JOHN Davies was hailed by Airbus UK player-boss Gareth Owen after he starred in their superb 3-0 victory over a young Chester City side on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old defender, who was on the books of the Blues earlier in his career, wrapped up the scoring with a stunning late goal.
Davies has been a virtual ever-present since signing for the Wingmakers two summers ago, and won the manager's play-er-of-the-year award last season.
Although Airbus chief Owen was surprised by the wonder-strike - which saw the centre-back collect the ball in his own half, skip one challenge before firing a unstoppable drive into the far corner - he said it was very much deserved.
'I've just been told it's John's first goal for the club so that's great news,' said Owen. 'I'm so pleased for John, not just for the goal but for his overall performance, because he was a colossus for us.
'I know it's only a friendly, but by John going into games like that, showing that much heart, it really does rub off on the other players. And it's a great habit because it will work to his benefit going into the new season.'
Airbus were well worthy of their two-goal lead at the break.
Winger Dave Hughes opened the scoring after exchanging passes with new striker Nathan Mapletoft who, like Hughes did last summer, won a deal with the Broughton club after impressing in training. His looping header made it two.
'Nathan's come from St Werburgh's in Division Three of the West Cheshire League,' said Owen. 'He wrote to us asking for a trial and I'm more than happy to look at new players as it's worked out for me in the past. I watch a lot of games in pre-season, but you do get the odd rough diamond who comes from somewhere different. Nathan's got a lot going for him, and we can work with that.'
New right-back Ryan Edwards also delighted the boss. The former Flint Town United youngster linked-up well with winger Jones who, along with Hughes on the opposite flank, caused chaos before the interval.
'I was especially pleased with our display in the first half, and especially our performance at the back,' said Owen. 'We kept the ball and built from there, whereas towards the end of last season I thought we were forcing things and chasing lost causes.
'You never stop hearing (assistant manager) Alan Bickerstaff saying 'keep the ball, keep the ball'. Possession plays a big part in football, as you can draw the opposition out and then hurt them, which we did very well against Chester.
'It was nice to score three goals because they are a quality side. I know most of their players were young lads, but they're still quality players who all know how to pass the ball and whose move-ment is superb.'
Airbus welcome West Cheshire League Division One outfit Heswall to the Airfield tomorrow (2.30pm), before making the short trip to Cymru Alliance neighbours Mynydd Isa on Tuesday (7pm).
