Sludden Looks Like The Real Deal.

Tuesday 15.11.2011

Club

The rapid development of Niall Sludden into a “play anywhere” footballer has been one of the key reasons behind Dromore’s league and championship successes this year. The young student has shown himself to be adept at playing in defence or in attack and having a player of that versatility on a squad is huge asset to any team.
The unavailability of Dromore’s county players early in the season allowed Paul Mc Iver and Ryan Porter to play Sludden in a number of different positions which gave him an opportunity to get a real feel for senior football. When the county men did return the former minor star had done enough to be entrusted with the number six shirt for the start of the championship.
However it was as an attacker during the replay against Ardboe where he really showed his worth and turned the game with some exquisite and creative play. That performance and the win seemed to boost his confidence further and he was a central figure in his club’s march to league and championship wins.
Last Sunday in the white heat of a very competitive All County League decider Sludden produced a master class second half performance of support play and scoring. Some of his points would have graced any game but to come from such a young player, in a pressure cooker environment were all the more noteworthy.
He has become a key component in a very well drilled team and playing alongside gifted players like Colm Mc Cullagh and Eoin Mc Cusker has certainly helped his game. He is not only a very talented player but he is a fairly level headed young man with his feet firmly on the ground. The hope for all football supporters is that he will go on and fulfil his potential and become a key figure for his club and county over the next ten years.