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Tom Marriott tries his hand at Q&A

Tom Marriott tries his hand at Q&A

HSFC Webmaster15 Dec 2014 - 10:02
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Marriott reveals why he's always last out of the changing room and let's us in on what he's do should he win the lottery.

Tom has the impressive record of having bagged the Golden Boot award in every season he has played under manager Steve Hendey. It was a tough opening season for the young forward, frequently isolated against some tough opposition. However Marriott has always shown character and an eye for goal.

You’ve played in a lot of different systems over the years at Town, both alone and with varying partners. What system do you think suits you most and what’s been your most deadly partnership?

"I think I'm definitely most suited to playing in a front two, not being a big target man type of striker, I can sometimes become isolated leading the line solo.

Having said that, in terms of strike partners, Mike Hendey and I enjoyed a good season together not so long ago with Mike playing well in a deep No. 10 role. In terms of combined goals in a partnership though, the most successful was probably back when I first started out with Town playing up top with Nikki Harvey."

The plans are well in motion now for Sileby to leave Memorial Park at the end of the season. There's a hope that promotion will be a distinct possibility should the good form on the pitch continue. Many teams have left the Senior League over the years and flourished, in particular Lutterworth Athletic.

With Town set to move to the new ground this year, it’s exciting times both on and off the field. Do you think the time is right for Sileby to step up to the EMCL?

"Absolutely! I think it's great for the club that the move to the new ground is taking shape now and if we can achieve promotion this year to go with it then we start next season with great momentum."

However Marriott has enough problems finding his way out of the current changing rooms. A change of scenery could spell disaster.

You’re frequently the last man out of the changing rooms along with Matt Hendey. What is it exactly that takes you so long?!

"Preparation is key! As most of the lads know, I don't tend to rush when getting ready before or after the game! There are a few superstitions I need to get through, including strapping the metatarsals, receiving a rub from physio Elaine and Vaseline on the sparrow knees to name but three!"

You’ve won the lottery, a huge £6.5m jackpot. Do you

  • a) Buy all the team new, customised boots,
  • b) Buy yourself a new sports car, turn up on match day and act like you’re better than everyone,
  • c) buy the club outright and bring in Julian Joachim on a hefty wage or
  • d) something totally different? (if you choose totally different then you’ll have to let us know what.)

"I wouldn't change too much to be honest with how the club is run, the money can make people lose their heads. Other than the obvious additions to the new ground; A stand built and named after club hero Charlie Hoyes. A statue of the chairman installed outside the front gates and jacuzzis and baths in the changing rooms so I can take even longer to get ready!

The team would all get customised boots though and heated seats in the changing rooms. The loyal Town followers would also get free transport to away games on the Sileby Team bus."

Staying on the subject of money, there’s a tendency for teams at this level to look for a quick fix by paying to attract the best players. What’s been your take on this during your time at Sileby?

"Well I don't tend to agree with those methods at senior league level, not only has it damaged several clubs over the years after mismanagement in this way, it can also disrupt a squad negatively. To my knowledge this hasn't happened at Town over the years, though there were rumours of Wiffy using one of his ISAs to fund moves during his time at the club!"

With Town doing so well in the league it's understandable that they're getting a bit of stick from the supporters; it's the Sileby way. Liam Winnett in particular made his feelings felt this weekend before powering forwards to level the score against Houghton.

Who’s grumpier, Chairman Phil or The Grinch?

"So far this season I've not seen Phil looking very grumpy at all, so if we can keep our winning run going, The Grinch would win this one!"

It's been a testing season and Town have faced some strong opposition. It would be fair to say that there has seldom been an easy game.

Who would you say is the best team you’ve faced so far this season and why?

"I would have to say Saffron Dynamo. We've drawn both games with them, and in particular in the second game they moved the ball around well and were a constant threat."

It's been a tough few weeks for the Town, losing at Barlestone in the cup and then being held to an entertaining draw with Houghton this weekend.

They face Barlestone again this weekend and will be looking to make amends. Kick off is 2pm at Memorial Park.

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