1 week Ago By [email protected] (James Bedford)
Scoring more than 90 goals this season while conceding just 11 in their 22 league games has laid the foundations for Stamford Bels' success. A settled defence this term has been crucial to their championship win after they shipped more than 75 goals last term. Goalkeeper Keenan Murphy has returned between the posts after a stint outfield last season and has been well protected by Fin Sewell, Callum Willimont, Jacob Smith, George Warrington, Harrison McLoughlin and Kieran Evans.
Joint player-boss Lewis Morley said: "Our defence has been immense this season and having a settled back four each week has been key. "We're lucky to have six players who can rotate across defensive positions and this year we've been fortunate to have a top-quality goalkeeper back between the sticks. "Due to our shortage of players last season, Keenan had to step in as a centre-back but he's an unbelievable shot-stopper who has played a huge role in our success.
" Sewell and Warrington both joined Bels from Bourne Reserves while Willimont made the late switch from Oundle. Morley added: "Fin initially didn't plan to play much this season, but has instead been the only player with a 100 per cent appearance record across the club. "He's fast, strong and, with a wicked delivery, he's been a fantastic addition.
"Callum was one of the lads who joined just five days before the season started. "He's a calm and composed defender with a sharp eye for goal, his passion and drive to win have been vital. "George has been a versatile centre-back who combines composure on the ball with real leadership qualities.
He's strong in the air and a natural winner." McLoughlin also made the move from Oundle while Evans returned to the club to form a strong partnership with Smith. Morley explained: "Jacob has been a true warrior for the club.
"He's a proper old-school defender who is strong, aggressive, dominant in the air, and never backs down from a challenge. "When Oundle folded, we were fortunate to bring in Harrison. "I'd tried to sign him every season for the past eight years, so securing a player of his ability was a real game-changer.
"He's been comfortable at left-back, centre-back or left wing and he's usually the best player on the pitch. "After stepping away last season, Kieran couldn't resist returning. "He's a hard-tackling, old-school player with the best set-piece ability I've ever seen.
Having him back this season has been a massive boost." Captain Dave Atkinson has spearheaded an 'unstoppable' midfield alongside Scott Toomey, Luke Toomey and Duffy-Weekes which Morley feels is the 'best within the league.' He commented: "Dave has been a central figure in the club's growth since he joined.
"He is one of the few who has been here since my first season. A relentless workhorse, he has dragged us through tough games and delivered crucial goals at key moments. "Scott is a warrior who covers every blade of grass week in, week out.
"He's tough-tackling and relentless and embodies everything Bels stands for. Having been at the club since I started managing eight years ago, he's a true Bels legend. "Much like his brother Scott, Luke is a battler.
"Despite his age, he has stepped up into a senior role this season, showing unmatched fight and passion. "His commitment is undeniable after traveling down from Leeds every week to drive us towards the title. "Kieran is known as the man who 'retires' every year but always finds his way back.
"He's been a massive boost to the squad. Last season he captained Blackstones, so re-signing him for this campaign was a huge win. "He's the most skillful player I know with the talent to play at the highest level — but his heart belongs to Bels.
" Neil has netted the most goals for Bels this season with Louie Roberts also among the division's leading marksmen. Morley commented: "Jordan is the angry Scotsman who is the kind of player who can win a game on his own. "He was one of our key signings at the start of the season and his impact has been undeniable with 22 goals and 25 assists.
"He has been a driving force behind our title-winning success while Louie has truly stepped up this season. "Playing across the entire front three, his relentless work-rate and love for the club have driven him to become our second top scorer. "When the 'Robzy Scoop' comes out, he's simply unplayable and we can't wait to see him in orange again next season.
" The forward line has also been boosted by Alfie Winters, Josh Dowell, Dan Gargan and Zac Treweek during the super season. Morley said: "Alfie has the best feet I have seen. "He's a skillful hold up striker who is strong and passionate.
He's been a defender's nightmare this season and a true Bels legend. "Josh is probably the craziest bloke I know. "His blistering pace is unstoppable and, when you combine that with his lethal finishing, there's no defender in the league who can handle him when he's on his game.
"Dan's been a player who thrives in the biggest moments. "In our top-of-the-table clashes against Netherton and Whaplode, Gargs was the main man - his relentless work rate and constant pressure were key in defining our title-winning campaign. "Zac also deserves a special mention as he left midway through the season to join the Cadets.
"At the start of the campaign, he was instrumental in our success, scoring crucial winning goals against Warboys and Yaxley.".
