The Singleton Strikers humbled local derby rivals Cessnock Hornets on Saturday with three wins and a draw to round out a very satisfying day at Howe Park. But there was also another reason to celebrate – popular, well-respected and tenacious defender, Ryan Guihot played his 200th grade game. And, becomes just the 11th member of this illustrious club. Club president David Andrews says Guihot started playing grade in 2002.
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“Then after a couple of years away from the game due to him and wife Laura travelling the world, Guihot returned in 2007 and worked his way into the first grade team as a tenacious defender who never gave an inch and always had his team mates back no matter what the situation,” he explains.
Although small in stature, Andrews says he always meets every challenge head on, never taking a backward step, and went on to play 68 games in first grade. But Guihot has not only achieved on the field, the dedicated club man has held many positions from the role of player/coach to committee member. In doing so he has never complained, never shied away from the hard work and he never chases the limelight, Andrews explains.
“And when he takes to the field every single time you know he will give his team mates and the club his absolute best. The saying, it's not how big you are it's how big you play certainly applies to Guihot. He has guts, is fearless, well respected and the player everyone wants in their team.”
He currently plays in the U23’s side and a cavalcade of players, as well as his gorgeous family, cheered as he took to the field on Saturday. The game looked destined to peter out to a draw until Lucas Gentle managed to score from a header off a James Bates lofted cross to secure all three points for the Strikers. Pacy winger Rob Field was rewarded for his whole-hearted effort with the Players Player award.
The First Grade fixture saw a red hot Onekey Resources Singleton team take on a Cessnock side that had been struggling for form over recent weeks. And, the disparity between the two teams was soon apparent when dead ball specialist Dan Palozzi scored from a free kick in the opening minute. Dynamic midfielder Sam Ford added a second for Singleton just minutes later with a screamer that left the Cessnock goal keeper no chance. After the early onslaught, the opposition rallied and managed to hold the Strikers for the remainder of the first half. But the second period was all Singleton. Klaudon Ahmataj scored twice in quick succession. Boom youngster Nathan Hall came on as a substitute with almost immediate effect. English import Kieron Burrell capped another fine display with a well taken goal, before Ahmataj secured a second half hat trick to make it six for the Strikers.