JERSEY BULLS defender Luke Campbell was delighted with his side’s cutting-edge after a dominant showing helped Jersey Bulls thrash ten-man Sheerwater 8-0.
Saturday’s club-record league victory keeps the Islanders’ promotion charge firmly on track and Campbell, who claimed his 20th Bulls goal in the second half, spoke of the importance of players delivering performances of note as the season edges towards its business end.
Following a hat-trick for Lorne Bickley and a brace for Sol Solomon, Gary Freeman’s men remain third in Combined Counties Premier South – now just two points behind leaders Beckenham, with one game in hand.
‘It was fairly comfortable, eventually,’ said Campbell. ‘The scoreline suggests that, but we didn’t really get going in the first half, if I’m honest. But, with the sending off, that opened up space and we took full advantage.
‘When we got into it, we were very good. So many lads are putting their hand up and showing what they can do and of course Sol scores a lot of our goals, but you look at Lorne, Jake [Prince] and Daryl [Wilson] and there are threats everywhere.
‘We probably gave them one too many chances today, especially early on, but again you look around the team and look at the experience that’s helped us ride that. James Quérée has been around the game, and I’d like to think I play my part also so it’s pleasing on a personal note.’
The Bulls’ U23s face Metropolitan Police Reserves on Wednesday night, in a Suburban League cup quarter-final tie, and Campbell spoke of momentum around the whole club.
‘We’ll have a light session [tomorrow] and I wouldn’t be surprised if one or two of the young lads join us then, or in the next week or so. There is so much talent coming through,’ he said.
‘It’s a big game for them on Wednesday and it’s one that has everyone excited. There are plenty of lads in the U23s who have big futures and in terms of my position, Sam Sutcliffe is one to watch.
‘I think what [Saturday] does is keep positivity flowing through the club for players, officials and supporters and hopefully the lads can thrive off that on Wednesday and keep their run going.’
Given early-season travel restrictions and cup runs, the Bulls are due to play eight of their last nine scheduled league fixtures at Springfield, with only a potentially-crucial fixture against Beckenham still to be rearranged.
‘It’s worked out quite nicely for us,’ Campbell admitted. ‘When you have 700-800 of your own supporters pushing you on, how can you not be inspired?’
Discussing the next seven days, which includes a trip to Camberley Town, Campbell added: ‘I think what we do well is to stay level-headed and that is down to the desire of the group. We’ll rally behind the young lads this week, look at the details behind the game against Camberley on Tuesday and Thursday, and then focus on making sure we do what’s required next Saturday.’
