'He’s always had that bit about him' - Crawley Town boss John Yems praises the impact of match-winner James Tilley

John Yems was happy as Crawley battled to victory over Mansfield Town. It wasn’t a match for the ages, but a fourth consecutive home win is pushing Crawley in the right direction.
John Yems and Lee Bradbury on the sidelines against Mansfield Town. Picture by UK Sports Images Ltd/Jamie EvansJohn Yems and Lee Bradbury on the sidelines against Mansfield Town. Picture by UK Sports Images Ltd/Jamie Evans
John Yems and Lee Bradbury on the sidelines against Mansfield Town. Picture by UK Sports Images Ltd/Jamie Evans

The match looked to be heading for a goalless draw, before Jane’s Tilley broke free in the box and fired past the Mansfield keeper to snatch all three points in the added-time.

“That’s the sort of player he is,” said Yems. “You know he’s got that. He’s always had that bit about him.”

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It was another resolute defensive display against a Mansfield side, who put three past Cheltenham last time out.

“You start with a point,” explained Yems. “You keep in the game, then in the last minute you’ve got a chance.

“The subs now...people are making the difference when they come on rather than making up the numbers.

“When you’ve got players coming on...that want to prove a point and have a bit of quality you can rely on that quality winning you the game.

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“That’s what we’ve done. I’m really pleased for James [Tilley].”

James Tilley celebrates his winnerJames Tilley celebrates his winner
James Tilley celebrates his winner

The win moves Crawley into tenth place just six points off the play-off places - with two games in hand.

However, the game was mostly flat from two sides who looked tired from the demands of an intense fixture list that continues to the end of the season.

“It weren’t the prettiest of games, but they’re a good side,” stated Yems. “They don’t make it easy for you.

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“You hope the players you bring on are fresh, but you’re in the lap of the Gods. There’s not much you can do. I hope the games don’t turn a bit farcical.

“Let’s just hope we can keep on going. We’ve got a few players coming back from injury now,“ added Yems.

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