Wall of Sound (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Wall of Sound

IFFY ONUORA'S chest will swell with pride as he takes charge of his first home game today and he would love 'a carnival atmosphere' to help inspire his team to victory.

The new Town manager (below right) hopes to walk out of the tunnel to a sea of red and have his players roared on by a wall of sound.

Boosted by the arrival of Watford striker Hameur Bouazza and the return of experienced campaigners Steve Jenkins and Gareth Whalley, Onuora is in buoyant mood ahead of the clash with Port Vale (1pm).

And he is delighted with the mood generated off the pitch by supporter Rob Tuck's Red Army Loud and Proud scheme this week.

He said: "It's about spirit. If the sun comes out then maybe we can have something of a carnival atmosphere as well.

"For one reason or another it has been quiet in recent games at the County Ground so anything that changes that in any way has to be a good thing.

"I'm glad to be back at the County Ground after the two away games and I'm sure the players will appreciate it too.

"That support from the stands can take you to another level and that's what we'll be looking for."

As for his first steps into the home dug-out as manager, it will be a proud moment for Onuora and he hopes that feeling will still be intact come full time.

He said: "I'm sure it will be both a novel feeling and a rewarding feeling."

Onuora worked on set plays and organisation with his players yesterday but he and his staff have also focused on mental preparation in the build up to today's clash.

He said: "Half of the job is picking morale up and making sure that the heads don't drop. Much of the game is played in your head these days.

"It's a vital part, tapping into the players' thoughts, feelings and emotions and making sure you bring out the positives."

Steel bands, face-painting and plenty of noise are all being encouraged but Onuora isn't losing sight of the fact that there is a football match to win.

He said: "They (Vale) have got experience in midfield in Danny Sonner and Tony Dinning and the lads up front are lively and a handful.

"Martin Foyle's got them going but I've never doubted for a minute the ability that we've got in terms of spirit and resolve and I'm confident that'll show itself."

A good start would help the cause, but Onuora said: "I won't be too displeased if it's still 0-0 after 20 minutes. That will give us a platform to build on."