It’s been a frustrating last 12 months for the Mariners midfielder Matthew Crowell, but a month after inking a deal with the Central Coast club, the Welshman is beginning to feel like he’s found a home.
After parting ways with League Two outfit Wrexham, Crowell spent time at Conference Premier clubs Northwich Victoria and Altrincham, but admits finding stability was proving difficult.
“I was at Wrexham for a few years and it was all local (players) and I had an apartment there, with everything on my doorstep. I wanted to try something different and a guy I played with started becoming an agent, so he told me there was an opportunity out here, do you want to come out here, so I came out here, and that was it.
“I’m really enjoying it. The boys have been really helpful, the staff, the manager, everyone at the club, I can’t ask for any more, so it’s been good,” Crowell said.
Crowell made his Hyundai A-League debut in a brief cameo off the bench in the scoreless draw in Wellington, and after impressing in a National Youth League match a week later, made his home debut against North Queensland last Sunday.
“I came on the first of September and I hadn’t played for over a month, so I needed a game. I played in the youth team and we had a good result (a 3-1 win over Sydney FC), we all seemed to do well, and the gaffer said I just needed to get a bit fitter,” said Crowell.
With improved fitness, and more and more game time under his belt, Crowell is sure to show off the skill which made him a hit at the famed Southampton academy when the club – which produced the likes of England internationals Alan Shearer, Theo Walcott and Gareth Barry – was in the English Premier League.
He hopes, glimpses of that talent can help the Mariners to a much needed three points against Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium this Saturday.
“It was nice to get a run out but it’s even better when you can get on the bench (for the first team) and get to come on. It was a bit disappointing drawing on the weekend, but fingers crossed we can put that right in Brisbane and get three points,” Crowell said.
Originally here on a short-term trial during the last pre-season, Crowell says he’s now adjusting to life on the Central Coast, with the help of some familiar accents.
“The lads are great, and it helps when there are a few UK based boys here to help you settle in. They’ve all been really good,” said Crowell.
