Simon Bryan is Hailed as Best Keeper in the Country

CHASETOWN manager Michael Rowe backed keeper Simon Bryan as the best keeper anywhere in the country at this level despite a howler last week.

The former Telford and Bridgnorth shotstopper was in tears in the dressing room after a miskick led to Oadby's second goal in a 3-1 win at Church Street last week. But Rowe has heaped praise on the distraught Bryan, who recovered to keep a clean sheet in Tuesday's goalless draw with Barwell.

"Simon was very upset about the individual mistake which cost us, said Rowe. But no matter what anyone thinks, he is the best keeper at Level Three - and probably one higher - in the country. I have discussed this with Simon. I won't drop him and he will play through it. I've said to the lads: "he's our mate and we have to protect him. On Tuesday night he went out looking 12 feet tall and you just knew he wouldn't be beaten."

The Scholars' strike options have improved with Zak Harrison making his comeback in midweek and Gareth Horler pencilled in for reserve action today with a view to playing against Causeway on Tuesday. Dave Cockbill has recovered from head and chest injuries sustained in a car crash but Matt Bytheway isn't fit after tweaking a thigh fast week and Neil Aulton suffered concussion in midweek.

Article from Sporting Star - Sat 18th October 2003.