Scunthorpe United FC

Iron defender Andrew Boyce has reflected on the week gone by and previewed this weekend's home fixture against Maidenhead United in the National League.

Boyce began by talking about the 4-1 defeat at Chesterfield on New Years Day, explaining: “They scored two late goals and I think that flattered them on the day. They had long spells of possession and waves of attacks, but I think the two late goals made it look worse than it was. We were decent in spells but obviously not good enough over 90 minutes.

“They made substitutions to stop what we were doing, and Paul Cook said post-match that we were right in the game. I think we would have done well to get a point, but I think a 4-1 loss is a bit undeserved really.” 

The Iron have faced some tough opposition in recent weeks, and Boyce spoke on this too, adding: “It’s been a tough month and we’ve played the top teams. I think if you look at their squads and the players they have, compared to our small and young squad, it’s clear that it’s going to be tough. The month coming up is key to be honest, it’s going to be very important.

“I think the fans can see that the endeavour has been there and in spells we’ve played some decent stuff, but it’s putting it in over the course of 90 minutes, being a unit, and stopping the ball going in our net. These are the things we’ve struggled with this season."

The defender then spoke about this weekend's game against Maidenhead - one which he considers to be a massive challenge. He said: “There are quite a few games in the month coming up, we’ve looked at it, and it’s going to be key going into the back end of the season. We have to go in and we have to go in for three points."

He went on to speak about the reverse fixture back in August, adding: “I think they had three chances and scored three, although we dominated the game. We came away with nothing so I think that was a bit of a baptism of fire for a few of us.” 

Cameron Wilson came into the team on New Year's Day, scoring the opening goal, and Boyce spoke about the importance of these Iron youngsters. He said: “He worked his socks off, he was a threat, he made runs in behind, so it was nice for him to get a goal. If you look at Fin Shrimpton, I think he’s been brilliant. He did well on loan at Gainsborough, and he’s now come back in and shown why he should be involved. We’re a small squad so there are certainly chances for everyone as everyone’s important.”

Finally, the defender pointed out that it’s important that the team sticks together during this tough period. He added:: “There’s a lot of noise off the pitch but the fans are coming to see a performance from the team on the pitch. That’s all we can control and hopefully we can give them that.” 

See much more from Andrew Boyce on Iron Player.