Walker, 33, has been an ever-present for the club since joining last summer. The centre half is now approaching 50 appearances in the Dunston colours and has reflected on the first month of the season.

"I think we've started well (with the exception of the Emley game). We remain unbeaten in the league which is the main thing and that's our biggest aim for the season. The new lads have been brilliant, they've pushed on the rest of the squad and I think that's showed in most performances." Walker said.

After going unbeaten in the opening seven games of the season (in all competitions), Dunston suffered a first defeat of the season on Friday night away at Emley in the First Qualifying Round of the Isuzu FA Trophy. First half goals from Amir Birchall and Sam Pashley were enough to see The Pewits run out victorious with a 2-0 win.

"They started much better than us. They pressed us very high and they have some quick players that we didn't deal with. At this level, we can't afford to give any team a lead because they will hang on and fight for everything. So the slow start cost us the game." Walker said after discussing that defeat at Emley.

After starting the majority of games last season, Walker had to remain patient at the start of this season as he was an unused substitute for the opening three games. With the addition of former Whitley Bay defender Scott Lowery over the summer, the competition for places amongst the backline is stronger than ever.

"Yeah, Scott [Lowery] and Jude [Swailes] have started really well so I knew I would have to play well to stay in the team when I got my chance. Hopefully I can stay consistent and keep my place in the team, but I think the three of us will be pushing each other this year which is only a positive thing for the team."

A rock in the centre of defence for Dunston, but Walker has also proved to be more than effective at the top end of the pitch notching two goals already this season. The former North Shields man scored with a stunning strike away at Stocksbridge Park Steels, before following up with another goal away at Birtley Town in the Emirates FA Cup First Round Qualifying - both goals coming from set piece routines.

"I'm not really sure about the goals, I'm pretty sure a lot of luck is involved! We have been working on set pieces and the advice from the management is for us to be more aggressive this year from set pieces. It appears to be working which is great." Walker said.

Following victories against Northern League opposition in Whickham and Birtley Town, Dunston will now find themselves as the underdogs heading into Saturday's massive FA Cup Second Round Qualifying tie against Scarborough Athletic. The Seadogs ply their trade in the Vanarama National League North, two leagues above Dunston. 

The two sides last met at this stage of the competition in 2022, with Dunston being the visitors to Flamingo Land Stadium. In a close encounter, Scarborough edged the game 3-2, with goals from Liam Thear and Will Jenkins not being enough for Dunston. Two years on, the two sides will meet again, with Dunston having home advantage this time, and Jack Walker is looking forward to the test.

"It's going to be a tough challenge and a great day for the club, hopefully we can get a result. On a personal level, it's always good to test yourself against better players so I am really looking forward to it!

"I would say I'm quietly confident going into Saturday. Obviously, we will be the underdogs, but I think with the squad we have, and being at home, we've got a great chance to get into the next round." He said.

Dunston vs Scarborough is this Saturday from the UTS Stadium (NE11 9JL). Kick-off is at 3pm.

Adults (£10) | Concessions & Students (£6) | U16 (£3) 

Pay on the gate (cash and card both accepted)

*Season Tickets are NOT valid for this fixture

Come down and back the lads as we look to keep the FA Cup dream alive against tough opposition. Your support could be the difference!

By Callum Pattison | Image Credit: Beauty Time Photography