Dundalk defender Faulkner looks ahead to Cup clash
Bobby Faulkner shares his thoughts ahead of tonight's FAI Cup game against Drogheda
Dundalk FC travel down the M1 today to take on local rivals Drogheda United at Weavers Park in the second round of the FAI Cup. New loan signing Bobby Faulkner looks forward to playing his second Louth Derby in seven days as the Lilywhites begin their journey to clinch a thirteenth FAI Cup.
Faulkner, who arrived on loan from Doncaster Rovers made his debut against Shamrock Rovers and is now gearing up for his second consecutive Louth Derby against Boynesiders.
Reflecting on his journey so far, the 19-year-old defender shared thoughts about his experience so far, the atmosphere in a new town, and his expectations for the upcoming matches.
Faulkner said: “It has been an exciting one. We were really unfortunate in the result away against Shamrock (Rovers). But we came here and built on it and got a positive result against Drogheda at home which obviously everyone is buzzing with and happy for the fans to get that win as well.”
Settling into a new town can be challenging. Still, the North Yorkshire native seems to have embraced it wholeheartedly, finding a community passionate about football and enjoying the camaraderie of their teammates.
“The town is absolutely football-mad. Lovely place I have got up to loads of little things been for coffee with the boys which makes it easier to settle in as a player as well and get to know the boys off the pitch. But like I say the town is crazy for football. If we perform on Friday nights and keep winning, then it will all be all good.”
The recent victory against Drogheda United highlighted the deep connection between the team and their supporters, showcasing the emotional impact a win can have on the fans. “With the aftermath of the game you can certainly see how much it means to the fans”, said the centre-back.
Looking ahead, the team is preparing for back-to-back Louth Derby's, maintaining the same determined approach despite the change in stakes from league points to cup progression.
“It’s just the same approach we go there to get the win. Obviously, it’s not three points, it is for the Cup which is even more important than the league. So, like I said, take the same approach and go get the win.”
Aware of the challenges that await them at Weavers Park, Faulkner is ready to face the intense atmosphere and the tight pitch, seeing it as part of the excitement of football.
“I have been told all about it. How tight the pitch is, and the fans are on our backs but like I say it is part of football and what we enjoy and what we want to play.”
Partnerships on the pitch are crucial, and Faulkner has been paired with Mayowa Animasahun at centre back, a relationship they are keen to develop further.
“It has been really good. Just getting into training and understanding each other but I feel like we did really well, and I really want to work on that.”
With competition for the central defence position heating up, the player acknowledges the strength in depth that the team possesses.
“Definitely. Hayden (Muller) has come through the building. Boyler (Andy Boyle) is not far away now from injury so there is a lot of competition coming through.”
The importance of the FAI Cup is not lost on the new recruit, who has heard about its significance from their teammates and is eager to experience it firsthand.
“I have heard little bits about it and all the lads buzz off it and said how much of a good experience it is so yeah, I can't wait to play.”
As his loan spell draws to a close at the end of the season, the prospect of ending their stint with a Cup victory is a tantalizing one, something the Englishman is keen to achieve before returning to Doncaster Rovers. “That would be amazing to win it. That is definitely something that I would enjoy to do.”