Yeovil Town midfielder Brett McGavin says the atmosphere at the club is “night and day” compared with last season as the Glovers prepare to travel to Wealdstone on Saturday.
The midfielder was speaking to BBC Somerset’s Jack Killah after Yeovil’s emphatic 6-0 victory over Boston United. The result lifted the club into the National League top four and helped create a buoyant mood around Huish Park.
Yeovil’s players were also given extra time off after reaching a points target agreed with the manager. McGavin said the squad had welcomed the break following a demanding run of fixtures, but had returned to training ready for the next challenge.
“The gaffer proposed it to us pretty early, and I think you could tell by the way we played Saturday that we were all keen on it. It’s been a busy schedule, so the lads enjoyed a nice little break, but we’re back on the horse today.”
McGavin praises Yeovil’s new direction
McGavin is one of the few players remaining from last season. He credited Billy Rowley and Darren Simpson with changing the club’s direction through their recruitment and the environment they have established.
“It’s massive. All credit goes to [Billy Rowley and Darren Simpson] because the players they’ve brought in and the environment they’ve created has been brilliant.”
The midfielder was out of contract at the end of last season but chose to sign a new deal after discussions with the manager. He said the team’s style suits his strengths, particularly his passing, ability to dictate play from deep and attempts to score or arrive in attacking positions.
McGavin also said the management team had been effective at identifying what individual players do well and allowing them to express those qualities in matches.
“I was out of contract at the end of last season, so when the gaffer came to me and we spoke about a new deal, I was keen on signing because I knew the style of play suited me.”
He added that Yeovil’s position near the top of the table represented a welcome change after spending much of his time at the club towards the bottom of the league.
“Since I’ve been at Yeovil, we’ve kind of been down there [towards the bottom of the league], so it’s just so nice to be part of a team that’s up in the top end of the table for once.”
Wealdstone challenge awaits
Despite the strong home win and improved league position, McGavin said Yeovil would not underestimate Wealdstone, particularly with the match being played away from Huish Park.
“Wealdstone are definitely a tough team to play against, particularly at their place. We won’t be taking our foot off the gas; we’ll be full pelt and ready to get three points.”
He said Yeovil needed to maintain its standards on the road and represent the club positively. McGavin believes the squad can stay on track, while also noting that supporters have recognised how much the players are enjoying the current atmosphere.
For Yeovil, Saturday’s match provides an opportunity to build on the Boston United result and show whether the club’s improved form can continue away from home.