Solihull Moors manager Liam McDonald has spoken of his delight at his side’s ‘entertaining’ performance in the 4-4 draw away at Dagenham & Redbridge last Saturday, but admits that his side need to remain disciplined and need to improve on their long-standing issue of defending set-pieces.
Speaking in his column on the Solihull Moors official website, McDonald spoke in detail about last weekend’s draw at the Daggers, as well the recent changes to the playing staff at the club. He also discussed next week’s National League double-header, as the Moors take on Chester both home and away on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day respectively.
The Moors boss had this to say:
‘I thought our performance at Dagenham had far more positives than negatives. Four goals away against a side in the play-off positions who are looking for an immediate return to the Football league (and who beat us comprehensively back in September), showed what we are made of. Entertaining football played by a team with a smile on their faces and one in which every player, including all the new ones, acquitted themselves well.
The disappointment of conceding soft goals was felt by us all as a group and the players are working hard to ensure that it does not happen again. The difficulty defending set pieces is not new – it has been a problem all season. It is our prime objective to avoid further occurrences and turn it into a strength.
We need to focus on the second and third balls in those situations because that is where opposing teams have hurt us – not just Dagenham but Barrow as well. More than that we must stop fouling where the resulting free-kick puts us under so much pressure. In no way can I lay any blame on Danny Lewis – he has been a stalwart since I arrived and his fantastic saves, in particular against North Ferriby and Southport, made all the difference.
Our team spirit is so much better and we looked very confident last Saturday.
I really feel that we are starting to play the way I want to – to go out trying to win every game, never to simply go out to avoid losing. There is a world of difference.
We obviously need a disciplined approach to our football but I was really pleased last weekend that our front runners played with freedom in the final third.
I know it is difficult for all the players as we bring in new faces but we are building a team which will have a sustainable future in this league and beyond and I am looking to maximise a blend of experienced and younger players. The recent signings from my former club are all under 24-years-old and they are raring to go and to play at this higher level for The Moors.
The two Christmas derbies see us pitted against Chester a team probably playing some of their best football since their reincarnation some six seasons ago. I am glad the first one will be at home on Boxing Day as we have to lay the ghost of Matlock without delay. Boxing Day always seems to throw up some unusual results and there is everything to play for. To end the year on 30 points would be a bonus.
So once again a big thank you to all you fans. It is your Football Club for I which I work – that is how I see it and you are indispensable for the journey we are making.
Have a very Happy Christmas and do your best to get down to The Automated Technology Group Stadium on Boxing Day to help us on our way.’
McDonald will hoping his side can end the year on a high with a win over Chester on Boxing Day. A good result could certainly give the Moors momentum heading into the return fixture on New Year’s Day, with the Moors hoping to pick up valuable points from the Blues, who currently sit seventh in the National League on 39 points.
What are your thoughts on Liam McDonald’s start to life at the Moors? How well do you believe the club will do this season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below!
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