Burr's Pitmen put on a strong performance in the Southern Premier Central league. Following the Christmas period, the competition for the title narrowed down to a battle between Hednesford and the long-standing leaders Stourbridge. The momentum changed after Hednesford secured a 1-0 victory over Stourbridge in March, allowing the Pitmen to eventually clinch the top spot with just 3 games remaining. The championship was secured on the last matchday at Royston Town, with De'Marlio Sterling-Brown scoring the decisive goal in a 2-1 victory that confirmed their promotion.

Key Results

Stourbridge 3-1 Hednesford Town - 5th October 2022 - War Memorial Athletic Ground

A hat-trick from former Hednesford Town striker Reece Styche sunk Hednesford in a decisive match which extended Stourbridge's gap at the top of the table. The Glassboys registered 25 shots at Hednesford's goal in a dominant onse-sided display Even at this early stage of the season, it looked like Stourbridge's title to lose.

Hednesford Town 1-0 Stourbridge - 11th March 2023 - Keys Park

Stourbridge had sat top of the league since September and by Christmas it looked a foregone conclusion that the title was going to the War Memorial Ground. Hednesford had steadily picked up form, not dropping lower than 3rd position since November. With top scorer Reece Styche now departed (signed for Lincoln Red Imps in Gibraltar), there form had stuttered. A class finish from the experienced Kyle Bennett in the 72nd minute, a rocket from outside the area, was the difference in a tight and hotly contested fixture at Keys Park. Such was the emotion, Stourbridge's Lee Vaughan saw a red card following a 2-footed challenge on De'marlio Sterling-Brown.

Royston Town 1-2 Hednesford Town - 22nd April 2023 - Garden Walk

The Pitmen just needed to better Stourbridge's result on the final day of the season to secure the Southern Premier League title and promotion to the Vanarama National North. Leroy Lita was on hand to give Hednesford the lead from the spot after his shirt was tugged by Bell-Toxtle from a corner. De'marlio Brown-Sterling made it 2 in first-half stoppage time, slotting home at the near post. Royston's Jackson-Davis scored a goal of the season contender to pull one back for Royston, a lovely volley smashed into the top corner. News came through that Stourbridge had been held 1-1 at home to Leiston meaning the Pitmen were confirmed as champions and promotion to the Vanarama North.

FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round - Hednesford Town 7-1 Clitheroe

FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round - Duliwch Hamlet 2-1 Hednesford Town

Hednesford delivered their best performance of the season and secured their largest victory with a 7-1 demolition of Clitheroe in the 1st Qualifying Round, witnessed by the season's biggest crowd of 727. In the 2nd Qualifying Round, they faced a trip to Dulwich Hamlet from the Vanarama South. Despite being 2-0 down due to a brace from Dan Smith, Hednesford managed to score through Mason Birch just before halftime. However, they were unable to turn the match around.

FA Trophy 3rd Qualifying Round - Canvey Island 2-1 Hednesford Town

Starting from the 3rd Qualifying Round, the draw brought a rematch of the 2004 FA Trophy Final with Canvey Island, a significant occasion considered by many as Hednesford's greatest moment. In a parallel turn of events, just like when a late Chris Brindley free-kick secured victory for Hednesford in front of the SKY cameras at Villa Park, this time it was Canvey Island who dealt a late blow and sought retribution. Connor Hubble sealed the win for Canvey Island with a direct free-kick over the Hednesford wall in injury time.

Southern League Cup 2nd Round - Bracknell Town 1-4 Hednesford Town

Southern League Cupe 3rd Round - Hednesford Town 1-0 Frome Town

Southern League Cup 4th Round - Stratford Town 1-1p Hednesford Town

Southern League Cup Quarter Final - Hitchin Town 1-0 Hednesford Town

At the beginning of the season, Tiernan Brooks, who was on loan from Notts County, was the first-choice goalkeeper for the club. He played in 31 matches and managed to keep 9 clean sheets before being called back to his original club in January. In December, he was named the player of the match for his outstanding performance against Coalville Town, where he not only kept a clean sheet but also showed quick thinking by delivering a direct ball over the top to striker Stanley Anaebonam, resulting in the winning goal.

In January, Aaron Clayton took on the role vacated by Tiernan Brooks. He made only 8 appearances and managed 1 clean sheet before departing the team to join Alvechurch in February. His standout moment was securing a clean sheet in the 1-0 victory against Leiston.

Maison Campbell, the 19-year-old goalkeeper, was loaned from neighbours AFC Telford for the last 10 matches of the season, during which he achieved 3 clean sheets. He was awarded the player of the match title in the 1-0 victory against Needham Market, a game in which The Pitmen had to play with 10 men following a red card given to full-back Joseph Halsey.

Keith Lowe, aged 37, was one of the most seasoned players at the club, boasting experience from playing in the Football League for prominent clubs like Wolves, Burnley, QPR, Swansea, and Port Vale. Steve Burr relied on him to mentor the younger players in defence, and he participated in 36 matches overall. His standout performance occurred early in the season at Keys Park against St. Ives Town in a 4-0 victory, where he demonstrated exceptional game reading skills and executed several crucial interceptions.

Lewis Ison, a 24-year-old, was among several centre-backs who partnered with first-choice Keith Lowe. He made 31 appearances, 18 of which were as a substitute. Notably, Lewis delivered an outstanding performance in the 5-0 victory against Basford Town in October, excelling in tackles, aerial duels, and ball control.

Former Wolves academy centre-back Todd Parker was possibly the second option for Steve Burr in the center of the defense, as he played 28 games and had a solid streak of consecutive matches towards the end of the season. Although he had to wait until October for his debut, he made a strong impression in the 5-0 victory against Basford Town. His standout performance in the crucial match against Stourbridge in March was a significant contribution to the team.

Harvey Portman, a 19-year-old, played 21 games as a centre-back for the Pitmen. His standout performance occurred in the 1-0 victory against Frome Town in the Southern League Cup, where he collaborated well with experienced player Keith Lowe. Portman excelled in ground play, making numerous interceptions, while Lowe dominated in the air battles.

Joseph Halsey, a 19-year-old speedy right back, was the first player signed by Steve Burr for the team after being released from Luton Town's academy. He went on to play 35 matches in the right back position, with his standout performance occurring in the 4-0 victory against Royston Town at Keys Park. His crucial attacking role included providing an assist to Leroy Lita for the opening goal with a well-placed cross.

Matthew Taylor, a left-back, arrived at the club on the same day as Joseph Halsey after being released from Warrington Town. Initially signed as a back-up for first-choice left-back Adam Livingstone, he performed adequately when called upon, making appearance in total. Following Livingstone's departure in January, Taylor's role expanded, leading to an outstanding performance against local rivals Tamworth in April, where he contributed 2 goals in a 3-1 victory.

Adam Livingstone, a Scottish player with experience in top-tier football with Motherwell, transferred from rival team Stafford Rangers. He began the season as the first-choice left-back, starting 25 matches before opting to return to Scotland and sign with Brora Rangers in January. His standout performance in the 3-1 victory against Mickleover Sports at Keys Park in August earned him the player of the match accolade.

Zac Hartley is a utility player who primarily serves as a back-up full-back. He earned his first start in the significant FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round match against Dulwich Hamlet. Throughout the season, he made 15 appearances and demonstrated his versatility by playing on both flanks when needed. In a crucial moment, he remained composed and successfully converted one of the penalties during the Southern League Cup 4th Round shootout, contributing to the team's victory over Stratford Town.

Oscar Rutherford was loaned to Keys Park at the end of January from Eastleigh and made 11 appearances playing as a right-back. During his time at Keys Park, he faced challenges, receiving a red card at Redditch and getting injured at Stratford Town. However, he delivered his top performance during the crucial victory against Stourbridge at Keys Park in March.

Ben Bailey, the ex-club captain and legendary player with more than 300 appearances for the team, now aged 32, found himself on the sidelines this season. He only started one game, which was the 3-2 loss to Ilkeston in November, and made 5 substitute appearances. He delivered a strong performance in the FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round, contributing to the team's 7-1 victory over Clitheroe after coming off the bench. Following three stints with the club, it seems like the right moment for him to seek a fresh challenge.

Charlie Mitchell, an 18-year-old left-back, was brought in on loan from Darlington as a backup player towards the end of the season. He only played once, entering the field as a substitute in the 76th minute during the 3-3 draw against Stratford Town in March.

James McQuilkin, a seasoned 34-year-old central midfielder, played a crucial role in Steve Burr's championship-winning team. With consistent performances in all 37 matches he started, he was a regular starter when fit and able. He excelled in several games, scoring 3 goals in total. His standout performance came in November at home against Rushall Olympic, where he dominated the midfield and contributed with an assist.

Harry Manton, a 19-year-old ex-Birmingham City trainee, became a vital playmaker for the Pitmen in his 29 appearances. He registered 12 assists and scored 3 goals while playing in midfield. Despite being out of the first-team picture until mid-September, he gradually earned his spot in the team and the manager's strategies. Manton produced exceptional performances, scoring important goals against Frome Town in the Southern League Cup and Bedford Town in the league. His standout moment occurred during the 6-2 victory against Ilkeston Town in April, where he assisted in 3 goals.

Reece Gaskell, a 21-year-old central midfielder who was released from Oldham Athletic, became a member of the club in October. Initially brought in as a backup for the central midfield position, he started in 8 games, while coming off the bench for 17 matches. His standout performance came during the 4-1 victory against Redditch United in the Southern League Cup 2nd Round, where he scored a well-deserved goal with a skillfully placed shot from outside the penalty area.

Samir Nabi, a Pakistani international central midfielder, served primarily as a backup this season, featuring in 16 matches. His standout performance occurred when he started against Redditch United at Keys Park in October, delivering a solid performance and providing an assist.

At 21 years old, Luke Rowe is a central midfielder who was on the fringes of the first team. He has played in 13 matches this season, finding the back of the net once with a penalty kick against Stratford Town in the 4th Round of the Southern League Cup.

Jed Davies, who was considered the 6th choice central midfielder, was deemed surplus to requirements by Steve Burr this season. Consequently, he was permitted to go on loan to Boldmere St. Michaels in September. Although he made 8 appearances before departing, he went on to accumulate 32 appearances at Boldmere.

Kyle Bennett is a seasoned winger with a background in the Football League and was named Hednesford's Player of the Year. Among outfield players, no one played more games than Kyle, highlighting his crucial role in the team's creative and attacking strategies. With 17 assists, 7 goals, and 5 player of the match awards, his exceptional contributions were evident throughout the season. One of his standout moments was the winning goal against Stourbridge, which played a significant role in the title race.

Joe Cuff, the winger aged 26, was among 3 players who made over 40 appearances this season, featuring in 41 matches in total. With 9 assists and 6 goals to his name, the ex-Stafford Rangers player endeared himself to the Pitmen fans. His impressive goal in the 1-0 victory against Leiston, where he skillfully maneuvered inside and struck the ball into the far corner, proved decisive and led to him being named the man of the match.

Chay Tilt, a versatile winger capable of playing on both sides, initially served as a substitute for Kyle Bennett and Joe Cuff. However, he ended up playing a significant role in the Pitmen's triumphant season. Despite starting only 17 games out of his 36 appearances, Tilt managed to score two goals and provide four assists. His standout display occurred during the away match against Bracknell Town in the 2nd Round of the Southern League Cup, where he played a key role in a 4-2 victory.

At the club, Leroy Lita, a 38-year-old veteran striker with extensive experience, including playing and scoring in the Premier League with Reading and Swansea City, assumed the dual role of player/coach. Despite his advanced age, he was entrusted with the crucial position of first-choice striker, featuring in 42 matches and finding the net 21 times. Throughout the season, there were numerous standout moments, particularly his impressive run of scoring 5 goals in the final 4 games, proving pivotal during a crucial phase of the campaign. One of his standout performances occurred in November at Keys Park, where he excelled in a 4-0 victory over Royston Town, scoring twice and assisting his strike partner Stanley Anaebonam for another goal.

Stanley Anaebonam, aged 23, made a strong start to the season, demonstrating his talent that surpassed the level of the Southern Premier League Central. His impressive goal-scoring record in the initial months of the season, averaging more than a goal per game, quickly made him a favorite among fans. In October, he was honored with the Southern Premier League Central player of the month award for scoring 11 goals in that month alone. With scouts taking notice and interest growing, he made the decision to join Finn Harps in Ireland in January to pursue his dream of professional football. Throughout the season, he played 28 games, scored 31 goals, and was named player of the match 6 times, achieving numerous standout moments. Particularly memorable were his hat-tricks against Kings Langley, Bedford Town, and Redditch United.

At 23 years old, Mason Birch is a backup striker who excelled whenever he got the chance to play. He made 25 appearances, 11 as a substitute, scoring 7 goals and receiving the player of the match award twice. Undoubtedly, his standout moment was when he scored a hat-trick against Clitheroe in the 1st Qualifying Round of the FA Cup in September.

De'marlio Brown-Sterling joined the club in January with the hope of filling the gap left by Stanley Aneabonam's departure. A somewhat unexpected signing, De'marlio had been inactive in the sport since his time at Bolton Wanderers' academy. It took him a few matches to adjust to the level of play, but he hit his stride just in time for the crucial run-in, scoring 7 goals in the final 4 macthes. He ended up with a total of 12 goals in 17 games, but his most memorable moment was the winning goal against Royston Town on the last day, securing the title and promotion. Despite his significant contribution, he declined to extend his contract with the club.

Riley O'Sullivan served as a backup striker with limited playing time, starting 2 matches and making 11 appearances as a substitute. He scored his only goal during the Southern League Cup 2nd Round match against Bracknell Town, contributing to a 4-1 victory.

Arjun Toor, 19 year old striker, signed on loan from local Football League club Walsall in December in anticipation of Stanley Anaebonam's departure. With the arrival of De'marlio Sterling-Brown a few weeks later, Arjun was left on the fringes ultimately. Made 6 appearances and scored 3 in his limited opportunities. Scored the 4th goal in a 4-1 win over Hitchin Town in December for the high point of his stay.