Before this weekend’s game with Leamington, Josh Barton from theterras.com caught up with joint Caretaker Manager Paul Maitland.
Josh Barton: Hi Paul. Thanks for joining me once again. You were disappointed with the performance on Bank Holiday Monday. Does it go without saying that you are looking for a better showing against Leamington tomorrow?
Paul Maitland: Yeah 100%. At training last night we told the players we want to end the season on positive and we know how we need to do that and that is by getting back to what we know we can do.
JB: Back towards the start of the season. We picked up a 1-1 draw at Leamington. Was that one of the ‘better’ draws we’ve had this season?
PM: Yeah it was. Clearly from where they have finished this season, it had to go down as a good point. We actually played very well up there. Obviously, our league positions are different and they are a good side.
JB: Any early team news you can bring to us ahead of the game?
PM: Stéphane Zubar is back from illness. Jordan Copp should fit to return to the squad. Jake Wannell is struggling with a groin injury.
JB: This is obviously the last game of the season. Can you just sum up the campaign? It’s been a strange one?
PM: In terms of the league position, very frustrating. We have performed well in the cups but overall we have underachieved. Improvement is needed.
JB: You’ve mentioned to me a few times that despite the fact this wasn’t the season we had hoped for in terms of league position, there have been highlights. What has been the biggest highlight in your opinion?
PM: Despite losing at Kidderminster, it has to be that. It was unbelievable to be involved in that game (obviously not the result itself). Our supporters were absolutely incredible! Despite being 6-0 down, they kept singing relentlessly. It was spine tingling! The best results have to be beating Poole and Dorchester, it’s always nice beating your local rivals!
JB: I’m sure you’ll understand that fans are wondering what’s going on with regards to the announcement of a new manager. Does this have any impact on the way you prepare the team for the game?
PM: No. None whatsoever. Ultimately, they need to be professional until the very end.
