Cassidy picks up the pace

ATHLETIC striker Jake Cassidy showed up well against Sheffield United in the FA Cup second round at Bramall Lane.

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JAKE Cassidy will feel the benefit of his first 90-minute run-out since the opening day of the season, says Athletic manager David Dunn.

The physical impact of the target man was brought to bear on the Sheffield United defence, after the former Wolves striker was restored to the starting line-up after injury.

His presence — necessitated, arguably, by the absence of the ineligible Michael Higdon — gave Athletic a focal point in attack, chase down defenders and compete in aerial battles.

It wasn’t the perfect afternoon for the 22 year old. His one chance at goal was a header he bounced over the bar, as Athletic went out of the FA Cup.

Dunn felt the time available before the upcoming home clash with Millwall offered a chance to give a key player enough recovery time after that first long session.

“If we had a midweek game than maybe he wouldn’t have got the full 90 minutes, but he needs some time under his belt,” said Dunn of Cassidy, half of the forward line with Jonathan Forte that has missed most of the season so far

“We kept asking him how he was feeling during the game and he said he felt fine.”

The visit of Millwall on Saturday allows Dunn the chance to pick up a first home league win of his tenure, and his aim is to use the performance as a starting point.

“To come off three defeats in the league and with confidence a bit down, they stuck out their chests,” said Dunn, who welcomes Higdon, Jay Fulton and Richie Wellens back to the squad.

“We are still early doors in this and it will take time. But there were signs of encouragement out there.”