No place like home for Latics goal hero

HEADS I WIN . . . Danny Philliskirk dives to nod home Athletic’s winner against Swindon on Saturday.

Danny Philliskirk is loving life as his move back to Boundary Park continues to pay dividends.

The 22-year-old son of Athletic’s academy manager, Tony, made his mark in front of the Chaddy End with a brave header which saw off Swindon and gave Athletic a third win in four matches.

With his first league goal under his belt, Philliskirk is happier than ever as he continues to impress and tap into as-yet unfulfilled potential.

“When I was young I made some great memories here. Then I went off to different places,” said the forward, who had spells at Chelsea, Sheffield United and Coventry without serious pitch time.

“I got the opportunity to come back here and I jumped at it — and it has been the best decision of my life. Things are going well at the moment.”

Philliskirk is now on four goals for the season — level with Adam Rooney at the top of the club’s scoring chart.

“Any goal is a good feeling but after getting my first in the league, hopefully I can push on and help the team to more wins and score more goals this season.

“After it went to 1-1, we could have crumbled. But we got back into it and took the lead again.

“The spirit and togetherness here is the best of anywhere I have ever been. The manager has put his trust in me. I have needed to play games for a number of years now and I am just delighted that I have got a place in the side. Hopefully, that can continue.

“It is great and I feel a part of it, which is really good.

“We have Notts County (tomorrow), where I think we can get a win, and then Bristol City. These are two massive games coming up and our confidence is sky-high.”