Spartans jack of all trades Richie Slaughter was delighted to have played his part in his first win since his return to the club in the 2-1 win over Matlock Town. After returning to Croft Park from Newcastle Benfield, Slaughter was yet to pick up maximum points from an Evo-Stik Northern Premier League fixture and his strong performance at centre back alongside skipper Wayne Buchanan was the foundation of the win against a physical Gladiators side. He said “They were pumping it up there and going route one a lot which is fair enough because they had two strong lads up front but I think me and Buchs have stood up well to it. With the experience of Buchs alongside me I knew we would be ok and it was a real team effort.”
Since his return Slaughter has played in no fewer than four different positions for Spartans and whilst some players might become unsettled because of that the former England Colleges player thrives on it. He said “As long as I’m in the side I’ll do a job for the side as best I can. If that means playing at the back or in midfield I’ll do whatever Paddy and Tom need me too. It’s great to play alongside Buchs and easy as well because with his experience he constantly communicates. It was great to see him get a goal and to see him dedicate it to his new baby daughter who was in the crowd”.
After a busy December there would be no let up for Slaugher and Spartans during January as they prepare to face Stocksbridge Park Steels in the Doodson Sports Cup on Tuesday night, which is quickly followed by a hectic schedule in their league campaign. However Slaughter is relishing the challenges that lie ahead and believes there are real chances for his side to kick on. He said “Hopefully we have a chance to put a good run together and put a few wins on the board in the league. Obviously we have the cup on Tuesday night and we all want to do well in that as well.”