Nick Matthew column: Next three matches could define the Owls' campaign

The feelgood factor surrounding my football club Sheffield Wednesday is fantastic.
Gary HooperGary Hooper
Gary Hooper

I have to admit I am one of those fans who is getting a little giddy over what is happening at Hillsborough.

Wednesday are fifth in the league and there has not been this level of optimism in years so everyone is getting excited. If you have not looked at the table, you would think we are top of the league!

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Wednesday are making waves around the country. I have had Aston Villa, Watford and Norwich City supporters come up to me saying they can’t believe they let Barry Bannan, Fernando Forestieri and Gary Hooper join us.

Wednesday are in a nice position but they have not done anything yet. We have to keep our feet on floor. We are on a good run but are bound to have a little blip at some point. Things can change very quickly in sport.

I won my eighth British title, beating James Willstrop in the final at the National Squash Centre on Sunday, but I know I am at my most vulnerable when I am playing well. That’s when you can get a little bit over confident and take things for granted. You get to a point where people turn up just expecting you to win but you know it is not as simple as that.

If Wednesday have one weakness, it is that they don’t seem to get into their stride early on in games. It seems to take them 20 minutes or so to get into a rhythm.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

I followed the reports of the Brentford game on Saturday and it sounded like they had a couple of chances in the first five minutes before the sending off. I know Wednesday won 4-0 but you have to impose yourself from the word go and get on top of teams.

It is not always a bad thing to come from behind but eventually you have to become a frontrunner if you want to do anything in a league.

Wednesday have got a big week coming up when they play Preston, QPR and Hull City. It is a run of games which could possibly define their season. If they can pick up five points or more, they will be in very good shape.

*I am launching my academy, which is sponsored by One Health Group, at Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club tomorrow night so feel free to come down and show your support for the next generation.