The GNP Sports FC manager, Shamir Alam, provides his personal thoughts on the 3-1 Defeat to Burbage on penalties, after the sides finished the 90 minutes at 1-1 in the Les James Cup...
"After last week's fantastic defensive display away to Boldmere to make it 10 wins from 10, we knew Burbage would be a whole different level of test and the toughest game we will face this season.
We started really brightly and the start was important to gain Burbage's respect but although we had numerous set-pieces we didn't really test the Burbage 'keeper.
As the game progressed in the first-half we had two very good chances to take the lead but unfortunately it wasn't to be. Burbage applied the pressure for a good 10/15 minutes but our defensive shape and its organisation were the best I've seen them and apart from a few shots from distance we didn't look like conceding.
We discussed at the interval that we had to nullify their onslaught after half-time and we thought we did that but in the 55th minute they got their noses in front after an own-goal which we desperately tried keeping out of the net.
The response was as expected for we banged on the door time and time again, and in the 80th minute some neat work allowed us to get the much deserved equaliser. Two further chances, one hitting the bar, followed but it wasn't to be and we entered penalties for the third time this season which saw Burbage progress to the quarter-final after winning 3-1.
We wish Burbage all the best in the next round and hope they go on to win the cup and achieve their treble. The players appreciated the round of applause they got whilst leaving the pitch and the positive comments from the locals and club members.
The disappointment on the players' faces after the game showed just how far we've come after only forming in June of this year. It shows what we are in terms of character and we are all proud of the performance but equally disappointed that we got knocked out of the cup.
We will work harder in training this week, making sure the players' feet are planted and there isn't any complacency for it's important we get back to training and apply ourselves.
The last four games have seen desire to put heads where it hurts and goal-line clearances. As an 11, our defensive unit have been outstanding. I want our identity to be the best defence in the league; I don't think many teams will be able to keep a clean sheet against us let alone win and so that's my challenge to the players: go and get a 4th clean sheet in the league!
M.O.M for yesterday is awarded to Corey Brookes. He can play in 10 different positions, he has the quality to play wherever, he is quick, aggressive, intelligent and strong in the air...
Yours in football..."
Shamir Alam, Manager, GNP Sports...
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