Pennypitt Challenge

Posted on Saturday, October 6th, 2012

As everyone knows, no 2 games of football are exactly the same.  Since our last visit to the Pennypitt to face Preston in cup action, ‘The Panners’ have defeated EUAFC 4-3 in the league, whilst we have defeated LTHV 1-0, also in the league.  In addition, the 11 players who start today’s game in Spartans colours will be different to the side which started in our recent 3-1 victory over Preston.  One of the themes of our season to date has been the constant challenge of juggling our resources due to various circumstances, whether it’s been injuries, suspensions and/or a lack of availability for personal reasons…today is simply another instance of just that. 

However, we go to face Preston in good spirits.  An opportunity exists for us to close the gap on one (if not both) of the Teams above us today, it’s also a chance for us to provide players such as Grant, Bremner and Wringe with minutes as we look to manage the ‘football fitness’ of the whole squad.  Of course Preston have their own motivation and reasons for wanting to win 3 points, I was impressed with Preston 2 weeks ago, with several aspects of their play and attitude. Contrary to what others may think, we know it will be a tough test today. 

One player not in the squad today is Jordan Finnie, the youngest player in our squad, a young player with great promise. I have arranged and agreed a loan deal with LTHV for Jordon to go on a short term loan deal.  It’s the perfect opportunity for him to enjoy a run of consecutive games at this level. It’s the right thing for him at this time in terms of his career, for his own personal development and football journey.  As ever, we are trying to marry our short term goals with what we believe is right in terms of the long term game.

Back to today’s game where the immediate goal is straight forward, to take all 3 points.

Sammy