The gaffer gives his view on our season ending defeat to Southend...
“I think those lads, very similar to the Conference side that didn’t quite get there at Cambridge, they weren’t quite ready for it and they showed that in the tie but came back the following season and were champions.”
Two second half extra-time goals from Southend sealed the victory for the Shrimpers as the home side over-ran Boro late in the game. GW says that their experience was the key.
“Experience probably in the end told, at the stages in the game when we got ourselves ahead, both at home and away, we didn’t have enough experience to get back on top of the game, to settle things down and show the composure and control to be able to step on. They did have the experience, they are a high quality squad and they brought high calibre players off the bench.”
Despite the season coming to an end, the gaffer believes the experience of playing in the play-offs will be of huge benefit to many of the players.
“I have said to them, they have come so far this year. They have progressed so far that the potential they have got is frightening. Hopefully this little run and play-off escapade with give them a little more confidence and confidence is the fuel of fulfilling your potential.”
Finally, the gaffer praised the players for their efforts during an injury-plagued season that even bit us in the final game as Charlie Lee (who was filling in at centre-back) and Chris Whelpdale both went off on Thursday evening.
“It has been very, very difficult for them. They have just got on with it. They have made the best of it; they have all played out of position to try and deal with it. They have all taken responsibility to score goals to try and deal with it. A fantastic effort from a wonderful group of young men.”
Get the full post-match reaction from GW and Chris Day on Boro Player.