Tis: “Scot has been a simple fit”

Circumstances have created an opportunity for Bennett to push forward, and he has looked a natural in leading the line.  What role he will play against Hartlepool United on Saturday isn’t clear just yet, as City manager Paul Tisdale is waiting to see whether the more recognised strike duo of Sam Parkin and John O’Flynn will be ready for action.

And the City manager also praised Bennett’s qualities that have made the transition look seamless so far.

“Matt Oakley has had a scan and we’re waiting for the results, but he won’t be fit for this week,” admitted Tis.  “John O’Flynn looks like he’ll be back in contention, but with Sam Parkin, I’m not so sure.

“But it’s great when you have your own players that you develop, because you get to know the tiny details about them. 

“I always had an inkling that Scot could [play as a striker] – I’ve never really needed to do it, but I tried it at Chesterfield last year because I knew that it might come up at some point.  I had hoped it wouldn’t come up, but it has done.

“You get to see your players inside out and get to know every little detail about how they think and play, and I just knew Scot would be a simple fit for that job and he’s taken to it very well.  He sees the goal and there’s no surprise that he puts the ball in the net because he’s done it over the past few years from midfield.”

In the spirit of this season, it is the selflessness of the Newquay-born man that has struck the City manager the most.

“What’s most impressive about it is the fact that he’s been so willing to do it,” Tis continued.  “He hasn’t even broken his stride, he’s just done what he’s been asked to do.  

“The fact that he’s prepared to do it says most about his recent change into a centre-forward.  And he happens to be able to do it, which is good!”