Ollie Palmer marked his first start in six weeks with a vital FA Cup goal on Saturday – and he’s eager to make up for lost time this season.
The experienced striker’s goal proved decisive in securing a place in the second round of the Emirates FA Cup, Ollie’s well-taken first-half effort just enough to defeat National North side Guiseley.
“It had been a frustrating five or six weeks for me,” said Ollie. “I always try to play through injuries. I did it last season when I tore my oblique muscle, and I also had a hip injury that required an operation, but I initially played on. That’s just the way I am, and I never want to miss games. I am back now, and I’m going to make sure that I stay fit, so that I’m available to help the team.
“I always forget goals! It happened so quickly. I just went up for the first ball from Nik, it was a great kick, and I managed to flick it on. We had spoken to Ayoub and Rudi about getting on the end of my headers, which they did. Ayoub got a touch and I managed to get onto that, before taking it around the keeper and getting the only goal of the game.”
On his side’s performance, Ollie admitted it fell below what the players expect from themselves.
“Our performance was not overly pleasing, but credit to Guiseley as they came here and played well,” added Ollie. “We didn’t reach the standards we should have done. We should have scored one or two more.
“We could have taken a few more chances, and showed more quality on the ball in the final third. We produced some sloppy play, and we didn’t really get going, but the main thing is that we got through. Now we need to do our homework for Sutton and get another important win.
“It was a big game for Guiseley, they travelled a long way down, and they probably found another 20 or 30 per cent from what they normally would in a league game. They came here and gave it a good shot, just as we did when we went to Arsenal. Credit to them, but we need to look at ourselves and be slightly disappointed.”
Pic credit: Ian Stephen, Pro Sports Images.