Bishops Cleeve development manager Alex Sheaf was disappointed but still proud after his side fell to an unconvincing 4-1 defeat against Sharness at Kayte lane on Saturday , with the belief that his side deserved more.
Never mind the score line Sheaf felt his -layers took control of possession and were mature on the ball and, believes it was his teams’ own errors and a major decision that went against them.
‘We were the better side’’ he stated.’’Three of their four goals came from our own doing. I’ve never left a game that wave lost feeling 0leased with the performance but today I thought we were brilliant ‘’.
One key moment came at 3-1 when Toby Moss’s effort looked to off crossed the line but the goal was not given .The players paused with the belief that it had been a goal .The Bishops Cleeve development manager believes the decision played a huge factor .’’At 3-2 I would of backed us to to get at least a draw , if not go on and win .Decisions change games and that one hurt us.’’
The manager was just as annoyed with the errors at the back to continue to cause issues. Goalkeeper Noah Sunita who came in preseason had a difficult day. However, Sheaf still has believed in the young shot stopper.
‘’Mistakes happen. He was fantastic last week. It doesn’t make him a poor goalkeeper. We get around him and help him ‘’.
Despite the result, there is barely any time for reflection. The side now has a short break in terms of league action but will keep fit with a friendly against Littleton and usual training ahead of their next fixture.
Bishops Cleeve Development take on Stoke Gifford next in an encounter that is full of pressure. Both sides are level on points. But Alex believes the standards are second in terms of belief.
‘’Were a development side. Last year we won the development league, but now were in a fully grown men’s league. The technical side we can handle -it’s the physical side were learning quickly.’’
The managers aim for the season point to the long-term aim. At first, he hoped for a title challenge but now just wants to finish as high as possible and avoid relegation. He also wants to ensure players are moving towards the first team.’’My Marker is how many players can step into this first team. That’s how im measured ‘’.
There are key names in the squad such as Danta Welsh and Josh Long who are pivotal in guiding the youngsters. Their experience is crucial to the team’s journey from youth level opponents to seasoned men’s teams.
Going into Christmas Sheaf’s focus is to tighten up defensively, be competitive and continue to grow .
@BASportsJourno had a fantastic opportunity to talk to Alex sheaf after Bishops Cleeve Developments defeat to Sharpness here is what he had to say .⚽⚽https://t.co/CbbhaFZjvv pic.twitter.com/geOHY2nCa3
— Sufiyan (@Sufiyan98718162) December 1, 2025
