Following Carlisle United’s 3-3 draw away at Solihull Moors, we spoke to Head Coach Mark Hughes.
Speaking to CUTV, he discussed the disappointment of conceding late, the resilience shown in coming back from 2-1 down, Georgie Kelly's hat-trick, and the importance of maintaining momentum ahead of a big midweek test against York City.
Here is everything we learnt:
1. Mixed emotions after a dramatic draw
“We're disappointed we didn't win it in the end, but it showed good character to come back from being behind in the game.”
2. A strong second-half response
“I thought we were excellent second half. We changed things up a little bit, and that helped us and got back in front.”
3. Frustration at the late equaliser
“It's good skill by him (Scott High), and he's got his team a point when probably on reflection they didn't deserve to draw that game.”
4. Taking positives from a tough venue
“It’s not an easy place to come here, and against a difficult opponent, we've taken points off them, so we'll take them.”
5. Defensive lapses prove costly
“The goals we conceded were poor, clearly. We could have done better in terms of nipping the threat in the bud.”
6. Tactical changes bringing control
“We needed to stop their full-backs joining in too readily. We were changing shape, and that helped us, and then we got control of the game.”
7. Praise for Georgie Kelly’s hat-trick
“I thought his general play was really good today and looked more like his old self. Obviously, goals help in terms of your confidence.”
8. Encouragement signs from Chris Conn-Clarke
“He does give us that creativity. His delivery into the box on occasions was excellent, and he’ll be better for getting minutes.”
9. Managing Luke Armstrong’s fitness
“Luke's had an issue with his hamstring. He was close today, we're hopeful for Wednesday, but we don't want to take too many risks.”
10. Focus firmly on the upcoming challenge
“We've got big games coming up, so we need everybody to be positive. We've got to be on the front foot from the off.”
