Harvey Rodgers was delighted to see the Mariners begin their Sky Bet League Two campaign with three points, as his first-half header secured a 1-0 victory over Exeter City at Blundell Park.
The right-back was named Player of the Match by match sponsors Technical Absorbents Ltd and match ball sponsors Technica Ltd after another impressive all-round display, which saw him contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Rodgers admitted Town could have made life easier for themselves by being more clinical, but was pleased to see the side secure a clean sheet and the perfect start to the new campaign.
On starting the season with a win
“It’s the best way to start the season,” Rodgers said.
“I don’t think we made it easy for ourselves. I think with a little bit more sharpness and a bit more quality in the final third, we could have got the second and made it a little bit easier.
“But it’s the first game of the season. It’s always chaotic, red-hot and knackering, so I’m happy with three points. That’s the best way to start the season.
“We’ve had a clean sheet as well, so we’re really happy.”
On scoring the winner
Rodgers’ decisive header continued his impressive goalscoring form, with the defender admitting he has been backing himself to find the net more regularly.
“I’ve been saying to the lads that I’ve fancied myself,” he said.
“I get enough chances and it’s just been about having a bit more composure in front of goal.
“I should score more headers for the size of me, so hopefully there’s more to come.”
Rodgers knew immediately that his effort had crossed the line, despite an attempt from teammate Cian Doyle to ensure it hit the back of the net.
“I knew it. I turned around and knew it was in,” he said.
“Then I saw Cian trying to take it. I told him at half-time, ‘Don’t you dare!’ So, yeah, definitely in.”
On Town’s second-half chances
The Mariners created a number of opportunities after the break but were unable to add to their lead, with Exeter goalkeeper Jack Bycroft producing several impressive saves.
Rodgers believes Town’s final ball will improve as the team continues to build rhythm.
“I just think it was the final passes,” he said.
“I slid Greeny in late on and probably should have just squared it for Chaz.
“But, like you say, it’s still the start of the season, so I think once we fine-tune those things, we’ll score a lot more goals.”
On Town’s goalscoring ambitions
After scoring regularly last season, Rodgers believes the Mariners can improve their attacking numbers further while also strengthening defensively.
“We scored a lot of goals last season,” he said.
“We’re aiming to score more this season and keep a few more clean sheets to hit our target.
“So, yeah, we’re off to a good start.”
You can watch Harvey Rodgers’ full post-match interview here:
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