Ben Turner was unable to make his Pontefract Collieries at Ossett United last Friday because of suspension but he’s all geared up for the local derby with Frickley Athletic next Monday.
It means Colls fans have not had chance yet to see their recent signing in action.
But here’s an opportunity to learn more about the left-sided player.
Name
Ben Turner
Age
30
Current Club
Pontefract Collieries
Previous Clubs
North Ferriby, Frickley, Stocksbridge, Sheff Club, Mickleover, Grantham Town, Worksop Town.
Position
Defender
Day Job
Refuse Lorry driver
Best mate in football
James Knowles
Team You Support
Sheffield United
Football Idol
Beckham
Biggest influence in football
John McGrath, was great to play alongside and then under for the majority of my Non League career, great man management and how he wants to play. Made a difference to how I play and see the game.
Career Highlight
Been part of a FA Trophy Final at Wembley for Mansfield Town
Most Memorable Game
Wasn’t pretty at Mickleover, we needed to win last game of season to stay up and was losing utill 85th minute and we scored twice in the 90th minute and injury time to stay up. You would of thought we’d won the league with the scenes after the game.
Lowest moment
Coming out of full time football at 21
Biggest regret
At 21 settled into non league and although it’s been great for me I should of persisted trying to stay in full time football.
Funniest moment
if you’ve ever shared a changing room with Brett Lovell you’ll understand or Ben Scott – during a game a random animal noise would appear from the goalkeeper. Or a toss up between Roons (Jamie Rooney) or Jarmo (Jarman) going in goal is up there.
First Non League manager
John Anderson and Neil Allison for North Ferriby. Probably the best footballing side I’ve played for and was a real eye opener for me going there from full time. We lost in the play offs twice in a row but they was great people.
Non League Debut
North Ferriby vs Worksop in FA Trophy, ended up going to a replay but I’m from the latter so was a good game to get going in.
First Non League Red Card
Was at Marine away for two silly challenges for North Ferriby and it was Ascot Day so ended up watching the racing in the club house for 45 minutes
Best Non League Goal
Probably for Frickley, a free kick on my debut 25/30 yards out was a great way to start my spell there.
What do you want to achieve in football in the future?
Win as many games as possible and keep enjoying it because when that stops there’s no point in playing and now I’m older if I can have an impact on anyone coming up or through then great.
Favourite Non League Ground
I enjoyed playing at Boston and FC United of Manchester where the fans are so close to the pitch makes the atmosphere so much better.
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