Our Togetherness is Key: One-on-One with Oscar Fletcher

The midfielder talks celebrations, pre-season and the Northern Premier League.

Popular amongst fans and players alike, Oscar Fletcher is raring to get life in the Northern Premier League up and running having penned a new deal with the club.

He sat down with Ash Stone to talk Marbella celebrations, pre-season, and the looming challenge of the Northern Premier League in our first instalment of One-on-One.

NORTHERN LEAGUE SUCCESS

THE BIGGEST FACTOR WAS OUR TOGETHERNESS.

It’s no secret, Redcar Athletic enjoyed quite a success last term, and Oscar Fletcher was at its forefront.

The midfielder made just shy of 50 appearances across all competitions, taking the mantle of top playmaker as his contributions in attack helped the Steelmen romp to the Northern League title.

When quizzed on what made the group so successful, Oscar claimed it was their team spirit and unity, remembering how the squad stuck together through tough times during the course of the season.

“I think the biggest factor in our success last season was our togetherness.” He said.

“It’s no secret that we had tough times, especially over Christmas, but for everyone to stick together and ultimately get the job done was a great feeling.

“To be honest, I’m not sure how long it took to come back down.

“It probably would’ve been sooner if we didn’t have the Marbella trip booked. That definitely prolonged the celebrations for a good month!”

SEASON TICKETS

PENNING A NEW DEAL

A CONTINUOUS POSITIVE MOOD.

News of Oscar’s new contract almost sparked a seismic event on the Redcar seafront, his footballing endeavours and colourful personality making him a fan favourite at the Hollou Sports Stadium.

The young midfielder attracted attention from elsewhere – including higher up the non-league pyramid – but cited the love from supporters and players alike as his reason for committing to another season.

He said: “I’d say the main reason I stayed at Redcar was largely down to the enjoyment I’ve had throughout my time at the club, and just how valued I feel.”

“Last season there was a continuous positive mood around the club, even through the tricky spells, and the backing from the fans, management and my teammates was definitely a big factor in my decision to stay.”

PRE-SEASON

I DON’T GET ANY ENJOYMENT FROM RUNNING.

Unfortunately, it’s almost time to put last season’s title-success aside, as the Northern Premier League and a gruelling pre-season campaign awaits.

Oscar admitted he was excited to get back on the grass, though he wasn’t too keen on those early season shuttle runs.

“The best thing about pre-season for me is that first game back.” He said.

PRE-SEASON SCHEDULE

See our pre-season fixtures and results.

“No matter how rusty you feel, I don’t think there’s a better feeling, especially when you’ve got some top teams to play like we have this year.

“The worst part is 100% the running. No matter how fit you come back. I don’t get any enjoyment from any aspect of running.”

THE NORTHERN PREMIER LEAGUE

EVERYONE IS LOOKING FORWARD TO IT.

With pre-season preparations looming, it isn’t long before Redcar Athletic take that first step in the Northern Premier League, and Oscar believes he and his teammates are ready for the challenge.

“The mood around the group is great going into pre-season, and into the Northern Premier League.” The midfielder said.

“I mean throughout the full squad, the lads from last season and the new signings.

“We’ve got a lot of experience in this league and a lot of the lads know the level well. It’s going to be a challenge but one everyone is looking forward to.”

Faced with new competitors, Oscar singled out play-off-unfortunates Dunston UTS as the side he is most excited to face.

The young midfielder’s father enjoyed a long stint with the club, and that’s more than enough to peak his fancy for what is already sure to be a tough clash.

“Dunston is the game I’m most looking forward to,” he confirmed, “mainly because I know what a great club it is.”

“With my dad being there for six seasons, it means a lot to me, and I know how much he’ll enjoy watching it!”