TALKING POINTS

Chris Wade

Chris discusses the NLS game

SAFE AT LAST

The last few days have been so much more pleasant now that we know that we are mathematically safe from the drop. It really has been an extraordinary last few weeks at our beloved club, so to have the shadow of potential relegation removed has been brilliant. After some rather limp performances away from home this season, Tuesday’s trip to Taunton was all it needed to be in terms of passion, desire, intensity, and most important of all, result. We can now head to Plainmoor on Saturday for the final game of the season with a spring in our step and one last visit to the Theatre of Dreams for 2023-2024.

EXPERIENCE IS KEY

The leadership and knowhow of Dean Moxey and Asa Hall has been absolutely vital in the last few weeks. Whilst they may not be blessed with pace, they have the positional sense and knowledge to combat most challengers. Asa was especially dominant in the air at Taunton, heading everything away that came near him from a barrage of long throws and long balls into the box. The physical battle is so important at this level, and they have stood up strongly when we needed them most. Whether they stay beyond Saturday is an interesting debate for sure.

INDEFATIGABLE BRAD

In amongst some (unfair) criticism at times this season, the work rate, application and dedication of forward Brad Ash cannot be questioned. He has run and run and run, whilst playing in a formation that does not suit his strengths. He is not physically strong enough to play as a lone forward, but the circumstances at the club in recent weeks have dictated that has been the only way of late. His running, closing and chasing is so important, and well past the 100^th minute on Tuesday, he was still running after everything. He takes big credit for his dedication.

OPPOSITION

This season hasn’t gone as planned for Havant & Waterlooville. They have been struggling at the wrong end of the table, and even a change of manager mid-season hasn’t been able to have the desired affect. Heading into the final game, they have been relegated. It will also see a game between the two worst defences in the league, with our visitors having conceded 87 goals and ourselves 76(!). So you would imagine 0-0 is largely out of the question. But both teams will be keen to go out on a high.

ENJOY THE DAY

Saturday could have been so different if Tuesday hadn’t gone well, so it can now be a far more relaxed affair. So let’s enjoy it! There really haven’t been many calm matches this season, where we have been dominant and ahead of the game for large parts. Starting on the front foot and getting ahead early worked during the week, so let’s enjoy one last trip to Plainmoor this season and look forward to whatever the summer brings with hope and expectation for the future.