Edwards was mentored by long throw expert
TOM Edwards might have picked up his long throw technique from one of the best in the game – ex-Red Rory Delap.
His long throw-ins have caused havoc on and off the pitch in recent weeks and, although he’s yet to assist from one, he says the threat in the box is still very real.
Whilst at his parent club Stoke City, Edwards used to take throw-ins from down the line but Rory Delap – who is perhaps the most well-known user of the technique – helped change his game.
He said: “Whilst I was at Stoke Rory Delap ended up coming in as a coach.
“He showed me a technique he used to use and it’s worked ever since then.
“I’ve got quite a few assists from it and it’s a good asset to have during the game.
“He (Rory) makes my throwins look very small.”
The defender’s set piece delivery had caused havoc against Bolton in the league and, when Michael Duff’s side came up against them in the cup last weekend, a few dirty tactics from the home side were used.
“They changed our towels for their towels and they put them in a massive puddle,” he said.
“I went over to dry the ball and the referee told me we can’t use anymore towels.
“The emotions were running high from the last game and we just went to make sure we could get the win.
“Especially at their place in front of their fans – it did rile them up a bit but that’s always going to happen.”
Edwards had been playing his football in the MLS with New York Red Bulls before joining the Reds, but he said he prefers Barnsley to New York.
“It’s a lot better.
“I went over there the first year and, don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed it but the second year round I had a pregnant partner back in the UK which was tough.
“It was an amazing experience but I’m happy to be back here.”