Matty Whittingham enjoys his clinching goal Picture by Peter Gallagher-Headley Runcorn Linnets 4 Stalybridge Celtic 2 Report by Dave Bettley Runcorn wasted no time in posting their first victory of the season and yet this proved a long opening game. After being 3-0 up and coasting, Linnets were in grave danger as last season's Play-Off rivals Stalybridge pulled two goals back. But substitute Matty Whittingham signalled his arrival at the APEC by clinching the points with a se

Eve-of-season capture Mathew Whittingham is the latest young player through the dressing room door at APEC Taxis Stadium. He brings an impressive CV after representing some of of England's most famous clubs. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder, who hails from St Helens, started at Liverpool before a move to Manchester City saw him develop into one of their top young prospects. Eight years with the Citizens culminated in an Under 18s Premier League winner's medal with seven g

Versatile Finley Ryan has been promoted to the first-team squad after impressing in pre-season friendlies. The 19-year-old joined our Under 21s midway through last season to play in attack - although Michael Ellison has utilised Fin at left back, having spotted his potential at training. Fin lives in Widnes and attended Wade Deacon School, where staff recommended him for Cheshire Under 16s selection. Our U21s boss Ste Ellams managed the county side but Fin was unavailable for