We caught up with Craig Rouse in the build up to yesterday’s league fixture with Dunston, we discussed recent results and looked forward to a tough run of fixtures which began with last night’s 3-3 draw up north. The lads showed further examples of their togetherness coming back from behind twice and reacting to conceding two penalties. Here is what Craig had to say…
Rousey it’s been a tough week as we exited both FA Trohpy and FA Cup, first of all give us your verdict on those games?
I thought we acquitted ourselves well in both games and had chances to change the complex of both ties. Unfortunately in the 1st game a lapse of discipline cost us and it’s something we’ve spoken about tidying up moving forward. In the Chester game we had the games best chance upto half time but overall Chester edged the tie and deserved to progress. We don’t want to lose any game but if we are to lose them then that’s the manner in which we can accept it as it was in our opinion a strong performance for long periods.
We’ve been unbeaten in the league thus far, how important is it to get back to winning ways and push on?
Our aim at the start of the season was to get out of the blocks and put ourselves in a position to get progressing. We’ve managed to do that and now it’s important we back that up with more positive performances and results.
You’ve brought in a couple of new faces, how do you feel about the squad you have assembled now?
We just felt that our squad depth had started to be tested over the last few weeks and with 1 or 2 players short of match fitness we acted and brought people in who are ready to go immediately. We’re happy with the squad and the togetherness we’ve got and we’re enjoying working with the group.
A tough run of games are ahead of us, is there anything you’re looking for from your team?
We want to put on strong performances throughout this month against teams who have all started the season well. If we want to achieve what we set out to do then games like these and vital and there’s no tougher test than Dunston away on a midweek night. We’re looking forward to the challenge and if performances are good then results will naturally follow.