By Ben Withers
USW 5ths coach Nicolas Stephanatos spoke in glowing terms about his players despite a 3-2 defeat against Bristol University 6ths.
Despite goals from USW’s Eddie Barker and Jack Sowerby, a hat-trick from Arthur Baldwin saw USW fall to their third loss in four games in the Western Tier 6B League.
Stephanatos said: “I’m proud of the boys; they fought really hard” – USW 5ths coach positive verdict despite defeat to Bristol 6ths.
“It’s a tough pill to swallow, we fought hard.
“I really believed we could have got something out of this game, we had a really tough start to the game but then we got the equaliser.
“Second half they played much better but I’m happy that we fought until the end.”
He added: “We had five players out, had to play players out of position and we were lacking in size against them.”
“We lost our duels in the middle of the pitch, and that’s their strong suit. We weren’t able to win the first contact.
“But it wasn’t due to a lack of desire, it was about positioning, technique and Bristol’s size.”
Regarding the opposition, he stated: “They’re a good and physical team, they know how to use their gifts.
“They have some really good players, in midfield especially they’re able to carry the ball. I’m looking forward to face them again.”
The 5ths will hope to end their poor run of form with an away trip to Swansea 3rds next Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Bristol 6ths will hope to remain top of the league as they host Royal Agricultural 1sts.