Brighton have not made the best of starts to the new season. Saturday’s defeat at Crewe was followed a by a Carling Cup exit at the hands of Cardiff on Tuesday night, so Dean Wilkins’ side will be hoping to put some points on the board when they entertain Northampton this weekend. Regardless of those two results, however, there is a new optimism amongst the Seagulls faithful after the club was finally granted permission for the development of a new ground. Givemefootball’s Mark Shail got the thoughts of long-serving defender Kerry Mayo, who celebrated ten years service with a testimonial game against Reading during pre-season.
Q:CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR TESTIMONIAL MATCH, HOW DID IT GO?
A:It was a great day for everyone, not just for me but also the fans. Before the game against Reading there was a match featuring some of the old Brighton favourites of the past, including Peter Ward, Steve Foster and Gordon Smith. They all really enjoyed it and so did the supporters.
Q:WHAT WAS THE CROWD AT THE GAME?
A:It was around 6,300, which was a wonderful turn out – I think it was bigger than any gate for a league game last season. Reading brought down the majority of their first team and I have to thank Steve Coppell for that.
Q:IT WASN’T THE BEST START TO THE SEASON AT CREWE LAST SATURDAY, WAS IT?
A:No, the result didn’t go our way but we were unfortunate on the day. We had more possession and more shots on goal than Crewe, but they rode their luck and scored the two all-important goals. We weren’t able to capitalise on our chances whereas they did – so you have to give them credit for that. The way we played we deserved a draw at the very least, so to come away with nothing was very disappointing.
Q:DESPITE THAT DEFEAT, AND ALSO THE LOSS AGAINST CARDIFF LAST NIGHT, THERE DOES SEEM TO BE A NEW OPTIMISM AROUND THE CLUB?
A:Yes, there’s much more of a buzz because the green light has finally been given for the new ground. It has been a long saga but finally there is some light at the end of the tunnel. It has taken a big weight off everyone’s shoulders and the players and supporters have got an extra spring in their steps.
Q:HOW ARE YOU ENJOYING WORKING UNDER DEAN WILKINS?
A:He’s got a lot of respect from the players, and his coaching is different class. He’s got us much more organised at the back and we’re creating plenty of chances. I know results haven’t gone our way in the first two games but it’s only a matter of time before things turn around – in fact I’d be disappointed if we weren’t up there challenging this season.
Q:HOPEFULLY THAT FIRST WIN WILL COME AGAINST NORTHAMPTON ON SATURDAY…
A:Yeah, we’ll go into the game looking to take all three points. The lads are looking fit and sharp and it’s important that we take advantage of our home games.
Q:YOU’RE STILL ONLY 29, HOW LONG WOULD YOU LIKE TO CARRY ON PLAYING?
A:I don’t turn 30 until September so hopefully there’s plenty more miles on the clock. I’d like to think I can carry on playing for another three or four years, if not longer. I’m feeling as fit and as sharp as I have done for a number of years and, if I can stay injury free, I believe I’ve still got plenty to offer.
