Manager Preview: Grainger looks ahead to Colne clash
Manager Danny Grainger says the first-team squad has been ‘bouncing’ in training ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Colne.
2020 is so-far winless for Reds but after a break from constant matches, the team has the chance to get back to winning ways in Lancashire.
The manager has spoke ahead of the game, and firstly touched on the reaction within the group to two frustrating results last week.
“It’s been good,” he said regarding the mood in the dressing room.
“The performance levels [in matches] have been fine, we’ve created enough chances to win the games comfortably but we haven’t been clinical and gave up silly goals – which is asking for trouble.
“The lads have been bouncing in training even though it’s a rough patch, but we’re still top of the league and one point clear so teams have to pass us.”
Colne ended our 100% record at home back in October, and were well-worth their point in the 1-1 draw.
Grainger explained what he expects at Holt House tomorrow.
“Again a very-organised team. I know the manager [Steven Cunningham] has his team very well-drilled,” he revealed.
“We expect it to be a very tough game, and you saw last week they can be free-scoring, so we need to be on guard to make sure we don’t give up silly chances or we’ll get punished again.
“We’ll go down there full of confidence, hoping to put our stamp on the game and get three points.”
Reds have a new face set to be included in the squad tomorrow, defender Cole Lonsdale who signed this week.
Last night at training, the manager expressed his ‘delight’ with the deal.
“We had an opportunity with him a month or so ago, but it wasn’t right for him at the time or us either.
“We spoke a couple of weeks ago and it sort of came back to life.
🚨 A warm welcome to our latest signing tonight – defender Cole Lonsdale ✍️
👀 Keep a look out for his first interview tomorrow on the official website 💬
🔴⚪️ | #BetVictorNPL | #COYR pic.twitter.com/ukDvqmM6BQ
— Workington AFC (@WorkingtonAFC) January 9, 2020
“I’m delighted with it. Cole’s a fantastic footballer and when you look at the way he plays, he’ll fit straight into the squad.
“With the ability he has and what he’s like on the ball, he’ll add some healthy competition for the two or three positions he can play.”
As January rolls on, the hot-bed month for transfers could mean more movement at Borough Park, and the boss is anticipating another possible signing in the near future.
“There’s a potential one for maybe next week. We hope to speak to them over the weekend or at the start of next week.
“Hopefully, we can add someone who’s doing it at a level we’re quite impressed with.
“If we can get this target through the door, it can take a little bit of pressure of a few players and add some competition for starting places.”
Kick-off tomorrow at Holt House is 3pm. You can also read Lonsdale’s first Reds interview here.
