HARWICH and Parkeston boss Kieron Shelley hailed two-goal hero Tyler Rose as a “breath of fresh air” after the striker performed heroics in the Shrimpers’ derby success at Little Oakley.

The Needham Market loanee notched both goals in a 2-0 victory at the Memorial Ground, on Boxing Day morning.

Rose has been a huge success since arriving in the autumn and recently extended his stay until the end of the season.

“Tyler has been a breath of fresh air,” said Shelley.

“He listens to everything we say and is constantly improving.

“From the moment we met him, we knew he was someone who takes his football very seriously and wants to be the best he can be.

“He’s absolutely flourished since then and I think he feels he was slightly overlooked at Needham Market.

“That’s worked to our advantage because he feels he has a point to prove.

“He’s got a lot to learn and isn’t the finished product yet - as he would admit - but he’s a great finisher and someone who creates chances for himself and others.

“He’s full of energy and heart and willing to run for 90 minutes.

“He won’t let a mistake affect him and beams with confidence, which makes me think he’ll be successful in life – both on and off the pitch.”

Shelley also praised the “immense, phenomenal” Joe Knight and had words of praise for his captain and vice-skipper – Jordan Heath and Nicky Palmer respectively.

“Jordan has been absolutely phenomenal and we’re very lucky to have him,” said the Shrimpers boss.

“He’s a great captain and someone who’s really stepped up to the plate.

“His attitude is spot on, because he’s humble and a really great lad to have in the dressing room.

“He’s not big-headed or cocky in any way, despite being such a talented player.

“Likewise Nicky Palmer, who has been a fantastic vice-skipper all season.

“He encourages the other players and in these two boys, we feel we’ve picked our generals well.

“We feel we’ve recruited well by bringing in the right players with the right attitudes.”

Harwich are fourth in the Thurlow Nunn League first division table heading into Saturday’s home match against struggling Wivenhoe Town, who were thumped 7-2 by Halstead Town on Boxing Day.

Kick-off is at 3pm.