'Need better' - Sheffield Wednesday boss makes big demand of Owls despite topping League One

Moore’s Owls are sitting pretty this weekend after a statement 1-0 victory over Plymouth Argyle, a result that not only saw them leapfrog the Pilgrims to go climb to the division’s summit, but also put them six points clear of third-placed Ipswich Town and equalled a club record 17 clean sheets in a single season.

But while the fanbase celebrates being top of the table at this stage for the first time in years, their manager has called for calm heads, saying that for them it’s now about moving onto the next game.

Wednesday face Fleetwood Town on Tuesday night before a big clash with Ipswich Town on Saturday afternoon, a match that could see them extend their lead in the top two even further. Moore wants focus.

Speaking to the media after going top of League One on Saturday, he said, “We’ve had some big games, and I think we’ve dealt with them and learnt from them – that’s all you can do. This was another big game in terms of how it was built up, but for us it was just another three points. It could’ve been anybody here, it was the next three points. That’s been our focus and mentality.

“These players won’t get ahead of themselves, they’ll get back to work on Monday and prepare for the cup match on Tuesday. Then we’ll go from there.

“Yes, it was a good performance, but I think we can be better – I think we need to be better if we’re going to continue in the rich vein of form that we’re in. But we turn the page, wipe the slate clean, and go again.”

Wednesday are now 22 games unbeaten in all competitions, and it’s been 16 league matches since they were defeated – by Plymouth in October. The team have made clear their ambitions to not only win promotion but try to clinch the title, and they have a big chance to add to those aspirations at Portman Road on Saturday.

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