By Jonathan White
The newly formed Nantwich Town Football Club Under-21 team (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563769946363 ), under the stewardship of Ryan Jones, has wrapped up its 2024 home campaign at the Swansway Stadium, leaving fans with plenty to cheer about in their debut season. Competing in the North West Under 21 Development League – Championship Division B, the young Dabbers have impressed, currently sitting second in the table after 14 matches.
With a record of 9 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, the U21s have demonstrated a strong debut season, defying expectations for a newly established side. Their home fixtures have been a key part of their journey, showcasing the team’s attacking flair and defensive resilience in front of their supporters.
Manager Ryan Jones, who transitioned from his role as Assistant Manager of the Dabbers’ women’s first team to lead the U21s, expressed pride in the team’s progress. Speaking after the final home match, Jones said:
“We’ve completed all our home 2024 fixtures. I take absolutely no credit whatsoever in the success we’ve enjoyed so far. The lads have had the bit between their teeth since game one and taken this side much further than I’d imagined we’d be at this stage.
“They’ve created such a brilliant playing and coaching environment, with an unwavering dedication, and I want to thank them for that. Whilst we’re in with a shout of winning the league, we’re going to give it our all and that should be every player’s ambition.
“But a league title won’t define success for me – success will be creating the foundations for a team that is developing first team footballers for years to come, hopefully here at Nantwich, and giving players throughout all age groups in our fantastic youth set up something to work towards.”
As they head into the final stages of the season, the Dabbers’ U21s remain firmly in contention for the league title, a testament to their determination and team spirit. However, Jones’ vision for long-term development highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a pathway to senior football.
For updates on league standings and remaining fixtures, fans can visit the North West Under 21 Development League website: https://fulltime.thefa.com/index.html?selectedSeason=813565799&selectedFixtureGroupAgeGroup=0&selectedDivision=567485837&selectedCompetition=0 .
With a bright future ahead and a strong foundation built in their first year, Nantwich Town FC’s Under-21 team is certainly one to watch.