Taylor's Professional Football Journey: From Goalkeeper to Captain
The career of Taylor is a testament to versatility and perseverance in English football. Starting his journey in the youth ranks as a goalkeeper, he eventually transitioned into a commanding presence in central defense, climbing through the non-league tiers to reach the professional heights of the Football League.
Early Career and Positional Transition
Taylor began his footballing path as a goalkeeper, developing his skills with Preston North End Boys and later joining the Everton U17 Academy. His early success came with Burscough, where he and his brother Joe played in the 2003 FA Trophy final. Despite the club being rated 400–1 to win, they secured a 2–1 victory over Tamworth at Villa Park in front of over 14,000 spectators. Following the departure of manager Shaun Teale, Taylor left the club.
After a trial with Lincoln City in July 2003, Taylor had stints with Rossendale United and Matlock Town. At Matlock Town, he debuted on September 27, 2003, in a 4–0 win against Ossett Town. His contributions helped the team reach the top of the Northern Premier League Premier Division, eventually finishing as runners-up to Hucknall Town. For his efforts, Taylor was named the club's player of the season.
In June 2004, Taylor followed manager Ernie Moss to Hucknall Town. He later had a brief spell with Halifax Town in early 2005 and a permanent stint with Guiseley during the 2005 season.
A pivotal shift occurred while Taylor was a student at Sheffield Hallam University. Transitioning to a centre back (a central defensive position), he represented the university in the British Universities Sports Association (BUSA) championships. This performance earned him a spot on the England Universities team at the 2006 British Universities Games under manager Ged Roddy.
Taylor then joined Team Bath while pursuing a Diploma in Fitness Excellence at the University of Bath. He became a cornerstone of the defense, earning the Players' Player of the Year award as the team finished runners-up in the Southern League Premier Division, narrowly missing promotion to the Conference South after a 1–0 loss to Maidenhead United.
Rise Through the Leagues: Exeter City and Charlton Athletic
In June 2007, Taylor signed with Exeter City. His impact was immediate and significant; he featured in the Conference play-off final, which Exeter won 1–0. During that season, he made 46 appearances and scored nine goals. He also played in the club's first match upon their return to the Football League, a 1–1 draw against Darlington.
His success at Exeter led to a move to Charlton Athletic on July 1, 2011, on a free transfer. Manager Chris Powell appointed him vice-captain in August 2011. Taylor established a strong defensive partnership with Michael Morrison and scored his first goal for the club during a 4–0 FA Cup victory over FC Halifax in November 2011. He remained with Charlton until his release at the end of the 2012–13 season.
Later Career and Transition to Coaching
On August 1, 2013, Taylor joined Bradford City on a two-year contract. However, his time with the Bantams was hampered by a foot injury and a half-time substitution on his debut. After three appearances, he moved to Colchester United on a one-month loan in September 2013, where he scored against Bristol City.
In July 2014, Taylor signed a two-year deal with League Two side Cheltenham Town, where he was named club captain and scored in a 1–1 draw against AFC Wimbledon. He subsequently joined Newport County on July 6, 2015.
The final chapter of his playing career began on February 8, 2016, when he joined National League South side Bath City in a dual role as a player-coach, combining his on-field experience with leadership and tactical instruction.
Key Facts
- Positional Shift: Started as a goalkeeper before converting to a centre back during university.
- Major Honors: Won the FA Trophy with Burscough in 2003.
- League Success: Helped Exeter City return to the Football League.
- Leadership: Served as vice-captain at Charlton Athletic and club captain at Cheltenham Town.
- Academic Integration: Played for England Universities while studying at Sheffield Hallam and the University of Bath.
| Club/Team | Role/Position | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Burscough | Goalkeeper | FA Trophy Winner (2003) |
| Matlock Town | Defender | Player of the Season |
| Team Bath | Centre Back | Players' Player of the Year |
| Exeter City | Defender | Conference Play-off Winner |
| Charlton Athletic | Centre Back | Vice-Captain |
| Cheltenham Town | Defender | Club Captain |
| Bath City | Player-Coach | Transition to Coaching |
Frequently Asked Questions
What position did Taylor start his career in?
Taylor began his career as a goalkeeper, playing for Preston North End Boys and the Everton U17 Academy.
When did Taylor transition to playing as a defender?
He transitioned to playing as a centre back while he was a student at Sheffield Hallam University.
Which club did Taylor captain?
Taylor was appointed as the club captain during his time with League Two side Cheltenham Town.
How did Taylor's time at Exeter City end?
He helped the club win the Conference play-off final and played in their first game back in the Football League before eventually moving to Charlton Athletic.
What was Taylor's final role in professional football?
His final recorded role was as a player-coach for the National League South side Bath City, starting in February 2016.