We can win the Division, claims Thorn
Curtis Thorn of the New Orleans Jesters – on loan from Team Solent – insists his side can still top the National Premier Soccer Southeast Conference, despite lying in fourth place.
After seven games Kenny Farrell’s men find themselves three points adrift of table-toppers Atlanta Silverbacks on 16 points, who also stand at two points per game compared to Jesters’ 1.85.
However, the Pan American Stadium outfit boast a game in hand on the Silverbacks – who they face on 1st July – and Thorn believes all the cards in his sides’ favour in their quest win the conference.
'Most definitely. We have great talent throughout our squad and all the players are constantly pushing each other’s limits,' he said.
Topping the league will result in New Orleans hosting the finals and being able to play in front of thousands of Jesters fans at the Pan American Stadium.
‘Being given familiar surroundings and a lot of support will be a massive factor and a crucial advantage in the later rounds.’
The Jesters are one of two teams out of ten in the conference to have not been beaten, with Thorn playing a fundamental role in that scrumptious record.
Despite playing at left-back for Team Solent during the 2016/17 season, the Sports Science undergraduate has been tested at centre-back for the majority of the campaign.
And the 21-year-old has excelled in the position, embedding himself as an early name on the team sheet, but despite this, he wants to play in a different role even to one he featured largely for his Hampshire club.
Thorn stated: ‘I came here as a right-back but unfortunately our centre-back broke his wrist in the opening fixture, meaning I was pushed inside along Ade [also of Team Solent].
‘From our time at Solent last year, we are familiar with each other’s strengths and weaknesses’ so playing together was not a problem.
‘But, this is only temporary, and once all of our squad is healthy and strong, I’m sure I can show the gaffer what I can do in my preferred position.’
New Orleans are back in action in the NPS on Thursday as they travel to bottom-placed Georgia Revolution, where a win will serve Thorn’s side much benefit before a showdown with the league leaders.
Interview by Kalan Coupar
