Following the 3-0 victory over Sutton United, we spoke to Mark Hughes.
Reflecting on a dominant display, Hughes discussed his side’s control of the game, standout individual performances and the momentum building ahead of the run-in.
Here is everything we learnt:
1. A dominant and controlled performance
“A very good performance against a team that’s been strong away from home.
“I think that was their first defeat in seven away games.
“We dispatched them very comfortably which shows how well we played.”
2. Control without the ball
“We just controlled the game and understood what they wanted to do.
“They tried to penetrate centrally but we never allowed that.
“We were disciplined and limited their threats.”
3. Exploiting space effectively
“The space was out wide and we used it really well.
“Once we recognised that early on, we kept going there.
“They didn’t deal with it from [the] first minute to [the] last.”
4. Midfield influence from deep
“He (Harvey Macadam) was outstanding, even in a deeper role.
“He broke things up and started attacks from that position.
“To get two goals on top of that shows his quality.”
5. Value of versatility
“He’s (Harvey Macadam) got the attributes to play as a six or an eight.
“We’ve used him in different roles this season.
“That flexibility is a big strength for us.”
6. Positive returns and squad management
“It was good to get minutes into players who haven’t played much.
“He (Josh Williams) came on and influenced the game well.
“His fitness looked strong which is really pleasing.”
7. Attacking contribution from full-backs
“That was where the space was for us.
“We needed to release them and let them attack.
“It caused them real problems throughout.”
8. Clean sheet in tough conditions
“The conditions were difficult with the wind.
“But I thought we managed it well in both halves.
“To get a clean sheet was important.”
9. Momentum building at the right time
“We’re creating chances and looking strong.
“The confidence and energy in the group is clear.”
10. Focus on finishing the job
“We know what we need to do going into the next game.
“We’ll go there with confidence, not apprehension.
“The intention is to get the job done.”
