SCUNTHORPE UNITED: Knill looking for consistency in opening games
WHEN the new Football League fixtures come out on Friday, boss Alan Knill is not fazed where Scunthorpe United will be on the opening day.
He does not mind whether they start life back in League One at home or on their travels.
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NO PREFERENCE: Scunthorpe United manager Alan Knill (standing, left) does not mind if he begins next season’s League One campaign in a home or away dugout.
Neither will he be too concerned if his new-look Iron squad don't make a flying start to the new campaign.
His only concern is that Scunthorpe get themselves into a position by January to be able to challenge for promotion in the second half of the season.
Knill knows that when United were promoted straight back to the Championship in season 2008-09 under manager Nigel Adkins, they lost both their opening two games.
And in their League One title-winning season of 2006-07, they failed to claim victory in any of their opening seven games.
"I am not really bothered whether we are at home or away on the opening day," said Knill.
"What I really want is a steady start.
"Don't get me wrong, if we win the first six then that is great.
"But just to get away steady is the aim.
"All you are doing in that first half of the season is putting yourself into a position where in January you might have a chance to push for promotion.
"That is what you are after, being steady and consistent."
Last season at Bury, Knill saw his side win only twice in the opening seven league games – but the Shakers went on to win automatic promotion.
And the previous season they won only twice in their opening nine games, yet still made the play-offs.
"I remember talking then to Keith Alexander (Macclesfield Town boss at the time)," said Knill. "He told me not to worry and to trust in my team.
"He was right, by January we were fifth in the table and up there challenging in the second half of the season.
"It's all about not panicking if you do not get off to the start you want.
"Everyone wants you to win every game – and you yourself want to win every game too.
"But it's best not to get too carried away.
"The only thing that matters is where you are at the end of the season.
"It really is about being in the right position in January where you can make a challenge."
Comments
by bartonscorp
Tuesday, June 14 2011, 10:38PM
“Is this a statement of things to come ????, the club have once again lost seven players at the seasons end, most of the clubs better players and brought in one untried player. Now the Manager is telling the supporters that he just wants a steady season start, and is not worried if we lose a few early matches. Given the retained squad he has left, he like ourselves can see what is in store.
With the clubs lack of ambition, and Whartons tight grip on finances, we are heading on a downhill spiral into League Two, there is nothing more certain than that.
Fond memories of the past five years, but pity any remaining supporters for the next five years, sad thing, but Grimsby / Lincoln here we come.”