By Rob Bird
Despite progression in the cup, Hamworthy have found themselves struggling for form of late, despite their performances not always meriting the results. This week we spoke to Connor Cocklin, to discuss all things Hamworthy.
“As a squad we know we’re underachieving and we only have ourselves to blame, we need to be ruthless at both ends and take pride in what we do.
“We need to start getting a foothold in games earlier, take responsibility for our own jobs and start working for each other, I’m certain we’ll get out of this – as a squad we’re strong mentally and will push toward a strong end of the season”.
From a personal perspective, although his performances have been of decent quality, I was intrigued to see whether Cocklin had invested in any ‘new year’s resolutions’:
“Personally, I’m not one for the ‘new year, new me’ thing – but I strive to keep working as hard as physically possible so I can continue positively contributing to this team”.
Aside from this self-promise however, Cocklin must abide by his ‘matchday superstition’ if he’s to make a bigger impact on the pitch as he’s capable of:
“I always put on my right sock before my left, and then my left boot before my right, I’ve always done it since I was young, and now it’s cemented in my head.
“I also always try to get a good amount of rest before a game and ensure to always have my fluids and sugars on board, without those you’re only limiting your bodies capabilities”.
Away from his own footballing career however, Cocklin has modelled himself on his various ‘idols’ of the footballing world, some of which are featured in his ‘dream 5-a-side team’:
“GK: Manuel Neuer
CB: John Terry
CM: Zinedine Zidane
CM: Patrick Viera
ST: Lionel Messi… that team would be fierce”.
“Personally, I’ve always loved Zidane, his ability, strength and skill on the ball were unmatched”.
Although Zidane would a be a player openly welcomed to Hamworthy with the warmest greetings at current, Tim Sills and his team must battle with grit and determination to produce the ‘strong end to the season’ Cocklin previously alluded to.
As he prepares to put in further, mighty performances – Cocklin had a few words for you, the loyal Hamworthy fan base:
“Thank you for all your continued support, we as a club truly appreciate you and hope to repay you with more wins and good results in the coming months.
“Up the Hammers”.