I’m number 1!
... Cavalier goalkeepers battle for starting role
The battle to be Cavalier number one goalkeeper is on as regular defender and former national youth goalkeeper David Mitchell has displaced regular goalkeepers, Jeadine White and Peter Harrison.
Mitchell came into the team only by chance after Harrison got injured and White had personal issues to tend to. However, since taking the gloves, Speid has kept faith in the 25-year-old, who has kept the regulars sidelined.
Mitchell’s experience playing as a central defender gives him the advantage of organising his defence more efficiently, and his ability to play with his feet helps the team to move the ball out smartly.
WAS A SWEEPER
“I play outfield but one keeper was injured and Jeadine was away, and coach Speid called on me,” Mitchell said.
“Cavalier has been my first and only club. I came through the ranks and before I was a keeper, I was a sweeper. I kept for the national under-20 and under-23s, so I have experience. So when coach called on me, he knew I could do the job,” he said.
Mitchell hopes to continue the good work he has been doing between the sticks in the play-offs, although goalkeeping is not in his long-term plans.
“It (game) is hard physically and mentally, so it is important you encourage. When you instruct, you encourage, and that goes a far way. I also have a lot of technical ability, so the players trust me with the ball movement,” he continued.
Meanwhile, out-of-favour number one White is working to regain his place as the first choice goalkeeper and understands he will not get the nod tomorrow. However, he is ready if ever called upon.
“I haven’t been having a great season. It hasn’t been all bad, but it’s not all good either. But I am actually stepping it up again and hoping to play a part. I have played 14 games and kept eight clean sheets. But it requires a lot of focus because one moment of lapse can cost you,” he reasoned.