MICHAEL Clegg and Warrington Rylands appear to be a match made in heaven.

Their union was confirmed on Valentine’s Day in 2023 as the former Atherton Collieries and Ashton United boss was named as successor to the departed Jody Banim.

As he celebrates a year in charge at Gorsey Lane, he can reflect upon a highly successful 12 months that has propelled the club into promotion contention.

Clegg’s first year at Warrington Rylands

His first year in charge has seen Clegg take command of 46 matches in all competitions which have yielded 22 victories, giving him a win ratio of just under 48 per cent.

There have also been 14 draws and 10 defeats during Clegg’s time in charge.

Rylands have netted 72 goals in those 46 matches, scoring three times or more in eight matches with their highest-scoring win being the 7-2 thrashing of Stafford Rangers back in December.

In the same amount of time, Blues have conceded 53 times.

Warrington Guardian: Rylands' highest-scoring win under Michael Clegg was the 7-2 thrashing of Stafford Rangers in DecemberRylands' highest-scoring win under Michael Clegg was the 7-2 thrashing of Stafford Rangers in December (Image: Mark Percy)

Can Blues push on again?

As previously mentioned, Rylands are in the thick of a push for what would be a fourth promotion in five years having started their run through the leagues by winning the North West Counties League Division One South title back in 2019.

With 13 games of the current season to go, Blues sit second in the Northern Premier League Premier Division table on 53 points.

Runaway leaders Radcliffe are 12 points clear so realistically, the main aim for Clegg’s side will be to maintain a spot in the top five, which would secure a play-off spot.

Their cushion to sixth-placed Macclesfield is currently six points, but the Silkmen and seventh-placed Guiseley, who are a point further back, both have two games in hand on Blues.

Last time out, Rylands were 1-0 winners over Matlock Town – a result that allowed them to get themselves back on track following a run of one win in eight matches either side of the new year.

On Saturday, they make the short trip to FC United of Manchester, who currently sit 16th in the table.

Warrington Guardian: How the upper reaches of the NPL Premier Division table currently looksHow the upper reaches of the NPL Premier Division table currently looks (Image: FootballWebPages)