Taylor determined to improve mental toughness
Stones manager Matt Taylor expressed frustration following Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Ebbsfleet United in the National League, where his side let slip a two-goal lead in the game’s final moments. Taylor, reflecting on the result, emphasised the need for his team to better manage games from winning positions.
“It’s not a good performance because we threw away a two-goal lead, which is simply unacceptable,” Taylor remarked. “We managed any pressure they put on us effectively throughout the game and they didn’t really pose much of a threat until the final minutes. I expect my players to carry out their roles and responsibilities, but today, particularly in how we conceded the first goal, it was inexcusable.”
He highlighted a recurring issue he sees within the squad. “There’s a pattern emerging that I don’t like, one where we’re in strong winning positions but can’t see out games. I don’t know if it’s a mental toughness issue, but it’s something we’ll be discussing as a team this week. You can’t play well for 86, 87 minutes, then end up drawing a game you should have won 2-0.”
The manager noted the sting that comes with letting such a lead slip, acknowledging the raw disappointment that he and the players are feeling. "The players need to understand that a performance like that, where we’re comfortable and then make costly errors, is not acceptable. I want them to feel that pain because it needs to fuel improvement.”
Taylor underscored the need to strengthen the team’s mentality in seeing out games, especially when they’re in control. “It’s not about losing, it’s about the manner in which we ended up with a draw and that’s what’s upsetting both me and the players. It’s clear we need to be better in these situations and I’ll be working with the team to make sure we learn from this.”
The manager was also candid about the need for improvement ahead of their upcoming FA Cup 1st Round tie against League Two side Grimsby Town on Saturday, November 2nd. Taylor noted the disappointment the team feels after dropping points, particularly as they head into a big fixture. “I said to the players that we should be going into Grimsby bouncing, and we’re not and I think it’s evident why. But the players have to understand, and they will because they’re good people. No one goes out on the pitch to make mistakes; we’re all human. I made plenty of mistakes as a player. But at the moment, the mistakes we’re making are catastrophic and costing us dearly. It’s really hurting.”
Looking ahead to the FA Cup match, Taylor acknowledged the challenge of facing a higher-league opponent. “Grimsby will be a different test and one where nobody gives us a chance, which is often the case in the FA Cup. But it’s a competition we want to try to do well in. We know the task ahead and we’ll prepare ourselves for it.”
Stones fans have been allocated the Osmond Stand which is covered unreserved seating and we encourage everyone who can make it to travel and roar the team on as we seek to cause an upset. Tickets are now on sale for this tie and can be purchased HERE. Official Supporters Club coach travel is also available although seats are selling fast. Travel can be purchased HERE.