We don't fear anyone, says Dover Athletic assistant Jake Leberl

Friday 22nd February 2013
DOVER ATHLETIC assistant manager Jake Leberl says he is looking forward to a tough match at Boreham Wood tomorrow.



The Whites sit in third-place in the Blue Square Bet (Conference) South table, with 49 points from 28 games.

Chris Kinnear’s side are 12 points behind new leaders Welling United, who reached the summit by knocking off long-term leaders Salisbury City after beating Farnborough 2-0 at Park View Road in midweek.

Leberl was pleased with Dover Athletic’s 3-0 win at Weston-super-Mare last weekend.

”I admit I was nervous before the game, as we were going into the unknown, but the players kept their shape and stuck to the game plan,” Leberl told www.doverathletic.com.

"Though Weston had a lot of the ball, we exploited their frailties on the counter attack."

Leberl aimed particular praise in the direction of two goal hero Ricky Modeste.

He said: "He is used to sticking to the touchline, so we are trying to get him to roam around the pitch more and switch flanks at various points. He has all the attributes needed and his pace can really hurt teams.

"Ricky had to come off with cramp towards the end, but we don't expect our wingers to last 90 minutes as they have to track back as well as get forward. Plus, we have players on the bench chomping at the bit to get on and make a difference."

Another player that has impressed in recent weeks is midfielder Barry Cogan and following his switch from winger to the front of a central midfield trio, Leberl could not hide his delight at the Irishman being part of the squad.

"I was surprised there was negativity from some Dover fans towards Barry as he is a very good player. He won't offer a massive amount in terms of tackling and heading, but makes up for it with his energy and what he can do with the ball.

"Tackling is not as important in football now as you will probably give away a foul, so as long as he stands in front of the player and blocks him, that is enough. Myself and Chris are particularly pleased with him."

Left footer Lloyd Harrington kept his place at right back despite Chris Sessegnon being fit again for selection.

Leberl said:  "The boss is adamant defenders need to primarily enjoy defending and even though it is not his natural position, Lloyd is playing well and is really enjoying being in the team. Sometimes players need to do a job where needed."

Kinnear opted to keep to the same 4-3-3 formation that served so well against top of the table Welling and even though it has heralded two straight wins, it does not mean it will be a mainstay for the season.

"Though we don't fear anyone, the formation we pick will depend on who we play. All the players have taken to what we have asked for really well and have been very professional in the doing the job required of them."

Looking ahead to Saturday's trip to fellow play off contenders Boreham Wood, Leberl is appreciative of the tough task ahead against a team that has lost just once at home this season, conceding six goals in the process.

He said: "I saw Boreham Wood at Welling and our record at their place is not great, but we will not be playing for a draw - we want to win. Chris watched them against Salisbury.  Scouting is a big part of how we prepare.”
 
Midfielder Daryl McMahon trained this week following a toe injury and is back in contention for tomorrow.

One player that will not be involved however is Steve Watt, who has joined Maidstone United on a month's loan.

Leberl said: "It is not fair for players to have to wait in the stand especially as it's difficult for them to get fit. Playing games in front of 1900 people at Maidstone will help Steve's confidence, so he can come back and challenge for a first team place.

"Sean Raggett is also in the process of tying up a loan deal and Terry Dixon is looking too. We want to work with a smallish squad."

As for title chances, with Salisbury and Welling both dropping points recently, Leberl  has a realistic stance on likeliest final standings.

He added: "Teams that win a league do not lose nine games in a season, but it is not out of reach and the season is far from over. We can only concentrate on ourselves."

Meanwhile, former Dover Athletic striker George Purcell has signed for Margate following his release from Tonbridge Angels this week.

Article courtesy of www.doverathletic.com  

Boreham Wood  v  Dover Athletic
Blue Square Bet South
Saturday 23rd February 2013
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Meadow Park, Broughhinge Road, Boreham Wood, Hertfordshire WD6 5AL