Nicholas ‘Josh’ Beckett, a defensive midfielder who started his journey at Harbour View FC in his teenage years, has steadily improved over time to make his way up the ranks. This season seems to be the most important for him to date, as he accepted the responsibility of wearing the Captain’s armband and executing the duties that it carries.
Acting as team Captain for all the Premier League matches thus far with the exception of one, Beckett has set clear objectives to carry out for every single game; “I try to keep the guys focused on their jobs out there and keep them motivated at all times” he stated.
While on the field, he takes into consideration that after the close of the 2013-14 season, there have been a number of changes in the team, with this season’s squad housing a larger number of younger, less experienced players. When asked to compare this season to the last, Beckett emphasized the overall desire to win. “We are more determined this season based on the fact that we are without a few players. The depth [of established players] is not the same, so we have more of a fighting spirit” he added. “There’s a lot more fight this season. We know we have to earn the three points so we put the ball on the pitch and play football.”
One thing that has been made undeniably clear is that his shot accuracy has vastly improved; He has been the man to call on in most instances of a free kick and it is a job he doesn’t take lightly. After finding the net in the last two games, Beckett has surpassed his last season total to now record three goals, all being game-winners with two from direct free kicks. Outside of those goals, he has knocked the crossbar multiple times, a testament to his accuracy. “I’ve definitely been practicing more where free kicks are concerned so I think that’s where I’m getting the results from, more practice.”
With the league just passed the midway mark, Harbour View currently sits in 3rd position on the points standings. Beckett says he’s expecting positive results and more goals, we look forward to what the rest of the season holds for Captain Beckett and our Harbour View team, stay tuned!