Former defender and newfound striker Darren Bailey has started the season off in prolific fashion, scoring five goals in eight games to establish himself as top goal scorer for Belconnen United.

 

“It’s a very good feeling to be top goal scorer and it’s a big surprise too,” said Bailey.

 

“We had a few injuries and coach asked me if I would do a job upfront for the mean time. I said I'll give it a go and luckily, I had talented boys around me to help me.”

 

Bailey’s impressive form in a new position sees him tied second for top goal scorer in the entire NPL competition, but the striker credits his form to his teammates more than himself.

 

‘Without them I don’t score and I'm lucky enough that I've got some really good teammates by my side.

 

“They set up the positions and the opportunities that arise for us and I've been lucky enough to be the one to finish them off.”

 

Playing in a more attacking role is not new to Bailey as that was his natural position back in Scotland and when he first moved here.

 

“It’s been very enjoyable playing up front again, it's definitely different to defence and I am gaining a new appreciation for the role strikers play.

 

Bailey’s mindset never wonders too far away from the defence though as he still credits himself more as a defender rather than a striker.

 

“I am always defensive minded especially when it comes to winning, it's just a part of me that I've done it for so long,” said Bailey.

 

“It's great to be up front, but I believe that my home is totally in defence.

 

“It's probably my best position and I believe that. Regardless of where I am put on the field, I will get the job done.”

 

It has been an up and down season for Belconnen United which has seen them reside in fourth on the ladder, only four points behind leaders West Canberra Wanderers.

 

A strong performance on Saturday against Canberra Olympic could see the Blue Devils shorten the gap behind the Wanderers at the top of the table.

 

“We have to win; we have to get three points. Push ourselves up the table in order to be challenging for that number one spot where we want to be.”