By Jonathan White, photo by Peter Robinson
Nantwich Town FC Women kicked off their 2026-27 campaign with a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory to book their place in the final of the Leek Charity Shield football tournament.
The Dabbers travelled to the F. Ball Community Stadium in Leek on Sunday 5th July 2026 to face Leek Town FC Women in their opening pre-season fixture ahead of their first-ever season in Tier Five football.
After an entertaining contest ended 2-2 at full-time, Nantwich held their nerve from the penalty spot to claim a 4-3 shoot-out victory and secure a place in the Charity Shield final, where their opponents will be Port Vale Women, whose game was abandoned after 40 minutes due to a serious injury to a Crewe player with Vale leading 3-0.
The win provides an encouraging start to preparations for life in the North West Women’s Regional League Premier Division following back-to-back promotions.
Supporters can now back the team throughout what promises to be an exciting campaign, with 2026-27 season tickets now on sale via https://nantwichtownfc.ktckts.com/.
Adult season tickets are priced at £50; concessions and under-16s are £30. As well as gaining entry to all 11 home league matches a season ticket is also valid for the pre-season friendlies against Warrington Town on 19th July and Lichfield City on 9th August.
The Dabbers head into the new season full of confidence after winning the North West Women’s Regional League Division One South title last season, having also lifted the Cheshire Women’s & Youth Football League Premier Division championship the previous year.
Manager Dan Mellor believes the club is well prepared for the challenge ahead after assembling a squad capable of competing in a stronger division.
“We’re really excited about the squad that we’ve got,” said Mellor.
“Some of the players that have come in are really exciting and they’ve settled into the group really well. We’ve worked hard to bring in not only quality players but the right characters who fit the culture we’ve built at the club.”
Despite consecutive title-winning campaigns, Mellor insists last season’s achievements offer no guarantees.
“Last season counts for nothing now. Everyone – players, coaches and staff – has to improve because this is a much tougher league.
“Our aim isn’t just to survive. We want to establish ourselves in the division, continue improving and build something sustainable over the next three years.”
Mellor also thanked several experienced players who have departed the club after playing a significant role in its recent success, including Poppy Smith, Libby Bulkeley and Levi Lander.
“They’ve been a huge part of where we’ve got to and we owe them a lot. Some personalities are impossible to replace, but we’re confident the players we’ve brought in will add something different and help us keep moving forward.”
With five new signings already secured and more expected before the season begins, competition for places is increasing.
Pre-season will focus on embedding the team’s style of play while maintaining the high standards, determination and work ethic Mellor expects from anyone representing Nantwich Town.
He also highlighted the club’s long-term ambitions, pointing to the redevelopment of the development squad, the appointment of specialist coaches and the growing pathway for young players progressing into the first team.
“We’ve strengthened the coaching team with first-team coaches, a goalkeeping coach and a strength and conditioning coach, so the infrastructure is there to help players develop and allow the club to keep progressing.
“It’s an exciting time for everyone involved.”
With silverware already within reach in the Leek Charity Shield and a new league challenge on the horizon, the Dabbers will be hoping to carry their winning momentum into another landmark season.