Mike Lewis reflects on excellent season with Barry Town United

Clwb Pel-Droed caught up with Barry Town United shot-stopper Mike Lewis this week, as he reflected on his stellar performances in goals this season, and what it’s like to work under manager Gavin Chesterfield.

– You’re having the season of your life, and have kept 12 clean sheets so far in the league this seadon, including four in March. What’s the secret behind your excellent performances so far this season?

I guess its pretty simple, I am really happy and enjoying my football with Barry Town United. I believe this is a key factor as to why I am playing so well this season. It also helps being part of a very talented and determined team. We pride ourselves on keeping clean sheets, and as a team we have kept 17 clean sheets in 33 games this season. Hopefully there are more to come.

– Barry are currently five points ahead of Goytre in the league, how vital is it you keep up your current run of good form?

It is imperative that we keep up our good form as we haven’t achieved anything yet. In my opinion this years Welsh League Division One is the hardest/most competitive league for a long time. There are a lot of big clubs in the league and there are no easy games. We have six cup finals left starting with Ton Pentre away on Saturday.

– Gavin Chesterfield has been an excellent servant for Barry, and has been there through the rough times, as well as the good times. What’s he like to work under?

What Gavin has done for the club over the years is quite incredible, as you rightly say he’s been a fantastic servant for Barry. Gavin is great manager and he was a major influence in me signing for the club. He strives for the very best and creates a professional/special atmosphere which all the players adhere to. He is a exceptional coach/manager and his attention to detail is second to none.

– The Barry fans travel in their numbers everywhere you go, no matter where they’re in the league. How much of an incentive is it for you to perform when they’re chanting your name?

What can I say about the Barry fans, there aren’t enough superlatives left to describe them. They are simply fantastic and without their support we wouldn’t be who we are today. Through thick and thin they are always supporting us, they’re a credit to the club and an inspiration to all the players. Hearing our own individual chants is very special, they create a fantastic atmosphere both home and away. As players we want to achieve success for our loyal fans, as they deserve it.

– Does having an excellent back-line make your game easier as a goalkeeper?

It definitely helps, and I am very fortunate to have such a good group in front of me. We have a very good and trusting relationship on the pitch so we all work hard for each other. We defend from the front and take pride in keeping clean sheets. Fingers crossed we can continue our great defensive record until the end of the season.