O'Malley talks prior to first away game

Left-back Mason O’Malley has previewed this weekend's first away game of the season away to Maidenhead United.

The Iron defender began by reflecting on last weekend's 2-1 win over Yeovil Town, saying: “It was a good start and it’s what we needed to start the season, and get us in good spirits. We couldn’t ask for much more than three points. It was a great performance and we had great support throughout the whole game.

“That winning feeling and getting three points, there’s nothing better really. It’s a great feeling and this was reflected in the spirits in and around the club after the game, and in the changing rooms after the full time whistle. Overall it was a really good feeling.” 

Mason went on to speak about the importance of the team's mentality in the game last week, adding: “We went 2-0 up, and then a goal changes everything. It was then about staying strong as a team, seeing it out and doing everything we can with putting our bodies on the line and being mentally tough enough to deal with the pressure. I think we stuck in together as a team and came away with the win.”

O’Malley also thought the experienced players were key in the win over Yeovil, adding: “You could see the experience throughout the game, such as with the quality of Jake (Butterfield). He utilised that space in midfield, drove with the ball, and then we we’re 2-0 up. It obviously went to 2-1, but we managed to see the game out by being mentally and physically tough.” 

The defender was one of the more experienced players last year, but now finds himself as one of the youngest in the present first eleven. He said: “I suppose I am, but that experience in and around the club is important and I can learn a lot from that experience and hopefully take in a lot of information, and it’s only going to make me a better player."

Looking forward to Maidenhead and then Woking away in the coming days, O’Malley said: “It’s going to be tough, long trips and travels, but we’ve got to make sure that we prepare right. We will be going to those games to get three points, they’re up for grabs so hopefully we can bring them back to Scunthorpe.”

The former Iron Under-23s player believes this new level provides a new challenge too, stating: “Last year I knew what the opposition players were like, but it’s a lot harder this year. We will use the staff's information though, taking it on board, and using it to our advantage to help us out in the best way possible so that we’re as prepared going into the game.

“It’s the unknown I suppose, but we have to go into it with that mindset that we feel prepared, and we use the information that we’ve been given to the best of our ability.”

On the support that the team received on Saturday, Mason said: “I think it helps so much when you’ve got the fans behind you, and the support was unreal on Saturday. I’m glad we could repay them with three points. The whole atmosphere and vibe just seems right.

“Everything clicked into place, and the three points and the win showed that."

The full-back was pleased with his performance and his crucial assist for Andrew Boyce's goal, saying: “I was a lot more involved in the first half than I was the second, with (Liam) Feeney going down that side, and me overlapping and supporting him as much as I could.

“I was glad to be part of one of the goals, and I feel like it’s something I want to build on this season. Its a good start, to have an assist in the first game, so hopefully I can push on from that.” 

Finally, Mason touched on how important it is for him to nail down a regular spot in the starting 11 this season.

He said: “There are 46 games, and that’s a lot of matches, but last season I was in and out and I didn’t play as many games as I would’ve liked too and that was down to injuries. I’ve come into pre-season though and I’ve felt good, and I’m feeling good at the minute. I want to keep my shirt as much as possible and play as many games as I can this season. That’s the aim for me.” 

See much more from Mason O'Malley and Keith Hill on Iron Player.