SAM Hatton admits it's been difficult watching from the sidelines of late – but now he's worked his way back into the Grimsby Town side he wants to stay there.
Being on the periphery of a squad is not something that the 24-year-old has been used to during his career.
But the former AFC Wimbledon man says he's been patient in waiting for an opportunity to come along – and on Saturday he took it.
After replacing Bradley Wood for what was only his fifth appearance of the season, Hatton scored two spectacular free-kicks in the Mariners' convincing 5-1 win over Blue Square Premier new-boys Woking.
Now he wants to build on that showing as he bids to nail down a place in Town's starting-XI.
He said: "Every footballer wants to be playing so it was great to be back out there on Saturday.
"For the team to get a win like that, and score two goals in it, made it a very special weekend for me.
"I'm known for my free-kicks but it is a bit unusual to get two in one game!
"Obviously the second one was a bit sweeter but they both counted towards a good win for us and that's the main thing.
"The aim for me now is to build on it and try and try to replicate it every week.
Being on the periphery of the Town first-team has been a tough experience for Hatton.
"Sometimes in football, you have to be patient," he said.
"It's probably the first time in my career when I've not been playing.
"But I got my head down, worked hard and waited for my chance when it came along."
Victory over Woking has moved Town up to second in the Blue Square Bet Premier.
"It's important for us to keep in the mix," said Hatton. "Getting up to second on Saturday was huge for us, because, while some teams have got games in hand, we've got the points on the board. It was good for us to bounce back and get a good win at home."
