Stockley: I am going in the right direction

AFC Bournemouth striker Jayden Stockley was feeling positive following another outing for the Cherries development squad.

The AFCB Vital sponsored youngster scored the sides equaliser in a hard fought 2-2 draw against Exeter at the Kings Park training pitches.

AFC Bournemouth had fallen behind early on due to a soft penalty which was despatched by Tom Nicholls, but the Cherries found an equaliser when Harrison Gilkes scored.

But Exeter restored their lead before half time when a slick passing move left the Cherries defence chasing shadows before Jamie Reid tucked the ball past Buchel.

A very even second half brought just one goal, with Stockley curling in a free kick.

It was the strikers second goal from a free kick in as many games on the new training pitches and it has been something he has been working hard on in training.

Stockley said after the game...

'Exeter bought quite a strong side, and they had a lot of experience. The lads did really well, especially in the second half when Exeter had a lot of possession and I felt we dug quite deep.

'It was a fair result. I think we could've nicked it at the end after we got the equaliser, but the lads were working their socks off and I think we did well to get a positive result against a really strong team.

'I thought I did well, and my goal today makes it four goals in four games so it was a real positive. I think I am getting better as a team player and getting used to the role that I have to play in the team.

'I'm picking up the basics which I missed out on when I was a youth team player. When I got thrust into the first team I missed out on some stuff that I really needed to work on, so going back and just adjusting these things has hopefully put me in good stead to have a good career.

'My goal is to get into the first team and I really think I am going in the right direction now.

'I practice free-kicks after training everyday, and they are something that I have always wanted to do. This season I have managed to convert some so hopefully it is something else I can add to my game.

'I was a bit down at the start of the season because I didn't realise what I had to do, but in hindsight everything has worked out well and hopefully I will be a better player because of the development squad, and hopefully a first team player in the not to distant future.

'I couldn't have asked for anyone better than Chris Hargreaves to have come into the club. I think he understands me and the team, and the advice that he gives is invaluable. It is perfect to have someone there as a guide and to keep you playing at 100 per cent all the time.'

To read Jayden Stockley's previous AFCB Vital features - click here.

Supporting the Club

Vital Bournemouth helps to raise money for the football club and The Junior Cherries, through a variety of schemes and its sponsorship of Cherry Bear and the AFC Bournemouth Travel Coaches.