Finley Durkin’s assist against Worsbrough, his second goal
contribution since signing for Rec, can only have increased the impression of himself infront
of the fans who made the short trip. For them inside the dugout, it pre-empted their long thought out plan for the 19-year-old.
The attacking move’s efficiency certainly looked to have followed
a blueprint, confirmed by Durkin speaking of his instruction from manager Paul
Clarkson. This has since been matched by Durkin’s understanding of an adjustment
in his playing role. The cross was guided into the box by words from the goalscorer himself Nathan Perks, through advice to his winger.
Transferring from Wombwell Main came with adaptations to the
wide-man’s position, though a more familiar role has evolved for him through a
change in system in Athersley’s recent games.
“Yeah it was a bit different because at Wombwell I was
playing in a wing-back role so I was deeper,” explained Durkin. “[When] I’m
higher, it’s a lot more man to man, more intense. The physicality is greater”.
Durkin’s shift in position to mirror the role portrayed by
him at his previous club, backed up by improved recent team performances since a
switch in style, supports the notion of a long-held plan for the alteration, aided
by new personnel.
“It’s something we’ve been wanting to do for a long time,”
began Clarkson. “If you’re playing three at the back – you’ve got to have
athleticism”.
Durkin provided insight into the instruction angled towards
him by forward Perks.
“Yeah, certainly the players’ experience can help, talking
me through stuff, giving me tips,” said Durkin. “It showed with Perksy telling
me where he wants it in the box then it shows in my game.
When it’s Nath [up front], it’s more balls into the box, get
it to him, get danger in the box. When it’s Sam [Thompson], it’s more about
pace, get at the opposition together.
“I expect more [of an output] from myself. That’s where time
and experience will show, with the right deliveries and finishes”.
Rec host Dronfield at Sheerien Park on Saturday, 18th
January, in a 3pm kick-off.
