National League – Manager of the Month
Alan Devonshire – Maidenhead United
After starting the month one point the wrong side of the dotted line, Alan Devonshire inspired his Maidenhead United side to three victories in as many games throughout February.
What a turnaround in fortunes it’s been for the Magpies – maximum points saw them not only escape the danger zone, but also put clear daylight between themselves and the bottom four, finishing the month five points clear.
A hard-fought victory in the month’s first match against Boreham Wood saw James Akintunde grab all three points for Devonshire’s men – the first of three consecutive 1-0 wins.
Not many sides have travelled to Leyton Orient this season and escaped with a win. But Adrian Clifton’s strike at Brisbane Road completed the upset.
And perhaps the best, most crucial win was saved until last. Clifton again finding the net to secure three vital points against Dover Athletic.
Player of the Month
Paul McCallum – Eastleigh
With six goals in three games, Paul McCallum’s inspired form at Eastleigh simply couldn’t be ignored as the Spitfires continue to mix it in the play-off race.
Starting the month with a brace against Aldershot Town in a 3-1 win, McCallum went on to repeat that feat in the remaining two games.
Two against Braintree Town took the spoils from the Iron and then an incredible away win at Salford City saw the frontman equal the Ammies’ very own Adam Rooney’s goal tally for the season.
Incredibly, McCallum has scored almost half of the Eastleigh’s goals this season and has more than had his say on their success.
Every top side needs a goalscorer and the Spitfires’ frontman doesn’t seem to be able to stop!
Volunteer of the Month
Nikki Wood – Dagenham & Redbridge
Nikki Wood of Dagenham & Redbridge has won February’s Volunteer of the Month for the National League.
Nikki’s involvement with the Club started as a baby; her mother is a longtime supporter and volunteer too. She has helped out in many ways over the last forty years including in the club shop, selling programmes, raffle tickets and even answering the phone. She’ll still help out now when her other match day duties are complete.
However, in the last ten years, her main role has been that of Mascot Chaperone. An often-overlooked role, it is vital as for the young mascot it is a one-off special day where everything has to go just right, not just because this is introducing the next generation of fans to the Club. Nikki’s affinity with the youngsters, and their parents/guardians means that nothing fazes her, and the Club receive numerous messages praising her for this.
