“Express yourselves” – Henderson’s message ahead of Shepton clash Tavistock looking to end the unbeaten league record of visitors

LAMBS boss Stuart Henderson has told his players to go out and express themselves in Saturday’s clash with unbeaten Shepton Mallet in the Toolstation Western League Premier Division clash at Langsford Park.

The boys face a tough challenge against a Shepton side that have won five and drawn four of their nine league games so far this season, although they were beaten in the FA Vase last weekend, going down to a 1-0 home defeat to Mousehole.

At the same time, Tavi were winning 2-1 at Clevedon in a match that should have been far more comfortable than the scoreline suggests.

The Lambs led 2-0 at half-time and were in total control, but after Clevedon pulled a goal back, they struggled to play their best football and held on for the win against a team that saw plenty of the ball, but didn’t pose too much of a threat on Josh Oak’s goal.

Looking ahead to Saturday’s match, Henderson said: “They are a good side and that’s proven by the fact they haven’t lost in the league yet this season. We have had some really tight games with them and I am anticipating that will be the case again on Saturday.

“For us, I think it is just important not to lose and gain points on a rival, but it will be a tough game and I can’t imagine there will be a lot in the game.”

Asked if he would like to a see a more complete 90 minutes from his side, the boss added: “You have to pay credit to the other team as well, they are entitled to change and the old saying that goals change games is very true.

“When you are 2-0 up, it is always a precarious scoreline because, if you get the third goal, you like to think that the game is comfortable and the players are confident but, if someone pulls it back to 2-1, like was the case on Saturday, everyone becomes a lot more cautious and conservative in their play.

“I just want us to express ourselves at the right opportunities and try and keep our composure when things aren’t going our way on the pitch.”

On the plus side, Liam Prynn was again on target last week, taking his seasonal tally to 11, while Josh Grant is not far behind his team-mate with nine. It makes the pairing one of – if not the best – in the league, but with the signing of raw teenager Daniel Koita, Henderson feels the frontmen now have genuine competition for their shirts.

“I think they have benefited from the fact we haven’t really had a fit third striker to challenge them, which we now have with the signing of Daniel, so there will be a bit more rotation. But it is up to whoever is performing to stay in the team,” Henderson said.

On the injury front, Teigan Rosenquest and Warren Daw both have knocks, but should be fit to start. “We have a few with knocks and niggles, but we are hoping everyone will come through,” Henderson said.

“Ben Cross is comfortable playing at centre back, so it is no great concern. To be honest, if it was down to Ben, I think he’d probably prefer to play at centre half rather than right-back.

“I think certain games are more suited for Ben to play in there, so we are always able to shuffle the pack.

“Dan Evans has been advised by the physio that he needs to do quite a bit more conditioning work, so he won’t feature for at least a few weeks.”

The Lambs would appreciate your support for such a big game and we welcome the Tavistock Community Football Club Under 7s team to Langsford Park as our mascots for the game.

Entrance is £6 for adults, £4 concessions and free for Under-12s with a paying adult.

FOR COMMERCIAL AND SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE CONTACT COMMERCIAL@TAVISTOCKFC.COM.