Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Rohl insists he remains optimistic about his team’s progress despite some fans voicing their frustration during Tuesday’s goalless draw with Swansea City.
The Owls, currently 18th in the Championship after 11 games, have experienced offensive struggles recently, failing to score in three of their last four matches. Yet, Rohl is confident his side is making strides that may not yet be fully appreciated.
Rohl acknowledged that some boos were heard at Hillsborough after the match but remains steadfast in his assessment of the team’s overall improvement. He highlighted that Sheffield Wednesday have conceded only eight goals in their last eight games, a sign of their growing defensive resilience.
“Sometimes you don’t feel good after a game,” Rohl explained, “but I think if you look at the performance, the performance is right. For me, the cup is not half-empty; it’s half-full.”
Focus on Performance Over Points
Rohl sees the recent data on sprinting and defensive organization as key indicators of progress, even if results aren’t yet reflecting it fully. By comparing Wednesday’s performances with last season, Rohl believes the team has made a “huge step forward.”
On the issue of fan reaction, Rohl stressed his approach of analyzing the game objectively and tactically. He sees a team creating chances and improving defensively, which he believes will ultimately lead to better results.
“I see a team who create a lot of things. It’s my job to take the emotion out and look from a tactical point (of view), from the decision-making. I always look deep,” said Rohl.
Rohl urged fans to stay supportive, noting that the team’s pressing and defense have been sources of strength, and he is confident further improvement is on the horizon. He encouraged unity, suggesting that everyone benefits when fans back the team, both during and after matches.
Reflecting on Sheffield Wednesday’s performances, Rohl highlighted several competitive games, including matches against Burnley, West Brom, and Swansea, where he believes his squad demonstrated they can go toe-to-toe with tough opposition. Although they dropped points in some of these encounters, Rohl feels these matches indicate a positive direction for the team.
Writer’s View
Danny Rohl’s optimistic outlook sheds light on a team that, despite recent results, is showing signs of progress. His focus on metrics like sprinting and pressing illustrates his data-driven approach to improvement. If Sheffield Wednesday can translate this foundation into goals and wins, Rohl’s belief in a “glass half-full” approach may indeed prove well-founded.
