John Tops Off a Winning Week
John Rankin spoke to the media following Saturday’s 2-0 win over Dumbarton in Ladbrokes League 1.
The midfielder, who recently returned from a long-term injury, scored Clyde’s second goal with a late strike that he clearly enjoyed, celebrating in emphatic style.
“It was relief more than anything,” he said. “It’s been long and horrible being out. I’ve sat and watched games and felt guilty because I’ve not been able to help and that’s hard.
“We had a couple of chances on the break and fortunately Goodie saw me – it was similar to the chance at Raith a couple of weeks ago when I felt I should have scored but the ‘keeper made a good save. Today I was making sure it went in.”
The 36-year-old was full of praise for the squad, at the end of a week that saw three home wins secure a hugely important nine points. He continued:-
“The boys have been great and grinded out results and this week has been massive. To be able to play my part and help them – in just a small way – was massive for me also. We knew how big the week was and you could see the commitment and desire and the fitness levels were through the roof.
“The boys really took the game to Dumbarton and played some good stuff. It’s difficult when it’s 0-0 at half-time and you haven’t got the reward for how you’ve played, but when Goodie gets the goal, it was comfortable. We managed it well from there.
“I’m delighted for the boys and getting nine points in a week is massive for the club at this time in the season.”
With eight matches remaining in the 2019-20 campaign, John concluded by stating his aim for a positive finish for The Bully Wee:-
“To be completely honest, I haven’t even looked at the league table. I think at this stage in the season it’s important to grind out results and see where it takes you. We’re building momentum and we can go on a good run now. Only when it gets to the last three of four matches, I’ll look at the table.
“I said at the start of the season that it would be difficult as League 1 is a step up and it’s been a big one. At no time has the belief or confidence wavered though and we always knew that the results would come. The dressing room has a great belief and everyone is there to help each other, even if they aren’t in the starting line-up. I’ve been saying it since last season, but the boys are great and you look forward to coming to training every night – it’s great to be part of.
“I’m looking forward to another week of hard work and then going to Stranraer. It’s another massive game and one we’re looking to take three points from.”