Midfielder Jamie Murphy is determined to hold on his place in the starting line-up. The 19-year old joined Inglewood United over the summer but, following a minor injury setback, had to be content with only the occasional appearance – mostly off the bench – across the opening rounds of the National Premier Leagues.
Having bided his time, Murphy was promoted to the eleven a fortnight ago and he’s not disappointed. A lively performance that afternoon against Floreat Athena was rewarded with another 90-minute run six days later when Inglewood chalked up their first win of the month by dismissing Forrestfield United 2-0.
“I’m definitely very happy to be making the starting eleven,” said Murphy, back-to-back winner of the Under-20 NPL Player of the Year. “It’s always nice to be given the chance to show what you’re capable of. I had a bit of a slow start at Inglewood but I feel I’ve been progressing as the weeks have gone on.”
“My consistency has improved a lot and as my match fitness improves I’m able to maintain a higher level of intensity for longer periods of the 90 minutes. I want to be playing first team football regularly so I’m always pushing myself to improve all the aspects of my game that will make me a better player.”
Murphy has been doing everything possible on the training track this week to ensure himself of a third successive start, against Perth Glory on Saturday. Glory are one of the leagues form sides, collecting maximum points from three of their last four games to surge to the top of the competition ladder.
“Glory has been in great form and have been scoring for fun,” commented Murphy. “We’ve also been playing well of late and it’s a very important match in terms of our season. It’s going to be a very close, intense game with some good football played by both teams … and I believe we have more than enough quality to get the points.”
National Premier Leagues, Round 10
Perth Glory vs Inglewood United
Saturday 28 April @ Ashfield Reserve
Under-18s 11.00am
Under-20s 1.00pm
First team 3.00pm
