Marine AFC paid tribute to their late manager, Roly Howard, in a special match where his family was the guest of honor. Howard, who passed away at 90, held the world record for his 33-year tenure at the club in Crosby, Merseyside. His family, including daughter Tracy Howard and grandchildren Matty, Jonathan, and Sarah Mulligan, attended the game against Spennymoor. A special flag, 'Roly Howard's Black and White Army,' was carried by fans, and a minute's applause celebrated his era from 1972 to 2005. The home game was also attended by former players. Howard's family brought a framed certificate for the longest-serving league manager, awarded to him by the Northern Premier League in 1997. Marine FC players held a minute's silence in tribute to Howard before their game on November 22. Howard managed 1,975 games and won 28 trophies. Marine chairman Paul Leary praised Howard's dedication, stating he was a hero for giving 100% to the club for 33 years. Howard nurtured football stars like Jason McAteer, who started in Marine's youth set-up. Reflecting on his time with the club, Howard said the length of his tenure didn't feel that long at the time, but in hindsight, it's remarkable how time flies. Howard's funeral will take place in Ormskirk on December 15, and his family requests attendees to wear black and white.
