After a disappointing 5-0 defeat to Leyton Orient, Bromley manager Andy Woodman has voiced his concerns regarding the team's current form and mentality. The loss marked the end of the Ravens' impressive 27-game unbeaten streak at home in league play, a record that had stood as a testament to their resilience.
This recent setback comes on the heels of another heavy defeat, a 7-2 loss to Sheffield Wednesday just days prior, bringing the total number of goals conceded to 13 in their last four matches since their promotion to League One. Following a promising start to the season, where Bromley earned four points from their opening two games, including a notable victory against Barnsley, the team's recent performances have been a stark contrast.
In his post-match comments, Woodman emphasized the need for his squad to adapt quickly to what he refers to as the "Bromley way." He expressed frustration with the team's apparent "soft underbelly," a term he used to describe their vulnerability in defense. "It’s all very well taking the plaudits when it goes well - you can’t hide away when it doesn’t go well," Woodman stated during an interview with BBC Radio London.
Woodman further elaborated on the need for his players to mature and become more aggressive in their play. He noted, "We’ve got to grow up a little bit quicker than we are at the moment and make sure we become a little bit tougher and a little bit more aggressive in everything we do." This call for improvement reflects the manager's desire to instill a stronger defensive mentality within the squad.
Historically, Bromley has built its reputation on a foundation of solid defensive performances, characterized by clean sheets and a commitment to hard work. However, Woodman is concerned that the current squad is straying from these principles. "This football club’s been built on clean sheets, desire, and commitment. It certainly hasn’t been built on a soft underbelly, and at the moment we’re just seeing a little bit of a soft underbelly, which I don’t like," he said.
With several new players integrated into the team, Woodman highlighted the importance of these individuals quickly embracing the club's ethos. The manager's comments underscore the urgency for Bromley to address their defensive frailties as they navigate the challenges of League One. The Ravens will need to regroup and refocus if they hope to turn their season around and return to the form that saw them achieve promotion.
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