It’s time now to recognise the gaffer who masterminded September– the one whose results, leadership, and football had the Conference League buzzing. Another month of statement wins, fearless attacking play, and a squad that look anything but newcomers. This is your Conference League Manager of the Month…
Footy focus Conference League Manager of the month for September is Chris Priestly of Burnhill FC who has had a fantastic month at the helm his club.
This was a big month for the Burnhill FC boss and he and his squad have come through it with flying colours.
Two wins, one draw and one defeat is a great Month for Burnhill.
BIG RESULTS ⬇️
League Success and Thrilling Wins
September saw Burnhill FC bag two crucial league victories, securing vital points and Pushing themselves up the league table.
• Queen’s Park SFC 0 – 2 Burnhill: A brilliant performance on the road! The clean sheet against Queen’s Park SFC on September 13th was particularly impressive, with the 2-0 scoreline illustrating a composed, professional display. This result, mentioned in the league roundup, kept us firmly in the mix at the top of the table.
• Glasgow Medics 3 – 4 Burnhill: Talk about a thriller! The 4-3 away win against Glasgow Medics on September 27th was a spectacular, high-scoring contest. To come away with all three points in such a demanding match shows the character and never-say-die attitude Chris has fostered. It was a proper end-to-end battle, and the lads showed their quality when it mattered most.
Brave Cup Exit: Heads High, Lads!
While the focus is on the league, Burnhill also had a tough cup tie that showed the competitive spirit of this team.
• Eastwood Parkmount AFC (GGPL) 1 – 1 Burnhill (Pens 4-2): Facing higher-tier opposition in the form of Eastwood Parkmount AFC, the team fought tooth and nail for 120 minutes. Holding them to a 1-1 draw is an accomplishment in itself, proving Burnhill FC can compete with the best.
To only lose out on penalties is the very definition of a brave defeat. Every player gave their all, and we couldn’t be prouder of the effort. We take the performance, not the result, from that day.
THE BIG PLAYERS ⬇️
Burnhill FC manager Chris Priestly had these comments to make after winning this prestigious award.
It is always a pleasure to be recognised by your peers, I am delighted to be named manager of the month, especially considering the talent of the other nominees.
I’m so proud of my squad for the results we’ve been able to achieve together this month, not just the comeback win from 3-0 down against Glasgow Medics, but also a very important 2-0 win in a fiercely contested game against QPSC. Even the defeat to a very impressive Eastwood Park Mount team was a highlight, we were obviously devastated to lose but take a lot of heart from going toe to toe with a very talented GGPL side, only to go out on pens!
Beyond the results this was also a great month for the club, with nearly 500 participations across 22 sessions, involving over 90 people from across Glasgow. Being entirely volunteer run and community funded its great to combine this far reaching social impact with our on field success.
Big thanks to Sara, Nels, Josh, Negin, Jamie, Tino, Paul, and all other coaches and volunteers who have supported Burnhill throughout September!
More Than Just a Manager
As many of you know, Chris’s work extends far beyond the touchline. He’s been an absolute unsung hero for Burnhill, establishing the club in 2020 and providing a free, welcoming space for over 50 asylum seekers and refugees each season to play football and receive coaching. The culture of inclusivity and support he’s built is second to none, and it undoubtedly contributes to the fantastic team spirit we see on the pitch.
Well done, Chris! Here’s to more success in October! Up the ‘Hill! 🖤⚽
CONGRATULATIONS to Chris Priestly on winning the September Conference League Manager of the Month award.
As the dust settles on September, one thing is clear: the Conference League has found its rhythm, and spectators are in for a season packed with twists, drama, and standout performances.
Footy Focus season 25/26 
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