standard was better than I thought it would be.

"I got told in the meeting when I took the role that they wanted to stay in the division.

"So finishing fifth was great on the back of that. We got to the quarter finals of the Richardson Cup and beat Thornton 3-0 in the Shield but then lost to FC St Helens.”

Marc Young takes a tumble

Best side you faced and best player?
“The best footballing side we faced were Fulwood Amateurs. They kept the ball so well and were very mobile. As for stand out player, Dom Lawson at Thornton.

"His movement off the ball was superb, I can see why he has gone to Lancaster City.”

Players in and out
“We have lost both our centre backs – Marc Young has retired, he couldn’t commit which we respect. Another has gone to a North West Counties side, as have a few more.

"We’ve got five or six lads in who I have faith in and trust so we will see how they take to this level.”

Aims for the season
“It’s about progression isn’t it? A top three finish would be great, it depends how we adapt to losing those two at the back in particular. I’m looking forward to it.”

Where next?

Hine: 'I'm excited for what's ahead' Part 10 - Last season was one of discovery for Mark Hine’s young Coppull chargers – now it’s time to kick on in 2022/23 according to the former marksman.

Allen: 'We're not just here to make up the numbers' Part 8 - For Richie Allen, 2021/22 was mission accomplished – promotion to the Prem and a cup win to boot. After a debut season as a football manager, can he go one further at Wyre Villa?