Smith “buzzing” to break Ashton Gate duck

Thursday, August 10th 2017

Korey Smith was delighted to end his three-year wait for a goal at Ashton Gate during City’s emphatic Carabao Cup victory over Plymouth Argyle.

Lee Johnson’s side flew out of the traps and early goals from Jens Hegeler and Nathan Baker paved the way for Smith to make it 3-0 to the Sky Bet Championship outfit inside 19 minutes, before Freddie Hinds and Jamie Paterson added to the Pilgrims’ misery.

From 25 yards, the captain bent an effort into the far corner with the help of the inside of the post, admitting it was a relief to see the ball eventually cross the line on his 62nd home appearance.

“I was very happy to score,” Smith told BCTV. “Me and the boys always have a bit of banter because I don’t seem to get the luck with the goals.

“Even that one I thought was going to hit the post, hit the other post and come back out. I was buzzing to score and all the lads were buzzing for me – I enjoyed it.

“I have been told this season to have a few more shots because I seem to try and pick out a pass and let others score. I don’t normally look to try and get the credit.

“I’m being instructed to be a bit more selfish this campaign when around the box, so hopefully I can get a few more goals.

“In our current 4-4-2 formation there is more of an opportunity than there has been in previous years for me to get forward. It would be nice to score a couple more.”

WHAT HE SAID

“I’m being instructed to be a bit more selfish this campaign when around the box, so hopefully I can get a few more goals."

Korey Smith

SMITH IMPRESSED WITH CITY YOUNG GUNS

Despite making six changes from the side that overcame Barnsley on the opening day, City’s momentum continued into the cup tie and Smith was forthcoming in crediting the players’ attitude and the squad’s strength in depth.

“All pre-season the lads have been brilliant and everyone is working hard for each other,” he added.

“There will be times when we lose this season but if the staff, players and fans stick together, we will get more wins than losses. We just have to stick together and remain positive.

“I am buzzing for Freddie, who made his debut and scored a brilliant goal, along with Lloyd Kelly, Joe Morrell and Zak Vyner. It was lovely to see them come on and do well. Shawn McCoulsky scored another two for Newport County tonight and one at the weekend, so he is also on fire.

“We have got some really good young players coming through as you have seen in our opening two games.”