Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley has challenged his players to stay grounded as they prepare for an FA Cup fourth qualifying round trip to Leatherhead.
The Glovers go into the weekend fixture with confidence high after an impressive run of results, including consecutive 6-0 victories. Rowley told BBC Somerset’s Jack Killah that the scorelines may have flattered Yeovil slightly, but he was quick to praise the daily work being put in by his squad.
He said the group had shown a professional approach and that he had not detected overconfidence inside the changing room. For Rowley, the challenge is to combine belief with humility while maintaining the intensity that has driven the team’s recent form.
“I think we’ve got a really level-headed group, really professional group of lads, so I haven’t really sensed any like overconfidence or cockiness.”
Rowley said Yeovil’s approach should remain consistent regardless of the opposition. He wants the players to compete for every ball and goal while also showing confidence in possession and demonstrating the qualities that have taken them through their recent winning run.
Recruitment built around football and character
The manager also credited the club’s recruitment work, saying new players had been assessed not only for how they fitted Yeovil’s system but also for their personalities, backgrounds and training habits.
Rowley said the process had largely produced the right type of player for the squad. He praised the group’s recent efforts and stressed that hard work must continue if Yeovil are to extend their progress in the competition.
“I think we we worked really hard to to profile players that would fit into our system, on top of that, fit in from a personality perspective, are they good humans?”
That emphasis on preparation will be important against Leatherhead, with Rowley warning that the FA Cup demands the right mindset. He said the club, its ownership and supporters all want Yeovil to go deep into the competition, while also acknowledging the longer-term ambition of earning a future tie against one of the country’s biggest clubs.
Westbrooke out and Jones a late decision
Yeovil’s preparations have been affected by two fitness issues. Zane Westbrooke has been ruled out with a calf problem, while forward Ryan Jones is due to face a late fitness test after suffering a head knock in the match against Wealdstone.
Rowley used the situation to remind players outside the starting team that opportunities can arrive quickly. He pointed to Joel Powell and Jack Kingdon as examples of players who had taken their chances after being called upon in recent weeks.
“You’ve got to be ready for your opportunity and as soon as it’s given to you, grab it with both hands.”
The manager said one injury, moment or week can change a player’s position within a squad. His message comes as Yeovil finalise their preparations for the away tie and seek the positive result that would keep their FA Cup campaign moving forward.
Alongside the sporting opportunity, reaching the first round proper would bring financial incentives and a psychological lift. Yeovil therefore travel to Leatherhead knowing that the match could add another significant chapter to the club’s FA Cup history.