Future is bright for Royton Town

THE first team season may have finished for Royton Town but there is still plenty to play for as the shoots of progress start to push through.

But one thing could be looming large that may take their best young talent away – university.

Reserve player Aaron Thorpe, 21, is one touted for progression to the first team and he travels from Chester, where he studies, to play matches.

However, committee member Gary Diggle revealed others may decide to go further away, meaning they will not be able to come back.

“It’s their choice at the end of the day,” he said. “If they’ve got it in their heads, they’ve got to make their own decision.

“We have plenty of players who are progressing, both at our club and ones at a higher level, and some could even be in the first team next season.,

“Aaron has showed particular promise with the reserves and a decision on whether to promote him to the first team will most likely be made in pre-season, which starts in mid-July.”

While the first team suffered a disappointing end to its Manchester League, premier division campaign, ending up in third position, Royton Town’s other sides are doing well.

The reserves were promoted from division four after ending up in second position behind Heyside Reserves.

And the age group teams still have plenty to play for, with the Under-14s run by Martin Wild sitting top of their league and the U13s and U12s in with a chance of success.

The U12s also reached two cup finals, only to find themselves playing the same team, Middleton Lads and Girls Reds U12s, in both.

They are also their main rivals at the top of the league table!

Whatever happens, confidence is high that there is hope going forward that Royton can progress on the field and maybe win the Manchester League again.

“The future’s really bright,” added Gary.

“And quite a few of the younger players came up together under the reserve team manager, Paul Gidley. He had many of them since they were 12 years old.”

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