Joe Smith was back amongst the goals on Saturday as his brace helped Bemerton Heath Harlequins come from behind to beat Pitching In Southern League Division One South leaders, Yate Town, 2-1 and secure their third win in a row.
After a slow start to the season, the Wiltshire outfit have seen their fortunes improve under the guidance of James Milligan and they now sit just outside of the top five with Smith playing his part in the resurgence since his arrival during the autumn.
“It’s been a tough couple of weeks for me personally but it felt good to be back amongst the goals at the weekend and help the team achieve such a great result,” Smith told us. “This result couldn’t have come at a better time as we go into the busy festive period.
“There is so much belief in the camp and as Saturday proved, we can beat anyone in this League. As a group we have each others’ backs and when our backs are to the wall, we come out fighting.
“The festive period is always a special time for football. I remember watching games with my dad as a kid and there’s always a good feeling from the supporters.
“Believe it or not, this year will be the first time that I’ve ever played in a Boxing Day fixture, so I am really looking forward to it.
“We’ll carry the momentum that we have into what is a really busy schedule and hopefully we can come out of it still in a strong position in the table, ready to make our challenge over the second half of the season.
“It’s a tight League, recent results have proved that, and you have to be at the top level every game, so there’s pressure to find that consistency to keep getting results week in, week out. It’s easily the most competitive League that I have ever played in, and that keeps it interesting for everyone.
“Our aim is to make the play-offs; we’re just on the edge of the play-off zone at the moment and if we can get in there then we have as much chance as anyone to achieve promotion. If I can help the team make the top five then I can’t ask for any more than that from my first season at this level.
A trip to Falmouth Town on Saturday is followed by a Boxing Day home encounter with Bashley.
IMAGE: Mousehole AFC
Most clubs are looking for volunteers. Find out more on the button below:
www.PitchingInVolunteers.co.ukAll the news and results in one place.
REGISTER