Carshalton Athletic boss Peter Adeniyi believes he has seen a growing resolve within his squad following a Bank Holiday weekend of mixed fortunes.
The Robins travelled to East Grinstead Town last Saturday and emerged 3-0 victors thanks to a double from Tommy Bradford and another from Brendan Murphy-McVey.
Bradford was at it again Monday as he converted both a free kick and penalty to haul his side back from 2-0 down against Chipstead, but a late spot-kick for the visitors spoiled Carshalton’s 100% start to their season in the worst possible way.
But, ahead of an FA Cup first qualifying round tie away at Ryman Premier outfit Worthing this weekend, Adeniyi was philosophical about that first loss and his squad’s reaction to it.
“We created enough chances to win two games of football on Monday and they punished us by scoring the three chances we effectively gifted them, so we’ve spoken about our need for consistency at both ends of the pitch,” he said.
“But it’s a true test of character when things don’t go your way and these boys showed great determination to get back from two down and then dominate right until the last kick.
“I could see their reaction to the loss, they were hurt and they are all itching to get back out and put things right – that’s a big positive for me.”
The Robins head to West Sussex on Saturday looking to provide a cup upset against higher league opposition, although the two clubs did play out a 2-2 draw at Woodside Road last season as Worthing went on to be promoted via the Ryman South play-offs.
“I believe this squad could compete against most Ryman Premier sides so we’ll go into this looking to give a good account of ourselves and enjoy the occasion,” added Adeniyi.
“It boils down to 11-v-11 so if we put in a good performance, or perhaps enjoy a little bit of luck, then we can get a result, but I know everyone here is determined to get back to winning ways.”
Carshalton Athletic’s FA Cup tie at Worthing kicks-off at 3pm on Saturday 3rd September.
Feature image of Tommy Bradford scoring a free-kick against Chipstead courtesy of Ian Gerrard, with thanks
