By Jon Couch
ROWAN VINE just loves the big occasion – and he can't wait to play a part in the biggest game of Hartley Wintney's history on Saturday.
The 35-year-old striker has starred in many a showcase over the years during his days at Luton Town, QPR?and Brentford among others.
Now he's ready to lead his local village club into unchartered territory when the Row host National League big guns Bromley at their humble Green Lane home.
Vine has become an instant hit at Hartley since switching from Evo-Stik Southern South East promotion rivals Hayes & Yeading United in October, scoring twice in yesterday's 5-1 win against Moneyfields.
Equally as satisfying for the much-travelled hitman is that he is finally playing regularly and injury-free, and is on course to play a first full season since a spell in Scotland with St Johnstone and Hibernian in 2013.
“It's the perfect fit,” Vine told The NLP. “I love football and if I'm fit then I want to play, regardless of the level. I've struggled with arthritis over the last couple of years but I've found new medication and I feel fitter than ever. I feel I can play until I'm 40. After I left Hayes, I had interest from Conference South and Step 3 clubs but Hartley suited me with its locality. I went down to training and got the buzz back straight away.
“I think it's important that players understand and respect the mentality of the club they have joined and that was easy for me as I've watched Hartley Wintney's plight for some time. They are a club on an unbelievable journey and I'm very proud to be a part of the biggest game in their history on Saturday. It means so much to them.
“Bromley are full-time and we're massive underdogs, we know that. But we have some very good young boys at this club who can play at that level, they've just got to believe it.
“Playing at our ground could be a leveller but fitness will be key. If we can match them on the day then who knows? We've got nothing to lose, we can't wait to get going.”
Vine's optimism is also shared by Row joint-boss Anthony Millerick, who is experiencing life in the Trophy as a manager for the first time after leading his side to a shock 2-1 win at higher-profile neighbours Farnborough in the last round. Whatever happens, though, he doesn't want to end up as an unlucky loser.
“The term ‘loser' offends me to be honest,” said Millerick, who manages the Hampshire village club alongside Dan Brownlie. “I hate being an unlucky loser, whether it's a game like this or a regulation league game. I believe you get what you deserve.
“This is a free hit for us, though. We're not expected to win but we'll prepare for this like we would do any game and if we have a good day and they have a bad one, then we've got every chance.
“It's the biggest game in the club's history, we have nothing to lose.”
