Dalglish jnr turns ‘OE’ into a national winner

Unexpected words from a Guernseyman, perhaps, but former North player and age-group Muratti star Callum Chapman-Page has become a big winner in America’s National Premier Soccer League.

Having earlier spoken at length to the Guernsey Press about his journey from Elizabeth College schoolboy to Palm Beach Atlantic university player and finally an American professional, Chapman-Page’s latest triumph came in his inaugural campaign with Miami.

The powerhouse defender had beforehand worked his opportunistic scoring magic to head in a corner and help dispatch Cleveland 4-1 in the semis.

However, an unfortunate and unusual injury left him unable to contribute to Miami’s 3-1 final against New York Cosmos opposition – but he still shared the joy.

‘I couldn’t have asked for a better start to life at Miami, winning three trophies in the first campaign,’ he said. ‘We knew winning national titles back to back was hard, but were also confident with the players we have that we could achieve that goal.

‘Unfortunately, I sustained a bad injury to my eye so had to miss the final, which was hugely disappointing, but we still got the win, which is the most important thing after a long season.’

A long season it had been, but the Old Elizabethan has flourished under the lead of head coach Paul Dalglish – son of a certain Sir Kenny.

Twice a scorer and twice a man-of-the-match in play-offs, Chapman-Page was rightfully pleased with his season and credited the team environment for his development.

‘I think playing with these top level players, week in, week out, has really helped me grow as a player,’ he added.

‘We worked extremely hard through pre-season and training every week so that we were prepared and knew what it was going to take.

‘Training sessions were extremely competitive at a high intensity and I personally think that edge each day allowed us to become such a good team.

‘We had a great group of lads and I just thoroughly enjoy working and learning from them – hopefully there is a lot more silverware to come at Miami FC, but it’s a dream start.’