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Run shows the importance of sticking with our principles: Rowe

17 February 2023

Interviews

Run shows the importance of sticking with our principles: Rowe

17 February 2023

Tommy Rowe believes the importance of Rovers sticking to their principles is reflected in the current winning run.

Rovers have won three consecutive matches as they prepare to visit Sutton United this weekend.

And club captain Rowe says that a determination to stand by the approach laid down by head coach Danny Schofield has borne fruit.

Rowe on what has brought the three consecutive wins:

“There’s been a few things and putting your finger on exactly what is a very tricky thing to do in football because it changes often. The main thing we’ve been focusing on is sticking to the game plan, the routine and the way we attacked games.

“It’s been consistency with that and over time results and performances, they found themselves where they are now which is three games unbeaten. It’s fantastic.

“But nothing has changed in the approach to the game - whether it’s been win or loss, it’s been down to the performance. I think that’s the pleasing thing as players because we’re now seeing the fruits of that. Hopefully that can continue.

“In football, time is key. It’s what you make of that time. We’ve been busy in all areas and every component has been focused on in training. We’ve been diligent in our work, leaving no stone unturned. If we’re going to lose a game, it’s down to an error that we can watch back and take accountability for.

“Football is a strange game. You can play well and lose, and vice versa. It’s about being level headed and understanding there’s a long way to go. We’re nowhere near towards the final burst of games. We’re in a good place and we’re just really enjoying it.”

On the impact of the new additions last month:

“There’s been a renewed energy. Just having someone else to talk to at times is nice and you can relate to other people. The lads who came in have been fantastic. When you’re coming in to a system that’s driven hard - we are process-driven and the workload is very high - it can be tough straight away but everyone has done really well.

“They’ve lifted us, whether that be by coming straight into the starting XI or adding competition to the squad. It’s key for us and we’ve shown whoever comes into the side can do a job.”

On aspirations for a top seven finish:

“We’ve always had that goal. It’s a mindset you must have as a professional footballer. At this club there is a high standard for achievement. Since I’ve been at the club it’s never been anything other than that. Whether it’s been League One or League Two, we’ve tried to win every single game and it’s the hardest task in football.

“We take great pride in our effort, our focus and attention to detail. We need to find the balance. When you’re in a good group you need to protect it.”

On his fitness levels:

“My mindset is very steadfast in my approach to fitness. I really take time away from the club to take care of my body. There are some things in football that you are not in control of. You can control certain parts of it but you’ve just got to do your best in the finer moments. If you get injured, you’ve still got to be a voice from the sides and be supportive, which I’ve tried my best to do during my time out.”

On working under Danny Schofield:

“It’s been very well so far. It’s something I’ve really enjoyed. I’m constantly asking questions and I’m always keen to find out how and why to everything we do. I just enjoy being around the club. I can be a pest but football means a lot.

“I just try to pick up as much as I can from the head coach, the assistant, Greeny and everyone else. Football is about utilising what’s in front of us and growing together.”

On facing Sutton United:

"Every single team in this league is physical and tough and they all have their own way of wanting to play. We'll keep focusing on the main thing which is what we can do. And also understanding that every game is not fixed and we have to problem-solve.

"It's another game that has come and I'm looking forward to it. We're in a good place right now."

*****

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