Traditional football shining in the sun on green field. Soccer is the most popular team game all over the world
Thistle coach Matt Hastings is taking a 16-man squad to Napier tomorrow for the first of five pre-season games in preparation for the Central Federation League, which starts in April. The Jags play Port Hill United tomorrow and Hastings is looking forward seeing his players in a match situation.
“It’s
an opportunity for them to show me what they can do in a competitive match. Although it’s a pre-season fixture, we’re going there to win, which is why I have included experienced players such as Nicky Land, Mark Baple, Kieran Venema, Reece Brew, Corey Adams, Jake Robertson and Mal Scammell. Kieran Higham also played for me last season.”
Among the “newcomers” are Tyler Barwick, Jack Feyen, Max Mika and Campion College students Ian Cutler and Riley McMenamin.
“Ian (midfielder) has just come back from England where he played some games and got good feedback. He’s young (15) so is probably one for the future. Riley, like Ian, is a Central Federation rep. He’s a tall lad who plays centreback,” said Hastings.
“I’ve still got another 16 players who are not travelling but after this weekend I’ll reduce the squad to 24. Everyone who travels will get game time. We’re playing three 30-minute periods, which will give me a good chance to see all the players in action."
