In a month which has seen mixed results on the pitch, one player has really stood out – step up Tijan Sparks with three man of the match performances.
An early season injury to new signing Ben Hack brought an unexpected change to the mullet’s defensive line with Tijan being asked by mullets manager Craig Stuart to fill in at the back.
Primarily a combative central midfielder, Sparks has made the position his own over the past couple of months, and has adapted extraordinarily well to his new surroundings.
“Moving back to centre half has been an easy transition.”
“I prefer playing at the back as I feel the position plays well to my strengths – especially in a back three.”
“I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much in a back four, as I think that limits where I can move on the pitch – but in a three I can still get forward down that right hand side when I can.”
“I think the strongest part of my game is one on one defending. I love tackling, and physically I can dominate the game from defence – the role really suits me, but I am happy to play wherever the manager tells me.”
Previous seasons have seen Sparks, 25, turn out for Littlehampton and East Preston – but it is at Mill Road where he has made his home.
Having been restricted to just 12 appearances last season due to knee and achilles injuries (and the odd suspension), the versatile player is loving life at Mill Road under Craig Stuart.
“I absolutely love playing for the club and that badge. My mum and nan were both born in the town. It means a lot to me to be playing with this team for this club.”
With the Mullets dropping out of the playoff places over the past couple of weeks, you would forgive Sparks for feeling downbeat – but this is certainly not the case.
“I think we have performed quiet well so far this season.”
“The last month or so has been challenging, and there has been a few games which we should be winning if we want to be pushing into those play-off places, which is our goal.”
“We have a good squad with really strong depth. All we need to do is stick together, grit it out and our luck will change – we are very much all on the same page.”
So how does Tijan feel about winning the clubs player of the month award for September?
“To be player of the month is brilliant – especially as I also had a week away in Ibiza! Thanks to everyone that voted for me, and hopefully I can continue the form I am in.”
“I also seem to be picking up less yellow cards this season which is a blessing – that way I am not missing games through silly suspensions.”
This weekend see’s the mullets play host to an Oakwood side who are currently sitting in 16th place in the table.
The Oaks have had a challenging start to the campaign, but are coming to Mill Road fresh on the back of an impressive 2-0 victory over playoff contenders Worthing United.
“We need a big three points tomorrow. The lads are desperate to do well and put on a show. One thing I will say is that the support this season from the club and supporters has been incredible and the lads really appreciate it. Let’s get back to winning ways.”
Come and see if The Mullets can get back to winning ways tomorrow vs Oakwood. 3PM KO. Mill Road. Adults £7, Concessions £5, Under 16’s Free Entry.
