Southam-Hales says it was “vital” for Linnets to reach last eight of Welsh Cup after Druids victory
Barry Town United’s Macauley Southam-Hales labelled his side’s Welsh Cup victory against Cefn Druids as “vital”, a win which sees the Linnets move into the last eight of the competition.
Goals from captain Jordan Cotterill, Jonathan Hood and Kayne McLaggon secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Huw Griffiths’ Druids.
Naim Arsan and Matty Owen replied for the visitors, as the Linnets maintained their 100% record over the Ancients in all competitions this season; with three wins from three.
Southam-Hales, who continued his fine season with another accomplished display, says he was happy with his side’s victory.
“It was vital to get the win, obviously we’re through to the next round of the cup now. The main thing was to get the win and push on then.”
“The further we go in this competition, there’s obviously a chance of Europa League. That’s the main deal.”
Having helped his team climb to the summit of the Welsh Premier League heading in Phase One, Town will go to Caernarfon Town next week in the first game of Phase Two, and the full-back is delighted to be part of the team.
“It’s amazing, the club is moving in the right direction. All the lads are different class, the staff we’ve brought in, the staff that stayed. Everything is moving in the right direction. It’s great to be part of it.”
“We’re top of the league and doing really well, the club is going forward.”
“This club could be in a different position next year as well. Hopefully it’s just going to continue to grow and continue to develop.”
Southam-Hales also dismissed any doubts that his team can remain at the top of the table.
“We are in top position at the split so there is no reason we can’t. People have doubted us, saying it’s a lucky stint, but we deserve to be where we are.”
After joining for the club in August 2017 from Cardiff City, the 22-year-old had nothing but high praise for his team, especially manager Gavin Chesterfield.
“It’s a credit to the club really, credit to Gav (Chesterfield), the coaching staff have developed me as a player and now I’ve found my home as a right-back. More credit to the club than myself really, I just turn up and play.
“He’s (Chesterfield) brought it (the club) from the depths really, as I said it’s going to keep on growing and growing.”
After being linked with a move into the Football League following his storming start to the season, Southam-Hales’ sole focus is on next week’s game against Caernarfon Town.
“I’m still a Barry Town player, that’s my main job come Saturday – to play and get the win and focus on next week.
“I just do my best and see what happens. I’m not in a position to really call what’s going to happen week in, week out.”
“I just know I’ll turn up do my job, as will everyone in the squad, and I think that is why we are doing well in the league. Everyone knows their job and turns up to do it. That’s the main focus.”
(Featured image: Rhys Skinner)
