Believe in yourselves and we’ll achieve big things, USW football boss tells players

USW players must believe in themselves, says head coach Adrian Harvey. Pic: Ben Thomas

By Archie Tooth

Head coach Adrian Harvey claims his side can achieve “big things”, despite losing 3-1 to Exeter University in an end-to-end match at the USW Sports Park.

Freddie Stevens claimed a late goal for the hosts, but Exeter were always the better side.

“We’re playing a new shape, two formations in and out of possession, there’s a lot going on for the boys,” said Harvey.

“There’s not a lot of contact time with them so it’s tough, but they’re engaging and are trying to apply it.

“They’ve got to believe in themselves, it’s our job to instil that that belief in them and it’s about sticking to the game plan from minute one.

“Really these boys have been together four to five weeks, training Monday and Fridays at 6:30 in the morning.

“It’s credit to them really.”

USW 1sts huddle before their defeat to Exeter.
Pic: Ben Thomas

Goalkeeper Sven Marnot “excelled” said Harvey, with the stopper saving a penalty in the 36th minute and making multiple other key saves to keep his side in the match

Harvey added: “I thought he was excellent, one of his strengths is on the ball, he gives us that calmness and composure.

“I want to play football, the boys want to play football and Sven is the start of that, he’s the foundation. I’m proud of him.”

Looking forward to next week, Harvey said: “We’ll have a Friday session, nice and lively, bring the confidence back up.

“They’re good players, good lads, I’ve really enjoyed working with them.

“For us its about getting points onto the board and getting a bit of momentum.

“We’ll also have a tactical game plan session on Monday, hoping to get the result next week.”