First League Two away trip of the season for Michael Flynn’s Cheltenham Town side
Michael Flynn sees early signs of promise as he prepares to take his Cheltenham Town side to Grimsby Town this weekend.
Flynn’s tenure began with a dramatic 3-2 home victory over Newport County AFC, secured by Joel Colwill’s 96th-minute winner last Saturday. However, the Robins faced a setback in the Carabao Cup first round, falling 3-0 to Championship side Plymouth Argyle on Wednesday evening, though they were competitive for the first hour.
“There are things to work on, obviously, but I am pleased with the early signs,” Flynn said.
“We played a very good team in Plymouth, who were keen to bounce back from Sunday’s 4-0 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday. For the first 60 minutes, we competed really well and had chances to score, so that was pleasing.
“In terms of some of the goals we’ve conceded, it’s a bit frustrating, but we are a new team with five players making their EFL debuts last Saturday. It’s a team in its infancy, and it will take time.”
Flynn also expects to have center forward Ryan Bowman back in the squad after he missed the trip to Home Park due to an Achilles issue.
A few players are nursing some soreness, but only former Mariners midfielder Harry Pell (ACL) is definitely ruled out of the trip to Blundell Park.
“I haven’t decided on the team yet, but a couple of players gave me food for thought on Wednesday, and some might still be a bit sore,” Flynn said.
“A lot of these lads aren’t used to this tempo week in, week out, so we might have to make some changes.
“I do want a settled team, but hopefully, it gives others confidence and more experience as we progress together. I’ll assess them and pick the team on Saturday.”
Flynn also praised the work done at Grimsby by former Crewe Alexandra boss David Artell, who was reportedly interested in the Cheltenham job before Darrell Clarke’s appointment last September.
“I know David well, and he’s a really good man,” Flynn said. “He’s had time to implement his playing philosophy at Grimsby, and they have some useful players.”
“I watched them against Bradford on Tuesday night (9-8 win on penalties after a 1-1 draw) and if you give them time and space, they can hurt you.”
Grimsby, who finished 21st last season, were beaten 1-0 at Fleetwood Town in their League Two opener.