Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley has voiced his excitement as the Glovers prepare to return to Huish Park for their first home match of the National League season, facing Carlisle United on Saturday.
After commencing their campaign with a draw at Scunthorpe United, Yeovil are eager to secure a victory on home soil. Carlisle, meanwhile, suffered a defeat to newly promoted Worthing on the opening day. Yeovil will be aiming to claim their first victory over Carlisle since 2018 and their first at Huish Park since 2011.
Reflecting on previous encounters, Rowley noted that the two teams faced each other twice last season: a 1-1 draw in Somerset and a 3-0 loss for Yeovil at Carlisle’s ground. He anticipates a challenging match ahead.
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“I’m expecting a very good team,” said Rowley. “Rob Elliot, Carlisle’s manager, is top class. Their players are technically gifted; it only takes a moment’s lapse in concentration or a misplaced press for them to take advantage.”
Rowley reviewed Carlisle’s opening game against Worthing and believes their performance was stronger than the result suggested. He predicts Carlisle will be among the top teams this season.
“I rewatched their game and on another day, they could have been two or three goals ahead,” said Rowley. “I’d place them in the top five, possibly top three this season.”
Despite the formidable opposition, Rowley is looking forward to showcasing his evolving squad in front of the home crowd.
“The pitch at Huish Park is fantastic, and the fans seem genuinely excited to be back watching the team play,” he remarked. “Our responsibility is to deliver a solid performance.”
Rowley also stressed the importance of patience as his players continue to gel and settle into the team.
“Thinking back to my previous club, we hovered around sixth or seventh place by Christmas, then went on an impressive winning run for four months,” he reflected. “So, October and November are when you’ll see the best version of us.”
The Glovers remain without some key players. Loick Ayina is sidelined with a knee injury sustained at the weekend, and Joe Haigh, who missed the pre-season, is expected to be out for another four weeks.
“Joe is going to be a vital part of our style of play this year, so we’re not yet at full strength,” Rowley acknowledged.
As Yeovil aim to build on their opening day draw, the team and fans alike will be hopeful for a positive outcome in front of their home supporters.