MARK WILSON will make his 900th appearance in non-league football when AFC Emley play their penultimate Baris Northern Counties East League First Division fixture at home to Bottesford Town tomorrow (7.45).
The popular 42-year-old midfielder and one-time Town junior (pictured right) has played for a host of clubs, but has always had a special affinity with the Welfare Ground.
He was part of the original Emley side who reached the third round of the FA Cup in 1997-98, when they gave West Ham a scare before going down 2-1 at Upton Park.
And Wilson started his most recent AFC Emley spell last month.
Known as Willy and instantly recognisable because of his long blonde locks, the Barnsley-based player takes a no-nonsense approach on the pitch.
Released by then-Town manager Eoin Hand in 1991, he joined Frickley Athletic before helping Bradford Park Avenue to promotion from the North West Counties League into the Northern Premier in 1995.
Wilson was disappointed to be on the bench against West Ham, but got his chance to shine in front of the Match of the Day cameras, and win the praise of then Hammers chief Harry Redknapp, when he replaced injured defender Neil Lacey after just six minutes.
He left Emley in 1999, before the controversial relocation to Wakefield, and played for a host of other clubs, including Worksop Town and Buxton, before again linking up with Glavin at Wakefield FC.
He then had a stint at Ossett Town, where he was assistant manager to Paul Sykes, the current Emley captain.
Wilson describes Emley as “a club close to my heart where I have many memories and friends, both at the football club and in the community.
“It’s fitting I will play my 900th competitive non-league game at the place I call home.”
Emley are sixth to Bottesford’s 15th ahead of their final home game.
Darren Hepworth’s team finish their fixtures with a visit to promoted Barnsley side Athersley Recreation on Saturday.
