After a late 2-1 defeat to Wrexham U18’s, we caught up with Lead Professional Development Phase Coach Mark Birch.
Talking to CUTV, he discussed the manner of the defeat, key individual performances and the impact of loans on his squad.
Here’s everything we learnt:
1. His view on the result
“It was a game of two halves. We tried to force the issue in the later periods, but when you look back on the game, they (Wrexham) had the better chances.
“In all, Wrexham deserved to win the game.”
2. Not building on taking the lead
“Disappointed not to take advantage of that.
“When we went one up, we sat back a bit, and we let them come onto us too much.”
3. Good work from set pieces
“It’s something we’ve improved on as the season has gone on.
“Especially with the conditions today, we did well to get first contact on most of them”
4. Reuben Tower’s performance
“Reuben worked harder than anyone today.
“I think we've got much more quality up toward him; he worked hard but without much reward.”
5. Fraser Phillips’ inclusion in the squad
“We were down to the bare bones today, so it was a good chance to bring some of the younger academy players.
“He’ll learn a lot from the levels of expectations within football.”
6. The loan market and the impact on results
“Yeah, it probably has (had an effect), but that’s what we’re all about.
“The next part of a progression here is getting out into the world and get plenty of game time.”
7. Bradley Robinson’s heroics in goal
“He was outstanding today, our best player.
“Some outstanding saves, without him we could’ve been beaten by a few more goals.”
8. Recovering for future games
“We’ve just got to roll our sleeves up and get on with it, while making sure we recover properly.”
9. Looking forward to Lincoln on Tuesday
“We’re in the back part of the season now.
“The players certainly can’t feel sorry for themselves after today.”
10. Building a positive environment
“We want to create a proper culture here at the club.
“It’s about wanting to play at the very highest level.”
