Happy Celtic return for James Kinsey

It was a happy return to Bower Fold for James Kinsey on Tuesday night, as his Wythenshawe side saw off his former employers Stalybridge Celtic.

 Another familiar face was crucial to the victory, with Celtic youth product Prince Anuniru netting the decisive goal on 31 minutes. 

The midfielder – who was handed his Stalybridge debut by Kinsey in 2024 – came back to haunt his former side, driving past Monks from the angle after a stunning solo run.  

After a poor first period, the hosts grew into the game after the interval, and came close to levelling just past the hour. 

Kyle Brownhill saw his header saved, before Jack Irlam’s attempt to stab home on the follow up was also thwarted by visiting stopper Ryan Forde. 

The pressure that was already building intensified with five to play, with Anuniru’s night turning sour after he was dismissed for an innocuous challenge on Ellis Horan, much to the bemusement of the away dugout. 

Jon Macken’s side continued to push, but when Irlam’s header was tipped round the post deep into stoppage time, it was clear to see it wasn’t going to be their night. 

“It’s disappointing,” Macken told the Reporter at full time. 

“We’re letting the supporters down and we’re letting the club down, because we’ve lost another home game. 

“It seemed to me tonight that everyone wanted to be the hero. You can clearly see there’s a better pass on, and people are shooting. 

“There were too many poor decisions tonight all over the park, and our defending for the goal was terrible.” 

The defeat leaves Macken’s side in 10th place, eight points behind NPL West leaders Bootle, ahead of Saturday’s trip to Chasetown.