Mongoy issues Bognor promise as Blake's harsh words are heeded

Jordy Mongoy is relishing the chance to lead the Rocks line – despite their erratic start to the campaign.
Jordy Mongoy with Rocks general manager Simon CookJordy Mongoy with Rocks general manager Simon Cook
Jordy Mongoy with Rocks general manager Simon Cook

Mongoy’s goalscoring form has been a silver lining in a somewhat shaky start for the Rocks. Bognor took only a point from their opening two games but flew up the table to tenth spot when Ashton Leigh’s goal earned a 1-0 win at Horsham on Tuesday night.

Head coach Robbie Blake sternly criticised his side after the 2-1 loss to Haringey on Saturday, claiming their error-prone performance gifted the opposition two cheap goals and the three points.

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Blake admitted: “It’s probably one of the worst performances since I’ve been at the club. Our passing and decision-making were non-existent, and our mistakes were catastrophic.”

Mongoy insisted after Saturday’s loss the entire team should be accountable for the defensive errors. He said: “We had a long chat after the game in the changing room and he (Blake) told us the errors alone are costing us points and we need to do something about it. It’s individual mistakes that are hurting us, but as a team we need to stick together and each take responsibility.”

With Blake’s words ringing in their ears, Bognor sharpened up in defence for a first win and clean sheet at Horsham. Mongoy didn’t net but the striker has accrued four goals in his first six games.

Mongoy is eager to match Dan Smith’s impressive Rocks tally of last season and become a reliable source, and is set to lead the line in the FA Cup visit to Hayes and Yeading Utd on Saturday..

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“The way Bognor play football really suits me. I feel I’ve started the season really well. I like to set myself targets before the season starts and hopefully – if I keep performing the way I am – I can achieve those targets. I’ll continue to work hard for the team and with any luck the goals will keep on coming,” he added.

The 21-year-old had spells with Hastings, Lewes, Billericay, Bishop’s Stortford and Dagenham & Redbridge before moving to Sweden at the start of this year. His time at IK Gauthiod was brief, but he observed a clear difference between the English and Swedish game:

“In Sweden, football is more tactical and less technical. I felt like one of the most technical players there in terms of skill and control of the ball but had to learn to adapt to the physicality. It’s far less focused on technique there.”