Huddersfield Town interim head coach Jon Worthington has delivered a passionate call for his players to show greater energy and commitment after their 3-0 loss at Burton Albion left their League One play-off hopes hanging by a thread.
With just three games remaining, Town sit ninth in the table, five points outside the play-off places, and now face an uphill battle to make the top six following a dismal afternoon at the Pirelli Stadium.
Burton defeat exposes lack of fight
Speaking post-match to BBC Radio Leeds, Worthington criticised his team’s attitude, highlighting a lack of intensity and physicality that allowed Burton – who began the day just one place above the drop zone – to dominate from start to finish.
“They played with real energy – more than us – and were on the front foot throughout,” Worthington said. “They turned us, made every moment difficult. But we’ve got to match that, stand up to it, show fight, passion – and a lot more than we did.”
It’s now four defeats in six for Worthington since he took charge on an interim basis. And while the Terriers briefly looked to have steadied the ship with a win over Mansfield, this latest setback has cast serious doubt over their promotion credentials.
Worthington reflects on his impact
Having taken over in February on a short-term basis, Worthington reiterated that he’s focused solely on this run-in – but admitted the recent results have prompted him to look inward as well.
“It’s a challenge I’m fighting with at the minute,” he said. “From the start, it was always going to be about doing everything I can in these 10 games. At the moment, I’m asking myself – am I doing enough? I believe I am, but I’ll keep pushing for more.”
Despite the pressure, the 41-year-old made clear that there would be no throwing in the towel. With nine points still available, he believes Town can still make a push – but only if there’s a sharp improvement in mindset and performance.
“There’s no giving up on anything. I won’t accept it. Every game is an opportunity. We’ll be back in training and going into the next one ready to fight. It’s about getting points now – simple as that.”
Writer’s View
Huddersfield’s next fixture will likely prove decisive. Fans will be looking for a response not just in the scoreline, but in the intensity and belief shown on the pitch – qualities that were sorely lacking at Burton.
With the play-off door still technically open, Worthington and his squad will need a near-perfect end to the season to keep their promotion dream alive.
