As we entered the month of March last weekend, the green shoots of recovery were starting to show for Helston Athletic.
After a harsh winter which saw them go from autumn high-flyers to involved in a battle against the drop, the big transition amongst the playing staff which has taken place is now starting to settle down.
Last weekend they came within nine minutes of beating promotion hopefuls, Evesham United. They had to settle for a share of the spoils in the end, but nevertheless it was progress.
One player who is starting to emerge as a firm favourite amongst the new crop is Sammy Stayt. A hard-working and committed young midfielder, he has grasped the opportunity of stepping up to the Pitching In Southern League Division One South and is loving every minute of it.
“I’ve enjoyed my first few months at the club,” he told us. “It’s been an excellent experience; working under the Gaffer and his staff as really helped me to improve and embrace the challenge of Southern League football.
“I can’t wait for what’s ahead, to be honest. We all know that it’s been a transitional period with plenty of comings and goings amongst the squad, but things are starting to settle down a bit more now and we’re beginning to get into our stride.
“We’re making positive steps forward, the performance against Evesham United is proof of that, and the feeling is that we are creating something that we can build upon in the future.
“These are exciting times; the hope is that we’ve come through the tough period and now we can start seeing an upturn in results to move us away from the lower end of the table.
“This is an important phase of the season and with two home games coming up in quick succession, we are fully focussed on adding to our points’ tally and starting to build some momentum.
“I’d like to think that I can play my part in that. I bring energy and work-rate to the team and I like to contribute to our attacking play.
“The main goal, of course, is to maintain our status at this level and then build on these foundations that have been put in place.
“There’s no reason why we can’t do that if everyone works together and pulls in the same direction.”
Stayt arrived at the club having spent several years at Western League Premier Division outfit, Buckland Athletic, where he broke into the first-team at just 16 and made great progress.
“I had a great time at Buckland and owe the club a lot,” he added. “But a few months ago I felt that the time was right for a change and a fresh start.
“Coming to Helston was a great opportunity for me to develop further as a player and also test myself at the higher level.
“It’s certainly been a challenge so far, but I am always looking to push myself out of my comfort zone and I can already see the impact that coming here has had on my development and growth in the game.”
A home game against Didcot Town awaits on Saturday before they host Cinderford Town on Tuesday evening.
IMAGE: TB Photography
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