Ahead of our first U-23s game in three weeks, we sat down with our assistant manager Matt Harvey, who talked us through our most recent game, alongside the players’ management of recent fixture cancellations…
On our most recent game at home to Totton:
Our last game at home to Totton was a high-quality one, and even between both sides when we had 11 players on the pitch. However, it became an impossible task once we went down to nine men. In hindsight, we could have been more resilient at the back instead of carrying on chasing the game. I suppose that’s why the scoreline ended the way it did.
On the deciding factor behind the scoreline:
As I said, it was mainly down to going down to nine players. Now, I’d prefer to focus on things within our control but ultimately that was crucial. We can consider ourselves very unfortunate; on another day, had the officials seen things from a different angle, we could have been playing the final half-an-hour with an extra man.
But with that being said, Totton are a very strong side and were relentless for that final stretch.
On our players’ relentless intensity:
They have been first-class when it comes to following mine and Frank’s instructions. The start of the second half was our most dangerous spell, after they took on board everything that was said at half time, particularly about us getting higher up the pitch and hunting in packs. It was working, and we all felt an equaliser coming after we pulled one back. - cancellations are of course frustrating, but we have to try and not let it affect us negatively and focus attention onto the next match.
On recent game cancellations:
The players will be in slightly different scenarios regarding this situation. Most play for various other teams and will naturally be able to stay sharp if we go a week or two without playing. Others, a bit like myself, will need to take it upon themselves to keep their fitness levels high and ensure they’re ready to go again.
On tonight’s opponents:
Dorchester is always a big game for Weymouth. It’s a local derby and a game where the boys will want bragging rights over the opposition. The mood is good, and we had a great training session on Monday to set us up nicely for the match.
