Despite the Manager and Board's best efforts, with Dec being offered a deal to stay at the club, Dec made it clear it wasn't about the money; but the opportunity to test himself at the highest level possible. From becoming boss, Russ Wilcox’s first signing for Trinity, the striker has been a virtual ever present, firing the goals that took the Holy Blues away from danger in his first season, finishing as the Golden Boot Winner for the Northern Premier League, he finished Runner Up the following season, as Trinity missed out on the play-offs by five points; but enjoyed a remarkable season in the cups.

His goals were instrumental in taking the Holy Blues to the Second Round of the Emirates FA Cup for the first time in 72 years, and the last sixteen of the Isuzu FA Trophy for the first time in twelve years. Unmatched in the 2024/25 season; Howe topped the Cup Scoring charts - a sensational return. For two seasons, Dec has been our talisman, our goal scoring machine..

His goals, workrate, goals to game ratio. His infectious personality, have all gone a long way to making him a modern day Gainsborough Trinity legend. Though we are undoubtedly sad to see Dec opt to leave, we wish him every success as he takes the biggest step into his career.

The door will always remain open - and Howe will always be welcome at the Kal Group Stadium. Wilcox was effusive in his praise for his tremendous signing, as he departed for pastures new, "Dec has been magnificent for our football club. It’s been a pleasure watching him develop and grow over the two seasons he has been with us. We as staff and players take small credit for what he has achieved as it’s a team sport and we can only be successful as one."

"Dec’s hunger to improve and score at an incredible rate is down to his superb attitude, application and ability. It’s disappointing for us to see him leave but he deserves to test himself at the higher level. I personally thank him for his outstanding contribution to our football club and wish him well in his next challenge. He’s been a pleasure to work with."

Goal Scoring Exploits

26/36 league games 2023/24
24/41 league games 2024/25
50/77 [0.65 goals a game]
Total 2024/25 - 38/54 games
14 goals in 13 Cup games

One hat-trick vs Matlock
Two or More Goals in a Game on15 occasions
Most Goals Scored against Matlock (5)

Goal Scoring Runs 4 games
Best scoring run 7 goals in three games (once)

Keep ripping it up Dec!

Article by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)