THE sheer fact that Jersey Bulls remain unbeaten ahead of tomorrow’s visit of Corinthian Casuals is a brilliant feat.
Seven wins from ten, with three draws, occupying fourth with at least three games in hand over those above, all while missing a host of first-team players through injury.
The Islanders have continued to find more from a seemingly empty tank.
Coming off a 0-2 victory away at Alton on Tuesday, with their all-time record scorer Lorne Bickley also on the treatment table. The sheer resolve of the local lads is admirable.
Bickley’s absence is a grave concern, however, with the marksman just shy of his century of goals in red set to undergo an MRI scan next week to establish the extent of his injury.
But, assistant manager Dan Garton, who assumes managerial duties in Elliot Powell’s absence, will take great comfort from the way in which his side coped without their star player midweek.
Garton said: “I’m incredibly proud of the way the guys have battled over the first ten games.
“With a win or a draw tomorrow, we would surpass our best unbeaten streak at this level, which is a testament to how well the team have grouped together with so many injuries.
“The pre-season discussions were all about the need for a deep squad, and although we couldn’t have imagined having this many people sidelined, everyone has stepped up and really made a case for the shirt.
“The schedule is brutal at times. We had a really tough away match last Saturday, and then had to go back to face Alton on Tuesday.
“We would have wanted to rest some players after the weekend, but with the number we have missing, we weren’t afforded that luxury.
“The lads deserve enormous credit for the energy and effort they showed to beat Alton.
“Bodies were tired, but these players are really pushing themselves through the barriers in front of them.
“The aim is to continue that momentum tomorrow.
“There is a real positive feel and a strong mentality in the camp, which has been shown in recent weeks.”
With Bickley missing and with no clear return date, the return of Karl Hinds to the Bulls fold this season looks increasingly important.
Seaney McColgan has also grabbed his opportunity with both hands to open the scoring late on against Alton, with the youngster excelling at combination club St Clement and continuing that form in Bulls colours.
However, perhaps the most important aspect of Jersey’s form, is their solidity at the back.
Goalkeeper Euan Van Der Vliet is back to his very best, with four consecutive clean sheets the proof in the pudding.
In front of him, a makeshift back line with Joe Kilshaw and Fraser Barlow both playing out of position at full-back has functioned seamlessly, as the Islanders contend with an entire back four on the treatment table.
On a brighter note, Jonny Le Quesne is back in the matchday squad, although tomorrow might come a little too soon for full-back on his return to fitness.
The only other change from Alton is the addition of Will Byers at the expense of St Paul’s forward Callum Gilroy.
Opponents Corinthian Casuals are in somewhat of a funk.
Winless in six, with just one point from a possible 15 in the league, the side from Tolworth are in desperate need of a change of tide.
The high-flying Bulls and Garton will have other ideas.
Action from Springfield Stadium is set to get underway at 3pm.
Steven Anderson – Predicted Bulls XI
A third game in seven days for Jersey and still with a host of players not available for selection. The sheer volume of matches cry out for some rotation, but with a lack of personnel, that’s easier said that done. Plus, how can you tweak a defensive line that have been so strong in recent weeks. With that being said, I have made a couple of changes to the winning side at Alton. Teenager and U18 captain Fergus Boyle filled in admirably at left-back last season and I think given his volume of minutes, Fraser Barlow might be rested. It could be just as likely for Joe Kilshaw on the right to get a rest. The only other change I have made is bring Seaney McColgan in from the start up top. Whether or not this is expected (probably not), it’s something I would like to see. That leaves plenty of attacking options on the bench, should Dan Garton need them.
Jersey Bulls: Euan Van Der Vliet, Fergus Boyle, Fraser Barlow, Jack Boyle, James Querée (c), Joe Kilshaw, Jonny Le Quesne, Karl Hinds, Kieran Lester, Luke Watson, Miguel Carvalho, Rai Dos Santos, Sammy Sutcliffe, Seaney McColgan,Toby Ritzema, Will Byers
