Wishaw Wycombe making the step up Amateur side set for new league challenge
Wi s h aw Wycombe’s amateur side will play football in the Caledonian League next year after a stunning first season.
Coach Alex Richardson praised the side for their efforts after they won a treble of the Lanarkshire League, the Freddy Davis Memorial League Cup and the Lanarkshire Cup.
A 6-2 victory over Lanarkshire Forrest in the League Cup and a 2-1 win over Carluke Hearts in the Lanarkshire Cup had Wycombe well on their way.
The Carluke outfit were also the main competitors in the league and a nailbiting season finished with Wishaw needing a draw away to Hearts.
A last-minute Kyle Richardson goal sealed the title in dramatic fashion and the success of the squad means they have now won 22 trophies since they were formed back in 2000.
Alex believes the secret to their success lies with the loyalty shown by the team over a number of years and hopes making the move to a tougher league will bring with it more success.
He said: “Five of the team – Kevin McGhee, Richardson, Darren Reid, Aaron Bulloch and Billy Tweedie – were all there in 2005 for that first cup win, and indeed Aaron and Kyle have 17 years’ unbroken service which is quite remarkable in this day and age.
“Andrew Watters is also earning his 10-year testimonial this year, and it gives you an idea of the loyalty, commitment and team spirit that we have in abundance.
“Despite the unbelievable season of winning a treble, we had made the decision back in February that we wanted to take the next step and move onto a fresh challenge.
“The possibilities of taking up a position in one of the two premier amateur leagues in Scotland was offered to us and after much deliberation we were invited to play in the Caledonian League next season.
“But we have to give a huge thanks to the Lanarkshire League for giving us the opportunity of stepping up into the amateur ranks but now we’re looking forward to competing against teams from further afield.
“The club would like to take this opportunity to thank sponsors Deans Pharmacy in Coltness and Road Chef for their continued support.
“The club also extends thanks to Karen and all the staff and patrons of the Clydesdale Bar in Overtown for their hospitality season.”
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