Hankin still a Brig part of boss Crowe’s plans

Bamber Bridge boss Neil Crowe says defender Dave Hankin is still a big part of his plans.
Dave Hankin playing for Bamber BridgeDave Hankin playing for Bamber Bridge
Dave Hankin playing for Bamber Bridge

Right back Hankin joined Brig in the summer from National League North side AFC Fylde but he has struggled with a knee injury and Crowe says he has sent him to North West Counties Premier side Padiham to allow him to get more game time as he continues his recovery. Crowe said: “Dave has gone to Padiham for a bit to play some games.

“He’s been struggling with an injury for a while. He needs to have a run of games and he is still very much in our plans.”

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Crowe felt his side had dropped two points when they drew 2-2 with Lancaster City in the NPL First Division North on Saturday.

And now the Brig boss says he has not decided whether he will rest players tonight when they face City for the second time in five days at home tonight in the second round of the Doodson Cup.

He said: “I thought we were the best side. I’m disappointed we did not manage to win the game with the chances we created. We dominated possession in the first half and I was disappointed to come in 1-1 at half-time, a mistake by us let them back in the game.

“Their second goal was either a wonder strike or a cross/shot. Winder’s hit it and it has just flown into the back of the net against the run of play.

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“But we had the character to come back and Sam Joel - who played well - got the equaliser.

“To be honest I feel like it is two points dropped. But with the bad weather conditions it was a good game to watch.

“We know what they are all about and it will be another tough match tonight.”

Brig are 14th in the table and entertain fifth-placed Spennymoor Town on Saturday in the league. Crowe said: “We played them three times last year and they were three hard games. It is not going to get any easier. We are unbeaten in our last two games and we are hoping to put a bit of a run together in the league - that is our priority.”