Collins post-Preston: Delighted to get the winner
After scoring his first goal in a Cardiff City shirt, James Collins spoke to the press and media at Deepdale having helped the Bluebirds to a 2-1 win over Preston North End.
“It was one of those games where you’re itching to come on, because you can see there were chances created and a chance of getting a goal.” Collo began. “I was delighted that Morro decided to put me on at half-time, and I always knew I’d get a chance.
“I seem to always score at Preston, so I was really delighted to see the winner go in today. To get three points on the road is always more special.
“I’m so happy for the boys, because we’ve been training so hard and we’ve been through a lot, but to get an away win makes that journey home a lot more special.”
Collins, who was introduced from the substitutes bench at the start of the second half, spoke of the positive impact Steve Morison has had upon the City squad.
“Everyone knows that players want to play – I certainly did – but I spoke to Morro and he explained to me why I wasn’t starting, and I respected his decision. I told him that I’d be ready whenever he needed me. I’m just really glad I can repay him with the winner.”
He continued: “It’s been like a fresh start. He’s given us confidence to go out and play, and has given us a different style of play. The lads have really bought into it. I think we could have scored three or four in the second half.
“Getting four points from the first three games gave the team confidence as well, and I think we’ve carried that on after the international break. We’re going to rest up now and go into the game on Wednesday full of confidence.”
Some much deserved appreciation for JC! 👏#CityAsOne pic.twitter.com/I1MLuoeTAC
— Cardiff City FC (@CardiffCityFC) November 20, 2021
The 30-year-old opened his account for the season with the winning goal against the Lilywhites, and expressed his delight at getting off the mark for the Bluebirds. He added: “On a personal level, my goal ratio has been poor. I expect better from myself first and foremost, and I was brought to the club to score goals. No one will be a bigger critic of me than myself, so I’m delighted to get that weight off my shoulders.
“Any striker that says it doesn’t weigh on their shoulders, I think they’re probably telling little lies. It has been playing on my mind, but I’ve just stuck at it. I’ve kept trying to work hard and work on my finishing in games, so finally when that chance did come, I could put it away.
“I’ve been desperate to score, and I’ve been working so hard on the training pitch and in games. Luckily today my reward came, and hopefully now I can get a good run going. I’ll get over the wrist injury I had, and hopefully I can kick on from now.”
