Boss Batch saved Davidson (From Echo)

Boss Batch saved Davidson

2:20am Friday 27th February 2009 in Sport By Dick Marshall

CANVEY Island FC skipper Craig Davidson praised boss John Batch for saving his non-league career.

Batch, who was runner-up in the main Sports Personality awards to Olympic hockey man Jonty Clarke, took over as Gulls’ first team manager when Jeff King left the club two-and-a-half seasons ago.

Batch had formerly run the reserve side, but led the first team back to the Ryman Premier in two years.

“I was on the point of giving up playing when John asked me to come down and play when he took over the first team,” said Davidson.

“It’s been the best few years of my career. Winning last season’s Division One play-off final to get back in the Premier was a never-to-be-forgotten day and we’ve done incredibly well to be challenging this year at the top flight.”

Davidson also took the stage to collect third place for the club in the Team of the Year competition from former England boss Peter Taylor, who played for the Islanders in his younger days.

Batch admitted: “We’re delighted that the Echo’s readers recognised our club in two award sections.

“I’m pleased to have been named individually, but just as happy, if not more so, with the team award. I was pleased that Craig went up to collect the prize as he’s been an inspiration to everyone here as captain.”