Pranešimai spaudai

It's been a long 22 days for OAP fans. After their top striker went down with a torn LCL there was much concern over the outlook of the club. Over 3 weeks later, OAP are still in a tight battle for a top-4 spot in I.1 and in the final 8 of the Champion's League and hold the top seed. All-in-all not a bad result given the team's reliance of Hodge.

"The timing of his return couldn't be better. We currently have 6 guys out with injuries or suspensions - a massive chunk of our starting 11. He will certainly help our offence that's for sure" said Captain Pemberton.

In his absence Cade Bryan and Ethan Purdon have carried the striking duties. Purdon is currently tied for 10th in the league in goals while Bryan has 6 goals in his 11 games played compared to Hodge's 7 over 20 played at the start of the year.

"It's disappointing to get the bump from the lineup I won't deny that. However, you can't just look at the numbers. I scored 6 goals, sure, but 4 of those were against a noname. Hodge is a prolific striker. Despite missing three weeks of training he is still one of the top offensive threats in the business. He's simply a joy to watch and learn from" said Bryan.

Also out is Jacob Halliday on the left side along with suspended Martin Gelien and Samson Cornwell. Coaches have their work cut out for them each day to keep a competitive lineup. So far, only Cornwell and Pemberton have featured in all 30 games thus far... with Cornwell's suspension that will leave only the goalkeeper and captain to feature in all games come Tuesday. However, come Tuesday, the eyes of the soccer world will be watching Hodge's return.

"I honestly don't know the big deal. Guys get hurt all the time. I'm not anyone special. These guys have worked day and night and won just as many in my absence. I'm part of a team. Teams win, not players" said Hodge.

Hodge has a point, but in his absence OAP has slid to 5th in I.1 play including one win in their last 6 games. Tough times have fallen upon OAP this year. However, all can be salvaged with a strong finish to the season.

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