Phillips: We Must Continue Taking On These Challenges

Phillips: We Must Continue Taking On These Challenges

Trinidad and Tobago midfielder Daniel Phillips says there are valuable lessons to be taken from Saturday’s 5-0 international friendly defeat to South Korea, as the Soca Warriors continue their rebuilding process ahead of upcoming competitions.

Speaking after the match at BYU South Field in Utah, the England-based midfielder acknowledged the quality of the opposition while stressing the importance of testing the team against higher-ranked nations.

“It was a difficult game and we knew they were going to be very difficult opposition,” Phillips told TTFA Media at the Asher Adams hotel.

“There are lots of different reasons why we take on these sorts of challenges. They are a vastly experienced and organised team, ranked 25th in the world and one of the strongest teams in Asia with quality players throughout their squad.”

South Korea struck twice in quick succession late in the first half before adding three more goals after the interval, but Phillips believes the experience will prove beneficial for both the coaching staff and players moving forward.

“This game gave the coach and us players the opportunity to test ourselves,” he explained. “We conceded five goals, but it’s an exercise where we have to take what comes with it. Obviously, we wouldn’t have wanted to concede five goals, but these are the types of matches that can teach you a lot.”

Phillips felt Trinidad and Tobago had remained competitive for large periods of the opening half before a lapse in concentration allowed the Koreans to gain control of the contest.

“We were there with them in the opening half, but then we conceded two goals quickly before the break. That’s something we have to look back at and try to avoid. Those are the sort of mistakes you can’t afford to make against teams of this quality.”

The Stevenage midfielder also reflected on the significance of playing in the United States, mere days before the start of the FIFA World Cup.

“I think it’s great being able to come out here and be part of the experience in a country where the next World Cup is going to take place. Obviously, it was our dream and hope to be here as a qualified nation, but that wasn’t to be.”

“To say we’re just going to remain down and disappointed, I would say there are other things we can take away from all of this. There are positives in being here, experiencing the environment and continuing to prepare ourselves for the future.”

Phillips admitted that the disappointment of Trinidad and Tobago’s unsuccessful World Cup qualifying campaign remains fresh, but believes the team must now focus on the opportunities ahead.

“I’ve done some reflecting since the World Cup campaign ended last November. Deep thinking and looking back at everything. But this is what makes a team and players become a better unit. We have to take what went right for us and build on it.”

The 25-year-old sees the current period as an important transition phase for the national team, with new leadership and fresh faces beginning to establish themselves within the squad.

“It’s a transition period for us now. We have a new manager and some new faces in the team. I’m pleased to be part of this group as we prepare for what’s ahead.”

“Our next big goal is doing well in the Nations League, which starts in September. We want to qualify for the Gold Cup, do well there and continue working towards establishing ourselves as a stronger team in the region.”

The former Scottish-based pro who made 56 appearances for St Johnstone, was also encouraged by the performances of several players making their mark within the national team setup, including Scotland-based defender Kieran Ngwenya, who made his senior international debut.

“I’m glad for him,” Phillips said. “He came in for the first time and he’s done well. He’s trained well all week and looked good in his first match. It’s not easy to come into your first game against an opponent like South Korea.”

“There are other guys who came in with a good, positive attitude as well, which is a good sign for us as a team. It shows that there is competition for places and players who are eager to make an impact whenever they get an opportunity.”

Away from international duty, Phillips reflected positively on his season with English club Stevenage, despite the disappointment of falling short in the promotion playoffs.Stevenage missed out on promotion to the Championship after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Stockport County in the League One semi-finals.

“It was a pretty good season for me. We got to the playoffs and we didn’t go all the way, which was disappointing, but the club continues to grow,” he said.

“I felt good this season and I’m just looking to maintain that progress, keep improving and do well again in the season ahead.”

T&T now turn their attention to thr June 9th international friendly against Russia in Kaliningrad, another stern test against quality opposition.

“The next game against Russia is going to be another tough one, but we can’t hide,” Phillips said. “We have to keep taking on these challenges as best we can. That’s how we improve, that’s how we learn and that’s how we continue to move forward as a team.”