Crawley Town boss on competition for places, Crystal Palace win and #LetFansIn

John Yems is still looking to strengthen his Crawley Town squad - but is happy with the current competition for places.
Crawley Town boss John YemsCrawley Town boss John Yems
Crawley Town boss John Yems

Reds impressed by beating Crystal Palace u23s 2-1 on Saturday in their first friendly - even though the team only got together for the first time last Thursday.

And it was goals from new signing Sam Ashfiord and Brian Galach that gave Reds the win. Yems said: “It was nice to be out, it gives you a bit of purpose. We got what we wanted out of the game. It’s all about fitness this time of year and getting confidence in people. It’s good all round.

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“We have a got a lot of competition for places now which is good. We are still looking to strengthen.”

Yems is also looking forward to the fixtures coming out. The Reds were drawn at home to Millwall in the first round of the Carabao Cup (game to take place on Saturday, September 5) while League Two fixtures will be out on Friday.

Reds have drawn Gillingham, Ipswich Town and Arsenal u21s in the group stage of the EFL Trophy.

Yems said: “It’s nice to finally get that bit of clarity.

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“Before you blink it will be on top of us. We just have to get the boys as fit as we can and ready to go at the start of the season.”

Yems added that his side would be taking all competitions seriously this season. He said: “Every time there is a team we are associated with and every time the boys put on a Crawley shirt, we will take the game seriously.”

And Yems is backing a a nationwide campaign that’s gathering pace. Football clubs and fans across England are increasingly frustrated that, as many aspects of life have lockdown restrictions eased or lifted, even a small number of fans are still not allowed into football grounds - and the campaign #LetFansIn is hoping to change this.

Crowds are being seen in many public places, while football matches – even ones that would perhaps attract only 50 or 100 people – are having to take place behind closed doors.

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Yems said: “Having the fans at the games are massive for every club. The Crawley fans have been great during this period and they are looking forward to getting back, the same as the players are. In the current climate, you can’t wait to see the fans at the ground.

"Once we are all back together let’s hope no-one takes it for granted and we all appreciate it.”