Stevenage manager Graham Westley said there were some encouraging signs from his side after this afternoon’s 2-2 draw with West Ham.
He began by telling us, “I thought both clubs played the game in a different way. They played two elevens and we tried to push a lot of lads through the best part of 90 minutes. There was inevitably going to be a physical factor coming into it late on. We probably saw a side that looked in command for most of the game when we made the changes and they got a couple of moments they weren’t likely to get but for the changes.
“We were strong and organised in defence, we were positive going forward, there was sensible organisation about our attacking play. We looked dangerous and could have had more than the two that we got. There was plenty to be encouraged about.”
Whilst not usually one to single players out, the manager did reserve praise for one particular midfielder.
“I’ve said to the boys just now that I don’t like to blow smoke at anybody but I certainly had to acknowledge Simon Walton’s performance today," he said. "I thought he was outstanding.
“His energy, he’s covered the ground for 90 minutes his desire, his voice, his leadership, his command of the game, his ability on the ball whether it be at a set play or open play, his decision making - he’s a class act, we know that.
“Simon has been the model professional. He’s an outstanding footballer and I thought he ran the show in the middle of the park today against some arguably very good players.”