Post-match quotes piece: Dagenham & Redbridge – Chesterfield 2-2
By Gergo Varga
Dagenham & Redbridge have struggled with injuries for most of the season so far. Daryl McMahon had to make late changes to the starting eleven and was full of praise for the players who stepped in. “We had two late pull-outs last night and the players who came in did excellent. Shows the strength and depth of the squad.”
Although the East London side would’ve been happy with a point against Chesterfield initially, McMahon was disappointed they threw away a two-goal lead. “It looked like we were too passive in picking up the best marksman in the division. We spoke about it all week how good he is. I’m disappointed because in the first half I thought we were outstanding.”
To add to their injury vows, Elliott Johnson was subbed off at half time due to a kick in the face from an opponent. “It’s a nasty one. he’s got to see a plastic surgeon to get it stitched back up, so he’ll be out for a little while.”
Dagenham’s George Saunders struggled with a chest infection recently but managed to score in his first game back. “It’s hard to get back when you feel like you’re training a lot and you’re getting your fitness back then get hit with an illness. It sets you back a little bit. Now I’ve just got to take my chances, be patient and hopefully contribute to a few more goals.”
Saunders’ inclusion in the starting eleven came late due to the unexpected pull-outs mentioned earlier. When asked about whether this impacted his performance he simply replied, “you’ve got to be ready for these situations.”
The Spireites season has also been taunted by injures. To add to their misery, skipper Maguire was stretchered off in the sixth minute. Manager James Rowe gave an update on the situation; “when I first got the report over it was his Achilles, but I think we’ve got away with it. He’s badly pulled his calf. We’re looking at 5- or 6-weeks best case scenario.”
Rowe’s side had nine players missing before the game and he couldn’t be prouder of his players’ performance at Victoria Road. “What team in the world would survive that and get seven points from three games in the last seven days? I’m just full of pride today and I want to really enjoy this moment.”
Grimes saw a controversial red card in the 84th minute of the game. “He didn’t realise (the referee) Jamie was already on a yellow. Farcical, isn’t it?” Rowe believed it was an inconsistent decision by the referee because the ball was kicked away by both sides throughout the game, and no one was booked. He thought his team showed “unbelievable spirit and togetherness” after going down to ten man to keep the draw.
Up next for the Daggers is an FA Cup tie against League 2 side Salford City which will be televised live on ITV4. “When you’re on TV and friends and family can watch it, it’s always a day to look forward to”- Saunders added. The Spireites will host National League outfit Southend United in the same competition two days earlier on the 6th of November.
