Shields: The boys are focused and ready

Sean Shields has reflected on the week gone by and looked ahead to Saturday's home game against Wealdstone in the Vanarama National League (3pm kick-off).

The midfielder began by talking about his recent breakthrough into the team, saying: “I had a slow start here. I wasn’t able to play against Barnet, and I picked up a slight injury after that which set me back and was disappointing because as a new signing you want to get going straight away. 

"I’ve upped my minutes over the past two weeks since my debut at Boreham Wood. I got my first start against Solihull on Tuesday night which was great. Now I’m looking to build on that and contribute to the team from now until the end of the season.” 

Sean then reflected on Tuesday's defeat to Solihull, adding: “I feel it was a good performance. We all have to take accountability for not taking our chances because we created so many openings. We were worth more than a goal there and I felt we should have got something from the game. It was bitterly disappointing to come away with a defeat, especially losing it late on, but that’s the league for you - it’s relentless.”

He went on to speak about taking Tuesdays performance forward, saying: “When you’re creating chances it’s always a positive because it gives you confidence going into the next game. If you can keep doing that, and keep it tight at the back, then you give yourself a good chance of winning the game.”

He added: “I thought we defended really well in large spells the other night and we were caught out late on. We just need to regroup, focus, keep creating the chances, and I’ve got great confidence that the win will come on Saturday. We can build on that and look to pick up more wins between now and the end of the season which is going to be pivotal for us.” 

On the advantage of playing at home, he said: “It’s an incredible place to play. Making my home debut here against Altrincham was such a great feeling especially culminating in getting the three points. There was a real buzz about the place and I felt great that night and for the next couple of days, and that’s what this place gives you, when there’s a win there’s such a buzz.” 

He continued: “That feel good factor transmits to all the playing staff. We need to generate the energy from our performances to give the crowd a buzz.” 

Sean also spoke about how he’s finding the north: “It’s been great. All the guys round the building have made me feel really welcome and the locals have as well. I’ve been out food shopping (in Scunthorpe) and some really friendly people have come and asked how I’ve been settling in, and it makes me realise how important this football club is to the local community. It’s massive and it’s so powerful in people’s everyday lives, and it gives me that added inspiration every time I go onto the pitch to give my all.” 

Finally, Shields spoke about Saturday's opposition, he said: “I’ve played against them for a number of years, initially in the Conference South, and for the last few years at this level. They’re a very talented team, they’ve got great attacking prowess, and they’ve been very shrewd with their loan signings who have mixed with a good core of experience players. Their league position doesn’t lie, they’ve had an excellent season so far, and we know it’s going to be a difficult game but the boys are focused and ready. We’re looking for three points tomorrow.”