Walker looks ahead to exciting semi-final tie
By Matty Paddock - 01/05/2026
Posted 2 hours ago
GEORGE Walker says the Harriers camp is excited for Saturday’s play-off semi-final but insists it’s business as usual in the camp.
The Reds welcome Macclesfield to Aggborough for the 12:30pm kick off, and Walker is relishing the occasion of another sizable DY10 crowd.
Signed in the summer by Adam Murray to add pace and power to the defensive ranks, Walker arrived at Aggborough with a strong reputation following an ever-present campaign at Hastings United.
A product of Millwall FC’s youth system, his athleticism and versatility were clear from the outset.
Opportunities, though, were limited early on. Walker made just three starts prior to the FA Trophy tie against Morecambe FC in mid-January, biding his time in a competitive squad.
Since then, his influence has grown significantly.
Given his chance, Walker has grasped it, adding a further 18 starts heading into this weekend’s play-off semi-final, and registering his first goal for Harriers in the April win over King’s Lynn.
“I think patience is a great word for it,” Walker said, reflecting on his campaign.
“I think I always knew that we have such a strong squad, so getting in the team was always going to be difficult.
“But it was just about waiting for the right chance and when the chance came, taking it, which I think I have.”
That run of games has coincided with a surge in form for Harriers, who arrive at the play-offs on the back of a useful run of victories – momentum Walker is keen to embrace.
“I think it’s six from six in the last six games now, which is really good,” he said.
“You want to go in with form and confidence and that’s what we’ve got… it’s a cliché but it is the reality of things.”
For Walker, the focus is clear. Respect the challenge, but trust in what Harriers can produce.
He added: “I think it’s in our hands. If we play how we know we can play, we’ll win the game.
“We respect them and we know they’re a good team. But we know at the end of the day, we’ve just got to go out there, worry about ourselves and get the job done.”
It is a mindset shaped not just by recent results, but by the journey across the season; one that has seen a new-look squad grow together and find its stride at the right time.
“We had our ups, we had our downs,” Walker said. “But I think the best thing is we all stuck together throughout, which was really good.
“It’s strengthened us as a team, and I think since then we’ve just come on leaps and bounds and we’ve still got more to give which is the best thing.”
Now, with a home semi-final on the horizon, attention turns to the occasion itself, and George is ready.
“I’m looking forward to Saturday, to be honest,” he said.
“I think it’s going to be bouncing and I’m just buzzing. That’s what we all play football for really – the crowds and the big occasions. Can’t wait.”
Tickets are sale now for Harriers v Macclesfield
This article is about: Match
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