Written By Jack Webb
Ahead of tomorrow’s crucial clash away at Aveley, our main talking points with Mark Molesley were our next steps and the importance of attacking quality…
Here’s what he had to say on the following subjects…
On the current mood amongst the squad:
Really good. We’ve been enthused by our performances of late, but we’re just a bit frustrated that we don’t have any more points on board. We know how critical it is to be able to do that, but we certainly feel we’re heading in the right direction.
On having clear next steps:
We’ve turned narrow defeats into draws, but now we have to turn those draws into wins. But I feel the players are doing the right things to do that. They have a great attitude and they’re showing great character, as shown with us coming from behind to get points. As a group we really believe in each other. We’ve been through a lot already; our players are now improving and we still have a couple to come back.
On Brandon Goodship and Malachi Linton:
Mal’s had a minor setback, but he’s out on the training pitch with the boys. We just have to be a little patient. Brandon is making progress; last night was a big session for him. We’re hoping we’re on the right path with both players, but Brandon at the moment seems closest to returning. It’s nice to have two players of their quality waiting to return to the side. It’s exciting to know that they’re close. We just have to be careful to integrate at the right time, but in the meantime it’s up to the other players to make a name for themselves.
On our squad’s “physicality:”
I’m really pleased with the physicality we have. We saw Jordon score last week, after Charlie equalised against Chesham United the week before. What’s been missing for us is the final-ball. We have technical players like Ben, Jordan and Keelan who can deliver. I have a great belief that it’s only a matter of time before they do as they get more consistent minutes on the pitch.
On improving our attacking quality:
We need to improve, whether it’s dead balls or final-third shooting, crossing and passing. To be brutally honest, it’s why we are where we are at the moment, alongside other issues we’ve had with injuries and decisions. But that’s not from a lack of trying. Consistency in training and playing will aid this problem, alongside confidence.
On Aveley:
The next game is always the most important and we treat every one the same. Each one presents a different challenge, and this weekend presents a certain psychology around this match. It’s tough to ignore the positions that both sides are in, although nothing changes for us. We will always prepare as best as we can. Tomorrow is a big game for both clubs.
On our fans:
They’re gonna be huge. We’re going into a mammoth week, Aveley and then Weston-Super-Mare away. We have got to claw on any advantage we can, and our fans will always be our biggest advantage. When they’re behind us, they give us one hell of a boost. I cannot emphasise how important they are to us.