Boss delighted by dominant display...
SADDLERS Boss, Dean Smith admitted it was a “pleasure” to see his side dominate large parts of the game after securing a first away league win of the season.Goals from Tom Bradshaw and Sam Mantom ensured a 2-0 win over Southend United, and record successive away victories in the space of four days.
“It was a very satisfying win because I watched their first two games and they’re a good team,” said Smith. “Certainly in the first half, we were completely dominant and it was a pleasure to watch.”
“I think our second goal killed the game off, of course they had a bit of pressure in the last five minutes but other than that we were very comfortable.
“Tom’s taken his goal really well again and he had some really good support in Sam Mantom and Reece Flanagan both getting into the box.”
“I think Jason [Demetriou] was alongside Tom when he scored so it shows again how attacking we have been today. “The team performance as a whole was outstanding. It wasn’t about any one player.
“We controlled the game for large periods and created a lot of good chances again.“
Smith again changed systems from our Capital One Cup success at Nottingham Forest and explained how his midfield players made all the difference at Roots Hall.
During pre-season, the boss challenged his players to ease the burden on the strikers by finding the back of the net more frequently and has been pleased with the response.
“I have to say I am delighted for Sam Mantom,” he added. “His goal was another well-worked move and after the season he had last year, I’m delighted for him that he was back on the score sheet today.
“He kept making those runs and getting in the box and its so difficult for the opposition to mark.
“He done it twice on Tuesday and set up two goals for Tom [Bradshaw], he’s done it again today and grabbed himself a goal.
“I said at the start of the season we have to start scoring from all areas and we’re starting to do that now. Romaine could have scored again today, Taylor, Bax, Cook.
“We look dangerous going forward.
“But it’s great that at the other end we’ve kept a clean sheet because that’s important to us as well.
“Neil’s come in and takes a lot of pressure of the team when he comes for crosses. He’s still a working progress but I’m delighted for him.
“If we keep playing like we have this week, we’ll certainly win more games than we lose.”
The Saddlers are #OnTheRoad again on Tuesday, making the trip up to Rochdale for a 7.45 kick-off.