It was always going to be hard to follow up on the success achieved last season but East reserves made a very good go of it. East finished up in second place, 8 points behind champions Prestwich Heys. East showed their will and determination to retain the league title by winning their first 11 games, keeping 8 clean sheets and actually went on to win 17 of their first 19 league games taking them into February where they tasted their first for the first time in over 12 months, against local rivals Dukinfield Town. This was to be the start of a bad month which saw them get knocked out of the Open Trophy to eventual winners, Prestwich Heys. Defeat was also inflicted by Leigh Athletic who were pushing for the title.
East reached the Manchester County Cup final for the second year in a row, hoping to retain the trophy. It was a tough game but after being down to ten men with 30 minutes left, opponents Maine Road equalised making it 1-1 after 90 minutes. The game went to penalties but east unfortunately lost 3-1. Danny Williams’ goal tally for the season was a magnificent 43 from 24 appearances. Skipper Simon Harrison notched up a very useful 24 goals in midfield from 34 appearances. But young James Blair was to make a clean sweep at the awards presentation collecting the Player’s player and the Manager’s player award. He is definitely one of a few players for the future at the club.
Get ready for the new season - win a load of balls for your team!
Footballs, footballs, footballs! We've teamed up with Umbro to bring you the perfect boost for pre-season training - 10 Club Website footballs for your team!
What would you do to improve the next generation of British footballers?
Youth development has been at the top of the grassroots football agenda lately, so what would you do to help improve the next generation of British talent? Have your say!