Rising Star Konnor Higgins Scores Debut Winner for Market Drayton Town

In an impressive debut, 17-year-old Konnor Higgins scored the winning goal for Market Drayton Town in their 2-1 victory over Barnton on March 15, 2024. The match took place at Greenfields and marked a significant moment for the young attacker, who helped his team extend their unbeaten run to six matches in the North West Counties First Division South.

Introduced by manager Dan Dawson while the team was leading 1-0 thanks to a goal from Jack Finney, Higgins made an immediate impact. Just nine minutes before the final whistle, he struck a clinical finish from close range, driving the ball into the roof of the net. Although Barnton managed to pull one goal back, the Gingerbread Men held on for the victory.

Dawson praised Higgins’ goal as a product of teamwork, describing it as “the most route one you will see.” He elaborated on the sequence leading to the goal: “Our goalkeeper’s banged it upfield, and striker Harry Minshall helped it on with his first touch. Our winger assisted Konnor, who was behind the centre-halves, in the middle of the goal, 10 yards out. He smashed it into the roof of the net with his first touch. It was a really nice little finish.”

Dawson expressed his belief in Higgins’ potential, stating that the young player possesses not only talent but also the right attitude. “He’s a lovely kid,” he said. “His mum and brothers come to every game, as does he when he’s not playing for our development team. He’ll certainly play for our first team. We want him to be the future of the club.”

The manager noted that Higgins is not just a skilled athlete; he is also mature for his age and highly coachable. “If he carries on doing that, he’ll be the future of Drayton at step six, five, four, whatever it may be. He’s got the ability to play at that level. He’s pacey and bigger and stronger than he probably gives himself credit for.”

The match against Barnton was intense, with both teams ultimately finishing with ten players after Archie Russell of Market Drayton was dismissed. This victory propelled Drayton to 13th place in the league standings as they approach the midweek fixtures. The team will have a brief break from competitive action this weekend, opting instead to celebrate the festive season with a Christmas gathering in Manchester.

This victory not only highlights the team’s current form but also showcases the potential of young talents like Higgins, who may play a crucial role in the club’s future ambitions.