Winger Jack Emmett credits Wetherby Athletic experience to Harrogate Town rise

The 21-year-old helped save Wetherby from almost certain relegation last season, before returning to gain match fitness under boss Mark Forster this season after an injury threatened to ruin his chance at Town.

Having found his form in the West Yorkshire League, Emmett was thrown into the Town first team over Christmas, and the midfielder has soon established himself as a key figure, picking up the man of the match prize in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Leamington.

Emmett said: “I always thought I could break through into the Town team, and I’m glad I have started to play regularly.

“I had threatened a couple of times to break in, but then I had an injury that put me out.

“I am really grateful to Wetherby. Mark has appreciated I have been trying to break into the Town team and it’s been nice of him to allow me to come in, keep fit and enjoy my football.

“I kept working hard in training hoping to get a chance at Town. It was a surprise that all the young lads got thrown in together, but it was a big chance for us and we have taken it.

“It was a great honour (to be man of the match). It’s really rewarding when you get offered something like that. “

Emmett, who is on an year-long industry break from Loughborough University, is expected to start again for Town in Saturday’s clash at AFC Fylde.

The former league leaders were beaten 3-1 by Guiseley in mid-week and Emmett said Town must be wary of the backlash.

“They will be a really tough side especially after that defeat,” he added.

“But away from home, when you’re not expected to win, you can play with no weight on the shoulders and go and surprise them.”