BEN Harrison has flagged an area for improvement in his Witton Albion team in the 2026/27 season.
The U Lock It Stadium side ended the season eighth on the Northern Premier League West ladder, a rise of nine places from the previous campaign.
They lost only four of their last 13 games, form which steered them away from the threat of a relegation dogfight.
Harrison said he knew when the campaign got going they would have a few challenges to overcome.
“At the start of the season we were a young side,” he explained.
“We rebuilt the squad; I think we named three who were here from the previous season.
“So we knew it would be tough to rebuild the squad and get everyone settled down.
“A young squad with loads of ability, so we were inconsistent at the start and we knew that was going to happen.
“And then since the Stafford game (February 7), we won nine in 13 which, in any league especially non-league level, is some going.
“So there’s no regrets because you learn from the losses and I learnt massively a manager this year.
“I think I learnt more this year than last. I’ve enjoyed every minute, even at bad times, and I’m just made up that we had a bit of a run.”
Avro were the only side from the seven who finished above them who they failed to beat during the term.
He added: “We have shown we’re capable of competing with anyone.
“We just need to be a bit more consistent which we have since Kidsgrove here (4-1 home loss on December 13).
“That was a tough moment because we were bullied, outplayed and we were 4-1 down after half an hour but since then, with the odd blip, we’ve been absolutely brilliant and I’m proud of all the lads.”
Witton Albion’s end-of-season award winners
Manager’s Player of the Season: Tom Hoyle
Supporters’ Player of the Season: Joe Edwards; Runner-up: Freddy Garbutt
Goal of the Season: Harry Brazel, free kick vs Vauxhall Motors
Players’ Player of the Season: Cam Terry; Runner-up: Tom Hoyle
Top Goalscorer: Freddy Garbutt – 22 goals in all competitions
Ethel Stelfox Award: Hillary Conneely
