‘I got my Bromley team back’ – Andy Woodman chuffed with fighting spirit to pick up point in Chesterfield draw
Andy Woodman says he believes his Bromley side rediscovered their identity under him in their 2-2 draw at home to Chesterfield on Tuesday evening.
The Ravens took the lead after 14 minutes when Olufela Olomola scored his first goal of the season after finishing off a cross from Crystal Palace loanee Danny Imray.
A Will Grigg double in the 19th and 37th minute saw Paul Cook’s side race into a 2-1 lead.
But Michael Cheek netted his sixth League Two goal of the season five minutes into the start of the second half to earn Woodman’s side a point.
“I thought we were a little bit more like a Bromley team tonight,” the former Newcastle goalkeeper coach told Bromley’s YouTube channel.
“I’m really chuffed. We had a good start. We had fire in our belly and we were making tackles. We were dogged when we had to be and we faced adversity.
“We stuck together as a group and I’m buzzing. I feel like I got my Bromley team back tonight.
“It could have been three points, but we’re building blocks. It was a good one for us today.
“Grant Smith has been brilliant for us – I haven’t seen him put a foot wrong for us in two years.
“His team-mates tonight dug him out of a little hole. That speaks volumes of the group.
“It could have been a win with a couple of penalty decisions we didn’t get.
“Against a very good Chesterfield team as well. They’re one of the favourites [in League Two] this year. There is a lot to be happy about.
“I never feel as though a draw is a fair result – I always want to win. In the context of where we are, I felt it was a fair result.
“It’s progress.”
Olomola was making his first League Two start of the season under Woodman,
The 27-year-old striker, who had been named as an unused substitute three times previously this season, scored on his first start.
“Fela has been banging on my door and been patient,” said Woodman.
“He’s been coming to see me and said: ‘I’m here for you gaffer – I want to fight for the lads.’
“He’s waited and he’s kept himself right. He’s played in reserve games and put in a shift.
“That’s the importance of people like Fela – they keep themselves right and wait for their moment.
“He’s got his reward.”
PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD