Runcorn Linnets' Player of the Month for April, sponsored by Bowland Brewery, is Ryan Gibson.

Since joining the club towards the end of 2018, local lad Ryan (who signed from Helsby FC), has quickly made himself a mainstay in Michael Ellison's team.

Blessed with an explosive turn of pace, Gibbo is more naturally suited to a wide attacking role but has really stepped up when required by filling a more central position to help Runcorn through their chronic injury crisis.

Ever present throughout the April play-off chase, Ryan's looping header at Newcastle Town set up the opening goal for Antony Hickey, putting us on the way to a tight and crucial win.

Gibbo was instrumental again in the 4-0 victory against Colwyn Bay, playing a telling role in two of Runcorn's goals and running the Seagulls defence ragged all afternoon.

A man-of-the-match performance in the Bank Holiday Monday game against Widnes was not enough to prevent defeat, with Ryan kept out several times by an inspired Richie Mottram in the visitors' goal.

In our final game of the campaign at Glossop, another driving run by Gibbo led to the free kick from which Louis Corrigan opened the scoring - a powerhouse overall performance earning Ryan a second man of the match award during the month.

Always playing on the front foot, Ryan's impact in games is so much more than just goals. His approach of picking up the ball and driving towards the opposition creates openings aplenty for the Linnets, and causes much suffering for opposition defences!

He is a real gem of a find by Ello, who fits the bill of a Runcorn Linnets player perfectly.

We can't wait to see what Gibbo will do with a full season of fixtures ahead of him!

Picture: Ryan Gibson receives hos prize from Tracy Measor - one of Tracy's last duties before stepping down as club secretary. Thanks for all your hard work, Tracy!