Sponsored by
Goal ace Atkin relives promotion experience
SUPPORTERS' player of the year Andy Atkin spoke at the weekend of the moment Eastbourne Borough secured promotion and said, "It is a feeling I have never experienced before and it is still with me now.
"I cannot get out of my head just what we have achieved and the level we will be playing at next season. I am thinking about it all the time."
It was Atkin's 84th minute volley on the turn that led to the all-important goal that broke Hampton hearts and paved the way for Borough to join the Blue Square Premier Division next season.
His effort was tipped onto the bar by 'keeper Matt Lovett and fell for Nathan Crabb to provide the finishing touch.
Said the scorer of 30 goals last season, "I can't remember a lot about the goal. I swung a leg at the ball, saw the 'keeper make a great save and Nathan was there to put it away. When Armo (Paul Armstrong) got the second I knew there was not enough time for them to come back."
The burly striker was playing in his second play-off final, having been signed from Eastbourne United just in time for the 2005 play-offs, which ended with a 2-1 defeat against Altrincham at Stoke City's Britannia Stadium.
Then it was a match of heartbreak, but this was one of triumph.
Added Atkin, "We didn't have a good start what with the coach breaking down, but we kept plugging away and did well to keep a clean sheet. I always knew we were capable of scoring and I am just grateful to Garry (Wilson) and Nick (Greenwood) to have been given the opportunity to play up front at this level after previously having been a centre-back."
Atkin admits that the 'moment of madness' that led to his suspension provided him with the longest three matches out of action he has ever endured.
But after a wave of injuries and suspensions, the key players returned at the right time to carry the side through the play-offs.
Now Atkin and the rest of the squad can enjoy a summer break contemplating a new season at the top of the non-league ladder.
"I am sure Garry and Nick will make a few signings, but we have some great players and I am confident we will hold our own," insisted Atkin.
"As far as I am concerned I have already achieved more than I ever expected to in football."
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Eastbourne
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Light showers
Temperature: 13 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: West
