“Those are the games that make the difference at the end of the season,” says Daniel Jones outside a jubilant Bray Wanderers dressing room, following a dramatic 2-2 draw against Cork City in Turners Cross.
With 10 minutes to go, The Seagulls were 2-0 down thanks to a Cian Murphy brace and it appeared that we would be heading back up the M8 with nothing to show for the long journey.
However, a Darren Craven goal in the 84th minute gave the team hope before an injury time Andrew Quinn effort (his first ever senior goal) instigated wild celebrations from The Seagulls players and staff.
Get in there!
UP THE SUPER SEAGULLS pic.twitter.com/fkLsFLZ6sd
— Bray Wanderers FC (@BrayWanderers) July 9, 2021
Daniel Jones: “It almost feels like a win.”
Jones came on midway through the second half, alongside fellow new signing Sam Verdon, and afterwards he paid tribute to his teammates for grabbing the point.
“These are the games that make the difference at the end of the season, when everything is going against you and you dig in. Our goalkeeper Brian Maher has played magnificently. I know we went 2-0 down but it does feel almost like a win. It just shows the grit and determination in the squad to keep going until the end.”
All over in Cork and The Seagulls have come from 2-0 down to draw 2-2!
Andrew Quinn with the equaliser
And breathe.
🟢⚪️ pic.twitter.com/uPZojsgEP8
— Bray Wanderers FC (@BrayWanderers) July 9, 2021
Daniel Jones on his versatility.
The experienced former Wolves and Sheffield Wednesday defender has been training with the first team since pre-season, appearing in a couple of friendlies. However, his signing only got over the line last week, as he explains: “I’ve been trying since February to get everything done. The lads and the manager have been great with me, really helpful. I’m just delighted, it was a nice debut to make.”
Jone played at left-back after coming on but he is equally adept playing in the middle of the back four. “All my career I’ve been an attacking full back,” says the 34-year-old. But I’m experienced enough to play centre half. I’m here just to help the team and give it 100% wherever I’m asked to play.”
Last night’s draw sees Bray remain in fifth place in the table with 15 matches played. The addition of Jones and Verdon to the squad could be key as the club aims to secure a route back to the Premier Division.
“I keep myself in good shape, I’m 34 but I don’t feel it, Jones says. “I’m here to be successful and that’s why I came here.I want to get promoted and I want to do well for the team. Gary and the coaches, Denis Hyland and James Keddy, they’ve all put a lot of faith in me and stuck with me to push the transfer over the line.
After a memorable introduction to Fist Division football, there was only one thing left to ask. Who’s winning the European Championship Final between England and Italy on Sunday? “England obviously,” says the West Midlands native. “It’s coming home!”
Perhaps there will be one or two around the club who wouldn’t begrudge Daniel that feeling if he continues to impress for The Seagulls.