HOWARD’S WAY IS THE RIGHT WAY FOR SKEM
AS PARTING gifts go, a four-goal salvo to guide your team to promotion is up there with the best. But that’s just what Mike Howard was able to give North West Counties League side Skelmersdale United as they romped to victory in their Inter-Step play-off final at Cinderford Town.
And although the 22-year-old striker will link up with Warrington Town next season, he is quick to praise those who have rekindled his love of the game, particularly Skem boss Paul McNally.
Not only did Howard score four of his side’s goals at their Southern League Division One South hosts, he also had a hand in the fifth for Baba Conteh.
“The club are back where they belong,” he admitted. “I know they had a tough few years when they were relegated but now that they’re back hopefully, with the squad that they have, they can push again next season and go for it again.
“I’m off to Warrington next season so that’s going to be another big challenge but it will be an opportunity for me to learn and to showcase myself at a higher level.
“I was at Preston North End as a kid and a young pro and then I was at Morecambe before I dropped down the leagues which is probably the best thing you can ever do as a young player because it gives you the chance to play games and really that’s all you ever want to do.
“It has been great with Macca [McNally] bringing me in and allowing me to play football again so I need to thank him as well as the other lads. It’s a kick in the teeth when you aren’t playing each week then getting released knocks your confidence even more so I have a lot to thank Macca for – giving me the time and taking the effort to get my hunger back.”
Howard had a handful of games for Marine and loan spells at Cork City, Hednesford Town and Stalybridge Celtic while on the books of Preston but it has been in the North West Counties League where he has made a name for himself.
Skem boss McNally added: “What a player he is and what a great lad. It’s a pity he won’t be with us next season but I wish him all the success in the world and I’m sure he will get back to the top level of the game which is where he belongs.”