By Alex Southey
IT was more a case of Catch of the Day than Match of the Day for injured Dover keeper Mitch Walker last season – but now he’s ready to reel in some top-flight success of his own.
Walker was named in the Conference South team of the year in 2013-2014 but was forced to sit out five months of the last campaign after tearing ligaments in his elbow in September.
The injury lay-off meant the 23-year-old spent more time looking inside his fishing net than the back of Dover’s goal net – but now he’s ready to make up for lost time.
Consistent
“It was frustrating being out for so long,” Walker said. “As soon as I did the injury I knew I was going to be out for a couple of months, but I didn’t realise it would be as long as five.
“During my time on the sidelines I liked to go to the gym, I’m not one to sit inside watching the TV all day, I enjoy fishing and going to the lakes and being outside.
“It was nice to see the team do so well but it was frustrating not being a part of it on the field.”
Walker’s injury resulted in Whites boss Chris Kinnear signing former Hartlepool goalkeeper Andy Rafferty, who bought plenty of League experience as well as stiff competition once the former Brighton & Hove Albion youngster returned to the action.
“Andy and I get on really well, we both understand the situation,” says Walker. “If I get picked I know he is breathing down my neck to get in the team and vice versa.”
Kinnear’s side enjoyed a successful first season back in the top tier of Non-League football finishing an impressive eighth.
But Walker has warned his side need only follow the plight of Kent rivals Dartford to know how difficult it is to beat off second season syndrome.
“We know we have to be careful,” he added. “We had a great season last year but we don’t want to get carried away.
“I remember Dartford having a good first year finishing eighth when they achieved promotion from the Conference South and then they had two poor seasons.
“I want to try to be as consistent as possible and keep my place in the side for as long as possible. An injury-free season too will be ideal too.”
