In the wake of Rovers’ 3-1 victory over Coventry City at the Ricoh Arena in the 1st round of the Carabao Cup, the club’s media team interviewed Richie Smallwood, who opened his account for the Blues with a deflected effort which put Rovers 2-1 ahead at the time.
Smallwood, who signed on a free transfer from fellow League One side Rotherham United, talked about how important the victory was in creating momentum, after the shock opening day defeat away at Southend United.
“Today was just about trying to get the win, trying to get on a winning roll and getting into the next round and hopefully keeping it (the winning feeling) going until Saturday.
“The performance was pleasing; we had a lot more of the ball, we were better with the ball, had better decisions and we worked hard as well but the lads also enjoyed it out there.”
Smallwood also discussed some thoughts regarding the opening day defeat, but was quick to praise the fans that had travelled to both of the opening games of the season.
“The defeat was obviously disappointing, we all wanted to get that first win and we still do in the league, but we are all excited to play at home for the first time this season, with the fans in the crowd, we had a good following as well, but it’s behind us and we’ve got a good win tonight and hopefully we can kick on, on Saturday.
“The aim is to take the confidence and the performance into Saturday’s game. It was a much better display tonight in comparison to the one on Saturday, so hopefully we can build on this against Doncaster.”
The goal scorer was also quick to claim his goal, despite it taking a deflection off of a Coventry player. “I hit it well, from what I can remember it was going on target, but obviously it did take a deflection, but I’m sure it was going on target anyways.”
The former Rotherham man praised his colleagues’ work rate and fitness throughout pre-season in the lead up to the first game and believed that there was a lot more to come from the side this season. Furthermore, the midfielder spoke of his potential home debut and how he was looking forward to pulling the blue and white halves on at Ewood Park for the first time.
“I thought the lads looked well in preseason, they came back fit, barring a couple of niggles which you get and we were looking forward to the first game, but it didn’t go to plan, it went to plan tonight with a win, but we just need to build on it, we know we can get better and there’s a lot more to come (from the team).
“Hopefully I’ll be doing that (debuting) as it’s a big game, the fans are optimistic and we want to give them something to cheer about, so we’ll be on the front foot from the first whistle.”
To end the interview, Smallwood was asked how he’d describe his stay at the club so far, with his answer being short but sweet.
“(I’ve) loved it” concluded the midfielder.
