Under 21s stars shine at awards afternoon

Presentation time: Left to right, Lewis Crane, Callum Prince, Owen Cushion, Zack Kopanski and Sam Stephens with their trophies. Picture by Kelly Jones.

Boss Ste Ellams has praised his Runcorn Linnets Under 21s side for their phenomenal progress since the club rejoined North West Development League two years ago.

On the back of a double-winning debut as Championship B title and Divisional Cup winners in 2024-25, the team embraced the challenges of Premier Division football last season.

Against older and more experienced sides, Linnets achieved third place and reached the Premier Cup semi-finals.

"What we have built over a two-year period is sensational and it's all down to you lads," said Ellams at Sunday's U21s awards ceremony in the MDB Clubhouse at APEC Taxis Stadium.

"We have also had seven lads through to play first-team football.

"The group we have here and the facilities are really good and it has been the best period of my coaching life.

"We will be looking to win the league next season."

Right back Callum Prince was named Manager's Player of the Season.

Ellams said Cal is a player, who rarely gets singled out but owns his position.

His importance has only been emphasised when he has been absent because he has been missed.

Owen Cushion was awarded Players' Player of the Year with his team-mates recognising an all-round contribution, which includes all-action displays in midfield and spectacular goals from set-pieces and open play.

Manager Ellams also praised Owen's commitment as one of the players, who are also involved in North West Counties League football on Saturdays.

Nine of the Under 21s squad were still eligible for the U18s in 2025-26 and the manager said it was important to recognise their performances.

Three players had been shortlisted for Young Player of the Year.

Defenders Charlie Ratcliffe amd Sam Hamling had both impressed in their breakthrough campaigns but the award went to midfielder Zack Kopanksi.

Zack has not only shown ability but an excellent attitude and never allowed his standards to drop.

The remaining two awards went to players, who are moving on to pastures new.

Striker Lewis Crane has scored close to 60 goals over the two seasons to twice top the team's scoring charts while also being top scorer in the division.

Still only 19 years old and having made his mark at first team-level as well as the U21s, Lewis has transferred to Witton Albion for the forthcoming season.

Also departing, as one of the players now out of the agegroup, is Sam Stephens.

The midfielder bowed out as winner of the U21s' Goal of the Season for his long-range effort in the home vicrory over champions Warrington Town.

Gifts were presented to club volunteers Kelly Jones (team secretary), Paul Tandy (kit manager), Martin Holding (videographer), Mark Doyle (social media/graphics) Tina Box (barperson) and Dave Bettley (match reporter).