Yeovil Town manager Mark Cooper expressed satisfaction with his team’s opening day point after a goalless draw against Hartlepool United in the National League this past Saturday. Despite both sides showing glimpses of dominance, neither could find the decisive edge needed for victory.
Cooper reflected on the match by comparing it to last season’s encounter against the same opponents, which Yeovil lost. “I think you can tell we had some new players and the first half was very scrappy. We never really got going, but our back three and two midfielders looked solid, setting a foundation. Once the forwards sparked in the second half, we posed a real threat and created good chances where we could have won the game,” he said.
He added, “If you can’t win the first game, at least don’t lose it. We take a point and more with us because Hartlepool have some real experience and quality players.” Cooper highlighted the defensive resilience and impact of substitutes Junior Morias, Tav Campbell, and Ben Wodskou who injected energy late in the match. “One hundred per cent last year we would have conceded, but this time we stayed solid behind the ball,” he noted.
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Looking ahead, Yeovil face Cooper’s former side, Forest Green Rovers, who also earned a draw in their opening match. Cooper conveyed optimism about his squad’s progression: “Our new players will integrate and get fitter. It’s a really good game to look forward to. They have strong players, but so do we.”
The match also marked the first home game for Yeovil under new owner Prabhu Srinivasan, who was in attendance. Srinivasan took the opportunity to thank the fans for their support, acknowledging the vibrant atmosphere created by a crowd that was the third largest in the National League this weekend.
In an open letter, Srinivasan shared, “It was fantastic to see you back at Huish Park after a long summer without football. The atmosphere was wonderful, and I enjoyed connecting with the fans. We are grateful for your energy and look forward to building on this start as we move into the season.”
The Glovers will next host Brackley Town on August 20th, hoping to build on the promising start and continue their development in the league.