Cheltenham Town manager Steve Cotterill expressed his satisfaction following a commanding 3-1 away victory over Crawley Town. Despite the scoreline, Cotterill acknowledged the quality of their opponents: “Crawley are a good team. We hit the bar twice today, and on different days, those chances could have gone in, making it potentially a five-goal margin. They play good football and can put you on the back foot, especially with Colin Kazim-Richards doing a great job for them.”
The manager was particularly impressed with Charlie McCann, who continued his impressive start to the season by scoring twice more, bringing his tally to six goals in six games. Cotterill remarked, “Charlie is a very talented young player who has matured both on and off the pitch since joining us. He’s been a superb signing, and he’s very well-liked in the dressing room. If he maintains this scoring form, he will become even more popular.”
Commenting on McCann’s finishes, Cotterill highlighted the striker’s growing confidence: “His first goal was a great strike, and Andreas Weimann’s header was top drawer. For Charlie’s second, I could see he has the ability to execute quick, accurate shots without giving the goalkeeper time to react. When his shot beats the defender, you know it’s headed for the net.”
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Cotterill also praised Andi Weimann’s overall performance and movement leading to his goal, noting, “Playing as the lone striker can be tough, but with our style of play and press, Andi’s runs make a real difference. Our team’s pressing today was excellent, and even when they got through, our recovery and defensive organisation were spot on.”
The manager emphasised the team’s defensive work as much as their attacking prowess, saying, “While we have scored 23 goals in six games, I’m actually more pleased with our out-of-possession play. It required real self-sacrifice and unselfishness to secure the win. Despite a slight disappointment at not keeping a clean sheet, given the goal we conceded came from a fortunate ricochet, the team showed strong character.”
Cotterill was also encouraged by goalkeeper Wyll Stanway’s performance, despite the goal conceded, and praised substitute Kirsten Otchere’s impact after coming on, recognising the challenges Otchere faced earlier in the season.
Reflecting on the support from fans, Cotterill was full of gratitude: “Over 200 Cheltenham supporters made the long trip and an early start to be here today. Seeing the fans arrive was brilliant, and I made sure to thank them with selfies and autographs. They’ll be buzzing on the journey home after such a great result.”
Currently second in the league, Cheltenham Town’s progress contrasts sharply with a year ago when they were bottom of the EFL after eight games. Cotterill acknowledged the difference, yet urged continued focus: “It’s been chalk and cheese compared to last season. We just have to keep working hard and be honest about our performances to see where it takes us.”