KYLE HAMMOND | END OF SEASON Q+A | 28.06.2023

Defender/Midfielder Kyle Hammond reflects on the 2022-23 season, retaining the Premier Cup and talks about his brace against Ilkeston.

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point?

 

KH: On a personal note I think I was consistent throughout the season, chipped in with a few goals which was an improvement from last year. Team point of view as everyone has said it was up and down too much and not enough consistency. Struggled away from home which we need to sort out but on the other hand we know we can get to the levels we need too with certain games we played like especially in the fa cup run. 

 

DK: Can you pick a goal you scored this season that stands out most go you and why? 

KH: My favourite goal was the second against Ilkeston little outside the foot past the keeper and was an important goal at the time, was a shame we couldn’t hold on to the win in that game. 

DK: How much did it mean to you to have retained the Suffolk Premier Cup again?

KH: Always nice to win a cup at the end of the season that’s something everyone wants to do and should be aiming for at the start of the season. 

DK: What did you make of the Suffolk Premier Cup final - the game itself?

KH: Was good for everyone watching that’s for sure, we should have been 2/3-0 up in the first 20 mins didn’t take our chances and kind of bit us in the arse as Stowmarket have good players and can hurt us at anytime and we gave them a sniff and made it hard for us. 

DK: How do you reflect on the FA Cup run? 

KH: Fa cup run was brilliant loved every minute of it, playing against better teams in terms of leagues and better players is what I love doing to show people how good we can be. I thought we gave Burton a really good game and credit to them they played their full team. Was the furthest I’ve been in the fa cup so proud of myself, the team and club. 

DK: What memories standout for you from the FA Cup run? 

KH: Just experiencing the whole day going up to Burton playing against them having all the fans travel up to watch. And doing ourselves proud. 

DK: Do any league games standout to you in particular for any reason and why? 

KH: Probably the Royston game at home on a Tuesday night think it was 5-1 or something. Thought we were ruthless that game and didn’t give nothing away and took our chances. Got two goals myself that game as well haha.

DK: Congratulations on signing a new 2 year deal with the club, how pleased and proud are you to have committed your future to the club? 

KH: Thanks bud. Really pleased I’ve loved being here from the moment I came through the door. Hopefully make more history for the club in the time I’m here. 

DK: What targets do you have for next season? 

KH: Targets for me are as a team be more consistent which ultimately means you win more games and finish higher in the league than we have in the last 2 years. Have another good cup run in the fa cup or trophy. Win the premier cup again. And personally try and improve my goals tally from last year.

PATRICK BROTHERS | END OF SEASON Q+A | 26.05.2023

Midfielder Patrick Brothers reflects on the season and gives an update on his horrific injury sustained against Nuneaton Borough.

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point?

PB: You cannot hide behind the finishing league position, both as a team and individually it wasn’t where we expected to end up. The league competition is always our focus and on too many occasions we weren’t performing to the levels we know we can. Personally I thought I had a consistent year putting in some good performances but I did miss some important fixtures through injury and the whole of April which was very frustrating.

DK: You scored some key goals for the team this season, that must be pleasing from a personal perspective?

PB: Yes, it is always nice contributing by getting on the score sheet and helping the team, hopefully I can add more to my game the season to come.

DK: What was it like being part of the FA Cup run, any memories stand out from it and playing at a League One ground?

PB: Being part of the FA cup run will be a huge part of my career that I will remember, and as seasons go that obviously makes a slightly better read when reviewing all competitions as a whole. It’s the first time I have got that far, and to play at a league 1 ground in the first round in front of so many of our fans was a great experience.

DK: How do you reflect on the league season overall?

PB: I’ve touched on it previously but our priority is and will always be the league so, in that instance it wasn’t good enough. What makes things easier, is the fa cup run and ending with a trophy which deserves huge amount credit to the staff and players. We always felt that going into fixtures that on our day we can win but in the league we weren’t ‘on it’ enough to finish where we wanted - which at the start of the year was top 8 minimum.

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season overall?

PB: Got to be the FA Cup first round, the Premier Cup win and the win and performance from the lads against Maidstone.

DK: Do any league games standout to you in particular for any reason and why?

PB: The best performances from us I would say were both Tamworth Games. Two complete different performances but to do the double over the league winners is a good achievement. The way we played at home was total football whereas away, was a resolute, backs against the way 1 nil.

DK: Can you give us an update on your injury?

PB: 2 months into a estimated 6 month recovery. I’m back walking without crutches but with a fracture boot on for the next 4 weeks. It’s gone as well as the recovery can so far. The support has been brilliant which has been a massive help.

JAKE DYE | END OF SEASON Q+A | 23.05.2023

Full-back and triple (Manager's, Player's and Supporters') Player Of The Year award winner Jake Dye reflects on the 2022-23 season.

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point?

JD: Personally I think I did pretty well, adapting to a new position and being part of a team with one of the best defensive records in the league. Wish I chipped in with some goals and assists. As a team we'd deem it as an underachieving season, as we believed we had the capabilities of competing near the top.

DK: How much did it mean to you to have won the Suffolk Premier Cup for the third straight time?

JD: Meant the world. To win the competition 3 times in a row just shows how dominate we are in Suffolk.

DK: What did you make of the Suffolk Premier Cup final - the game itself?

JD: I think it was a great game for the neutral. If we had taken our chances at one nil up it would have been a totally different story, but fair play to Stowmarket who pushed us all the way!

DK: Can you remember much of what was said before and during the shootout, and where were you in the list of penalty takers?

JD: Just to back ourselves, hit the target and trust where you want to put the ball. I think I was either 7th or 8th so thankfully Sethy got the job done!

DK: We've spoken about it previously, but how do you reflect on the FA Cup run? 

JD: The cup run was certainly one to remember. As a kid growing up you dream of playing in the FA cup and making it into the proper rounds. It was a great occasion and the atmosphere made by our fans was unreal.

DK: What memories standout for you from the FA Cup run?

JD: Obviously playing at a Pro ground tops it off. I think the way we carried ourselves against higher opposition just proved the potential we had in the squad. Beating Maidstone at home was a top moment!

DK: How do you reflect on the league season overall?

JD: Very disappointing. We just wasn't consistent enough and some games lacked that cutting edge to pick up points. We all want to be successful and fighting for the top places rather than for survival.

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season overall?

JD: The Fa cup run, the Premier cup win and the friendly Vs Ipswich.

DK: Do any league games standout to you in particular for any reason and why?

JD: I think beating league champions Tamworth home and away. The home performance in itself was as controlling performance as you could have wanted. Ilkeston away was a top ground to play at and also a very good away performance infront of a decent crowd.

DK: Congratulations on signing a new 2 year deal with the club, how pleased and proud are you to have committed your future to the club? 

JD: Thank you mate, I appreciate it. I'm absolutely delighted to be staying at this football club, it's home to me! Filled with great people and high ambition. I'm super proud to have earned another 2 years and hopefully I can repay Kev and Tom in this 2 years.

DK: Can you put into words how much it meant to you to pick up 3 awards at presentation night on Friday?

JD: Speechless. To be recognised by everyone across the club is quite overwhelming and to be given recognition for my hard work means the world.

DK: What targets do you have for next season?

JD: Personally to continue to improve my game, be harder to beat defensively and be more of a force going forward. Team wise, play offs or higher and make more history in the cup runs!

LUKE INGRAM | END OF SEASON Q+A | 13.05.2023 |

Season Top scorer and record NMFC Appearance Maker Luke Ingram reflects on a topsy-turvy 2022-23 season. 

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point? 

LI: I think it’s been a mixed bag, yet again, another incredible season in the cups, first round proper and winning the Suffolk cup, not many can say they can achieve this, but the league season has been very underwhelming, away from home costing us dearly. 

DK: Do you take any pride in topping the club's top scorer charts for another season, creeping ever closer to the club's all time record? 

LI: I would be lying if I didn’t say it’s a nice feeling to be top scorer, everyone likes accolades but I’d swap it for a better league campaign in a heartbeat. 

DK: Is the most pleasing thing for you personally the fact that you were one goal away from matching your total last season, despite playing less games this time round through injury? 

LI: Yeah I’d say I don’t very well to get within a goal, after missing 10/15 games, a full season could have been amazing but it is what it is, injuries are part of football. 

DK: What was it like being involved in the FA Cup run and did it make it more special having been with the club for a decade? 

LI: It was special, I missed the first couple rounds injured, but after that, reaching 1st round and burton, seeing how much it meant to the club, I was very very proud. 

DK: How do you reflect on the league season overall?

LI: Again, I’d say it was very disappoint from a league point of view, with some additions I don’t want to have another one like this next year. 

DK: Do you find it pleasing, or more so frustrating, that we had a good record against the teams towards the top of the table? 

LI: Pleasing from a character point of view to do so well, but you have to say equally disappointing to not beat the teams towards the bottom. 

DK: Can you describe how it felt to have retained the Suffolk Premier Cup for the third season in a row and did it feel the more sweeter having missed last season's final through injury? 

LI: It felt very sweet, we’re in a unique club of teams winning it three times in a row, I was gutted to miss last years so enjoyed this one twice as much. 4 in a row and we will make more history for the club. 

DK: What did you make of the Premier Cup Final (game itself)? 

LI: I thought it was a great game, we didn’t show our best at all but stow played well and it made for an enjoyable game for people to watch. Long as we got over the line that’s all that matters 

DK: Do you remember much of what was going through your mind during the Premier Cup Final, especially the penalty shootout? 

LI: I was mostly thinking we cannot lose to Stowmarket, we would never hear the end of it, and how can I claim we’re the best non league side in Suffolk again if we lost? I had no doubts about the shoot out, we have serious stones in the takers. 

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season? 

LI: standouts would be obviously playing burton Albion! Getting the winner against Maidstone, and tucking leiston up in the semi final, AGAIN! 

DK: Would you say it makes the season look better that we had a good home record this season? 

LI: Always great to have a good home record, but you play the same amount of games away, so it’s irrelevant, we didn’t get enough points. 

DK: Congrats on also signing a new deal with the club, can you put into words how pleased you are to be staying with the club? 

LI: Thank you, you know me, I’m loyal to the club and the clubs been loyal to me with another 2 years, let’s hope it’s a successful couple, who knows how long I have left. 

DK: What targets do you have for next season? 

LI: I’d say hopefully we can have a good league campaign, try and get one of them play off spots would be perfect! Maybe another good fa cup run again, but we don’t want the Tuesday nights clogging up again! 

DK: Could you pick your top 3 goals you've scored this season? 

LI: Number 3 would probably be the goal against Maidstone, wasn’t a great goal but was big one, got us to the first round and was the winner. Number 2 would be the penalty against leiston in the semi final, big goal, put them away. And the best would have to be the second one against basford at home, touch set up hitting it and flew in over the goalie, was due a goal from further than 12 yards tbf.

FLYNN CROSTHWAITE | END OF SEASON Q&A AND FIRST TEAM DEBUT REACTION | 04.06.2023

Midfielder Flynn Crosthwaite reflects on being the latest Academy player to make their first team debut (against Hednesford (20.04.2023) and then against Barwell (22.04.2023) in the final two league games of 2022/23) for Needham, and looks ahead to the upcoming 2023/24 season.

DK: Congratulations on making your first team debut, how did you find it and how did it feel starting the game as well? 

FC: Thank you, it was a great feeling to make my league debut for the club. Even being in the squad for me felt like an amazing achievement but as we were short with injuries and premier cup final approaching I was chuffed to see my name in the starting XI. The lads made me feel really comfortable and I was really excited to get going in the game. 

DK: Despite obviously the result not going our way, how did it feel to be chosen as Man Of The Match on your debut? 

FC: The result wasn’t ideal but we had many players playing out of position and another day it could have been a very different game. I think hednesford’s league position doesn’t reflect their squad as they were a strong organised side on the night. It felt very good to be chosen as MOTM. I felt like I did well during the game, I had to adapt to the pace of the game as it was a much higher tempo than what I have been used to be playing in. This did make my debut more special and something to look back on and be proud of. 

DK: Did you feel the scoreline was a bit harsh given the way we played?

FC: Definitely, I think we played well in spells of having good possession and creating some chances. On another day these go in and it completely changes the game and the result. I felt the goals we conceded were also avoidable so it turned out to be a frustrating result given the way we played. 

DK: Did it make it more special making your debut alongside fellow debutant Mo and other fellow current Academy players/graduates?

FC: 

Seeing many academy lads making their debut for the first team over the past few seasons has made me eager to do the same. This did help as there were many lads playing who I have also played with in the U18s and U23s. This helped settle any nerves and make the occasion more memorable. 

DK: After playing for the First Team in pre-season, did you think this opportunity would come along this season?

FC: After doing a pre season with the first team it was really good to see the levels that you need to train and play at week in week out to perform at this level. I knew if I performed well in the 23s over the course of the season then there was a chance I would make my debut. Young players making their debut has happened lots in the past seasons and I am grateful for Kev giving me this opportunity. 

DK: How would you sum up the season for you with the club so far from a personal perspective? 

FC: From a personal perspective it has been a quite frustrating season, this is due to being injured from October until mid January. I feel I have learnt lots in the u23s with this being my first full season of senior football. I also feel I have developed as a player from the beginning of the season to now. A big positive from this season despite the result in the final, making it to the U18 county cup final at Colchester United, this was a memorable cup run that I enjoyed lots.

DK: Speaking about the Suffolk U18 Cup Final, result aside (didn't deserve that defeat) can you describe how surreal that experience was?

FC: It was a really good experience playing at a pro stadium and against a strong Sudbury side. Having the use of all the facilities just makes you more driven to have the experience of this much more. The pressure of this stadium could get to people but I feel as a team we handled this very well and put in a really good performance on the night despite the result. 

DK: What targets do you have for next season?

FC: Looking forward to next season I am first of all excited for pre season, lots of training and games in some hopefully good weather! For next season I want to keep working hard and continue to improve my game as much as possible. I would like to also get as much minutes as I can throughout the season, hopefully some of these coming for the first team would be a personal target. I am also looking forward to going on another cup run with the U18s in the county cup and also fa youth cup. 

DK: Where does making your first team debut rank among the rest of the season for you, and your career to date? 

FC: Making my debut was definetly the highlight of my season and one of the biggest achievements of my career so far. The reason for this is that it is something I have been aiming and working towards over the past season. I want to thank the management and teammates for making this a special and memorable moment for me and I’m very much looking forward to seeing what next season brings!

OLLIE FRASER | END OF SEASON Q+A | 27.05.2023

Winger Ollie Fraser reflects on the season from the Under-23s perspective, stepping up to the first team and more.

DK: How do you reflect on the season from team and personal view point? 

OF: From a team point of view I would say that the 23s season was very positive . We managed to get the most amount of points a Needham team has got, and managed to win some difficult games. From a personal view I would say it was positive. Recieving player of season was a nice touch. 

DK: Can you put into words what it was like reaching the County Cup Final with the U18s and getting to play at a professional ground?

OF: It was amazing to play in the cup final, having a Needham team in the cup final after missing out for so many years was special.

DK: What was it like playing a handful of first team games this season? 

OF: It was a good experience playing with the first team . I enjoyed it , was challenging to get used to the way other teams play but I enjoyed it.

DK: Do any moments from the season standout to you, if so what are they? 

OF: A standout moment was probably playing for the England schools . It was a surreal experience and to win the shield as well was amazing.

DK: Do you have any targets for next season?

OF: For next season to add more goals and assist and hopefully continue playing being around the first team.

TAYLOR CLARK | END OF SEASON Q+A | 24.05.2023

Midfielder Taylor Clark discusses the season, including scoring in the Suffolk Premier Cup Final shootout and earning a first team contract.

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point?

TC: Personally the season was quite frustrating with the injury I had, but coming back as quick as I did and getting the run of games I got, I am pleased with; as a team I think everyone would be in a agreement that the league season we had was also frustrating and below the standards we set. 

DK: How much did it mean to you to play in the Premier Cup Final again and retain the trophy? 

TC: Playing in the cup final meant a lot, it was nice to win it again having been involved in the squad last year.

DK: Can you describe what was going through your mind as you were taking the penalty in the shootout?

TC: I just picked me spot and hit it not much else was going through my head, I was confident.

DK: How did it feel being part of the squad during the FA Cup run? 

TC: The FA Cup run was special and made some amazing memories that I’ll cherish forever.

DK: How do you reflect on the league season? 

TC: The league season as I said was quite frustrating and something we will improve on next season.

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season overall?

TC: I'd definitely say the cup run, playing the big teams in front of a big crowd was great. I’d also say winning the premier cup again was a standout moment; lastly I’d say Bedford away as that was the first game I was back in the squad after breaking my leg. 

DK: Do any league games standout to you in particular for any reason and why? 

TC: None really jump out to me but I’d say Tamworth away was a great win.

DK: Result aside, it must have been pleasing to have also made the County Cup final with the U18s?

TC: Always nice to play in a final and a in a stadium for my last game on u18 football.

DK: What targets do you have for next season?

TC: Next season I’d like to add more goals to my game, and as a team we all know we’ve got the quality to be in in and around the playoffs.

DK: Can you put into words how pleased you are to sign a new first team contract?

TC: Great feeling to sign on for the team, can’t wait for the season to start!

JAMIE MCGRATH | END OF SEASON Q+A | 12.05.2023

Having recently signed a new deal with the club, I caught up with striker Jamie McGrath to get his thoughts on his first season playing step 3 football.

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point? 

JMcG: Probably a bit of a mixed bag for both! On a personal note it was great to break through into the squad after a positive pre-season, start plenty of games and contribute with some good performances! Was a shame however that my season was cut short with injury and would’ve liked to have scored a few more goals of course as it was an area where we struggled as a team From the teams perspective I’m probably just repeating what others have said but we were all very disappointed with the league campaign, however the FA Cup run was incredible, and winning the Premier Cup as well means the season can probably go down as a success!

DK: How did you find your first season at step 3 and scoring some good goals for the club?

JMcG: I enjoyed it a lot, felt like I adapted pretty well to playing at a much higher level and yeah as you say there were a few nice finishes in there which can hopefully be a springboard for next season! 

DK: What was it like being involved in the FA Cup run? 

JMcG: It was unbelievable to be fair, feels like so long ago now but I think it’s something we can all reflect on and be very proud of. For me to have never even played in the competition, getting to the 1st round proper was an incredible experience, and it just gives you that hunger to try and get there again.

DK: How do you reflect on the league season overall? 

JMcG: It was a strange one, we started really strongly, and the early indications were that we were going to be in and around the playoffs. But the FA cup run meant we had quite a few games in hand and were just never able to take advantage of these. We then slipped down the table and probably never thought we were gonna be in a relegation battle until it got to a point where we actually were. Thankfully though the boys were able to pick up some big wins at the end of the season to make sure we were safe.

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season? 

JMcG: Debut away at Rushden and Diamonds first game of the season, Scoring my first goal for the club at home to St Ives and Beating Maidstone at home to get through to the 1st round proper.

DK: Congrats on also signing a new deal with the club, can you put into words how pleased you are to be staying with the club? 

JMcG: Thankyou, yeah I’m very pleased - as I said it was a bit of a mixed season for me but everyone from the management team to the players to the fans have been brilliant so when I was offered a new deal it was a bit of a no brainer to be honest. 

DK: What targets do you have for next season? 

JMcG: I don’t tend to set myself personal targets, I just aim to help the team as much as I can - which as an attacking player will obviously involve contributing with goals and assists! From the team’s perspective I think we’re all very focused on having a much better league campaign, as we have shown we’re more than capable of competing with the teams at the top of the table - we’ve just got to find that consistency week in week out.

DK: Going back to the FA Cup run, do you think it made it more special that your first season of playing in the competition ended with our record run and away to a League One team?

JMcG: Yeah without a doubt, for some reason I just always believed we were gonna make the first round, and maybe took the whole thing a bit for granted when you realise it was the first time the club has ever got there - which shows how difficult it actually is to achieve. And yeah of course going away to a League One team was incredibly special, we got to feel like professional footballers for an afternoon haha. But as I said earlier, it just gives you that hunger and desire to go and do it again, because it was such an unreal experience.

HUGH CULLUM | END OF SEASON Q+A | 09.05.2023 |

Defender Hugh Cullum reflects on his second, and first full season of senior football and speaks about being involved in some big moments this season 

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point?

HC: Firstly personally for me it was about playing more games than I did last year and I have done that and played in some big ones too like Maidstone, keeping clean sheets and winning games. On a team perspective we didn’t achieve as well as we should have in the league and we want to definitely improve on this next season, but getting to the First round of the fa cup was a massive achievement, one that will stay with me for a long time.

DK: How has it felt to have played a massive role in the squad, and have kept some important clean sheets against some strong teams?

HC: All the teams we play are very strong, doesn’t matter what league or where they finished, it felt good to be able to keep clean sheets in massive games and do my bit for the team but overall improve my game as whole and get better. 

DK: How did it feel to have been part of the squad on Friday and winning the Suffolk Premier Cup?

HC: To win 3 Premier Cups in a row and this being my second, it always a good feeling no matter what, and hopefully next year we can make it 4. 

DK: How do you reflect on the FA Cup run, especially having played a massive part in it? 

HC: As a whole the FA Cup run was unreal, playing 3/5 games made me feel like I played a big contribution towards where we got too, especially beating Maidstone and keeping a clean sheet against a team in the National League, and almost scoring in the first minute, haha.

DK: What moments standout for you from the FA Cup run?

HC: The most standout moment from the FA Cup run surely has got to be the Maidstone game, being 18 at the time and playing against some very good players, helped me improve my game massively. 

DK: How do you reflect on the league season overall?

HC: Like I said before we under achieved in the league, but hopefully next year as a team we will look at that and improve and finish higher.

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season overall? 

HC: The first one probably playing Ipswich Town at home, first game of pre season as I’m a massive Town fan, so playing against them stood out to me. Secondly, playing against Burton Albion away, just the whole environment was special and lastly beating Maidstone was another standout moment for me personally. 

DK: Do any league games standout to you in particular for any reason and why? 

HC: Yeah one game would have been Royston at home and beating them 5-0, because they had some big lads, so adapting to that and challenging myself to compete with that, stands out for me. Bedford away was another game, keeping a clean sheet and dealing with very good striker who has played in the football league and that win giving us a boost in survival. 

DK: Was there a game you felt you performed better in that stands out to you?

HC: Nuneaton Borough away I felt like I performed really well, with them being a good side and being near the top when we played them, I felt like I had a game where I thought I played quite well.

DK: What targets do you have for next season?

HC: For next season, there are some targets I would like to achieve, one mainly being to score a goal, that would be nice to score one goal at some point in the season, playing more games and keeping more clean sheets than I did this season, and overall just working on my game and improving.

JACOB LAY | END OF SEASON Q&A | 01.05.2023 |

With the season now concluded, I spoke to winger Jacob Lay to get his thoughts on his first season with Needham Market. 

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point?

JL: The season has been a frustrating one both for me personally and a team point of view because we are capable of a lot more. The levels are definitely different and I’ve had time to adapt now to the faster tempo, I want and need to score more goals as I feel I create alot of chances for myself so to score goals more consistently will be something I will be working on. 

DK: How did it feel jumping from step 6 with Wanderers to playing step 3 with Needham, and finishing as our second joint top scorer?

JL: When I saw I was playing against Needham it was a game I felt I could show case my talents and was also good getting a goal. Scoring goals for Needham leaves a good feeling but like I said I want to and will score more next season. 

DK: How did it feel being a key part, and scoring, in the FA Cup run this season? 

JL: The FA cup run was magical it was amazing to be part of and score a few goals in as well it’s something I will remember forever. 

DK: How do you reflect on the league season overall?

JL: The league campaign was frustrating to start so well and be up there, showing what we can do against higher league teams and throughout the season we have always performed against the bigger teams we just need to be a lot more consistent. I believe this will happen next season and we will do well. 

DK: What did you make of Friday's Suffolk Premier Cup final? Did you feel nervous at all watching the shootout unfold, and where were you in the list for taking a penalty?

JL: It’s always great being part of finals and it was a great game for the naturals I’m just happy we got the trophy and play my part. It was nerve racking watching the shootout I was going to take the next penalty after Seth, it didn’t come to that he finished the job brilliant for my relief.  

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season?

JL: 3 stand out moments will have to be the FA Cup run, the Premier Cup win and scoring goals for this club. 

DK: What targets do you have for next season?

JL: Next season I want to score more goals and be in the mix for the play offs that’s my aim I’m sure it will be the clubs as well.

TOM FITZGERALD | END OF SEASON Q+A | 03.05.2023 |

Midfielder and Academy graduate Tom Fitzgerald, who has made 66 club appearances since breaking into the first team, reflects on the season.

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point, did it meet your personal targets? 

TF: From a personal point of view I think my season has been very up and down. I’ve struggled to get going at certain points and never really could get a good run of games. I still think I’ve improved as a player and have gained valuable experience. From the teams point of view it has also been very up and down. We had the brilliant cup run but besides that we could never get a strong run of results, which led to us finishing well below where we should be. It was however nice to end the season with a win in the Premier Cup.  

DK: How much did it mean to you to have won the Suffolk Premier Cup? 

TF: Winning the Premier Cup again was brilliant. It’s always nice to have bragging rights and any silverware is always welcomed.

DK: What did you make of Friday's Suffolk Premier Cup final - the game itself? 

TF: It was one for the neutrals. Despite playing really good football at times, we let in 3 really sloppy goals in crucial moments of the game. I was very happy for Seth (Chambers) when he scored the winning penalty.

DK: How do you reflect on the FA Cup run and what memories standout for you from it?

TF: The FA Cup run was excellent. Loved every minute of it, especially the 1st round game against Burton. We definitely deserved to beat Maidstone in the last qualifying round. We always knew Burton would be a tough game as they are 5 levels higher but we can still be really proud of what we achieved. 

DK: How do you reflect on the league season overall? 

 

TF: The league season has been very disappointing. We found it really tough to get any momentum and struggled against the lesser teams, dropping stupid points.

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season overall? 

TF: Burton 1st round game, Maidstone game and Premier Cup final.

DK: Do any league games standout to you in particular for any reason and why? 

TF: Tamworth away stands out for me. Beating top of the league, away from home, was a massive result for us in avoiding relegation. It was a dogged, determined performance that deserved the 3 points.

REACTION | DYLAN WILLIAMS POST MATCH INTERVIEW | STOWMARKET TOWN V NEEDHAM MARKET | 28.04.2023 | ENDEAVOUR AUTOMOTIVE SUFFOLK PREMIER CUP FINAL |

After the Suffolk Premier Cup Final, I spoke to midfielder and Man Of The Match Dylan Williams, to get his thoughts on the final and season itself. 

DK: Nice bit of silverware to end the season! 

DW: Yep, we needed it, it finished off a tough season but it was well deserved in the end, and worked hard and the boys got we deserved. 

DK: You scored in both the game itself and the shoot out, that's something. 

DW: Yeah, I was just happy to be in the right place at the right time, and when the ball came back to me I just tried to put good contact on it and luckily it found the back of the net. 

DK: How did it feel taking that penalty? 

DW: I'll be honest, I've done it before, so I just tried to block everything out, focus on where I'm going, and yeah that's it really mate it. 

DK: Must have been some hell of a game to play in though? 

DW: Oh yeah I think we're lucky it didn't go extra time, because it could have been about six six I reckon! It was one for the fans that's for sure! 

DK: Mind you it did go 6-5 in the shootout! 

DW: It did yeah, well there was a couple of boys nervous, so we're lucky that he didn't carry on because I think all the penalty takers had been used up, Marco (Marcus Garnham) might have had to take soon! 

DK: Would you say it was a game where both attacks were on top rather than the defence? 

DW: Yeah for sure for sure, like I said, honestly it could have been six six, there was loads of goals, defending wasn't wasn't quite there tonight, but credit to them because they scored some good goals and so did we. Anyway it was a good battle, it was a good final. 

DK: As we've spoken about across the season, this has been a big thing winning this cup and so having done that, was that your highlight of the season? 

DW: Oh yeah, for sure the lads in there said it'd be third time in a row. Obviously my first time playing in the cup, so I just wanted to contribute and help the boys to win that third one and my first one, hopefully many more! 

DK: Yeah and having came through in the middle of the season, does it make it even more special to have won this? 

DW: Yeah, definitely because once we were safe, it was kind of nothing to play for. For me, because obviously moving clubs, it was nice to finish for a bit of silverware just topped off the end of the season! 

DK: You scored a goal a free kick, which was your first goal for the club, in this competition you seem to have taken to it like a duck to water! 

DW: Yeah, well hopefully many (more to come), two goals in this competition, like I said I've enjoyed it! 

-

DK: How does it feel to have signed a new 2 yr deal, especially having joined midway through the season? 

DW: I feel grateful to have signed a 2 year deal. Only had a part of the season to impress so I’m glad I did that and the hard work continues for the 2 years. 

DK: What targets do you have both personally and team wise for next season?

DW: Team wise (we're) capable of doing as much as we like, just need to work hard. Personally, less yellow cards as costing me a fortune 😂.

DK: How did you feel the league campaign went? 

DW: No where near as well as it should have, so that’s something we’re going to improve on next season for sure.

DK: Can you pick 3 standout moments from the season?

DW: Winning the cup final and learning the Tommy Tommy R song are 2 standouts.

DK: How does it feel to have been given MOTM for a solid performance in the cup final? 

DW: Yeah very pleased with that but it wasn’t the focus just tried working as hard as possible to get the win.

DK: Can you remember much of what was said leading up to the penalty shootout?

DW: There were a lot of calm heads and a lot of the lads saying they had been in that position before so just trying to relax everyone.

REACTION | MARCUS GARNHAM POST MATCH INTERVIEW | STOWMARKET TOWN V NMFC | SUFFOLK PREMIER CUP FINAL END OF SEASON | 28.04.2023 |

After his ninth Suffolk Premier Cup triumph, and his third in a row with Needham, I spoke with goalkeeper Marcus Garnham to get his thoughts on the season and the cup final. 

DK: Nice to retain the cup again! 

MG: Yeah we did well, Stowmarket did really well, I think it was a good game of football, not the best for defending, but attacking wise I thought it was an entertaining game. All credit to Stow, they did really, really well. We had a funny five minutes in the first half where they got on top and we were rocking a little bit, but we managed to compose ourselves and get ourselves back in the game, and yeah then it went to the lottery of penalties and we came out on top, luckily, so that's all good.

DK: Did you always think the game would end up at penalties?

MG: No way, I didn't think it was gonna (go to penalties), I thought one moment to be fair that Stow were gonna romp it to be fair, they put us on an immense pressure. All credit to them to be fair, they've got some great experienced players in their team and really showed their quality tonight, and yeah we managed to hold on and and we came into it second half and kept the ball really well and they kept trying to catch us on the counter attack, the rest is history.

DK: You're quite experienced, we'll say, in terms of penalty shootouts, but you still get nervous?

MG: Yeah when you look at the the penalty takers for them, some, you know, League footballers, know what they're doing, very experienced, very good players. So yeah, it was a lottery and fortunately I won the lottery today so it's all good.

DK: Unusual though for you to not make a save in a shootout.

MG: Yeah I thought their penalties were good, they waited for me to go last minute, and they finished it really well, so we can't save everything but luckily luck was on my side tonight and they missed at the end and we won the game.

DK: Yeah, you have been here for the hat-trick of wins as well.

MG: Yeah, so I won it before with Leiston and I've carried on winning that with Needham, so yes it's really good so it's a nice thing to end the season on positive note, after a bit of a disappointing League campaign, but yeah it's good. It always leaves a good taste in the mouth at the end of the season when you you retain the cup or win something.

DK: Yeah, this is obviously the main highlight of the season would you say?

MG: Yeah, that and the FA Cup run was really good, but that seems like such a distant memory, there's been a lot of downs this season really, so we've got to pick ourselves up, be better, raise our standards, and go again next season. 

DK: Again Cup competitions have been the key to like making our season really.

MG: Yeah, but that's that's not good enough, that's not acceptable in my book. I think the league table doesn't lighten the season, and we were nowhere near good enough. And it's all right turn up against the big boys and and working hard, but you've got to work hard every week and not just think you can turn it on, because you you beat a couple of Conference teams, that you can just switch it on on and off and when you're like. You've got to keep working hard all the time, you see all the top teams in that League they all work extremely hard, all the way to the end of the game and that's what we've got to take into next season. We've got to raise our standards and go again.

DK: Might be hard to pinpoint right now but looking across the season and what are your top three of highlights? 

MG: Burton away was good, I thought I played alright that game, I've enjoyed tonight and yes. I've enjoyed the season, a lot of downs obviously, but I enjoy my football. I wouldn't travel three hours after work, on my own, to get to away games if I didn't enjoy it, and I still do, and I look forward to what next season brings.

DK: In terms of the league though, the most disappointing, frustrating bit, more so, is the fact we beat Tamworth home and away, yet it was more the teams towards the bottom that we kind of struggled a bit more.

MG: Yeah 100%, I think it's just application, not thinking you're better than you are and just working your socks off, that's the minimum, and I think we didn't even hit that minimum in some games, we were really disappointed in some games. We need to have a good hard look at ourselves next season and dust ourselves down and hit the ground running pre-season, do the basics well and the rest will come. Because we've got the quality but we're not doing the basics well enough to be able to be up part of the league.

DK: Ranking this year to last year, is it about the same for you, worse, better?

MG: It's about the same, yeah, I think this year we've been a lot more solid at the back, I've been a lot less busy, there was a period of time in the season where we kept a lot of clean sheets and the defence was doing a fantastic job, because as opposed to last year I think I was a lot busier. But yeah, I'll take the positives, kept a lot of clean sheets this year, we just haven't stuck enough in the back of the net. We can't rely on just one person to score all of our goals, we've got to spread the goals a bit more, and more people got hit double figures. If you've got one hitting 20 and the rest are on single figures you're going to struggle. So that's something we need to address next season, I'm sure Tom and Kev will. 

DK: Another big thing that's happened today is the fact you and some others have announced your new contracts!

MG: Yeah I got spoken to a couple of weeks ago, and to be honest I was thinking about dropping down maybe, but I have enjoyed my time at Needham and long may I continue! And I feel I still put in performances and still giving a good account of myself. I know I made a couple of mistakes this year, especially against Alvechurch - both games for some reason - but I like to think I've had overall a positive season, and take that positive end to the season into the next season as well.

KEIRAN MORPHEW | END OF SEASON Q+A | 02.05.2023 |

Next in our end of season Q&A series, club captain Keiran Morphew gave his thoughts on the 2022-23 season.

DK: How do you feel the season has gone from both a personal and team view point?

KM: I think winning the Premier Cup turns the season from a pretty poor one to an average one and everyone will be hoping to put it right next year.

DK: Did the season, cup wise, match your expectations, or did it exceed what you hoped you'd achieve?

KM: I always think we will win the premier cup to be fair but with the FA competitions I just hope for home draws and see what happens.

DK: How much did it mean to you to have won the Suffolk Premier Cup for the third straight time?

KM: It’s a great achievement to win it 3 times on the bounce, Kev said not many clubs had done that before. Everyone will have their eyes on a 4th one to try and get in a club of our own.

DK: What did you make of Friday's Suffolk Premier Cup final - the game itself? 

KM: Probably a good watch for the neutral but we gave away some poor goals and should of killed the game off before they scored their first equaliser in my opinion. But cup football is cup football so I don’t care now.

DK: Can you remember much of what was said before and during the shootout, and where were you in the list of penalty takers?

KM: I can’t remember too much really, I just hope that I don’t have to take one and that we win.

DK: Now that time has passed, how do you reflect on the FA Cup run?

KM: It’s great we reached the first round and we should aim to get there again this year.

DK: What memories standout for you from the FA Cup run?

KM: To be honest I didn’t play many games in it this year. My main memory is Patch falling over the barrier to get on the pitch after the Maidstone game.

FIRST ROUND 🔴⚫️🔥

That’s it that’s the tweet #NeedhamMarketFC #UpTheMarketmen pic.twitter.com/SiNFRfNn0Y

— Needham Market F.C. (@needhammktfc) October 15, 2022

DK: Being club captain does it make it all the sweeter to have made the FA Cup 1st Round and retained the Premier Cup?

KM: I don’t think being captain specifically makes too much of a difference but maybe Needham being my only club might make it feel a little different.

DK: How do you reflect on the league season overall? 

KM: Overall pretty poor going on just most weeks getting a bad result.

DK: Having beaten sides at the top of the league and leagues above, is the most frustrating bit being that we've struggled more against lower positioned teams in our league?

KM: It’s just the inconsistency that is frustrating but hopefully with signings and hard work we can change that next year.

DK: What are your 3 standout moments from this season overall?

KM: I’ve got 2 standout and that’s FA cup first round and the Premier Cup.

DK: Do any league games standout to you in particular for any reason and why?

KM: I thought the patch of games at the end of the season where we beat Tamworth away and got a couple other decent results against the better teams in our league were what kept us up in the end.

DK: What was your best personal performance this season?

KM: Tamworth away I thought I headed a lot of footballs than normal haha, so probably say that would of been one of my better games this season.

DK: Can you pick a game you felt the team played their best football in?

KM: I thought Coalville and Tamworth at home we played really well.

DK: Congratulations on signing a new deal with the club, how pleased and proud are you to have committed your future to the club? 

KM: Cheers mate. Yes really chuffed to sign another 3 years!

DK: What targets do you have for next season?

KM: Just want to be in and around the play offs at the end of the season and to win a 4th Premier Cup.

Christian Frimpong Interview 24.12.2022 preview for Leiston (A) 26.12.2022

1. How have you found your first five months with the club from a person perspective?

CF: I’ve really enjoyed the first few months here at Needham. The environment is great to be around! Players, management and fans made me feel welcome which is brilliant.

2. How do you feel the season has gone so far from a team perspective?

CF: So far this season, it’s been good in terms of our achievements in the FA Cup, our superb form at the beginning especially in the September month but got a low that we’re addressing and that’s away form which we WILL sort out.

3. What are your thoughts ahead of Monday's trip to Leiston, and how important do you feel a win would be?

CF: Boxing Day fixture away at Leiston is a must win in my opinion. Because we need it to keep start our away form and the rivalry between the two teams is important not just for the players but for the fans too!

4. Having already played each other in the FA Cup this season, do you think that will be a factor going into Monday?

CD: Yes because they would want revenge but at the same time it’s completely different game with vital 3 points at sake.

MATCH PREVIEW INTERVIEW | TOM ROTHERY 15.12.2022 | BROMSGROVE SPORTING V NEEDHAM MARKET | 17.12.2022

Prior to Saturday's Needham Market trip to Bromsgrove Sporting, which was postponed on Friday due to the recent frozen and snowy weather, I caught up with Assistant Manager Tom Rothery to get his thoughts on the week previous for the club, the season so far and his thoughts ahead of the weekend game (a short match preview I wrote for that fixture can be found HERE). 

1. Firstly, how would you describe the mood within the squad after a disappointing week with Saturday's home game unfortunately postponed and the defeat on Monday?

TR: I think everyone is quite frustrated at the moment with our away form but I’d also say that we all are determined to turn it round. As you’ll be aware we’ve tried different formations and everybody in the squad has had opportunities but currently we haven’t been able to find that winning formula or replicate our home form which is obviously very frustrating. Saturday was a blow as we’ve been good at home and we knew with some more tough away games coming up the boost of potentially three points could have a been a big confidence boost going into these games. With the forecast though I didn’t think it would be on and like everyone wanted to avoid the situation that we ended up with. I think the league could take more responsibility sometimes with these type of situations. I didn’t believe the game had a chance with the forecast but when we turned up the pitch was looking ok apart from two areas and I felt as soon as I saw these that the Referee would call it off. It’s difficult because most clubs would want games on and should try and get them on but with travel involved I think sometimes these decisions could be made easier by the league stepping in. I know for example the Essex Senior League did and allowed clubs to call off without the need for a Referee. I just think sometimes too much pressure is on the club to get it on and maybe because of that things are viewed differently. I don’t think anybody should be criticised for trying to get a game on but personally I felt hugely sorry for Rushden and know how I’d have felt in their situation. 

2. How do you reflect on Monday's defeat?

TR: Monday was tough again due to the weather the coach was cancelled and we took a mini bus but again left late due to a pitch inspection. Because of this we arrived late and it’s not an excuse but three plus hour journeys are tough especially midweek. But despite that we played ok and had good possession but really the game probably swung on one moment. At 2-1 we had an opportunity and we’d just made a change and were on the front foot but didn’t take this and with confidence how it is those sort of things do affect us currently. Redditch if we are honest though carried more threat on the night and ultimately that’s what won them the game. 

3. With how our results away from home have gone so far this season, how important do you feel it is that we get a good result on Saturday?

TR: Every game is important but we’ve said it too much so I’d rather we do our taking on the pitch and we can’t identify one game we need to build some momentum quite simply. 

4. How do you access our season so far overall, and how do you feel results so far this season match pre-season ambitions?

TR: Inconsistent. The FA Cup is obviously a high point and September also but in general it’s been very frustrating. I’ve seen some things and heard other things too and I do get quite annoyed really as it seems as a management team we can’t win really. At the start of the season Kev and myself both said play offs but firstly it seems like we are being judged on that already and in the 15 seasons in management I’ve done so far I don’t recall these positions or trophies handed out in December. But equally what do people want us to say? Historically we’ve never finished higher than 9th our budget I believe would see us around that sort of position but do we at the start of the season say that we are aiming for 10th then or do we show ambition? I truly believe we can finish in and around those players but time will tell and it may take a bit of movement in the squad to get to that point but equally there’s 23 games left. We’ve lost some attacking players who were all offered deals aside from one and these players aren’t easy to replace when you don’t overpay and you travel like we do. I have no issue with questions being asked and criticism aimed at management but what I would say is nobody should underestimate what Kev has done in his time at the club. Two Suffolk cups, record FA Cup and trophy run and the budget hasn’t been ripped up and money being thrown about. Whilst doing that his sold Callum Page to Ipswich and promoted several academy players into the first team squad. Ambition is healthy and nothing that anybody in this management team would shy away from but so is perspective and for me the key in a bad run is that everyone sticks together and swims in the same direction. The players will feel that and hopefully they extra percent will help them turn this away form round which we will I have no doubt in that.

5. Having lost our last few games against Bromsgrove, do you see that as a concern, or do you feel it's just a matter of time until that changes?

TR: They have a new management team and have started well but I don’t believe in those type of things, previous games have no bearing on Saturday. All games in this league are tight and they have always been tight with Bromsgrove bar one game I recall at Needham so I expect a tough game and hopefully that applies for them also.

The Marketmen are back in action on Boxing Day, in a Suffolk Derby away to Leiston (1pm), hope you all have a good Christmas and look forward to seeing some of you there! Before then, I'm planning to put together a match preview for the Festive away game. 

POST MATCH REACTION | TOM ROTHERY AND KAAN BENNETT INTERVIEWS | ST IVES TOWN V NEEDHAM MARKET | 19.11.2022 |

Following Saturday's draw at St Ives Town, I spoke to Assistant Manager Tom Rothery and goalscorer Kaan Bennett to get their thoughts on the game itself, the result and Kaan's first Needham goal. 

REACTION | TOM ROTHERY POST MATCH INTERVIEW | ST IVES TOWN V NEEDHAM MARKET | 19.11.2022 | SOUTHERN LEAGUE CENTRAL PREMIER DIVISION |

1. First of all, how do you reflect on the game?

TR: I thought we deserved at least a point. We wanted more but after going behind and obviously the time we scored in the game then it’s a reasonably positive point. 

2. Unfortunate timing for Taylor's injury, do you think that disrupted our rythm?

TR: Taylor had started well and was beginning to find little pockets and looked like he was going to have a positive influence on the game. It’s a shame for him and is that he’s now potentially going to be out but we will have to wait and see on that one. 

3. Second half we played better football, did you think we deserved a point?

TR: I thought both half’s we played reasonably well, I felt we were much better on the ball that we’ve been in recent away games but a criticism would be that we didn’t threaten enough or work the keeper enough with the amount of possession we had. 

4. In the end though, we grabbed a late equaliser with Kaan's first goal, hopefully be a good confidence booster for him.

TR: Kaan did well and probably should have had another goal but the goal he scored will definitely give him a lift and I always think as an attack minded player until you get that goal it hangs over you a bit but I think Kaan is now settling well and the goal will definitely help that. 

5. A big game Next up away to Coalville for our 3rd straight away game, how do you see that one going?

TR: We are in a tough run of games with the travel involved and all games in this league are tough. Coalville are clearly one of the best sides in the league and have had a good fa cup run like us. They are a very front footed sided who normally play with 2 forwards and 2 wingers so we will have to be organised first and foremost to stop their threats but I believe we can cause them issues with the way we play and if we can retain the ball like we did today but with a bit more threat then hopefully we can make the long journey worthwhile. 

6. Following up on what you said to the 3rd question, do you think today can be taken as a bit of a confidence booster, having strived until the end to get a deserved point?

TR: I don’t think we are struggling for form I just think away from home we haven’t always got the results we deserve. But equally we haven’t been able to replicate how we perform at home away from home as yet, we haven’t been as good in possession and not had the same threat away from home but I do think that will come but we need that to happen as soon as possible. Like I said earlier we wanted more but a late goal to earn a point is certainly more positive than a defeat. 

REACTION | KAAN BENNETT POST MATCH INTERVIEW | ST IVES TOWN V NEEDHAM MARKET | 19.11.2022 | SOUTHERN LEAGUE CENTRAL PREMIER DIVISION |

1. Well played on Saturday, first of how do you feel the game went overall, do you think it was a deserved point?

KB: I thought as a team we controlled a lot of the ball but after we conceded it was always going to be hard to break down their low block. I believe on another day we could’ve had decisions from the ref in our favour and a penalty nearer the end.

2. How have you found it at Needham so far?

KB: I’m extremely happy at Needham, the lads and the staff have welcomed me with open arms and I couldn’t have asked for much more on their behalf.

3. A well taken goal from you, talk us through it.

KB: The goal wasn’t much as a surprise to me as Hammo (Kyle Hammond) put it on plate for me and I’m confident in my ability and I know where the goal is as I didn’t have much time to think with the keeper rushing out.

4. How did it feel to get your first goal for the club, and an important one in the process?

KB: I’m over the moon because I feel like the first goal is always the hardest one and also meant we earned what I thought was a well deserved point in a game we could’ve got a lot more from.

5. Next up, we're on the road once again at Coalville on Saturday, how do you preview the game?

KB: Without playing against Coalville before I know it’s going to be a tough game but I hope I can continue the scoring and get a good result on the road because I believe on our day we can beat any team in the league.

6. Do you see the result Saturday as a much needed momentum builder for the trip to Coalville?

KB: At the end of the day we want to be earning as many points away from home if we want to be in and around the playoff spots so if we can build momentum while we have these run of away game that will do us massive favours when it comes to climbing the table.

POST MATCH REACTION | SETH CHAMBERS INTERVIEW | NEEDHAM MARKET 3-1 STOURBRIDGE | 20.08.2022 | SOUTHERN LEAGUE CENTRAL PREMIER DIVISION, GAME 4 |

After yesterday's 3-1 home win over Stourbridge (click here to give it a read), I quickly caught up with Needham's Man Of The Match and double goalscorer, Seth Chambers to get his thoughts on afternoon.

DK: Congrats on your brace and being named MOTM, first all talk us through how you found it today? 

SC: Firstly thank you, Today was a great 3 points for us as a follow up from the match Tuesday, it was really important we matched the result from earlier on in the week.

DK: What was going through your mind as you scored both goals? 

SC: As both the balls got laid back to me it was all about hitting the target and thankfully I managed to do that, luckily Ross and Taylor both put it on a plate for me which always helps! 

DK: Now that we've recorded back-to-back wins, are you pleased with that, or do you think we could've won by more? 

SC: Following on from Tuesday’s result is massive. Making sure we prepare well this week and do all we can before the next game is what we will focus on.

DK: Having putting two fantastic performances within a week, it must be pleasing to have won MOTM today?

SC: Getting MOTM is always special but I’m happy that I could repay the management by having faith in me and selecting me. I’m delighted for the team as we got the rewards this week from the hard work that was put in.

POST MATCH REACTION | ROSS CRANE NEW SIGNING INTERVIEW | NEEDHAM MARKET V ST NEOTS TOWN | PSF | 09.07.2022

A slightly older post-match interview, now that the club's signings have been announced, I caught up with new signing Ross Crane, fresh from scoring a brace against St Neots Town, report HERE. 

DK: Two good goals for you today on your second Needham game. 

RC: Yeah it was, firstly I thought it was a good performance from the boys that played, we started fast, I thought we kept possession really well, and probably could have been more at the end of the game I think we could have had a few more goals, but we kept the clean sheet as well which was important for the defenders and the team. 

DK: You've settled in quite well so far, even though it's like one full game and obviously the hour against Ipswich, have you found it alright? 

RC: Yeah, I've enjoyed it, obviously all the boys have made me feel welcome and really enjoyed it and Kevin's a great manager I think he can really push me on and make me onto better things. 

DK: Talk us through your two goals today! 

RC: Yeah so first goal, I think it was TC (Taylor Clark) I think he played me in behind, just made a run and it was a great pass got a bit fortunate, but a goal's a goal. The free-kick, obviously they are the things you practice at and obviously it paid off. 

DK: Obviously, today a lot of the fans would have seen got to see a bit about you, but is there anything more that maybe fans can expect from you? 

RC: No, I think, I've proven what I'm good at and what I bring to the team, and I think I'll do well here, I've really enjoyed the two games I've been played in and training. 

DK: Did you find it a fitting experience for your first Needham game to be against Ipswich, obviously your former club? 

RC: Yeah, obviously the game against Ipswich they were very experienced, and obviously they've got a lot of quality, but I think it was good for us to play against players like that. And then obviously today, we're playing against a team that is a league below, but I think we dominated and I thought we'd done really well good! 

DK: I think you'll be you're going to score a lot of goals for the club and look forward to seeing you more in Needham red. 

RC: I hope so! 

DK: Cheers Ross. 

RC: Cheers.

POST MATCH REACTION | JAMIE MCGRATH NEW SIGNING INTERVIEW | NEEDHAM MARKET V BURY TOWN | PSF | 26.07.2022

Now that the club's new signings have been announced, one of our new recruits - striker Jamie McGrath -  spoke to Drew Kendall, after Tuesday's friendly against Bury Town report here.

DK: A good goal tonight, what did you make of it? 

JM: Yeah it was, to be fair, I saw Patch (Patrick Brothers) get the ball and the other day whipped in a similar ball for Seth (Chambers) so I thought you know if I make the run I'll get on the end of it, and thankfully put it he put it right on the spot - so just all I have to do is yeah get a foot on it and it should go in and it did!

DK: Bit of a super sub tonight!

JM: Yeah, to be fair that's what you got to do though, when you come on as a sub, you've got to try and make an impact, and fortunately I was able to make one straight away, so yeah happy days! 

DK: How have you found it at Needham so far? 

JM: Yeah, I've enjoyed it, obviously it's quite a big step up from where I came from, but you know it's a challenge that I've relished, and enjoyed every minute of it really! The boys have been great, and obviously it helps with like games like tonight getting a goal, because ultimately that's what I'm here to do!

DK: You took the word right out of my mouth there saying that, but yeah you've taken to it like a duck to water, and you've not looked like you've jumped up about four levels! 

JM: Yeah that's right, I mean obviously it's a big step up, but I suppose you've got to back yourself and from the training sessions, obviously playing with better players that obviously helps as well. And as I say, a lot of thanks goes to teammates like Patch tonight - putting the ball on the plate for me! 

DK: This isn't the only goal you've scored, you've scored two now! 

JM: Yeah, I got a couple now, got one in my first, well not the Ipswich (Town) game, the one after that St Neots which was nice! So that was a few games without a goal, so it was nice to get back on the scoresheet tonight for sure!

DK: It's looking like a very good, well oiled I guess, squad as well!

JM: Yeah, I think so, I think that's one of the the main things! I think with the squad so far, is the squad depth, you know we've got a lot of players who can play different positions, got a few players scoring goals at the minute which is good to see. So that's what you want, you want competition for places, because then you're always pushing each other, whether it's in training or in matches to get the best out of each other!

DK: How do you see this season going for you personally?

JM: I think it's just a case of try and get as many minutes as I can, try and contribute to the team whenever I can. Obviously, as I say, there's a lot of competition for places, so I appreciate it's going to be difficult to always be starting, but that's ultimately the aim that's what you want to do as a player! You want to be starting every game possible, but I'm not the only one thinking that! Everyone else is thinking that, but that's healthy I think, so yeah that's the aim!

DK: Again, you took the next question! You'd almost make as good of an interviewer as I do😂!

JM: I don't know about that, I'm happy to be in this side of it!

DK: Yeah, you'd rather be the one scoring and take the headlines! 

JM: Yeah exactly, but no you're doing a good job as well!

DK: Cheers mate, thanks for that!