Murrayfield Racers to adopt 'defence first' approach in tricky SNL double-header

Murrayfield Racers recovered from a shock start against Paisley Pirates last time out

Free-scoring Murrayfield Racers winger Garry Simpson said his team will need a “defence first” mentality for their away double-header, facing-off against North Ayrshire Wild on Saturday night before Sunday's trip to Kirkcaldy Kestrels in two potentially tricky Scottish National League fixtures.

Short-benched Racers had to come from behind to see off Paisley Pirates 5-3 at Murrayfield last time out, trailing 2-0 after the first period, and Simpson said: “Everyone was shocked at the way we started, it was poor and we got our notice that we were in for a tough game.

“We came out second period with a positive mindset that we could pull the goals back, we managed that and even pulled a few goals ahead.

“We really focused on our defensive game, because if you’re good defensively you can create chances for yourself at the other end.

“Against North Ayr and Kirkcaldy, we will need to play hard but make sure we play well defensively, especially early on. If you play defence first all the time, your goals will come. If you’re always covering your guys, you’re putting them under pressure and tiring them out.”

Nineteen-year-old Simpson, a product of the Fife Flyers junior programme, had a brief spell with Dundee Comets, before joining Racers mid-season where he has been something of revelation scoring 21 goals in just 12 games.

Simpson said: “I’m loving it here. Playing with talented players, you need to really push for your spot in the team, so you always give everything your full effort and see what it gets you. I can definitely see the difference, it’s improved me as a player and it’s been a great team effort so it’s going well.”

Modest Simpson, who described his current hot-streak in front of goal as lucky, said: “I’ve been told that I’ve got speed and I can turn the defence which makes it harder for them and gives me more time to look for a pass but I really need to work on my shooting, and improve my power and accuracy. I want to see more of my shots hit the net rather than the goalie’s chest.”