One Fleetwood Town player who will have an extra incentive to perform against Morecambe at the Globe on Saturday is goalkeeper and former Shrimps player, Scott Davies:
By David MitchellOne Fleetwood Town player who will have an extra incentive to perform against Morecambe at the Globe on Saturday is goalkeeper and former Shrimps player, Scott Davies:
‘It’s an exciting Lancashire derby for both sets of fans. I was there for a good five years and have still got a lot of friends there. We speak regularly. I’m really looking forward to going back. Their manager, Jim Bentley, is my former captain there. Goalkeeper, Barry Roche, is one of my best friends in the game and the banter has already started from him and their goalkeeping coach, Lee Jones, who, to be fair, gave me a lot of help while I was there. I’ve told them not to speak to me now then we can concentrate on the game and enjoy a drink after!’
These are exciting times for Davies as he balances life in the Football League with new responsibilities as a Dad after Sonny’s imminent birth sparked a dramatic dash from pre-season training in Austria:
‘Starting a family certainly settles your life down off the pitch. There is an extra desire to do well for Sonny and it gives you a new determination. I need to have a clear head in order to perform and Claire’s been amazing in helping my match preparation go well. It’s ensured I’ve had a good night’s sleep before each game. Mind you, I’ve done my fair share otherwise!’
The family duties have certainly had a positive effect on Scott’s form in an established defence which currently boasts the best record in the league with just two goals conceded. Added to this was his spectacular save to deny Aldershot’s Josh Payne from the penalty spot last Saturday:
‘I’m more than happy with my form with two clean sheets and it’s always a great feeling when you save a penalty. The lads in front of me have done brilliantly but the team as a whole have defended well. I felt at times last year that I was almost redundant as things were happening at the other end of the pitch. I love making saves and being in the heart of the action. I think that goes for most keepers!’
Scott has also benefited from the arrival of Wales Under 21 keeper, Chris Maxwell:
‘I’m really enjoying working with Maxy. I can’t speak too highly of him. Perhaps I was a little too comfortable at times last season. Maxy’s such a good keeper and great to train with. He keeps me 100% on my toes all the time.’
Davies’s performance against Burton earned him a place in the Football League Paper’s ‘Team of the Day’, along with Town skipper, Steve McNulty:
‘It’s a nice reward for an afternoon’s effort but you enjoy the moment than move on. The extra profile that the club are getting from being in the Football League is great for the club, however, and having the chance to see us on the ‘Football League Show’ each weekend is brilliant!’
The young keeper may have to record the late night highlights programme, however, or watch on I-player as he balances those family commitments over the coming weeks! The excitement continues with a wedding date set for June 2013 and with Barry Roche as a groomsman the banter is bound to be flying!
