Red Wolves Coach Scott Mackenzie Previews the Open Cup Match vs. Chattanooga FC
As we’ve posted coverage building up to the most anticipated game in Chattanooga and Division III pro soccer history, all of the perspectives have been from the side of Chattanooga FC. So, it’s only fair that we should see another viewpoint.
Chattanooga Red Wolves Head Coach Scott Mackenzie answered questions from the Southeast Soccer Report and discussed his preparations for the game, the player’s anticipation of the match, the club’s focus level on the Open Cup, and more. We’d like to thank Coach Mackenzie for his time.
How are you preparing the team for the Chattanooga game?
Mackenzie: We haven't made any changes to our preparation vs any of our USL games, we have scouted the opponent but kept the focus on us and our identity. We know it's a big game and there will be an emotional component to control, but from a processes stand point it's more of the same.
Is your approach to this game different, given the local intrigue, or do you approach this the same as any game?
We have clear processes in place that to be successful we must follow. Changing that for a specific game is a recipe for failure, not success.
Same question regarding the players; do you think they assign extra value or importance to this game, or do they see it like any other?
I think the players are excited to be involved in the game, and on Wednesday night our focus will be on the game, but as soon as the final whistle goes we will turn our attention to the USL and to Tormenta at home Saturday.
How important is Open Cup for the team and the club's overall goals this season? How do you balance it against the league campaign?
The league and the league cup are the priority competitions for our club. The Open Cup provides opportunities for fun match ups like this one, but our priority lies in league play.
What message do you have for the fans ahead of the game?
We hear you, we see you and we appreciate you. We know what this game means for you and we will make sure we are coming in ready.
How important will a strong away showing be for the Red Wolves players?
Editor’s Note: No response was given.
What are you expecting from Chattanooga FC in terms of how they’ll approach the game?
A strong competitive group, who are well coached and will up for it on the evening. I expect a very competitive game.
Are there any Chattanooga players you’re impressed by or would highlight in your preparations?
They have some quality players, but none that I would highlight individually. They are a good team.
Do you see yourselves as underdogs or the favorites?
We don't see ourselves as either. We know our identity as a team and our potential as a group. If we do what we need to do, we can be very good.