IF the Solent University Sports Journalism lecturers played for a seven a side team, where would they play?
Starting with the gaffer, or should we say doctor, it’s Kevin O’Donnovan. A tactician rather than a motivator, Kev will have his side playing two touch football all over the park. Think Guardiola at Barcelona and mix it with Chris Wilders 2019 overlapping centre backs, and you get an O’Donovan team.
Goalkeeper – Peter Auf Der Heyde
The goalkeeper was a position I struggled with, but I picked Peter for one main reason, and that is because he is hard to read, and you need that when you are saving a penalty.
Commands his area, takes no nonsense from strikers, wins his team more points than he loses them.
Defenders – Chris Effner & Graham Hiley
CE – New signing in the summer window – incredible crosser of the ball. Consistently overlaps his winger and racks up 15 assists a season.
GH – A no holds bar centre half who has no time for Kevins tactics. Believes that if you need to slide then you’ve already made a mistake. Has trust in his keeper and the feeling is mutual. Every time he touches the ball it’s his head or his shin. Doesn’t talk to Effner nor does he like his style of play. Some say old school, some say classic.
Left Wing – Will Cope
Takes all the set pieces, bar penalties, can whip balls in with both feet and bags a respectful ten goals a season. A gaffer’s dream. Uses the 2 to 1 rule on running inside or outside, never lets his defender know what’s coming next. Delivers a cross into the ‘corridor of uncertainty’.
Centre Midfielder – David Reilly
Baller. The only word that’s really needed. If Inesta, Xavi and Busquets merged into one, it’s him. Loves receiving the ball on the half term and has a nutmeg counter for each season on his phone.
Right Wing – Jordan Clarke
Always injured. But when he’s fit, Journo FC win. His main trait is his speed, always running behind his marker, pulls it back to the penalty spot where his number 9 is waiting to slot one home. Chemistry.
Striker – Andy Ford
Talismen. Target man. You name it, he can do it. Clubs longest serving player, best friends with the board, eyeing up a coaching role for when he retires. Recommended Clarke when
the club was looking for a winger. Stand named after him at their home ground.
