Harsh words from Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens spur on Charlie Kelman to matchwinning display at Mansfield Town
Some harsh half-time words from Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens saw his top scorer Charlie Kelman produce a two-goal matchwinning second half display in tonight's 3-2 win at Mansfield Town.
A tight game was finally settled by a spectacular goal of the season contender as Kelman curled one from long range under the far angle for his second goal and 21st of the campaign.
“I'm pleased for him in the end but his first half was nowhere near acceptable,” said Wellens.
“He is a goalscorer, but the basics of run, fight and press were not there first half.
“They were two brilliant finishes and the winner was an absolute worldie and I am pleased for him. Second half he was excellent.
“I have said it many times, I love him to bits. There is an unbelievable talent in there. But as soon as he lets his body language go and lets things affect him he does not have the same performance levels.”
On what was a thrilling game, he added: “Our start was so poor tonight, but for the last 20-25 minutes of the first half I thought we were excellent.
“We started with poor body language and no intensity to our game, so we had to change things.
“It was a game of basketball for the second half. The amount of times you could find a pass, counter and go and score was scary.
“It got a bit messy at times and when we lost the ball they got it wide and put in some dangerous crosses.
“Some people who don't understand football will say we were poor on Saturday, but we were very good in everything we've done.
“Tonight everyone is excited that we have won, but we were miles better Saturday.”