League champions for the previous two seasons Leek Town had moved on to the Manchester League. Hanley Town finished Runners-Up in the Staffordshire County League (North) Premier Division for the third successive season finishing five points behind Hanford B.C.
The Reserves had now become more of a force in Division One and finished third. The difference in standard between our two sides was now not so great, so it was easier for players to step up to the higher level.

The success of previous seasons in cup competitions could not be repeated with only one cup final being reached, but the club was still a major force in the area.
The ground sharing with Eastwood Hanley was still going well, on the other hand the club were still on the look out for a ground of their own.

May Bank Cup Runners-Up: (vs Leek Town);

Hanley Town playing record:
Staffordshire County League (North) Premier Division 1971/72:
Pld:22: W:15: D:4: L:3: For:55: Agst:23: Pts:34:

Hanley Town Reserves playing record:
Staffordshire County League (North) Division One:
Pld:26 W:15: D:3: L:8: For:62: Agst:36: Pts:33:

Staffordshire County League (North) Premier Division Line-Up: 1971/72
Blythe Matthey
Boltons Sports Club
Burslem Albion
Florence Colliery
Hanford Boys Club
HANLEY TOWN
Madeley College
Michelin
Red Cow
Rists United
Rocester
Uttoxeter Amateurs

Staffordshire County League (North) Division One Line-Up: 1971/72
Alsager College
Bucknall Youth & Adult
Clayton
English Electric
Goldenhill Wanderers
HANLEY TOWN RESERVES
Kidsgrove Athletic
Leek Town Reserves
Meir C.A
Milton United
Mossfield Colliery
Packmoor
Stone St Michaels
Wereton Queens Park