Ryan Astles described the victory over Brackley Town as a ‘massive’ result, as the squad now prepare for Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup tie against Altrincham.
The 25-year-old helped the Port to keep a clean sheet at the weekend, David Morgan’s penalty just after the hour mark securing the three points last weekend.
The focus now turns to the cup, with fellow Vanarama National League North side Altrincham the opponents at the Pure Stadium in a crucial game for both clubs.
Astles said: “We weren’t at our best in the first half on Saturday but we came out after the break and pressed a bit more to get the reward we deserved. It was a massive result for us and showed that we are a good team.”
The centre back had two opportunities to score in the opening 45 minutes of the game, and hopes to break his duck in the upcoming weeks.
“I haven’t scored yet, which is frustrating, but as soon as I get one I know that more will follow. I came close against Brackley so hopefully I can get off the mark in the next game.”
Astles was even more pleased to get the victory to mark Liam Watson’s 500th game in charge with three points.
“We didn’t want to end the day with a defeat so it was a good day all round, for the club and for Liam to get a massive result.”
Heading into this weekend’s FA Cup tie against Altrincham, the defender is excited to take to the field.
He added: “It’s the biggest competition in England so as a player you want to get as far as you can and play the big teams. We are one round away from it, so hopefully we can get a win and get a decent draw.”
“We need to work on ourselves and take the weekend’s second half performance into the match.”
Written by Amos Wynn
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