With Pontefract Collieries preparing to attempt to pull off the impossible dream on Saturday in the historic FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie against FC Halifax Town at Beechnut Lane, it seems only right that one of their key players is this week’s Player Profile.
So step forward midfielder Derry Robson who has enjoyed a great Non League career so far and even at one stage was one of the youngest managers in the country.
Name
Derry Robson
Age
27
Current Club
Pontefract Collieries
Previous Clubs
Goole AFC, Selby Town, Sheffield FC, Belper Town
Day Job
Cad Cam designer
Best mate in football
I’ve met loads of great lads through football I couldn’t pick one out but I enjoy a regular drink with Alex Varley and Danny South.
Team you support
Leyton Orient
Football Idol
Was always Becks growing up
Biggest influence on football career
My old man, took me everywhere and still goes to every game now.
Career Highlight
I’d have to say making the 4th round qualifying of the FA Cup with Belper. Playing at Notts County was a great experience.
Most Memorable Game
Ask me after Saturday’s game against Halifax 👀
Lowest moment in football
Getting relegated with Goole. Me and David Taylor took the reigns until the end of the season that year. I think we managed to get enough points for a reprieve so it was mixed emotions in the end.
Biggest regret in football
Don’t have any regrets in football to be honest.
Funniest moment in football
We went to Northern Ireland with Belper for a pre season game against Portadown. Craig Nelthorpe thought he’d be clever putting a few drinks on one of the lads rooms the night before the game. Only to find out in the morning it was the chairman’s room he’d put them on and had to come clean to everyone at breakfast.
First semi-professional manager
Karl Rose and James Dudgeon at Goole. Great guys.
Non League Debut
Brigg Town for Goole, think I was only 16.
First Red Card in Non League
My debut for Belper Town. Two bookings (very harsh).
First and Best Non League Goal
I think my first goal was away at Rushall Olympic, whilst with Goole. Header at the back post, wasn’t anything special.
Best goal would be Colwyn Bay away – again with Goole, won a tackle about 30 yards out, took a touch and hit the top corner. Was the first game for the new manager Dave Anderson and my first game as skipper which made it abit sweeter.
What do you want to achieve in football in the future?
Keep enjoying it and try to be as successful as possible.
Favourite Non League Ground
Belper, it’s a great set up.
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Take a look at our previous Player Profiles HERE