AFTER playing in the seventh tier of the English game helped him return to the Football League, Oliver Greaves knows more than most about the importance of getting back to basics.
The forward scored the winner in the 1-0 EFL Trophy encounter with West Ham Under-21s on Tuesday to boost morale after a pair of League Two hammerings.
They were beaten 4-1 by Port Vale in Newport and then 4-0 at Swindon, when all four goals came in a humiliating first half.
The soul searching started in the County Ground away changing room at the break and continued on Monday.
“We knew that we weren’t good enough, it was an embarrassing first half and we got away from the basics,” said Greaves.
“We were focusing too much on the ball and forgetting to win our battles. We got back to the brilliant basics on Tuesday and that wins you games of football.
“At any level of football you have to win your battles and run over your man.”
Greaves has showed flashes of his potential at the start of his County career after earning a return to the EFL thanks to a prolific season with Mickleover in the Northern Premier League.
The 24-year-old came through at Sheffield United before knee injuries led to him dropping down the pyramid.
“I owe a lot to that level – it got me back to where I am today,” said the versatile forward, who can play out wide as well as his favoured ‘10’ position.
“I fell down the leagues due to injuries and just felt it was time to get back into it. I am grateful for the chance.
“I had a good season and scored 28 goals so there was quite a bit of interest but this felt like a good fit.
“I had a couple of years out with knee injuries but always believed in myself and backed myself to get back to where I was. I am here now so hopefully I can keep going.”
Greaves scored on his County debut at Cheltenham on opening weekend of League Two but then had a short spell on the sidelines while managing his knee.
“I started off the season with a goal but went from that high to having a couple of injections in my knee,” he said. “I just need minutes. I just want to give it everything that I can.”
County will need that attitude at Holker Street this weekend against hosts who have won four and drawn one of their opening six fixtures.
“Barrow are tough opponents who are well known for their hard work and they have started the season well,” said Greaves. “It will be a tough test but one we are ready for.”
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