Centre back Danny Parker made his competitive debut for Spartans at Marine and was proud of the way his side put in a “tremendous” performance, despite only taking a point at the Arriva Stadium when they were on the brink of all three. A late penalty from striker Andy Fowler pegged back Spartans after Joe Kendrick had put them in front with a first half spot kick of his own and Parker was delighted with the performance, if not the result.
“On the way here were heard they were a good footballing side but for the full ninety minutes I thought we were tremendous. I’m absolutely wounded and personally it’s a loss to me, I’m devastated but proud of the lads.
Former Bishop Auckland defender Parker is one of twelve new additions to Tom Wade’s squad and whilst many may have questioned the impact that would have on the team spirit at the club. However Parker was quick to shoot down any negative theories and praised the welcoming environment created by Wade, Assistant Manager Colin Myers and the existing members of the squad.
“The settling in period has happened quickly and that’s down to Tom and Colin and the rest of the lads. Since I’ve come in the lads have been very welcoming and the other new lads have been treated exactly the same. They get the same welcome, there’s no cliques and everyone is very disciplined and everyone just wants to win for this club”
While there is disappointment at only taking a point from Marine, Spartans do have a great chance to kick on and put in a really impressive opening week to the season with a home double header. Newly promoted Trafford come to Croft Park on Tuesday night, quickly followed by Worksop Town’s trip to Northumberland and Parker is fully expecting his side to take maximum points from the two fixtures.
“Today we didn’t show our full potential and the way we can pass and move it around. At home we have a bigger pitch and we can move the ball between their defence and midfield and cause problems. We fully expect to get six points and give our supporters something to cheer”