Dream final act
YOUNGSTER Jamie Stott hailed a “dream ending” to his County career on Saturday, scoring a lastgasp winner in a 2-1 win at struggling FC United.
Defender Stott saw his second loan spell at Edgeley Park brought to an end at the weekend by parent club Oldham Athletic, where the 21-year-old is returning in an attempt to break into the first team at Boundary Park.
And, in an emotional afternoon for the centreback, Stott bundled home in front of County’s sellout travelling support to cue wild celebrations.
The former Curzon Ashton man was given a guard of honour by his team-mates at the final whistle, bringing to an end a spell of over twenty appearances with just one defeat for the youngster who club insiders say has made a big impact due to his “utmost professionalism”.
“I’m very proud of my time at such an incredible club,” said Stott.
“The high of scoring the winner and celebrating with the fans was pretty soon after replaced by quite a low feeling of knowing that I’m leaving.
“If I wasn’t returning to Oldham hungry to break into the first team and take my chance, I would be here at County.”
Boss Jim Gannon heaped praise on his former defender, who also enjoyed a three-month loan spell with The Hatters last season before Oldham recalled him just prior to the play-offs.
Gannon moved swiftly to replace Stott, bringing in left-sided Fleetwood Town defender Lewis Baines on a loan deal until the end of the season.
Concerns were raised amongst supporters at Stott’s impending exit given the youngster’s superb form for The Hatters, but Gannon moved to quell any worries with the signing of Baines prior to Saturday’s win at Broadhurst Park.
“What a way to finish (for Jamie), it’s a local game for him so he had family here watching. I’m really pleased for him, he’s really excelled and worked hard here and I think he’s ready now to perform for Oldham at league level.
“We’re delighted to be able to add Lewis, he’s a six-foot-three left-sided centre-back, a good footballer, good defender, another really good young player that’s maturing well from experience in non-league, so I’m delighted to add him and I think he’s a perfect replacement for Jamie.”
Saturday’s late victory sealed a superb week for Gannon’s side, who battled to a 1-0 win at struggling Leamington on Tuesday evening thanks to a Darren Stephenson header.
And with league leaders Chorley storming to a 4-1 win over out-of-form York City on Saturday, County faced a daunting six-point gap opening up between the top two in the National League North until Stott’s volleyed winner.
“It was a tough battle against a side that play full of passion and really battle hard,” said Gannon.