Davis: Other clubs should follow our lead

SPORT JONNY DAVIS described South Manchester Sports Club’s 65th anniversary celebrations as “sensational”.

Players past and present converged on the Urbis National Football Museum for a gala event that culminated in the club’s end-of-season awards.

“The event was befitting of our club and it was the best we’ve put on,” said Davis.

“Winning is not the most important factor at this club and this makes us different for any other.

“We’re a strong outfit which prides itself on participation, enjoyment and doing things the right way.”

Marksman Adam Lavin retained the Golden Boot, while young keeper Alex Davies and Toby Levy also received silverware in a season where South Manchester’s first team fell agonisingly short in the closing weeks.

Under Jody Marks, they reached three cup semi-finals and finished runners-up in the Accountants League Premier Division.

Marks said: “Football is a game of fine margins and with a bit more composure in the big games, the season could have been so very different.”

Former Manchester United player Paul Kirkham has been appointed senior football coach at the club.

During the evening, where the special guest was former Manchester City player Dennis Tueart, funds were raised for the Oncology Unit at The Christie Hospital.

South Manchester chairman Jonny Davis collected an award marking 50 years service for the club.

He said: “The club is a big part of my life and if it broke up I’d never join anyone else.”