After Carlisle United’s 1-0 loss at Rochdale, we spoke to Blues' defender Bevis Mugabi.
Speaking to CUTV, he discussed the disciplined defensive display, the fine margins that decided the contest, tactical commitment, and the importance of resetting quickly ahead of Tuesday night’s clash with Scunthorpe United.
Here is everything we learnt:
1. Frustrating outcome
“The boys worked extremely hard during the game.
"First half and second half, I think just one set piece let us down, unfortunately.”
2. Full focus on Scunthorpe
“We kept in good shape throughout the game, and to be done on a set piece is frustrating to say the least.
'We just have to focus on Tuesday now.”
3. An effective game plan
“We worked hard in training, put a game plan together, and it clearly worked during the game, as you can see.
"Tactically, it was working for us to be honest with you, but unfortunately, we couldn't get over the line.”
4. Concentration is key
“It's a lot on your body, and obviously, you have to stay concentrated throughout the whole game, throughout the whole 90 minutes.
"Just have to stay concentrated and make sure we're doing our jobs, each one of us.”
5. Outlets in attack
“You can see David (Ajiboye) and Embo (Elliot Embleton) getting on the ball and driving us forward, and a few other players doing exactly the same.
"And there were a lot of outlets, and we'd broken them a few times and were dangerous going forward at the same time, it was more important to just keep our shape, and communication was very key today.”
6. Opportunities wasted
“Before the game, Gaffer said your first pass is going to be key, and it has to be going forward, and I felt like I've done that today as well. Some excellent deliveries from Embo from set pieces.
"I’ve got the capability of getting on the end of those great set pieces, and it's something that we need to add to the tally. The ones that can attack the ball.”
7. Return from injury
"I feel good. It's nice to be back involved, back playing games, and hopefully getting more fitness in the next games to come.
"Hopefully, and just stay injury-free, God willing."
8. Forming strong relationships
“I've obviously played with him (Morgan Feeney) in my previous game and this game.
"It's all about relationships around the team. So as long as we can keep on building that, it's going to benefit the team.”
- The plan for Tuesday
"We just need to reset. Focus on what we need to do for the game on Tuesday and make sure we come through with a victory.
"It's an important game for us. We need to go in there with the right mentality to do what we need to do.”
