Ahead of Saturday’s game against Forest Green Rovers, we spoke to striker Georgie Kelly about confidence within the group, competition up front, and the growing belief as the team prepares for a top-of-the-table battle.
Speaking to CUTV, he said: “Big game, but we’re excited. We’re on a bit of a run now, three in a row, so we’re looking forward to it.”
Kelly highlighted the energy and competition that the new arrival, Chris Conn-Clarke, has brought to the squad.
“Positive as always. Chris (Conn-Clarke) coming in has added a bit of a spark to everyone.
“Training’s competitive, everyone’s more or less fit, so it’s been good.”
And on linking up with the new man, he added: “He’s got a lot of ability, but to be honest, we’ve got a squad full of League One players – that’s a fact.
“We’ve probably competed with League One clubs for a lot of our lads. The quality’s always been there, and Chris just adds that little bit of spark.”
Three wins on the bounce have helped to build real belief in the group.
“We had a bit of a patch before that knocked us a bit, but momentum’s important. Hopefully, we can carry it on.”
Some might already be calling Saturday’s clash season-defining, but Kelly insists there’s still a long way to go.
“No, I think it’s far too early to say that. The most important spell is December and January – that cluster of games is massive.
“The pitches, the weather, all of that plays a big part in who finishes strong and who’s maybe just hanging around for the play-offs.”
On the challenge of Robbie Savage's side, he said: “I watched a bit of them against Worthing in the cup midweek – they’re a good side. They’ve got young players, they’re physical, aggressive and bright. Robbie Savage has them playing well.
“They were in League One not long ago, so they’ve still got a strong squad.”
Preparation has been sharp this week, with plenty of competition across the pitch keeping standards high.
“It’s been a good week. Because the squad’s so big and competitive now, training games and in-house stuff are extremely sharp and intense.
“It’s really been ramped up a notch with a few more lads coming back and new ones coming in. We’ve got 20–23 real good players now.”
Kelly has notched a couple of goals and assists so far this season and is pleased with his contribution, but knows there’s more to come.
“It’s been all right. Slow enough getting started because there’s a lot of competition – Luke’s (Armstrong) there too, and he’s a top striker.
“But once I get in, I feel like I can add something.
“My game’s about consistency and understanding the players around me. I’m not someone who scores out of nothing – it’s about timing and habits.
“The more minutes I play with certain lads, the more goals will come.”
There’s mutual respect between Kelly and fellow frontman Luke Armstrong, with both pushing each other to improve.
“It’s great, there’s no needle between us. We get on really well.
“He’s a great lad and a great player. It’s rare to have this kind of competition at this level, but it’s brilliant for the team.
“There’ll be spells where one of us is flying and the other’s waiting, but that’s part of it. You need that if you want to be challenging.”
After a stop-start spell earlier in his time with the club, the forward is delighted to be fit and contributing regularly.
“Being injury-free and sorting this calf was the main thing for me. I just wanted to know my body could last a full season.
“I’m confident in the shape I’m in now. Once I stay fit, everything else will come together.”
Kelly has often led the line this season and says he’s adapted to the challenge of playing up top on his own.
“You can feel isolated at times, but I’m used to it. The key is that everyone’s on the same page.
“If we’re going a bit more direct, everyone has to step up – centre-halves, number sixes, the lot.
“When we do that, it works. Even if I don’t win the first ball, we win the second, and we’re in their half.
“Then lads like Regan and the others get on it in high areas, and that’s when we create chances.”
At 28, the Irishman now finds himself one of the more experienced members of the group, a role he’s happy to embrace.
“Yeah, I’m one of the older lads now, so I think I have to be. Sad to say, isn’t it? But yeah, it’s a role that comes naturally.”
Kelly knows the Brunton Park faithful can make a real difference on Saturday afternoon.
“It’s always huge. Our fans are serious – home and away. It gives us a real edge, but it’s only an advantage when we give them something.
“You need tackles, aggression, chances – then they get behind you and it becomes a real force.”
And his message to supporters ahead of kick-off was simple: “Just come out and hopefully we can produce for you.”
