Darren Sarll spoke to BBC Somerset following the Glovers’ 2-0 defeat against Grimsby, an eighth consecutive game without a win.
“I thought we were excellent, I’ve just said to them, I dont want them to think playing well, and not winning is ok, but, when you start a game and come to good football club, like this, and you know there’s going to be a big crowd, with really clear instructions to be brave, pass the ball – they dont expect us to come and pass the ball – let’s get on the ball and pass, and I thought we were very good, I thought we were the better side in both halves”
“I thought we worked the goal more, some of our – obviously we all know we are short of a centre forward, that’s going to score or bundle things in or force things in, like a (Rhys) Murphy type, clever with his finishing”
“I thought Charlie (Wakefield) was a threat, Joe (Quigley) looked a threat, but tired very quickly, and it was a good game for Sonny (Blu Lo-Everton) to be in for his learning, but I would say he’d have to do better next time”
Grimsby’s first goal came from the Penalty spot after a spell of sustained pressure from the hosts, it’s a goal that could have been prevented according the gaffer.
“It was four or five mistakes, the goalkeeper’s kick was one, of course and then we didn’t deal with that kick, in midfield, didn’t deal with that, and then the winger comes rolling in off the side and we switch off, but to come here and give that opportunity away – and only that opportunity away – is testament to our performance”
Despite three changes, Sarll was frustrated that the game didn’t change in the Glovers’ favour, however there was praise for the replacement’s efforts and endeavour.
“Three attacking players, not sure how any of them affected the goal… all of them have got great energy, brilliant attitude, they come on and they try their absolute best. Giles Coke comes on for Grimsby and has more Football League experience than the starting eleven – on his own”
“I was really impressed with every player’s attitude today, I was really impressed with their motivation, courage to take the ball, I like what (Jack) Robinson and (Jordan) Barnett are doing at the moment – I think they are fantastic together, but we build – but we know we have to come out all guns blazing on Tuesday (vs Woking)”
Darren Sarll also confirmed that Exeter loanee Ben Seymour was missing after a delayed result from a COVID PCR test, but said he would be available for selection on Tuesday.