Unlocking Rocky Could Unlock Parkway
Parkway v Chertsey Town | Match PreviewBy Mike Parrish
Perspective matters.
Back-to-back defeats against sides pushing at the top end of the table have brought Plymouth Parkway back into the relegation places, but the wider context remains important. Those were fixtures few expected the Yellows to dominate. This weekend presents a different challenge, and a different opportunity.
Chertsey Town arrive at Bolitho Park sitting seventh, still firmly in the play-off conversation and just two points shy of the top five. Their recent form tells its own story: a dramatic 4–3 victory over Tiverton Town followed by three successive draws.
For Parkway, however, the focus is internal.
Before last week’s setbacks, Chris McPhee’s side had strung together three consecutive league victories, a reminder of the quality within the squad when confidence flows and details are right. That mini-run must now serve as the reference point, not the frustration of recent games.
Tuesday’s defeat to league leaders Walton & Hersham was shaped by moments, particularly a decisive two-minute spell that shifted the contest beyond reach. The reaction in the immediate aftermath was one of disappointment, but also clarity. The squad know what is required in the weeks ahead.
This next block of fixtures carries huge significance. Matches against sides in and around Parkway in the table will define the season far more than tests against promotion favourites. Saturday begins that phase in earnest.
There are positives.
Taylor Scarff returned to action in midweek and will push for a starting berth. Rocky Neal remains central to Parkway’s attacking threat, and ensuring he is supplied and supported will be key. Mikey Williams again demonstrated his influence, and finding ways to involve him higher up the pitch could prove key to unlocking Rocky. Jensen Ireland has recovered from a minor issue, while Frankie Phillips is set to continue in goal after his debut under the lights.
The reverse fixture at Alwyns Lane serves as a reminder of the fine margins involved. Chertsey controlled large spells of possession that afternoon, Dan Berry’s strike proving the difference despite a late rally from Parkway that saw Rio Garside strike the woodwork. It was competitive, and this weekend is likely to be no different.
Weather, once again, hovers over proceedings. Bolitho’s surface endured a stern examination on Tuesday evening, yet it has been one of the club’s quiet successes this season. The ground staff will be working tirelessly to ensure Saturday’s fixture proceeds, aware of the importance of maintaining consistency during a congested run-in.
What matters now is response.
Belief, a united front and execution from the first whistle. Parkway have shown they possess the quality to compete in this division. Saturday offers the chance to begin again.
Parkway Partners
