Morgan, Howieson hit 50-match mark

Words: ACFC Media

Tuesday 29 January 2019

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Dan Morgan and Cam Howieson were delighted as both passed the 50-match mark in Auckland City FC's Gridlock Derby victory on Saturday.

Morgan, in his second spell with the Navy Blues, was pleased to see the team pick up it's 12th consecutive win despite having to hold off a dramatic late comeback from the Lilywhites.

"It was a good win we put in a good team performance against an Eastern Suburbs team with a lot of youngsters that never-say-die.

"It was a very hard game - they pulled back two goals and we're just pleased to pick up another three points," he said.

The Navy Blues appeared to be cruising to an easy win until Dominic Wooldridge and Callum McCowatt scored for the visitors.

MILESTONE - Congratulations to Dan Morgan who makes his 50th #NavyBlues appearance today. pic.twitter.com/BRJdjtRE1j
— Auckland City FC (@AucklandCity_FC) January 26, 2019

Morgan was happy with the early goal glut and paid tribute to Micah Lea'alafa and David Browne.

"With the attack we've got anything can happen. Micah and David can make anything happen so while you don't expect to be 3 nil up in a derby, we definitely took the chances through their good work when we needed to," he added.

As for passing the 50-match mark, Morgan was happy to get the milestone ticked off.

"It's a great feeling and it's been a long time coming for me. I'm in my second stint with Auckland City FC and it's good to notch up the half century mark and hopefully there's more to come.

"I'm a more mature player now. When I came to Kiwitea Street I was 17-18 years of age and now I'm 28 and an older head.

"I've gained a lot of experience elsewhere but this stint has been great so far and I hope the wins keep coming."

MILESTONE - Congratulations to Cam Howieson who made his 50th appearance for the club last weekend against @HawkesBayUnited

#ACvES
#ISPSHandaPrem 2-0 pic.twitter.com/tAIWMAbc0h
— Auckland City FC (@AucklandCity_FC) January 26, 2019

For team-mate Howieson, the emotions were the same after a hard shift in hot conditions.

"We had a game plan and put that to work well in the first half, scored a lot of goals and put the pressure on their back four.

"We knew they're a good side, they're fit and give everything to the final whistle so we knew even at 3-0 something like a comeback could happen.

"We had to dig deep to get the result in the end. We're not the kind of team to win games without a bit of hard work but this is another important three points.

"Eastern Suburbs fought to the end and we missed a chance to make it 4-0 which could've made the game comfortable but we have to be happy with picking up another win.

"Since I came to Auckland City FC the club, the coaching team, the players and the supporters have welcomed me with open arms and it's nice to pick up 50 appearances not only for myself but for Dan Morgan as well."

Howieson and Morgan become the 46th and 47th players to reach the 50-match milestone in the club's history.

Reid Drake passed the 50-match milestone in the Navy Blues 2-1 win over Hawke's Bay United on November 4 last year.

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