Jack Orchard’s impressive start to life at Hoddesdon Town continued on Saturday afternoon as the defender was named the Greene King Level Head Man of the Match following the Lilywhites’ 3-1 victory over Coggeshall Town at Lowfield.

The summer arrival produced another assured performance at the heart of the Hoddesdon defence, helping Simon Riddle’s side recover from falling behind early in the contest before going on to secure another important league victory. While Connor Bolton, Jonah Evans and Ollie Babbage provided the goals at the other end, Orchard’s calm and commanding contribution at the back earned him the individual honours.

Jack Orchard

A COMMANDING PRESENCE AT THE BACK

Coggeshall provided a stern examination, particularly during the opening stages when Lewis Nial fired the visitors ahead with an excellent finish. The afternoon became even more unpredictable when the Seed Growers were reduced to ten men, but their numerical disadvantage did not stop them competing strongly and looking for opportunities on the break. That made Orchard’s concentration particularly important. The centre-back remained composed throughout, reading danger well, winning his defensive battles and helping Hoddesdon maintain control as Coggeshall continued to fight despite playing much of the contest a man short.

Alongside the rest of the Lilywhites’ defensive unit, Orchard helped limit the visitors’ opportunities after the opening goal and provided the solid platform from which Town could turn the contest around. Bolton’s penalty brought Hoddesdon level before Evans produced another superb finish to make it 2-1 before half-time, with Babbage eventually wrapping up the victory late in the second period.

Orchard Has 15 Appearances This Season, All From The Starting Line Up

The award was another positive moment in what has been an excellent introduction to Lowfield for Orchard. Having joined Hoddesdon from Wormley Rovers during the summer, the defender has quickly established himself as an important member of Riddle’s squad.

Orchard also has previous experience with Wodson Park, and his familiarity with the local non-league scene has helped him settle quickly into his new surroundings. Saturday marked his 15th appearance of the season, with all 15 coming from the starting line-up, while he has also contributed a goal during his opening months in Lilywhite colours.

ORCHARD: “I’M REALLY ENJOYING MY FOOTBALL HERE”

Speaking after receiving the award, Orchard was keen to place the emphasis on another strong team performance rather than his individual recognition.

“It’s always nice to get Man of the Match and I’m obviously really pleased, but the biggest thing was getting another three points,” said Jack. “Coggeshall made it difficult for us, even with ten men, and we had to stay switched on because they still carried a threat.”

“I’ve really enjoyed coming into the club this season. The lads have made it very easy to settle in, there’s a really good atmosphere around the group and I’m enjoying my football here. We’ve started the season well, but everyone knows there’s a lot of work still to do.”

Orchard also acknowledged the importance of the defensive work that often goes unnoticed when the goals are being scored further up the pitch.

“As a defender you take pride in doing the basics properly, winning your battles and helping the team stay organised. We were disappointed to concede early, but I thought we reacted well and stayed composed. Once we got ourselves back into the game, we managed it well and deserved the win.”

ELAINE PRESENTS THE PRIZE

Jack was presented with his Greene King Level Head Man of the Match award after the final whistle by Hoddesdon Town Club Secretary Elaine Phillips, who praised the defender’s impact since arriving at Lowfield.

The Varney Family Sponsored Saturday's Game In Memory Of Fred Varney

“Jack has been excellent since joining us and Saturday was another really accomplished performance,” said Elaine. “He looks calm, assured and completely at home in the side, which is impressive considering this is still his first season with the club.”

“He thoroughly deserved the award. It has been lovely to see how quickly he has become part of the group, and hopefully there are plenty more performances like that still to come.”

The victory continued Hoddesdon’s outstanding unbeaten league campaign, but for Orchard it also provided another personal landmark in a season that has already seen him become one of the most dependable members of the squad.

Hoddesdon Town would once again like to extend its sincere thanks to Greene King and Level Head IPA for their continued sponsorship and support of the club’s Man of the Match award. Their backing allows us to recognise the outstanding performers representing the Lilywhites at Lowfield throughout the season.

Congratulations, Jack — a thoroughly deserved award after another excellent afternoon in a Hoddesdon Town shirt.

#COYL