TUFC head coach Gary Owers spoke about how pleased he was with the result, but also his desire to see his side create a higher tempo after United sealed a 2-0 win over East Thurrock at Plainmoor.
“Happy with the result, obviously 3 games now we haven’t conceded,” said Owers post-match. “I think that’s an excellent week’s work from the players, so pat on the back for them but it’s the first week and we have many more difficult weeks ahead of us.
“Frustrated, particularly in the first half, we spoke about trying to find rhythm, and the way to find rhythm and create a tempo is to move the ball quicker and we looked like we wanted to be the team that wanted too many touches and took too long on the ball and made bad decisions on the ball. It was flat and it was up to us to get the supporters involved and we did that eventually but I just want to see us play better than we did in the first half, certainly.”
Ruairi Keating scored his first goals of the season, notching in the 42nd and 53rd minute.
“Yeah that should give Ruairi confidence, he’s been patient, he’s taught us he can score goals, and on the evidence given today then he’s right. I’m pleased for him, I hope that gives him a boost. I hope he can get many more this season.”
Defender Jakub Sokolik came off in the 70th minute having picked up a knee injury. He will be assessed over the coming days.
“He is sore. it’s too early to assess so we’ll see how he settles down tomorrow.”
Asa Hall was the ideal candidate to fill in for Sokolik in the back three according to the Gaffer.
“He gives us that versatility, he’s an experienced player, I think he played centre half at the end of the season for barrow, and he became part of the defensive back line that is keeping the ball out of the back of the net at the moment, and fair play to young Shaun [MacDonald] as well who made a very important save when the score was 1-0.”
Story by James Clements