The club, affectionately known as ‘Tics’, have had to make do with a very small squad and some would argue they have overachieved under the guidance of the experienced former Guernsey boss Steve Ogier and his right hand man Kevin Graham.
‘Tics’ had their ups and downs during the season. They began the season in August with a 1-0 victory over a reinvigorated Rovers side at Port Soif. This was followed 6 weeks after by a wonderful cup victory at Northfield. Just 4 days later Athletics were pummelled 12-0 by St Martin’s. Again ‘Tics’ beat North in December.
The match-winner from the seasons’ opener at Port Soif was 17 Year Old, Luke Winch, he left shortly afterwards after becoming disillusioned with Athletics. This was a massive loss for the club as Winch has the potential to be one of the best young players in the island.
After Christmas Ogier’s team continued to be inconsistent, beating Rovers, Sylvans and North and losing to Bels and twice to St Martin’s.
One of the highlights of ‘Tics’ season would have to be that October night at Northfield. A 2-2 draw in normal time only tells half the story, former Totton & Eling goalkeeper Lee Savident made his first appearance for the club since returning to the island. It would be fair to say he pulled off some top draw saves and deserved man of the match. He then went on to be the hero of the penalty shootout.
With players missing for the next game against St Martin’s at KGV, they were ripped apart by a brilliant performance from ‘Saints’ suffering the biggest defeat of the season in Division 1.
Throughout the campaign ‘Tics’ fortune was often determined by the availability of their best players, as you’d expect. With some games they only had one substitute and often Island cricketer Jamie Nussbaumer was asked to fill in.
All in all I believe most people in the Guernsey footballing fraternity would say that Guernsey Athletics have added value to the league and have fully justified their inclusion.
Looking forward to next season, if ‘Tics’ can pick up a couple of good signings over the summer then they would be hopeful of a top 4 finish in 2011.