BOSS Darren Byfield declared himself satisfied with the response of his Redditch United side despite suffering a 2-0 home defeat to Biggleswade Town on Saturday.
Byfield was furious with his team’s capitulation in the 8-1 loss at Frome Town seven days earlier and called for an immediate response and, even though there was no points reward, the manager was far happier with his side’s efforts.
Goals from Jordan Patrick and Rhys Hoenes put the Waders 2-0 up inside 24 minutes, but United responded impressively as they created several good chances, only to pay for wastefulness in front of goal.
Byfield said he would now seek to bring in more firepower at the Trico Stadium and as he looks to guide the Reds to a top ten finish in the Southern League Premier Division, whilst also looking towards next season.
“We lacked ruthlessness on Saturday and need more firepower, there’s no doubt about that,” said the former Aston Villa and Walsall striker.
“However, I thought it was an attacking performance full of endeavour and character, which was very important after the Frome debacle.
“I think the players’ efforts were reflected in the backing they received from the fans, who were roaring them on and singing. I’d like to thank the supporters for the way they got behind us.”
Byfield accepts there is plenty of work to do moving forward to turn his side into promotion contenders, but insists he is relishing the challenge and does not believe it is mission impossible.
“This may sound strange having lost two matches in a row including an 8-1 drubbing, but I don’t feel we are too far away from being a strong side at this level,” added the manager.
“We do need to score more goals and improve our physicality, but I think this can be addressed in the remainder of the season and looking ahead.
“This is my first job in management and it’s a big learning curve for me, but I’ve already learned an awful lot.
“I’m trying to find the right blend and it’s all about trying to get the right players in, especially in attacking areas.
“This is a relentless league and rarely do you have time to mould a player into what you need. They need to be ready to come straight in and improve the squad.
“I’ve had a good look at two possible attacking additions in training this week and will do so again over the next fortnight. One in particular I want to watch in a friendly before deciding whether to pursue it.”
Byfield now turns his attentions to two tough away matches at Dunstable Town on Saturday and Merthyr Town on Tuesday.
“They are difficult fixtures, no doubt about it, but I believe in the players and these are big chances for them to show me the character they need to if they are going to play a big part in the future of Redditch United,” he added.
“I brought Jim Mutton back and he was excellent on Saturday.
“His attitude and commitment to the cause is exactly what I want and we need more of his ilk throughout the team. He’s the ideal person for this football club.”
