Ryan Barnett gives his thoughts on Town's 3-0 win over Newcastle United's under-21's
Shrewsbury Town welcomed Newcastle United's under-21 squad to the Montgomery Waters Meadow last evening for the first fixture of Town's EFL Trophy campaign.
On the night, Town ran out 3-0 winners; with goals from Jason Cummings, Scott High, and Ryan Barnett.
Barnett was delighted with the win and was pleased to have secured his first competitive goal for Shrewsbury Town.
On the win and his performance:
“First and foremost, that was our first win of the season so we are delighted with that, and I’m buzzing to have scored my first goal for the club.
“I think that may have been the first header I have scored in my life. The Gaffer told me when you are out wide, just get in goal-scoring positions and you will get goals.
“We showed what we have been working on in pre-season with or counter-pressing. We pressed them high from the start and that killed them off early - especially after the goals”.
On getting the start and 90 minutes under his belt, and the performance of debutant Tom Bloxham:
“It is my 21st birthday tomorrow so to get a goal is the best present I could ask for really.
“I thought Tom did really well, he certainly doesn’t look sixteen. He’s a big lad but he uses that height well to flick balls on and so I know I can gamble in behind. All the young lads we have look really good. We have a great youth team here and they all look good when they train with the first-team”.
On the exciting future ahead of him at the football club competing for a starting spot:
“I am more than determined to play in this team. I have been knocking on the door for a while now and I had a good pre-season so the Gaffer has to make a decision who plays at the end of the day.
“You look at players like Shaun Whalley and Jason Cummings. They are unbelievable players, but I know I am going to keep pushing them to play as they have that spot at the moment but I believe I can play in this team.
“Whenever I get a chance, I am going to take it. I got on the score sheet and got 90 minutes under my belt so hopefully, the Manager sees that as we go again this weekend.
“I got the new deal which was a great feeling and I want to just kick on from that. Over the lockdown, I was running every day really putting in the work so I've come back fully fit and ready for the season”.