Blacktown City speedster Leroy Jennings was one relieved figure when he notched up his first goal for the 2020 rebooted National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s season in his side’s 1-1 draw against high flyers Sydney FC last Friday.
In what was an absolute stunner, the 22-year-old was delighted with the goal, but was hoping for the three points which has evaded Mark Crittenden’s men all season as they uncharacteristically sit at the foot of the ladder with three points.
“It definitely was a good feeling to score but I was happier that we were able to get something out of that game because we deserved it – we obviously would have been over the moon grabbing the three points.
“I think Blacktown City not competing at the top of the table is a big shock for everyone including us.
“We were unlucky not to come away with two wins after our opening two matches and then after that I think we unfortunately fell into a bit of a slump and when you play quality teams week after week, it’s very hard to get your way out of it.”
The Winston Hills Bears junior accepted that the new season heralded a number of big challenges both as a club and on a personal level but was appreciative of being able to play the game he loves week in week out.
“This year has been a year full of challenges that I don’t think anyone was prepared for.
“I was super happy that we got given the chance to play our season out and I know that was supported by every player who has that passion for our game.
“I didn’t want this year to be a right off so I’ve planned to make the absolute most of it while we can before we prepare for the 2021 season.”
One shining light and milestone that was witnessed by Jennings and co was seeing club captain Matthew Lewis surpass Damien Foxe’s club appearance record firsthand of 304 matches, a massive achievement for the well admired footballer.
“It really is a testament to skips loyalty and consistency over the years.
“It was a massive achievement for Matty and he more than deserves it.
“He is a great role model to us younger players and he always leads by example.
“You’ll never hear him complain and he puts in 100% every time we play no matter what. He has been in my ear recently just to pull the trigger whenever I’m in front of goal, so I have to give him some credit for scoring last Friday (laughs).”
Jennings hopes that this Friday’s Round 8 fixture against Manly United at Cromer Park will see the club secure its first victory of the 2020 campaign lifting them off the foot of the NPL NSW Men’s ladder.
“We go into every game believing we can win so it’ll be no difference this Friday night at Cromer Park.
“Hopefully we can build on the second half performance from last week and gain some momentum so we can finish the season as strong as possible.
“We know Manly won’t be easy as they are coming off a loss, but we will be going all out to grab that victory.”
