The skipper speaks about Crawley, his return to form and playing alongside Dembele.
After a couple of days to reflect on Tuesday’s draw at Crawley, despite conceding the late goal Jon Ashton believes it was a positive result for the club.
“7 points from 9 has put is in a good place. We’ve gained a lot of confidence from the last week and we’re now looking to kick-on against Tranmere on Saturday and move up the table."
Boro had to survive a second-half onslaught, after dominating for the first 45 minutes. Ash tried to explain what happened.
“They came out all-guns-blazing and really put us under a lot of pressure - we just didn’t seem to handle it very well. We seemed to sit back and try and defend and whilst it worked against Crewe, it’s not always going to.”
The last few weeks have seen an up-turn in form for the captain and popular opinion has been that he’s playing better than he’s ever been this season. When asked about this; Ash agreed and said it’s all about his desire.
“Yeah I think so; I don’t know what it is really. We haven’t been in a good position all year but I think it’s just a realisation that it’s either now or never and I’m just trying to do all I can to make sure we’re still in League 1 next season.”
Ash has had many partners in the centre of defence this season but new signing, Bira Dembele has got something that not many have had – pace. The captain admits, Bira’s speed across the ground is comforting for him.
“There’s always that insurance policy that pace can get your out of tight spots.
“There’s a few communication issues, he doesn’t speak much English and I don’t speak French. We’re doing well at the minute and football’s a universal language so it’s not too much of a problem. He’s got a lot of strengths; he’s quick and good in the air, as you saw against Crawley. I’m sure he’ll be a big player for us.”
Next up for Boro is Tranmere at home on Saturday and you can still buy your tickets online now.