Yes you guessed it – another dose of statistics! This Saturday’s defeat to table-topping Royston Town saw Guildford striker Joel Hughes make his 100th appearance for the club – probably the wettest game he has played!
A strong yet skilful attacking player, Hughes has been a huge part in Guildford’s recent successes, giving many a defender an unpleasant Saturday afternoon. His high work rate has also led to him becoming popular among City fans.
Joel made his debut on the 6th August 2010 away at Colliers Wood United, fittingly marking his debut with a trademark finish for his first goal for City. Since then he has featured heavily over the last two seasons, netting 34 goals for the club, with his one hat-trick coming against Horley Town – which they probably described in their match reports as three big hoofs up to the striker! Joel also bagged City’s 100th league goal of the 2011/12 season, earning himself a write-up in the Surrey Advertiser.
With 68 starting appearances and 32 as sub, Joel has also only played the full 90 minutes 33 times. This must be part of Kev’s winning formula as Guildford have won 70% of the games in which Hughes has featured and 89% of games in which he has scored.
Finally it seems that Joel seems to prefer playing away from the spectrum with 56% of his goals coming away from home – clearly down to the away atmosphere generated by the travelling ‘Sweeney’ supporters.
That just leaves me to congratulate Joel on behalf of the club and supporters on his appearance landmark and dedication to the club. We are all wishing for more brilliant displays for City in coming seasons.
Article written by Chris Lucas.
