October's performance kings named

Named on Sunday as the third winners of the campaign, all three clubs went undefeated last month in league and cup action to win the accolades.

Handed out every month, the awards are sponsored by Bostik Ltd, parent company of the Northern Premier League's title sponsors EVO-STIK, to recognise and reward the top performers in the league's three divisions.

Northwich Victoria were presented with the First Division North's accolade within hours of being named when they hosted Stocksbridge Park Steels in the FA Trophy's First Qualifying Round on Sunday at Wincham Park.

Jim Gannon's side lost the cup encounter 2-1 but they were worthy winners of their second award of the campaign after taking the inaugural honours in August. Like all winners they collected a 4.5 litre bottle of Bells Whiskey and an inscribed glass trophy, presented before kick off by EVO-STIK NPL representative Mark Ogley.

As well as winning both their outings in the league, the Vics won through to the First Round of the FA Cup after beating National League North outfit Chorley 2-1 in a replay at Victory Park in the final qualifying round and also overcame Lancaster City in two FA Trophy ties.

Shaw Lane Aquaforce, promoted into the EVO-STIK NPL as Northern Counties East League champions in August, head into November in second spot in the First Division South table after securing three wins and a draw in the league, the results including a 2-0 home victory over leaders Stafford Rangers.

In their final outing of October on Saturday, Craig Elliot's side beat Farsley Celtic 4-3 in the FA Trophy to book their place in the next round. Ogley will be on duty again on Tuesday to present the club with their accolade at Shaw Lane before they kick off against Basford United.

Ilkeston FC and interim manager Andy Watson will collect the top flight's award on Saturday 21 November before hosting Hyde United at the New Manor Ground from the EVO-STIK NPL's John Goddard and a representative from sponsors EVO-STIK.

Despite changing managers last month in the wake of Gavin Strachan's departure for Doncaster Rovers, the Robins secured two draws and five wins in the league before winning 1-0 at EVO-STIK League Southern Cambridge City in the FA Trophy on Saturday.

Salford City ran the Robins close for the Premier Division award but were undone in their final outing of the month, Friday night's 2-1 defeat at Nantwich Town in the FA Trophy putting paid to their unbeaten record.

Follow us: @evostikleague on Twitter | Facebook www.facebook.com/evostikleague | The NPL Facebook Group www.facebook.com/groups/TheNPL/