No game for weeks has been blessing in disguise, says Whitehaven's Doran
Last updated at 12:47, Thursday, 12 July 2012
Whitehaven assistant coach Lee Doran has described the club’s extended rest period as a ‘blessing in disguise’ as they prepare for the televised clash with Barrow Raiders next Thursday evening.
Haven have won six of their last eight Championship One games and are currently in fourth place, six points ahead of fifth-placed Rochdale, but they have not played since beating Oldham on July 1.
Thursday’s game against leaders Barrow is a huge game for both clubs, and Doran said: “The lads have been in training since October/November so it was good to give them last weekend off for a break from the game and to spend with their families.
“It’s been a blessing in disguise. It’s given us time to prepare as Thursday’s game is massive for us.
“We have six games left, six cup finals, and we will be taking every one as it comes. We were our own worst enemies against Barrow and had enough to beat Workington but didn’t."
The two games Doran was refering to are Haven’s only two defeats in their last eight matches but that run of form has seen them consolidate fourth spot and a promotion place. But he warned: “Oldham can still play a massive part for us this season as they still have to play clubs above us. The teams below us are snapping at our heels and they are more than hungry for the fourth promotion place.”
Haven trained on twice this week and the fact that they don’t have a game this weekend or last has given players time to get over niggling injuries.
Doran, a star on the pitch in his own right this season, added that a good blend of experience and youth was pulling Haven through this term. And he had special praise for St Helens youngster Dave Houghton.
“I can’t praise Dave enough,” said Doran. “He’s got a massive future in the game and when he got his chance in the side, he took it. He is improving week-by-week and does everything right, and listens to what he is told. But the bottom line is that we all have to pull together and play for 80 minutes.”
First published at 12:46, Thursday, 12 July 2012
Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk
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