Hilton hoping for third time lucky

The Steels boss and his coaching staff of Ryan Laight, Lee Thompson, Nigel Hanks and physio Shaun Handisides are staying on for another shot at promotion after the club's fourth placed finish to the 2016-17 EVO-STIK NPL First Division South campaign.

Pictured signing a new contract at the Look Local Stadium on Tuesday, Hilton is now looking forward to being at the helm for his third full season and hoping for third time lucky having seen his side's performances improve in each campaign since he took charge.

After finishing just outside the play-offs last term in sixth spot, the South Yorkshire club reached the semi-finals this time around with Hilton masterminding a run of eight straight wins before losing out to Spalding United in the semi-finals.

The club's run to reach the play-offs also saw Hilton's side share April's final EVO-STIK NPL First Division South Team of the Month of the 2016-17 season with champions Shaw Lane AFC.

Hilton and his players and staff have already been hailed by the Steels for their performances over the last campaign. After their end-of-season awards, a spokesman said: "Congratulations to Chris Hilton, Ryan Laight, Lee Thompson, Shaun Handisides, Nigel Hanks and all the players for what has been an exceptional season."

Image courtesy of stocksbridgeps.co.uk

Follow us: @evostikleague on Twitter | Facebook www.facebook.com/evostikleague