Josh's thoughts after opening day defeat to Bradford
Shrewsbury Town fell to defeat at the hands of Bradford City in the first game of the Sky Bet League One campaign.
Askey’s first starting 11 had six debutants in the side including centre midfielder Josh Laurent.
The midfielder was disappointed to take the loss on his debut but felt the performance deserved better.
“I think the performance was quite pleasing but the boys are down in there, a bit gutted,” said the Town new boy. “We thought we should have won the game really.
“I apologise to the boys, I should have scored. I think if I scored we would have gone on and scored two or three because we were really on top at that point.
“It just sat up and I thought I did the right thing by just trying to guide it. When I got contact I thought it went in but it just kept rising.
“When it hits the bar an came back out it was a bit of a surprise. It was in my mind throughout the game because I knew how important that stage of the game was.
“We have to dust ourselves down and go again next week.”
Despite the loss Laurent feels the performance can give his team enough encouragement to go on and confidently compete in the next fixture.
“It’s important we don’t get too down and too much at the negatives,” said the centre midfielder. “I think we have to stay positive and keep working Monday to Friday.
“Once that first win does come, which is important, I think we have got it in us to go on a little run.
“We can still make a frightening start. We have just got to make sure we bounce back quickly.”
Josh also mentioned the fans support on a historic day for Shrewsbury Town, as Town became the first club in England and Wales to operate safe standing.
“The atmosphere was really good, it was a good noise,” Josh said. “The crowd get behind the team don’t they and it’s good when you’re on top and have the crowd behind you.
“It gives you a little bit of adrenalin and pushes you even more so it was good.”
Town have the opportunity to get a win on the board next Saturday as Askey’s men travel to Charlton Athletic.