Vanarama Monthly awards for February
By Ray Simpson
The month's awards from Vanarama
VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH- MANAGER OF THE MONTH
Steve Watson (York City)
Steve Watson’s start at York City was tricky to say the least – but things seem to be clicking for the ex-Gateshead boss at the minute, claiming the most wins of any National League North side in February.
Not even a defeat to Hereford could dampen the Minstermen’s spirit in a month which saw them win every other game they played.
The month began with an away trip which was turning into one of those days until two late, quickfire goals completed an incredible turnaround win against Alfreton Town.
A Jordan Burrow brace saw them comfortably dispatch Ashton United at Bootham Crescent before heading to Kidderminster Harriers the following week and claiming the spoils with a 2-1 win.
The final game of the month saw Hamza Bencherif and, quite fittingly, Wes York bag goals nine and ten of the month for the Club, who now sit just eight points away from the top seven.
VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH - PLAYER OF THE MONTH
Mark Anderson (Spennymoor Town)
Three games, three wins and three goals. It’s been an incredible month for Spennymoor Town’s Mark Anderson.
His goals have helped Jason Ainsley’s side push themselves into serious title contention, mixing it with Chorley and Stockport County for the ultimate prize.
A 2-0 win at Nuneaton Borough saw Anderson open his account for the month before bagging the winner, and a crucial three points on the road at Altrincham.
And the midfield maestro capped off an exceptional month with the winning goal over Leamington at Brewery Field – a win that saw them put clear daylight between the top three and the chasing pack.
The Club know they blew a big chance at this of last season to achieve a top seven finish, but there's no sign of Spennymoor making the same mistake 12 months on.
VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH- VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
Jordan Tyms (Altrincham)
Jordan Tyms has won Volunteer of the Month for Altrincham in the National League North.
In February, the Club dedicated their League game versus Bradford (Park Avenue) to “Football v Homophobia”, celebrating the campaign’s tenth anniversary and as part of FvH Action Month. Altrincham became the first Club in world football to wear a rainbow kit.
The response was outstanding, with global media coverage and messages of support. A four-figure sum was raised for a Manchester Youth Charity too.
This event was Jordan’s idea and he was also behind the execution of it on the day, devoting dozens of hours per week to make it a success and ensured other volunteers and the Club’s Directors were aware of their responsibilities and delivered according to the plan.