More reward for Rooney as Whelan scoops Player award

It’s time to introduce you to the Enterprise National League North Manager and Player of the Month for March.

After winning the January award, John Rooney has made it two for 2026 following another fine four weeks at Macclesfield.

There was just no arguing with the Silkmen’s six wins as they look to cap an incredible season with promotion.

Last month, they added to their already-impressive points tally when they defeated Darlington, Marine, Curzon Ashton, Alfreton Town and did the double over Hereford.

When you win with some relentlessness, there’s credit in the bank and the club were quick to move on after defeats to Chorley and AFC Telford United.

John McGrath (Buxton), Tommy Miller (Spennymoor Town) and Ross Jenkins (Oxford City) also boasted excellent months but there was only one winner as Rooney continues to impress in the dug-out.

AFC Fylde put themselves in the title driving seat going into April and they are holding their nerve, thanks in part to more than adequate March.

Tom Whelan may have gone under the radar a little with the free-scoring Coasters never short of goals, but last month he showed everyone what he is all about.

He scored three times as the club recorded five huge wins as they kept South Shields at arm's length heading into the final straight.

Adding to his tally against Darlington, King’s Lynn Town and also Hereford, midfielder Whelan - a Step 2 promotion winner with Boreham Wood last May - has another in his sights.

The panel decided he was a worthy winner, seeing off the challenge of Joe Young (Buxton), Luke Duffy (Macclesfield) and DJ Sturridge (Oxford City).

Congratulations to Tom and to John!