Source: Futsal-Polska.pl/Jakub Mikulski

Doug Reed was the only Englishman who featured on court during the game between Baku United and Ali Demi. In an interview with us he evaluates the idea of basing the team of the English champions on foreign players, the game between Wis³a and the side from Albania, and the crowd in Bochni .

What you think about your first match? You had to thrash Ali Demi, it was only 4:1.

Ali Demi played a very good match as we expected before the game. They were very strong, very motivated and fought for every ball. Despite this we were able to win, which was our main objective before the game. It would have been a bonus to score more goals but we respect Ali Demi and are happy just to have got a victory.

Do you think that Wis³a has an advantage because draw is enough for them?

Wis³a have a small advantage because we need to win the game but I don’t think this will change how either team approach the game. Both teams will go for the win. We will try to play our best and hope this is enough to beat Wis³a.

Did any English player feature on court in the match?

Yes. I played quite a lot of time and James Dalton and Agon Rexha were on the bench. Both are very important players in our squad but unfortunately both suffered injuries in pre-season and so have not been able to train with team so much. They are both excellent players and will play in a key role in our squad this year. We had another English player that was training with us in pre-season but he decided to accept an offer from a club in Cyprus.

What do you think about an idea that there are only a few English players and a lot of Spaniards in your team?

I think bringing players from other countries is a necessity to be successful and nearly all the teams at this level are using foreign players. It is great for English futsal as in my experience the best way to improve your level is by playing with and against top players. I think these players will help futsal develop in England.

What language do you speak during matches? How does your coach communicate with the players (non-Spanish of course)?

Many of the players are new to the team and country so have not yet had much time to learn English but they know the basics and are improving quickly. During the game we communicate in English and Spanish. Our coach speaks in English and Spanish so he always communicates in both with the players. Fortunately I speak both Spanish and English so I can understand both.

What is the atmosphere in the team before Saturday’s battle with Wis³a?

We have confidence in ourselves but know we must play an excellent match to win this game. We have a lot of respect for them but at the same time we believe in ourselves. I am sure it will be a great match.

Did you see the match Wis³a - Ali Demi, and - if yes - what do you think about polish team?

We saw the Wisla – Ali Demi game and they won that game easily, demonstrating their quality. They have a great squad with players from Ukraine and Brazil mixed with some excellent Polish players. The Polish League is very good and they are the champions for a reason. They play at home in front of their fans which will make it an even bigger challenge. It will be a great achievement for us if we can win this game and qualify.

What do you think about the fans in Bochnia? Have you ever play in a match with such a loud audience? Is it a advantage for Wisla, or not, because - I don't know - it's normal in England?

We saw the Wisla fans in the first game and it was excellent to see such a large crowd enjoying and supporting our sport. I have played in many countries, both at club and international level, with crowds that make a lot of noise so I am accustomed to it. Unfortunately the sport is still not so well known in England so the attendances are quite low at the games but I hope in the future teams will have similar support as here in Bochnia.

I wish you luck, but – as you know - I cannot wish you a win tomorrow!

(Laughs) Of course. Let´s hope it is a good game which I am sure it will be.

We recommend you to follow Doug Reed’s futsal blog: www.dougreedfutsal.com







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