Voices from Victory: Post-Match Reactions After an 8–0 Statement Win

Following Sláinte Athletic’s dominant 8–0 win over NPC Fútbol on Matchday 2, we caught up with four central figures in the squad: Man of the Match Andres Perez, two-goal winger Isaac Ngobu, defensive leader Drew Meyers, and head coach Aaron Burbridge. With momentum building, the team is beginning to hit its stride—and their words reflect both belief and focus.

Isaac Ngobu (2 goals, 1 assist)

You’ve now scored in back-to-back games. What’s clicking for you right now?

“Right now every game feels like an opportunity. That’s all you can ask for as a player.”

How would you describe the chemistry between you and the players around you, especially out wide?

“The chemistry with the outside backs and outside mids is great. Each game it gets better. Both backs can switch it long or play it fast which makes it really easy to get the ball and go at someone.”

Is there a part of your game you’re working to develop further this season?

“Yes, I would like to capitalize more in the final third. Leaving a bit too much on the table in some of these games.”

What does this group mean to you, and what do you think our ceiling is?

“This group has been really fun to be around. We can go as far as we want—it’s really up to us.”

Andres Perez (Man of the Match – 2 goals)

Two goals today, but also a tone-setting presence early on. What was your mindset coming in?

“My mindset coming in was to bring a lot of energy and try and take control of the game early. We’ve started fast the last two weeks and that’s something I want to continue all season long.”

After missing time last season, how did it feel to come back in with this kind of form?

“It’s been a long recovery. I didn’t play soccer for six months, so honestly I was not expecting to hit the ground running. It’s a great feeling having all my hard rehab work pay off.”

What’s your role in this attack—how do you see yourself fitting in?

“I’ve been really happy with the style of play for the team this season and the pieces around me. I love checking in to help in possession and combining with the other attacking players in wide areas. We have a lot of dynamic players and I’m happy to mesh with them and make life difficult for opposing defenses.”

Drew Meyers (1 assist, solid defensive shift)

That assist from the set piece was textbook—did you see the run before the kick, or was it instinctive?

“Me and Danny were standing over it. We had a plan to lay off to him for a shot but I saw a gap open up. I knew Isaac would make the run.”

From the back line, how do you feel about our team shape and pressing so far?

“I think our shape is good. Considering the different personnel playing at the CB position, we hold a good line and do a good job at communicating to each other on the field.”

What’s been the biggest shift under Coach Burbridge compared to last fall?

“I would say the organization in the back line has shifted in a good way. We play out of the back more comfortably and defend well as a unit. I think Coach Burbs has done a good job with keeping us organized and focused.”

Aaron Burbridge (Head Coach)

4–1 last week. 8–0 today. What’s your biggest takeaway from this performance?

“Focus. Mindset for everyone was different in preparation, before the game, and during the match. I think every moment matters and we can’t let up if we want to build an elite culture.”

You made several changes at halftime—how important is depth to this squad’s identity?

“Lots of games, lots of opportunity to play. People in the squad need to feel like they are contributing even in moments when they aren’t picked.”

What’s something we still need to clean up despite the big scoreline?

“Pacing of games—when to slow down, when to speed up. Matches are looong and pacing of them matters to preserve energy and morale.”

Has anything surprised you about the team through the first two games?

“Nothing really. I know these guys—they are a talented group. Just have to find ways to work together and build identity as an org. We have many challenges ahead.”

How do you keep the group grounded as the momentum builds?

“Sir Alex Ferguson quotes and memes in the chat.”

Stay tuned for more interviews, match analysis, and coverage as the Spring 2025 MSSL campaign continues.