Liversedge FC back with a bang in FA Vase tie

The FA intend to finish the Vase, with matches up to the fourth round proper being played before the latest lockdown and with Liversedge having battled their way through to the last 32 of the competition they have been given something to look forward to despite the curtailment of the NCE League campaign.

Victories over Handsworth, Ashton Athletic, Newcastle Benfield, Guisborough Town and Sunderland Ryhope CW have meant that Sedge have gone further than ever before in the competition and are now within four more wins of a possible Wembley final.

They are now set to travel to the north east to face Hebburn Town in the fourth round on Saturday, April 17 (kick-off 3pm).

The tie is set to take place behind closed doors with spectators still not allowed at fixtures of this level until next month.

Liversedge have provisionally put themselves forward for a Yorkshire Cup competition, which is being overseen by Brighouse Town and could involve 12 teams.

They aim to join Brighouse Town, Golcar United, Emley AFC, Ossett United, Penistone Church, Thackley AFC, Steeton, Silsden, Garforth Town, Campion and Eccleshill United in a 12-team tournament pencilled in to run up to May 29. But confirmation of the competition is still being awaited as it is thought to be subject to spectators being allowed to attend.

During the 2021 lockdown Liversedge have strengthened their management team with Pav Singh joining as assistant manager and head of coaching.

Singh is no stranger to the club, having spent a few seasons as a player under Eugene Lacy and Kim Farrand. The team he was part of had a successful run in the FA Cup and Liversedge are delighted to have him on board as they look to kick on when the football resumes.

He is a regional coach developer for the Football Association and brings a wealth of experience in team, coach and player development for the club.

When appointed to his new role at Liversedge, Singh said: “The opportunity to progress at Liversedge was too good to turn down, the club has a clear vision and strategy that excites me.

“They have real intent and this will bring out the best in me and others. The things in place at this club and where it can go is frightening and I hope to add value and be part of a big project that is moving forward quickly.”

Manager Jonathan Rimmington said: “As a club, we are very excited that Pav is joining us and he brings a wealth of football knowledge and experience in all aspects of the game both on and off the pitch. He will add valuable support and strengthen the management team and club all in all.”

Mark Duffy has also joined Liversedge as under 23s manager, adding more valuable experience to the club’s set up.

Duffy gained his UEFA B Licence in 2003 and worked for Bolton Wanderers in their academy for more than 10 years, before scouting for the academy and first team.

He is a qualified teacher and successfully managed Ovenden West Riding to win the West Riding County Cup.

Duffy previously did scouting work for Shaw Lane in the Northern Premier League and Bradford Park Avenue in the National North League.

He said: “I’m really excited to be at Liversedge and working alongside the first team and the under 23s.

“Our goal is to create a clear pathway from the under 23s side into the first team, as well are continuing the success of Jonathan’s squad.

“I’m delighted to be at such an exciting and ambitious football club and I can’t wait to get started.”