Brig League Cup win was for Gerry says boss

Bamber Bridge captain Matt Lawlor lifts the NPL League Cup after their 2-1 win over Grantham Town (photo: Ruth Hornby)

The former Brig player, manager and committee member passed away at the age of 86 on the eve of this season.

And Reynolds said his team’s 2-1 victory over Grantham Town – courtesy of goals from Jamie Milligan and Regan Linney – on Wednesday evening at Leek Town’s  Harrison Park was a fitting tribute to him.

“I wrote in my programme notes ahead of the final that this occasion was dedicated to Gerry, who sadly passed away last year,” he said.

“He was great servant to the club and I’d like to dedicate this victory to him.”

Reynolds also spared a thought for two of the longest serving members of his squad – Chris Marlow and Alistair Waddecar.

They have spent their entire football careers at the Sir Tom Finney Stadium and the success over the Gingerbreads was their first taste of success.

“Jamie Milligan and Regan Linney are the matchwinners, but the whole team was magnificent. However, it would not be fair of me if I didn’t mention Ally Waddecar and Chris Marlow.

“They have been loyal  servants of the club and when I went around the dressing room before the game and asked people what they had won during their careers, they both said, ‘We haven’t won anything’.

“To see their faces at the end. They have stood by the club when they probably could have left and played at two or three levels higher.”

For Reynolds it signals a remarkable start to his time as Brig manager after  taking charge of the club in December.

The former Clitheroe and Kendal midfielder said the night was arguably the most memorable of his career.

“I think this win is as good as it gets to be honest,” he said. “People say you miss playing, but I am not sure.

“I love being the manager of Bamber Bridge.”

Brig will be looking to round-off their league campaign with victory over Ossett Albion at the Sir Tom Finney Stadium tomorrow. Fresh from winning the League Cup on Wednesday night, Neil Reynolds’ men are keen to end a six-match winless run in the NPL First Division North. Meanwhile, elsewhere in the division, Clitheroe host Brighouse Town still with a faint chance of reaching the play-offs. Burscough and Kendal are away to Ramsbottom and Farsley Celtic respectively.