Jon Worthington reviews FC Halifax Town win
- Jon Worthington on FC Halifax Town win
- Academy Coach praised his side’s adaptability
- Worthy delighted with excellent performance
Jon Worthington praised his side’s adaptability, as a switch in formation helped Huddersfield Town’s B Team beat FC Halifax Town 3-1 at Canalside.
Starting the game in a 4-3-3 set-up, the B Team switched to a five-at-the-back formation after half-time, which saw them come from behind to win in the second period.
Worthy explained that these examples of transitioning, and different conditions – with a kick-off time of 4pm – will benefit the young lads should they progress into a First Team environment.
“I thought there was a lot of fluidity in and out of possession,” he explained.
“First half, we were set 4-3-3 and in the second we did tweak it a little bit – mainly due to personnel – and we went five at the back.
“Tactically it helped us, it allowed us to capitalise and get the goals in the second half.
“The First Team sometimes play a three or a four at the back in different formations depending on the opposition. I think it is important that our lads have that understanding of what that looks like so that if and when they’re called upon; they will have that understanding tactically what the manager is wanting.
“That adaptability is important, and I think it is vital for the players because it helps with the fluidity and transition if they do get that opportunity.
“Having a different kick-off time and being under the lights brings a different experience for the players.
“We are trying to recreate different experiences against different oppositions – Halifax had a strong team out, especially first half – and what we are trying to set out are playing against different teams and different styles.
“It is about trying to develop players and help them perform when they get a chance at a high level.”
Town’s B Team played superbly on Friday afternoon against Halifax, particularly in the second period, scoring three excellent goals from Kit Elliott, Sam Peplow and Micah Obiero.
Speaking after the fixture, Worthy stated that he thought his side’s display was impressive.
“I thought that the performance was excellent.
“They put a strong team out, which is what we wanted, and it proved to be a really good test for both teams.
“Throughout the 90 minutes, I thought the performance was consistent.
“I thought we dominated the ball for large periods, but also in the second half we were more clinical in the final third.”
First Team centre back Tommy Elphick returned to action after a lengthy injury lay-off, playing the opening 45 minutes of the game.
Worthy explained how Elphick’s experience helped the young lads.
“For Tommy, it was his first game in a long time, and he will be pleased to get through the minutes.
“It is great for the young lads to have that experienced head in there talking during the game and communicating; that helps the younger players and helps the team.”
