Jake Goodman is under no illusions about how hard his debut season with Dover Athletic has been as he prepares for Saturday’s game at table-topping Stockport County.
The 28-year-old is a tough, no-nonsense central defender, so he’s had more than his fair share of battles in his playing career.
But the 6ft 2in former Millwall player admits the 2021/22 National League season is something completely different.
Goodman, who joined the club last summer after spending the previous season with National League South club Ebbsfleet United, said: “I’ve played a lot of football at this level, but nothing compares to this season.
“It is without a doubt so much better and tougher than ever before.
“You only have to look at the amount of money being thrown into promotion pushes by some clubs – it’s staggering, to be honest.
“It’s certainly not a level playing field – not by a very long way.
“You got full-time clubs going in every day working on plays etc and we have to do best we can with four hours split over two nights a week.
“We know we are up against it almost every week, but that’s the way it is this season.
“We’ve just got to get on with it as best we can.”
It is the first time Goodman, who signed professional terms with the Lions in 2012, has been a part-time footballer, so how is he coping with his new routine?
He said: “I had to get a second job for a start!
“I am lucky enough to have got a job in the game coaching kids at the Pro-Direct South London Academy.
“It’s great being able to put something back into the game while helping with preparations for life after my playing career is over.
“I’d like to stay in the game as a coach, so I am doing all my badges.”
Away from football, how does Goodman, whose CV includes playing for Bromley, Luton Town (loan), Aldershot Town (loan), Braintree Town, Maidenhead United, and AFC Wimbledon (loan), like to relax?
Our number six said he doesn’t need to leave the comfort of his own home to enjoy it.
“I became a father for the first time just over six months ago and it’s the best thing ever!