Shrewsbury Town manager Sam Ricketts has praised attacker Shilow Tracey following his Papa John’s Trophy hat-trick at Crewe Alexandra. The Tottenham Hotspur loanee notched the first treble of his career on just his second start for The Shrews.
The 22-year-old’s second and third goals turned a roller-coaster tie on its head as Shrewsbury were inspired to a 4-3 comeback win at the Alexandra Stadium.
Shilow Tracey Performance Impresses Manager Sam Ricketts
New Selection Headache
Tracey was handed his first Shrewsbury start in over a month against Crewe and took his chance brilliantly. His help powered Shrewsbury to a 4-3 win, notching the first senior hat-trick of his career in the process.
Following the match, manager Sam Ricketts praised the forward for relishing his opportunity to impress.
Speaking to the Shropshire Star, Ricketts said: “You can’t ignore a performance like that and three goals. Football is about scoring goals. Not just that, his pace, energy and running power were excellent.
“I said before if you want to be involved moving forward you have to perform tonight, that was your opportunity to impress and there were certainly a number that did impress.
“He was one of the performances I was hoping for and he’s certainly produced. It was pleasing for him and also pleasing for everyone watching.”
Tracey ‘Buzzing’ and Hoping for More
Before Tracey’s stunning performance, the forward had recorded just one start for Shrewsbury. Since joining on loan from Spurs l, he also had two short League One cameos from the bench for The Shrews.
But his superb performance in the EFL Trophy may signal a change in fortune for Tracey, who is now looking to cement a spot in the Shrewsbury line-up.
Following the match, Tracey said: “I’m buzzing. I’m pleased to get this opportunity, I’m lost for words really, it’s the best day.
“I’m happy to help the team to win with three goals. I’ve just been grafting in training, trying to get into the team and I got my opportunity today.
“It was a crazy feeling, there is nothing better than that. It’s my first hat-trick. Hopefully I’ll get into the team more and keep improving.”
Tracey will be aiming to make it consecutive starts for Shrewsbury for the first time, as he prepares for Saturday’s League One clash against Swindon Town.
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