Keepers offering food for thought (From Worcester News)

Keepers offering food for thought

10:00am Wednesday 7th December 2011 in Steve Carley By Steve Carley, @stevecarleyWN #WENsport

KNOWING you have a safe pair of hands in goal must provide peace of mind for managers.

Not only does it stop you wondering when the next mistake will arrive but it also brings stability in defence.

For years, Worcester City had that in Danny McDonnell who was widely regarded as one of the best non-league keepers of his generation.

He made more than 350 appearances for the St George’s Lane side and was capped by the England semi-professional team.

McDonnell was worth plenty of points per season because he would produce saves at vital times and make the difference between victory and defeat.

However, it is fair to say that, following his retirement in 2009, City have struggled to find a replacement.

His boots were never going to be easy ones to fill and comparisons were inevitable.

Jake Meredith, the immediate successor, promised early on but was quickly found out, while last season Worcester used no less than six shot-stoppers, triggered by an injury to Tim Sandercombe.

They were also seldom able to put a keeper on the bench.

Now, though, it is a different story. In James Dormand and Matt Sargeant, City have two keepers in whom they have firm faith.

Dormand has been solid and reliable in City’s charge up the table and has displayed able athleticism in establishing himself in the number one jersey.

However, a muscle injury has handed Sargeant his chance of late.

The 22-year-old, signed from Tipton Town in the summer, played in the Worcestershire FA Senior Cup victory over Redditch United but, pertinently, in Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Blue Square Bet North leaders Hyde and Monday’s 3-2 win at Hinckley United.

Although he admits to finding it frustrating in the understudy role, Sargeant is confident in his ability and is enjoying the challenge of giving manager Carl Heeley food for thought should Dormand be fit for the trip to Colwyn Bay on Saturday week.

He said: “I am enjoying it at the club. It’s been a bit difficult sitting on the bench because I was first choice at Tipton last season and it was the best season of my career, especially reaching the FA Cup first round against Carlisle.

“Now I have got my chance I have got to try and take it.

“Although it’s a step up, I feel I can play in this league and there’s no reason, with more games under my belt, why I can’t be first choice.”

Sargeant added: “It’s good to have a bit of competition, it helps both keepers because some can get sloppy if there’s no reserve.

“I would rather have a good keeper on the bench because it pushes you to be the best you can. Jimmy is a great keeper and I have learned a few things from him.”