Before Newport County visit Salford City on Tuesday evening (17 Feb), manager Christian Fuchs discussed his thoughts ahead of the fixture.
Reflecting on the weekend defeat at MK Dons, Fuchs felt his side could have taken more from the game, particularly after a strong second-half display.
“It was a game we could have gotten something from, especially with the chances we had late on,” he said.
“The boys played well and tried their hardest. When you play against teams in the top half of the table and see the players leaving everything out there, being more than competitive and dealing with a lot defensively, that tells you a lot about their character.
“But then it is down to us to take the chances we create and put them away. That was a clear focus this week. We have to be better in both boxes.”
Fuchs was pleased with his side’s defensive organisation in recent weeks, particularly when facing sustained pressure from set pieces.
“In the last three games we have dealt with a lot of set pieces, especially corners, and we have handled them very well. That shows the resilience of the team and how well organised they are.
“You see top teams going long against us and moving away from their normal style because of how we are set up. That is a testament to the boys.
“But small moments are turning against us at the moment. We need to fight harder, run harder and minimise the mistakes we are making.”
Despite going four games without a goal, the County boss remains encouraged by the opportunities his side are creating.
“It is one thing if you are not creating anything, but we are getting into very good positions. Sometimes we miss the final pass or make the wrong decision, or we just do not put the ball over the line.
“As long as we are creating, we can stay positive. The team has so much potential. If we add even more intensity and fight for every inch on the pitch, I am sure we can turn it around.”
Fuchs also called for unity as The Exiles enter a crucial run of fixtures.
“I understand why the fans would feel anxious, but the team needs support more than ever. The players are leaving everything out there. With a positive attitude and that twelfth man behind us, we can definitely turn this around.”
Asked whether he still believed his side’s recent performances have deserved more, Fuchs stood by his assessment.
“If you watched the games as a neutral, you would not be able to tell who is near the top of the table and who is at the bottom. We have shown we can compete and at times play very good football.
“But football is a fighting sport. You have to fight for your right to win, and that is where we need to improve.”
Injury concerns remain, particularly in defence, but Fuchs is confident in the depth of his squad.
“We have good balance in the team and options in every position. Some players are very close to returning, and there could be one or two back involved soon.
“I am not concerned because I see how the boys train and how willing they are to fight for the club.”
Looking ahead to Salford, Fuchs insisted his side will approach the game with full belief.
“Every game now is like a cup final for us. We go there to win and to put points on the board. I have full trust in my players. Whoever is on the pitch is there because I trust them one hundred percent.”
