Stephen Green thrilled with win over Evia in final UEFA Regions Cup preliminary round match-up
South Wales FA manager expressed his delight after watching his side thrash Evia Region in their final game of the UEFA Regions Cup at Jenner Park.
They controlled the game from start to finish as goals from Connor Keating, Alex Long, Alex Lloyd and Andre Phillips handed them a deserved victory in the Barry Sunshine and Green couldn’t have been more delighted with his squad.
“They’re absolutely buzzing in there now and I am so happy for the lads. It is not about me, it is about the players who make this squad what it is.
“We always know what we can do and what we can achieve, and we just went for it. We had nothing to lose, we had to win the game, we had commitment and work rate – and we got the job done.
“That’s the beauty of this squad, we aren’t a team. We are all in this together and they have shown that in the hotel throughout the week. This squad is going to get stronger and stronger, I can guarantee you that.”
Green was also quick to praise the players in particular who came in, with Sully Sports’ Alex Long standing out in an unfamiliar position – the midfielder also netted from the penalty spot for the Red Dragons.
“Quicky has done well, he has come off the bench and scored two goals and he deserved to start today. With Matthew (Phillips), he had a bit of an injury but he showed today that he is a quality player. As for Alex Long, you know he will always give you 110%.”
“Long is a squad member, playing out of position, but his work ethic today was brilliant. I couldn’t fault him at all,” said the Wales boss.
Andre Phillips came off the bench and scored to finish off the Greeks in what was a delightful move from the hosts and Green admitted that the forward was a bit frustrated to be left out after starting against Amateurs FYR Macedonia.
“He was a bit disappointed to be left out, but that is the beauty of the squad. It is a challenging squad and if you want to be part of it, you need to put the work in.”
There was an attendance of 311 at Jenner Park to witness Wales’ win and Green commended the work which has been put in over social media to get the UEFA Regions Cup promoted and recognised across Wales.
“We went to San Marino two years ago and the only people who were watching were the people who were over there, so we have put a lot of this out on twitter and social media and it has made a big difference, no doubt about it.”
(Featured image: Lewis Mitchell)
