Linnets fans' passion key draw for Roo

Adam Rooney is excited to have joined Runcorn Linnets, having been struck by the passion of their fans.

- DAVE BETTLEY

Manager Brad Cooke's fourth summer capture, central defender Rooney, 27, is well established and highly regarded in Northern Premier League circles.

He has featured in the West Division Play-offs in the last two seasons and also brings valuable experience at Step 3.

Rooney's time in NPL Premier in 2022-23 was instrumental in his APEC Taxis Stadium arrival.

He spent it at Atherton Collieries, playing for Linnets manager Brad Cooke and assistant Rob Sadler and making 35 appearances.

This was in the same team as incoming Linnets striker Scott Bakkor.

Rooney, who has been described as a no-nonsense central defender, has since served City of Liverpool and Vauxhall Motors, achieving top five finishes with both.

COL were beaten Play-off finalists in 2023-24, losing at Prescot Cables after knocking out Linnets at APEC Taxis Stadium.

Adam scored in last season's semi-final at Hednesford Town with his strike in first-half injury time putting Vauxhall back in contention before the Pitmen clinched their 3-1 victory in the 88th minute.