Holden 'proud' of FC Isle of Man efforts this season

Ravens heading to Padiham for what could be finale to 25/26 campaign

FC Isle of Man's caretaker manager says he's 'proud' of the efforts of his players and the club ahead of their current finale to the 2025/26 NWCFL Premier Division season this weekend.

The Manx side take to the field for what could be the last time in this campaign tomorrow (18 April) when they travel to take on Padiham at the Ruby Civil Arena.

In what's been a tough season for 'The Ravens', they can finish no higher than 19th in the standings but did secure their league safety in late March.

Speaking to Manx Radio, Rick Holden says they've achieved their top priority of staying in the division and hopes they can conclude the campaign on a positive note:

Heading into the weekend, both Padiham and FC Isle of Man have managed to meet their different objectives at opposite ends of the table.

Whilst FC Isle of Man's position at this level was confirmed as safe at the end of March, Padiham at the other end have already booked themselves a place in the promotion play-offs with a game to spare.

In the seven meetings between the clubs so far, the Lancashire side have a marginal edge with four wins compared to FC Isle of Man's three.

The most recent showdown between the two came at The Bowl in Douglas earlier this season on 30 August, 2025 where a Finlay Holyoak goal in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time handed Padiham all three points in a 3-2 victory.

Padiham vs FC Isle of Man takes place tomorrow at the Ruby Civil Arena, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm.

Outside of this weekend's fixture, FC Isle of Man do still currently have one fixture outstanding - the abandoned home tie against Prestwich Heys back on Sunday, 5 April.

The outcome of that fixture and whether it will be replayed is still to be confirmed.

Meanwhile, you can also hear the full, extended interview with Rick Holden reflecting on his tenure at FC Isle of Man this season via the Manx Radio SportsCast below: