Tawanda Chirewa has explained how he thrives off the pressure and big moments following his goal at Molineux on Friday evening.
The attacker opened the scoring for Wolves under-21s, as he dispatched a 21st minute penalty against Sparta Prague B. The youngsters managed to see the game out with a 2-1 victory and recorded back-to-back wins in the International Cup, and Chirewa says it was a good feeling to get the job done.
On winning at Molineux
“It feels good. Another win here (Molineux) which is a good thing to keep the run of winning games here.
“It got a bit tough at the end but we got it done again, so I’m pleased.”
On differences to the PSV game
“There were quite a few differences in this game. It was a bit more physical and more scrappy than PSV.
“PSV was more about moving the ball and tactical. This one was more showing you have heart, grit and being together as a team which is what James was trying to drill into us before the game. I think we went out there and showed it.”
On picking moments to press
“We saw early on that once we did a couple of presses and went after the ball, they weren’t as good at keeping the ball at the back.
“When we sat off and allowed them to have time, every good team can break through so the penalty came and we went ahead.
“We knew we had to stay on the front foot and not let them have the ball in our half for too long.”
On scoring his penalty
“I love it, I enjoy the pressure in the big moments – that’s what I thrive on. Playing here and showing people how good I am and how I can thrive in those moments. It was enjoyable.
“It felt good and it’s pleasing to do it here. I didn’t score last time against PSV but we won so it was good.
“This time to score and win is the perfect result.”
On training with the first-team
“It’s been good. It’s obviously a higher level of training to where I was before and here. Under-21s is a high level and I’m trying to adapt to it, stamp my mark on it and not just be another trainer.
“I’m trying to impress him (Gary O’Neil) and get into that squad, not just enjoying training. I’m trying to progress so I’ve got to keep going and stay on the training pitch – hopefully it all works out.
“There’s a pathway here so as long as you perform and show what you can do, you’ll always get a chance.”
