Say what you like about friendlies, when you’ve joined a professional EFL club and you manage to score in your first match it certainly means something.
And that’s what Sam Barratt did at the weekend when in netted in the Shrimpers 5-0 win over Great Wakering Rovers at Burroughs Park.
The winger – ex of Bracknell Town and Woodley United – joined the League One side from Maidenhead United in the summer fulfilling a dream of becoming a professional footballer. But according to the man himself the hard work has only just begun.
Speaking to the Southend Echo’s Chris Phillips, Barratt said: “I was never full-time when I was younger so it’s new to me.
“I’ve had a few trials at clubs in the past but I’ve not been used to it week in week out so I’ve got to get used to it and let my body adapt.”
Today's back page of the Echo pic.twitter.com/8ypMUclGh6
— Chris Phillips (@CJPhillips1982) July 9, 2018
Barratt of course was part time with Maidenhead but has certainly hit the ground running with Southend. Phillips described his goals as a ‘brilliant volley’ in the 5-0 win and Barratt said: “I’m very grateful for this opportunity I have with Southend and it’s one I want to try and make sure I make the most of.”
The former Bracknell youngster now travels with the Southend United squad for a six day training camp in Spain.
Read the full interview on the Southend Echo website here.
