Matt Smith was delighted to have got so much action in Athletic's impressive performance on Saturday when they achieved their first win of the season. When Slew was injured after 15 minutes the 6'-6” striker took his chance and put in a spectacular performance to help the Latics to their 1-0 victory at Fratton Park.Smith said, "It was good to get so many minutes of the pitch, but more important to get the first three points in the bag which has given everyone a lift. We go to Chesterfield with a lot of confidence and the togetherness in the group is brilliant as it has been all season. I want to start every game and prepare the same way because, like Saturday, you could come on after 20 minutes so you have to be ready and prepared. Last year we had Filipe Morais and Chris Taylor supplying the crosses and I can see it being the same this season."
“When I arrived I was thrown in at the deep end and straight into the team and had no bedding in period. When Shefki Kuqi arrived, I then spent the majority of the season on the bench. I have had had to bide my time and there has been that element of patience and my lack of experience probably showed last season. It has been a massive learning curve think I am a year wiser and I am confident when I get my opportunity I will take it. I feel I am a far better player than when I arrived - stronger, fitter and far more clued up - and it has been far different to non-league football. My dad comes to most of our games and he says he has noticed a huge difference. He is my biggest critic but I know from what he has told me that I am heading in the right direction." Smith also admitted that the Latics were up for revenge when they travel to Chesterfield for the JPT trophy tonight. He commented, "It is a good opportunity for us to get to Wembley after we were so close last season. It is still fresh in our memories so for sure we have a point to prove to try and get one over them. There is a determination from a lot of us to make sure we get there this season. It is a big tournament for us."Source: FOOTYMAD
