Cheltenham Town manager Steve Cotterill expressed deep disappointment following his team’s 3-1 defeat at Accrington Stanley. “Really disappointing,” Cotterill admitted. “We train all week to play like we did in the last 15 or 20 minutes—by then, the game is nearly over. I feel let down.”
When asked if the frustration extended to all aspects of the team’s performance, Cotterill was frank. “First of all, endeavour would be a good start. Not enough players showed that today. We put in the hard work all week, yet it wasn’t until the 70th minute that they executed it.”
This defeat stands out as particularly disheartening since his return to the club. “Yes, absolutely,” said Cotterill. “We didn’t show any fight—a crucial ingredient. You can’t win a football match without fight.”
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Second-half substitutions had a positive impact. Cotterill highlighted debutants Josh Davison and Jake Bickerstaff, noting their promising displays. “Josh did well when he came on. Jake performed admirably both as a striker and a creative player. Their efforts were commendable, even if the result didn’t reflect it.”
Cotterill was puzzled by the team’s slow start to dominance, expressing frustration that their planned tactics only emerged late in the game. “We prepared thoroughly, knowing exactly what to do. Why wait so long to impose ourselves? Fight and determination must come from everyone, not just the experienced players.”
This long period without effort marked a low point under Cotterill’s management. “We’ve had difficult spells, but today was different. Today, they didn’t fight. I feel let down because I never let them down. I work hard every day for this club, and I expect the same from my players.”
Looking ahead to the closing of the transfer window, Cotterill remains hopeful. “We hope to bring in a couple of loan players. It’s been tougher this year with clubs holding onto players longer. We’ll see what we can do by Monday.”
When questioned about specific targets like Isaac Hutchinson, Cotterill declined to comment, emphasizing that Hutchinson is no longer his player.
On the turning points in the game, Cotterill recalled Jake Bickerstaff forcing an excellent save and the ill-timed second goal conceded just before halftime. “That goal came at a bad moment; it shifted momentum against us.”
Regarding Josh Davison’s commitment in relocating with his family to Cheltenham, Cotterill praised the gesture. “Having family close helps players maintain balance. It’s a positive sign for Josh and the team.”
Ultimately, Cotterill remains steadfast. “January has been a tough month with few rewards for our hard work, but while I’m here, the effort will never waver.”