UPDATE: In a thrilling match at Greenfields, 17-year-old Konnor Higgins made an explosive debut for Market Drayton Town, scoring the decisive goal just minutes after stepping onto the pitch. This victory against third-placed Barnton marked a significant achievement for the Gingerbread Men, extending their unbeaten streak to just one loss in the last seven games in the North West Counties First Division South.
Higgins was introduced by manager Dan Dawson with Town leading 1-0 thanks to an earlier goal from Jack Finney. The young striker wasted no time, firing a clinical finish into the roof of the net nine minutes from the end, pushing the score to 2-0. Although Barnton managed to pull one back, Market Drayton held on to secure a well-deserved victory.
Dawson praised Higgins’ impressive debut, describing the goal as “the most route one you will see.” He elaborated, “Our goalkeeper’s banged it upfield, and striker Harry Minshall helped it on with his first touch. Our winger assisted Konnor, who was in behind the centre-halves, and he smashed it in from ten yards out.”
The manager expressed confidence in Higgins’ future, highlighting not only his talent but also his character. “He’s a lovely kid, a brilliant person, and very mature for his age,” Dawson stated. “If he continues to work hard and maintain his attitude, he will be the future of this club.”
The match ended with both teams reduced to ten men following the dismissal of Market Drayton’s Archie Russell. With this win, Drayton climbs to 13th place in the league standings, setting up an exciting midweek fixture ahead. Notably, the team will take a break this weekend as they prepare for a Christmas event in Manchester.
As fans celebrate Higgins’ impactful debut, Market Drayton Town looks forward to building on this momentum in upcoming matches. Keep an eye on this rising star as he aims to make his mark in the world of football.
