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Teenage defender signs Wick deal as manager praises his attitude and ability


By Alan Hendry

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Joe Anderson has had nine starts for Wick Academy so far this season. Picture: Mel Roger
Joe Anderson has had nine starts for Wick Academy so far this season. Picture: Mel Roger

Wick Academy manager Gary Manson says he is delighted that teenager Joe Anderson has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with the club.

Manson is convinced that the defender, who turned 17 last month, has all the attributes to have a good career in the Highland League or at a higher level.

Anderson has made 12 appearances, nine from the start, so far this season and scored in the 4-3 win at Huntly in November. The manager praised his "dominant" display in Monday's 3-2 away victory over Turriff United as Academy made it six wins from their last seven games.

"He has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal and he thoroughly deserves it," Manson said. "He has acquitted himself ever so well.

"I had no doubts – I knew all about him as a young boy, that's why I was keen to get him in training with us pre-season.

“He has got his chance and that was his ninth start [at Turriff]. For a young boy just making his way in the game, it's a good number to be hitting at this stage of the season and it was probably one of his better games as well.

“He was dominant. He was up against quite a big, strong boy and he acquitted himself brilliantly.

“I have no doubts that Joe will go on to have as good a career as he wants to.

"With his attitude and his commitment and his ability, he could be around the Highland League – if not higher – for as long as he wants. I'm delighted to get him signed up."

Wick keeper James More punches clear during Monday's game at Turriff. Picture: Mel Roger
Wick keeper James More punches clear during Monday's game at Turriff. Picture: Mel Roger

Monday's win at The Haughs was a landmark occasion for goalkeeper James More as he made his 150th appearance for Academy.

The 33-year-old goalkeeping coach was deputising for regular choice Graeme Williamson for the second time this season.

More signed for the Scorries in 2004 and Manson has been a team-mate throughout that time.

"He's a godsend to me and to the club," Manson said. “It's not just with the coaching and the playing side – James does a lot of work behind the scenes as well.

“He is one of those guys that'll do anything for you – anything you need, he will try and help you out.

“It's a great achievement to get 150 appearances in the Highland League. For his ability, and for the service that he has given the club, it seems like he should have more appearances than that.

“I've probably been involved in all of those 150. He's a goalie who always gives his best and he'll never let anyone down.

“Like I said, he has been a godsend to me since I came in as manager and long may it continue.”

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