RUNCORN Linnets have signed versatile 19-year-old defender Kieran Nolan following his release earlier in the week by Northwich Victoria.

Primarily a centre half, the Linnets' latest signing can play anywhere across the back four.

Kieran had previously played for Ramsbotom United and Salford City and also appeared last season for Alsager Town in the North West Counties League Premier Division.

The player, who turns 20 later this month, was at Bolton Wanderers from 2013 before being released from the Under 18s squad in May 2015.

He had been with Evo-Stik League Division One South club Vics for just over a year, his final appearance coming in the 2-0 Cheshire Senior Cup derby defeat at 1874 Northwch. He joins two other fellow former graduates of Bolton youth system in the Millbank Linnets Stadium squad.

"Kieran was with Bolton Academy but a year above Danny (McKenna) and Luke (Griffiths)," said Linnets manager, Michael Ellison.

"He is a young defender, who can play anywhere across the back four. He's played for a couple of non league clubs, including Salford and most recently, Vics where he was the captain. We're delighted to have him on board."

A warm welcome to the Linnets, Kieran!

Runcorn Linnets have agreed the release of winger Taylor Kennerley and striker Brian Matthews.

Taylor is to sign Hallmark Security League forms at 1874 Northwich, where he was already registered with their Under 21s Sunday team. Taylor came through the youth team ranks at RLFC to join the first-team squad and we thank him for his service and wish him well.

Best wishes also go to Brian, who will be returning to the HSL Division One with Prestwich Heys from where he only recently joined the Linnets.

Fans will have been very concerned by the sight of our very popular left back Danny McKenna walking off the pitch in such obvious pain last night and then leaving the ground with his shoulder heavily strapped.

Danny was later checked over at hospital and the injury isn't as bad as first feared as there is no breakage.

There is, however, ligament damage and at this stage, it is impossible to predict a length of absence.

Needless to say, we all wish Danny a speedy recovery and hope he is back in action soon.

Runcorn lost to Nantwich Town FC in the Cheshire Senior Cup - First Round at The Millbank Linnets Stadium with a score of 1-2. Nantwich Town FC scored in the 7th minute. Nantwich Town FC increased their lead in the 51st minute. Steve Foster closed the gap in the 72nd minute following a coolly taken strike from inside the area. Danny McKenna recieving treatment in 85th, and with all subs used, the Linnets are down to 10 men.

Match Report

With a one-game suspension upcoming for Tom Hunt, Runcorn Linnets manager Michael Ellison has signed two goalkeepers and both have been registered with the Hallmark Security League.

Reece Airey has played at Wrexham and Vauxhall Motors while Matthew Holmes arrives after serving Stalybridge Celtic and Trafford.

The club welcomes both players into the ranks.