WELWYN GARDEN CITY | A FINE WINE

Crowley improving with age

Popular Welwyn Garden City goalkeeper, Charlie Crowley, was recognised ahead of Saturday’s Pitching In Southern League Division One Central game against North Leigh for smashing through the 100 appearance mark for the club.

His day was going well when Dernell Wynter gave his side an early lead only for the leaders to turn the scoreline on its head and secure a 3-1 victory, but Crowley is enjoying life with the Hertfordshire outfit.

“I joined the club four seasons ago when I moved to the area,” he recalled. “I certainly wasn’t expecting to go on and reach over 100 appearances but I settled in well and have enjoyed the journey since then.

“I think that consistency is important for any goalkeeper so I must be doing something right as I keep getting picked to play!

“It’s been a story of two halves for us so far this season. We went into the campaign with a relatively new squad and it took a while for us to gel properly as a unit on the pitch.

“The first few months were pretty frustrating because we knew that with the calibre of player we had, we were massively underperforming, but then things began to click into place and we’ve put in some impressive performances over the last few months.

“There’s a really positive feeling around the place at the moment; I feel that from a personal point of view, my performances are improving with each game. We’re blessed as goalkeepers that we age like fine wine – although I’m not sure that my missus will necessarily agree with this!

“I’ve been lucky enough to be in a position where I am able to effect games and results, which is ultimately what any goalkeeper wants to be able to do.”

The 30 year-old also believes that the strength of Division One Central has improved over the years.

“Like non-League football in general, the League has gone from strength-to-strength,” he added. “It helps with the extra exposure that the game at this level now gets.

“I think that people appreciate the raw, honest nature of non-League football and that, along with the fact that its affordable, makes it so appealing.

“We all work and have families, but as players we do our best to strike a balance so that we can continue playing at the highest level we can for as long as possible.

“Each year I have noticed that the standard of player is also getting better; it has been helped by the fact that you can earn more playing part-time at this level and also having a full-time job than you can by being full-time in The National League or League Two.

“We’re involved in a competitive League, but there is no reason that, with the quality we have, we can’t make the play-offs. We’ve got the right experience in the team to get there; but as I am getting older, I can also see the bigger picture and it’s also about development and creating a positive environment for our younger players to progress and enjoy their football, which I am also happy to play my part in.”

A trip to Kempston Rovers awaits Crowley and his Welwyn Garden City team-mates this weekend as they look to push on towards the top half of the table.

Pictured we see Charlie receiving his 100-game momento from young supporter, Stan Johnson.

Welwyn Garden City Web Site