A recent match programme included an interview with Conor Power, the 23-year-old who signed for the Hi Hi’s in the summer from Tynecastle FC, where he spent three years. Conor has since put in a number of impressive defensive performances at Millfield.
If you missed the interview, we’re re-publishing it here – be sure to pick up your copy of our next match programme this Saturday (6 December), when we face Whitburn Junior FC at Millfield in our latest Premier Division fixture.
As a youngster, Conor spent three seasons on Aberdeen’s books having captured the attention of Dons’ scouts playing youth football with St Patrick’s Athletic in his native Republic of Ireland. A former youth internationalist, Conor once scored for Ireland in a friendly match against a talented Brazil side.
Q. What appealed to you about signing for Haddington Athletic?
“In conversation with Scott the manager in the summer, he spoke passionately and positively about the set up at the club. He told me about who was coming into the squad and set out his plans, his ambitions and the next steps.
“There were also other boys coming into Haddington from my previous club, Tynecastle, like Ryan (Cameron) and Miko (Komocki). I knew of Haddington before signing and actually knew Tom (Davies) from playing five-a-sides with him!”
Q. Have you enjoyed your first few months at the club?
“Yes, it has felt great so far. I’ve really enjoyed the first few months on and off the park. We are an attacking team that is always trying to get forward, be positive and create opportunities. Away from the pitch, everything is made so easy for us as players. There is never anything we need to worry about. The kit is always perfect. We are always fed and everything we need is provided for us. The pitch is unbelievable for this level. Anyone visiting the ground can see the quality of the facilities, such as the stand. It’s very professional and impressive.”
Q. You seem to have formed an effective partnership in the centre of defence with Craig Reid?
“Yes, we’re forming a good partnership. As well as being a very good player, he is an effective leader and captain for the whole team.”
Q. Can you tell us a bit about your footballing background?
“I started off with a local team in Ireland, East End United. From there I got picked up by St Francis, which was about a two-hour drive. I then got a move to St Patrick’s Athletic in the League of Ireland. I played there up until U15/17/19 level and then got a move to Aberdeen and was there full-time for three years.
“Derek McInnes was manager at the time. Paul Sheerin and Barry Robson were also at the club. I went on loan to Turriff United for a few months. After that, I had a couple of friends who played at Tynecastle and that was the main reason for coming to Edinburgh.”
Q. It must have been a great experience to sign at Pittodrie – is that the highlight of your career so far?
“Yes, it was a really good experience getting the opportunity to play full-time football. Also as a highlight, I played a lot of youth international football with Ireland. I actually scored against Brazil in a friendly! There were a few excellent players in the team as you would expect with Brazil, including players who signed for top leagues such as La Liga.”
Q. Have you always been a defender?
“I was a striker when I was a kid. I then moved to central midfield. They then realised I was tall and so I was put in defence. I do enjoy being a defender but if Scott wants to put me up there as a striker at any point, I will score a few goals – I’m waiting on his call!”
Q. What are your hopes for the reast of the season?
“Our main goal is simply to win games. It’s a great group of lads – high-quality players. I believe we have more than enough to be promoted. We’ve shown what we are capable of in some of the fixtures.
“We went to Camelon and got a great away win against a strong team. They then defeated Musselburgh which shows they are a good team. So, although there have been some disappointments, we have shown we can get good results against quality opposition.”
Q. What do you do outside of football?
“I work in residential property sales. It’s actually a very enjoyable job. Other than that, I’m usually spending time in Glasgow at my girlfriend’s or at the gym. I hope that doesn’t sound too boring!”
