MICHAEL: WE ARE READY FOR THE WELSH LEAGUE
League leader Abertillery Bluebirds host AC Pontymister tomorrow on their 3G pitch, manager Robert Michael speaks on the task in hand against the Aces.
The last time the two sides met in the league, AC Pontymister ran out as comfortable winners in a 4-1 victory, Michael says it helps as preparation for tomorrows fixture.
“What we learned about the previous game is that this Pontymister team had improved from last season and were stronger in every area of the field.
We also learned that the formation we started with did not help us as we were too defensive and invited them on to us. We had a number of key players missing that game and this showed as we could not match their very experienced and strong mid-field. We did change our formation towards the end of the game and made a number of substitutes but this proved to be too little too late.
It helps me prepare for Saturday as we now have an idea of their formation, strong points and weaknesses. We have identified where we the game can be won and this will make an effect on player selection.”
Last week, Aber were involved in a high goal scoring fixture last week as they led 3-1 at half time against Albion Rovers, to then win the game 4-3.
“It was a very eventful game last Saturday against Albion Rovers who are a very good side and experienced at this level.
It was very important to win this game as we see Albion as one of our major rivals and important to continue our winning streak to stay in the group of teams at the top fighting to win the league. This win was regarded as a 6 pointer as we gained 3 points plus taking 3 points away from Albion.”
Ross Hancocks has been in exceptional form the league leaders this season and manager Michael has given him credit for his performances this season.
“Ross has a respectable goal scoring record for the Bluebirds since he has been with the club. Ross is a very important player for us, not only for his goal scoring threat but his contributions towards the team as a whole. He has great pace and the ability to be in the right place at the right time.”
Some are for and against 3G pitches but they ensure games are fulfilled and Michael is a fan of them.
“The 3G is an advantage especially this time of year. It allows us to play our free flowing attacking football as opposed to digging out performances on a grass surface. We play a different system on the 3G which allows us to set the team up differently.”
Aber’s last noted signing was Curtis Pitt and the Bluebirds manager feels he has performed well for the club.
“Curtis is a player we as a club have been tracking for a number of years. He has adapted very well and hit the ground running in his performances to date. His performances has seen senior players in the central defence position relegated to the subs bench and him retain his shirt.”
Sitting at the league on a slender lead of two points, Michael wants to see his sides stay there and predicts plenty of twist and turns as we sit as the midway stage but should Aber get promoted, Michael feels his side are more than capable of playing at Welsh League level.
“Being at the top adds extra pressure as other teams want to knock you off and put that extra effort into their game. I personally think that there will still be a couple of surprises with results from now to the end of the season but I’m confident if we stay clear of any major injuries we can hold on.
We are more than ready for the Welsh league as we have signed a number of good players and have promising youngsters coming up through the ranks. Also the Committee and off field personnel are far stronger/committed. We have learned from the mistakes made the last time we were in the Welsh League.”
Michael revealed that he has a full squad to choose from and that he is just waiting on the fitness of Johnny Morgan.
