Moloney may make Utd return

SKELMERSDALE United boss Dave Powell has not ruled out the possibility of re-signing Bury goalkeeper Scott Moloney after his recent loan spell expired.

The manager - whose side were beaten 3-1 by Frickley Athletic in the FA Trophy last weekend - was also confident that new signing Rhys

McNally will play an important role for Skem this term.

The strugglers are currently bottom of the Evo-Stik West after winning just one of their opening 11 games - and Powell believes McNally offers strength in depth as they attempt to move up the table.

“It’s good to be working with Rhys again,” the manager explained. “I worked with him at Burscough when he was released by Wigan and built his confidence.

“He came to Skelmersdale [previously] then moved on and did really well for Prescot Cables last year and tired to better himself at Conference North level and unfortunately that didn’t work out for him.

“I’m glad to have him on board and get him up to speed quickly. It’ll give us some options in difference places on the field.

“He’s a versatile player who can give us options in different places on the field - left-sided defence and midfield - so it’s good to have him on board.”

Goalkeeper Moloney made just two appearances during his time with United before returning to parent club Bury, mainly acting as back-up to inform stopper Terry Smith.

But Powell moved to confirm that the club would be interested in taking Moloney on loan again after the 17-year-old impressed during his short spell with the club.

“He’s been fully committed to the cause, played a few games for us and we couldn’t put him at fault technically for any of the goals,” he added.

“He’s been an absolute star and had a good report back to Bury from me. Unfortunately with the financial position we’re in we can’t afford to bring him across from where he lives in Halifax so he’s with Bury at the moment.

“They’re considering their position. I think he’s done well for us and I think he’s enjoyed the experience and I think he’ll grow from the experience.

“The offer is there from us to keep him with us but it’s down to Bury to decide what’s best for their player at this stage of his career.

“I’d just like to thank Bury and Scott in particular for what they’ve given over the last four or five weeks.” BY GRAHAM ELLIS

Cross Lane in Wallasey was the destination for Southport