Name: Daniel Shepherd
Team captained: Vanbrugh 2nds
How have your team’s performances been in autumn and spring term?
We’ve had a mixed couple of terms, with some good performances, a lot of goals, but not always solid defensively and haven’t always taken the initiative in the bigger games. Can’t fault the effort from the lads though, and I’m certain this won’t be the case in the cup, we’re raring to go!
What are your team’s strengths and weaknesses?
We have a great work ethic with everyone willing to put a shift in and we play an aggressive, high press tactic that we started trying towards the end of last term. There is potential for a lot of goals in this team, however we could do with being more solid at the back.
How strong is your cup squad?
We’ve been blessed with a lot of talented players throughout the college, and this 2nds squad is, in my opinion, one of the best 2nds sides in the cup.
Who would you call your ‘key player’ and why?
Tom Parish – the ultimate poacher with an intelligent footballing brain, a great work ethic and a deadly finish. And also a very nice boy.
What are your thoughts on your team’s group draw? Which game are you most looking forward to?
It’s a tough one, with two quality 1sts sides and of course, Derwent 2nds who are the team to beat out of the 2nds sides. I reckon we have a chance of upsetting the odds though and I’m always confident. I can’t wait to play James 1sts, but I think I speak for my team when I say we let ourselves down in both games against Derwent, so we’ll be looking for revenge there!
If you could beat any team in the final, who would it be and why?
Any Derwent side – the rivals!
What will you do to celebrate if you win the cup?
Do a winning bus tour with the cup around campus and York city centre –get everyone involved!
If you could change one thing about the college cup, what would it be?
Allow slide tackles! Couple of scrapes never hurt anyone – and I had a bad experience in first year which I’m still bitter about…
Who is your team ‘BNOC’ and why?
Adambayor – an absolute enigma, and mates with Kallum Taylor, which always helps.
Which team in world football are you most like?
Borussia Dortmund
What are your expectations and ambitions for College Cup 2013?
Play aggressive attacking football, score a lot of goals and enjoy the moment –nothing quite like college cup fever!
Vision says:
Vanbrugh sides are always competitive and this 2nds team will be no different. A place in the cup knock-outs is certain to be the aim. Though the autumn and spring term champions (James 1sts and Wentworth 1sts, respectively) stand in their way, neither is formidable. A win against either could propel a run into the final eight. If they make the cup it would be a tremendous achievement, but they might be better off in the Plate where they will be legitimate contenders.