Town victory a fitting tribute to teammate Cody

NEARLY 600 supporters turned out to pay their respects to former Stratford Town favourite Cody Fisher as the Bards took on a Birmingham City XI in a memorial game at the Arden Garages Stadium.

And for boss Gavin Hurren, the evening was a fitting tribute to the player who is still part of the club’s progress.

Goals from Jamie Molyneux, Liam Daly and Callum Ebankjs wrapped up a 3-0 win making it a perfect night according to the manager.

Hurren said: “It proved to be a fitting tribute. Cody’s picture is up on the wall in the dressing room and he is still just one of the lads – he’ll never be forgotten. It was nice to put on a show and the game was really enjoyable and played in the right spirit.

“I’m really pleased with the way that we carried on from Saturday against Cov. I thought every single player was outstanding, we kept our shape and we worked hard. There was some really good football and I think everyone enjoyed it and have gone away on a positive.

“I’m really happy with the clean sheet and I can’t really remember Liam having to make a save. Over the duration of the game we created plenty of opportunities, hit the woodwork and were a threat on every set-piece.”

A total of 19 players were used against Birmingham City and Hurren said that he would remain open-minded about who gets a shirt for the opening league game

“We have assembled a good squad and it is down to us now to pick a team that will do best for the football club. We will have players fighting for the shirt because they know there is healthy competition. I’d rather have a selection headache than not having a team to pick from.

“I don’t think you can pick a starting XI until the last few days of pre-season because of how well the players are doing at the moment. That means they need to keep driving each other. Those shirts are still up for grabs and for those fortunate enough to get a shirt, they need to make sure they keep it because there will be plenty of others chomping at the bit to take it.”

Supporters also had a chance to see new signing Devonn O’Sullivan, a 17-year-old who is with the club’s academy. The midfielder was a second half replacement and prompted praise from his manager.

Hurren added: “Devonn has come in and taken his chance. Now it is all about his development. We have seen him come on for 30 minutes against a talented Birmingham City side and it shows how close he is. It shows that there is a pathway at this football club which allows players to progress to the first team if they are good enough and it means they can develop their game on a good pitch and benefiting from great facilities.”