Flackwell Heath head to Berkhamsted in the Pitching In Southern League Division One Central play-off final on Monday afternoon (kick-off 3pm).
Having ended their first season at this level in third place in the table, Callum Mapley believes that they have exceeded many people’s expectations, but not their own.
“This is a great opportunity for us,” said Mapley. “It was the target which was set in pre-season and now here we are! I think that we have exceeded many people’s expectations – but not our own.
“The team, both on and off the pitch, has been outstanding—I couldn’t have asked for more. Week in, week out, everyone has played their part. There has been a lot of competition for places, but we all understand that we’re all needed to contribute if we are to reach our targets.
“I’m excited for Monday’s game. This will be the first play-off final or many of us but we all share the same desire to go out there and do ourselves and the club proud.
“As for the game itself, you can never predict these matches. It’s about who wants it more on the day and who can handle what’s in front of them, as we saw in our semi-final on Wednesday evening.
“It’s going to be tough, but we’ve performed well against Berkhamsted in both League games this season and were unlucky to lose. If we bring the energy, quality and togetherness, we’ll be okay.”
A brace from ace marksman, Wiktor Makowski, was enough to see the Buckinghamshire outfit through at the expense of Barton Rovers in Wednesday’s semi-final.
“Personally, it wasn’t my best game,” Mapley admitted. “Playing against nine men as a centre back is always different; you have to stay switched on and ready. As for the team, we all agreed that we could have been much better, however, in high-pressure games like these, that isn’t always the case.
“We were brave and did the basics well. Most importantly, it was a mature and calm performance from everyone involved, and I think that made the difference.”
Mapley has been pleased with his form over the course of the campaign.
“This has been one of my best seasons,” he continued. “I’ve been consistent with my performances, helped us keep clean sheets and also scored a few goals too. Being trusted to captain the team for a large part of the season has allowed me to develop and relieve some pressure from the team, letting them do what they do best.
“I’ve been at the club for three years now with one promotion and a play-off final. To be just one game away from seeing this village club playing at Step 3 is testament to the hard work and effort that everyone has put in.”
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IMAGE: Charlie Carter
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