Lead Professional Development Phase Coach Conor Sellars was delighted for his side after they recorded back-to-back victories in the Professional Development League.
A brace from Hugh Parker and finishes from Zane Myers and Rocco Coyle saw the Under-21s defeat Crewe Alexandra 4-1 at the Dransfield Stadium.
“I am happy for the players with the victory. We’re trying to get them to understand the importance of winning games and what it takes to do so,” said Sellars.
“I thought there were some real positives to the performances and there are areas that we can also be better at.
“The lads have played quite a few games recently, so to see them keep on running and keep fighting is great. I know it is tough on the legs, but they have managed to do so which is nice.
“First half we probably dominated the game. We only allowed them to get in through one of our mistakes or maybe just taking too many touches in a certain area, but I think other than that, we were really positive, especially in possession first half.
“Second half, Crewe came out with no fear and pressed anything, which made it a bit more of a fight. I would have liked us to show more quality in those moments, but to see the lads go and get more goals and try to effect the game is pleasing.
“It is really disappointing to concede a wide free-kick again. That is two in two games where we should have had clean sheets so we need to keep working really hard to improve.”
Focusing on winter recruit Hugh Parker and the impact he has had since his arrival from UCD AFC, Sellars added: “He has transitioned into the team really well. Tyrell (Sellars-Fleming) went to Gateshead on loan and we had an option to take Hugh.
“We had Hugh in training in November and he did really well, so it was nice to get him over the line and I think in every game, he is getting used to what we do and you can see little bits of details that he is doing better now. He has transitioned well and I really think we can help him in his journey.”
The Tigers face Barnsley tomorrow in what will be a third game within a week for City, with admission to the fixture at Oakwell free for all supporters.
Looking to continue their play-off push in the Professional Development League North, Sellars is expecting another tough test for his side.
“Barnsley will be a tough game like they always are. They’re always really competitive and we just need to set our standards really high and make sure the culture and how competitive we are is evident every week,” explained Sellars.
“We’re really trying to develop the physiological traits of the players and make them competitive, winners, and we want them to be the best they can be. They do have dips along the way and we have to try and pick them up, but I think all in all, we have a good group of players. I want to keep challenging them to put more performances in, win more games, and ultimately put them in a better place.”
