Non-League and Academy football writer

Alexandru Vtornicov made his debut for step 6 non-League side FC Baresi on Monday night, in a Thurlow Nunn League First Division South fixture away to Barkingside, at Cricklefields Stadium. Alexandru made a really good impression on this game, which Baresi won 3-1, providing an assist as well as going close on several occasions to scoring a goal. I did a short post match interview with the centre-forward after the match. I also named Alexandru as my player of the match in my match report.

Could you talk me through a bit about your background in football prior to joining FC Baresi?

Alexandru: I was born in Ukraine, which was where I first started playing football. I played for the academy at FC Shakhtar Donetsk for a while, and they are a Premier Division club in Ukraine. After coming to England I played college football for a couple of years, and after that I had an opportunity to go to Swansea, but that was when Covid started. I also got injured, but after stopping for a while I started to play non-League football. I played for clubs such as Hatfield, Old Finchleians, Leverstock Green, as well as having a lot of trials at clubs, such as Cheshunt. But, now I’m just looking forward to playing my football.

What has been the standout moment of your time in football, so far?

Alexandru: It would be when I won the championship when I was playing college football in England. We won the final at the Manchester City ground, and that was a great experience.

What did you think of tonight’s game against Barkingside?

Alexandru: From a team level we passed the ball around well, even though the pitch wasn’t great. But, it was a good level and performance, and if we get everything right, then we can do well this season in the league.

How would you describe yourself as a centre-forward?

Alexandru: I am strong with the ball and I hope to get even better with my finishing. I am a quick player, and I used to do athletics on the track when I was younger.

Finally, what are some of your hopes for Saturday’s league game against Coggeshall Town?

Alexandru: Just to win the game. That is the main thing for me.