New skipper O’Connor is leading by example (From Worcester News)

New skipper O’Connor is leading by example

12:00pm Wednesday 30th November 2011 in Steve Carley

ELEVATING Kevin O’Connor to the position of captain has proved to be a smart move by Worcester City manager Carl Heeley.

The 26-year-old took possession of the armband from centre-half Ryan Clarke at the end of last month and has gone on to produce some of his best performances in a City shirt.

Worcester play better when O’Connor is on his game and, although he was not exactly poor earlier in the campaign, perhaps Heeley felt handing him the job would bring out the best in the midfielder and the team.

Results might not have all been positive, but there is little doubt City have improved as the season has progressed and O’Connor’s leadership can only enhance that further.

He’s not the grab-players-by-the-scruff-of-the-neck type of captain, nor was Clarke for that matter, but his efforts seem to inspire those around him.

“I was delighted to be made skipper. I like the responsibility and leading the lads out on to the pitch”, said O’Connor, who reckons his current form is as good as it has been since arriving at St George’s Lane in the summer of 2010.

“I have been happy enough with my performances. Maybe it is because I am the skipper and I want to go out and lead by example. I don’t know 100 per cent.

“The important thing is to try and play well in every game and sometimes it works. I am happy with the way things are going.”

O’Connor believes City are heading in the right direction, despite seeing their interest in FA competitions ended by Saturday’s 1-0 FA Trophy defeat to Harrogate Town.

Although frustrated, the ex-Wolves player has challenged his colleagues to continue their efforts in Blue Square Bet North and get established among the leading pack, starting with table-toppers Hyde at the Lane this weekend.

“We can’t dwell on it. We have a big game on Saturday and need performances from everyone,” the captain added.

“I have every faith in our team and the squad of players, we have a great chance to get in the play-offs.

“We are good enough to be up with the top teams come the end of the season.

“I think we have a better team than last year and the mood and attitude in the camp is really good.

“We are all keyed up for the game on Saturday.”