Our Management catch up this week is with Assistant Manager Adam Barnard. Adam very kindly offered up some time to answer our questions:
Only 2 league losses up to this point, still a quarter of the league season to play. What’s pleased you most, what do you want us to do better and how would you score us out of ten so far?
“It’s crazy to think we still have a quarter of the season to play with just 5 weeks of the season left to go, but the situation is what it is and we will manage and prepare for it in the right way as we have done all season.
Personally, I would give us a 7/10 which may feel a tad harsh, but I feel there is still so much more to give with this young group, which is extremely exciting. The boys both on and off the field have been tremendous to work with and are working hard to make those improvements to their game.
They truly care and fundamentally want to win, which is what I have been so impressed with, with this group.
We have drawn 9 league games now and I think that’s what we must work hard to improve on both on and off the field. Whether that’s managing key moments in games or being consistent with our ruthless mindset to go for the win: But we will continue to work on that with the boys and hopefully see that reduce over the next 5 weeks!”
What’s the message at this stage of the season?
“Just focus on what’s in front of you and go game by game. We have made a few signings in the last 2 weeks to bolster our squad as the games come thick and fast and if the boys take it game by game and give their full energy and focus on the game in front of them, then we have the strength and depth to rotate. We have operated with a fairly small squad all season, but we have to be pragmatic about our approach, so you may see some new faces over the next few weeks.”
Has it been difficult keeping a lid on the frustration of fixture postponements?
“Not really. Been around this league and level for a while and it’s no surprise, so there’s no point letting it distract you. Just control the controllables, bring energy and a high intensity to training and the boys quickly turn their focus on the next game.”
The management team itself, do you all have designated roles?
“Haha; I feel this a loaded question! It’s no secret, I’m the noisy one on the side to both the boys and officials but I was like that as a player and I struggle to keep my mouth shut. I’m passionate and just want nothing more than to win! Webby is often seen having to talk me down from another booking but there’s a great balance there between all the management team.
Ash, Harinder and Rhys whilst much quieter are so invaluable to what we do. Their insights and comments in game to Webby and I are fantastic and very much needed as they can often have a slightly different perspective on a situation and it’s good to get that and that comes from Webby making everyone feel comfortable and open to hearing a different perspective.”
